When is the best time to sail the Exumas?

November through May offers the most settled conditions with consistent easterly trade winds of 10-20 knots, comfortable temperatures, and minimal rain. The peak season runs December through April when the swimming pigs and popular anchorages see the most visitors.

What is the best time to visit Thunderball Grotto?

Visit at slack tide, ideally during high slack, when currents are minimal and visibility is at its best. The morning light creates spectacular sunbeam effects inside the grotto. Check local tide tables and plan your snorkel for the 30-minute window around slack water.

Can children participate in swimming with the pigs?

Yes, the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay are generally gentle and accustomed to visitors of all ages. However, children should be supervised and understand not to feed the pigs from their hands, as the animals can be enthusiastic. Throw food into the water for the safest interaction.

5 days · Highlights

5-Day Exumas Highlights Sailing Itinerary

The Exumas offer some of the most spectacular sailing waters in the world, with over 365 cays stretching across 100 miles of turquoise sea. This 5-day highlights itinerary captures the essence of what makes this island chain legendary among sailors and adventurers alike.

From the iconic swimming pigs of Big Major Cay to the underwater cathedral of Thunderball Grotto, every day brings unforgettable encounters. Your crewed catamaran delivers you to pristine anchorages where the water shimmers in impossible shades of blue and the beaches remain blissfully uncrowded.

Nassau to Highborne Cay

Depart Nassau Marina and set sail across the Yellow Bank, a 38-nautical-mile passage that takes approximately 5-6 hours in settled trade winds. The shallow turquoise waters of the Exuma Bank stretch endlessly as you cross into paradise. Arrive at Highborne Cay, the gateway to the Exumas, where you can explore the marina village, provision if needed, and enjoy a sunset swim off pristine beaches.

Overnight: Highborne Cay Marina or western anchorage

Highborne Cay to Norman's Cay

A short 8-nautical-mile morning sail brings you to Norman's Cay, infamous for its role in 1980s drug smuggling history. Snorkel the submerged Curtiss C-46 plane wreck that rests in 15 feet of crystal-clear water, a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the island's past. Explore the expansive beaches and enjoy lunch aboard before an afternoon of swimming in the protected anchorage.

Overnight: Norman's Cay western anchorage

Norman's Cay to Staniel Cay

Sail 25 nautical miles south through the heart of the Exumas, passing the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park along the way. This 4-5 hour passage rewards you with arrival at Staniel Cay, the social hub of the central Exumas. Explore the colorful village, grab a drink at the legendary Staniel Cay Yacht Club, and prepare for tomorrow's iconic wildlife encounters.

Overnight: Staniel Cay Yacht Club anchorage

Swimming Pigs and Thunderball Grotto

Begin early with a dinghy ride to Big Major Cay to meet the famous swimming pigs before the day-tour crowds arrive. These friendly swine will wade right out to your dinghy hoping for fruit and vegetables. Continue to Thunderball Grotto at slack tide, where shafts of sunlight illuminate the underwater cave's vibrant corals and tropical fish. Snorkel the surrounding reefs before returning to Staniel Cay for a Bahamian dinner ashore.

Overnight: Staniel Cay or Big Major Cay

Staniel Cay to Nassau

Enjoy a final morning swim in the crystalline Exuma waters before beginning your return passage to Nassau. The 45-nautical-mile sail takes 7-8 hours, crossing back over the Exuma Bank with the trade winds at your beam. Reflect on five days of extraordinary experiences as the Nassau skyline appears on the horizon, marking the end of your Exumas adventure.

Overnight: Nassau Marina

Trip highlights

Snorkel the infamous sunken drug plane at Norman's Cay
Swim with the world-famous pigs of Big Major Cay
Explore Thunderball Grotto's underwater cave system
Anchor in waters with 50-foot visibility
Experience authentic Bahamian culture at Staniel Cay Yacht Club

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to sail the Exumas?: November through May offers the most settled conditions with consistent easterly trade winds of 10-20 knots, comfortable temperatures, and minimal rain. The peak season runs December through April when the swimming pigs and popular anchorages see the most visitors.
What is the best time to visit Thunderball Grotto?: Visit at slack tide, ideally during high slack, when currents are minimal and visibility is at its best. The morning light creates spectacular sunbeam effects inside the grotto. Check local tide tables and plan your snorkel for the 30-minute window around slack water.
Can children participate in swimming with the pigs?: Yes, the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay are generally gentle and accustomed to visitors of all ages. However, children should be supervised and understand not to feed the pigs from their hands, as the animals can be enthusiastic. Throw food into the water for the safest interaction.

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