7-Day Exumas Family Sailing Itinerary
The Exumas offer a dream family sailing adventure where children of all ages connect with nature in extraordinary ways. From swimming alongside friendly pigs to feeding prehistoric-looking iguanas, every day delivers memorable experiences that spark wonder and create lasting family bonds.
This family-focused itinerary emphasizes calm anchorages, shallow snorkeling spots, and wildlife encounters suitable for young adventurers. Your crewed catamaran provides a safe, comfortable home base with spacious accommodations and a professional crew who delight in sharing the magic of the Exumas with families.
Nassau to Allan's Cay
Depart Nassau on a 35-nautical-mile passage to Allan's Cay, home to the endangered Allan's Cay Rock Iguanas. This 5-hour sail allows families to settle aboard and spot dolphins that often ride the bow wave. Arrive at the protected anchorage and take the dinghy to Leaf Cay, where dozens of curious iguanas gather on the beach, completely unafraid of visitors.
Overnight: Allan's Cay western anchorage
Allan's Cay to Shroud Cay
A short 8-nautical-mile morning sail brings you into the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park and the spectacular mangrove creeks of Shroud Cay. Children love kayaking or paddleboarding through the calm, shallow tidal creeks that wind through the island's interior. Time your exploration for mid-to-high tide and emerge at beautiful Driftwood Beach for swimming and beachcombing.
Overnight: Shroud Cay mooring field
Shroud Cay to Warderick Wells
Sail 6 nautical miles to Warderick Wells, where the park headquarters offers family-friendly hiking trails and 20 pristine beaches to explore. The Emerald Rock mooring field is particularly popular with families due to its gentle currents and excellent protection. Snorkel in the protected waters where abundant fish swim fearlessly close, and hunt for treasure on shell-strewn beaches.
Overnight: Warderick Wells Emerald Rock mooring field
Warderick Wells to Staniel Cay
Cruise 17 nautical miles south to Staniel Cay, stopping along the way to explore sandbar islands where children can wade in ankle-deep water that stretches for hundreds of yards. Arrive at Staniel Cay in the afternoon and explore the charming village, grab ice cream, and prepare for tomorrow's legendary animal encounters.
Overnight: Staniel Cay Yacht Club anchorage
Swimming Pigs and Thunderball Grotto
Start early for Big Major Cay where the famous swimming pigs approach dinghies looking for treats. Children safely feed them fruits and vegetables from the water while supervised. Continue to Thunderball Grotto, selecting slack tide for the easiest entry. Older kids swim into the cave to marvel at the shafts of light illuminating tropical fish, while younger ones snorkel the surrounding shallow reefs.
Overnight: Staniel Cay
Compass Cay and Bitter Guana Cay
Visit Compass Cay Marina in the morning where docile nurse sharks gather at the dock. The sharks are gentle and accustomed to visitors of all ages, creating a safe, supervised encounter. Continue to Bitter Guana Cay in the afternoon to meet more iguanas on a beautiful beach with excellent snorkeling in the shallow bay. Children can explore tide pools and search for sea stars.
Overnight: Pipe Creek area
Pipe Creek to Nassau
Enjoy a final morning of swimming and snorkeling in the turquoise waters of Pipe Creek before beginning the 45-nautical-mile return to Nassau. The passage takes 7-8 hours with comfortable trade winds. Children can spot wildlife, help with sailing, and relive the week's adventures as Nassau appears on the horizon, marking the end of an unforgettable family vacation.
Overnight: Nassau Marina
Trip highlights
- Feed friendly iguanas at Allan's Cay and Bitter Guana Cay
- Kayak through calm mangrove creeks at Shroud Cay
- Swim with gentle pigs at Big Major Cay
- Wade with docile nurse sharks at Compass Cay
- Explore protected beaches in the Land and Sea Park
Frequently asked questions
- What ages are appropriate for this family itinerary?
- This itinerary suits children from toddlers to teenagers. The wildlife encounters, shallow snorkeling spots, and calm anchorages work well for all ages. Your crew can adjust activities based on your children's abilities and interests, from beach play for little ones to more adventurous snorkeling for teens.
- Is it safe for children to swim with pigs and sharks?
- Yes, with appropriate supervision. The swimming pigs are gentle but can be enthusiastic; children should throw food into the water rather than hand-feed. The nurse sharks at Compass Cay are docile, well-fed, and have safely interacted with families for years. Your crew will guide you on best practices for each encounter.
- What should we bring for the kids?
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen, rash guards for sun protection during snorkeling, water shoes for rocky beaches, and any favorite snacks. The catamaran typically provides snorkeling gear in children's sizes, floatation devices, and kayaks or paddleboards. Confirm specific equipment with your charter company before departure.
Make this trip yours
Every charter is private and tailored — we'll adapt this route to your dates, pace and interests.
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