Ready for a genuine sailing adventure? No Rubicon 3 route has a set itinerary. The skipper and mate will look at the wind and weather at the time and make a plan with you. You may discover a fantastic place and want to spend an extra few hours exploring, or the wind is from the wrong direction, so you sail somewhere off the initial plan. Making the adventure up as we go is all part of the magic of these trips in the West Indies. Below are some of the highlights of the region and we will make a plan to see which of these we can get to!
Where is the Bahamas?
The Bahamas is located in the Atlantic Ocean, east of Florida in the United States, north of Cuba and the Caribbean, and northwest of the British overseas territory of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Nassau
Our Bahamas adventure starts and finishes on the island of Nassau. Stroll through the center of Nassau, with its colorful English colonial style, or start your holiday early on one of its most famous beaches, such as Cable Beach, Jaws Beach, or Love Beach. From Nassau there is a lovely initial sail to the cruising ground, which will ensure we have a full and exhilarating day of sailing to start.
Allen Cay and Highbourne Cay
Many of the unnamed beaches and coves of the islands, including the extensive offshore reef areas, are included in the protected Exuma National Land and Sea Park of the Bahamas National Trust. From an anchorage in Allen Cay, you can explore these stunning desert islands and see some of the exotic iguanas that roam the paradise beaches of Leaf Cay.
Highbourne Cay is known as the Gate of the Exumas. It’s a private island with a first-class marina. In Horseshoe Bay, you can snorkel among reefs and see colorful fish in the wonderful “Octopus Garden Reef.” If you prefer to relax in the sun, both the island and its neighbors own some of the most spectacular beaches in the Caribbean. We could anchor in neighboring Oyster Cay or Long Cay if we fancy some more tranquility.
Warderik Wells Cay: The largest underwater park in the Caribbean
Warderick Well Cay is the exact definition of a paradise island. It’s the ideal place to get lost strolling along its white sand beaches or swim in the turquoise waters. But the greatest treasure of this jewel of the Exumas is hidden underwater. Warderick Well Cay is home to the largest underwater natural park in the Caribbean. Explore its marine park and discover its thousand-colored reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, stromatolites, and even the skeleton of a sperm whale. Snorkeling here is absolutely amazing.
Compass Cay and Staniel Cay
In Compass Cay, you can swim with the cheerful nurse sharks. Don’t worry, it is a harmless species, but do you dare? The spectacular Staniel Cay has been the set for more than one James Bond movie. The underwater caves of the “Thunderball Grotto,” which gave its name to one of the secret agent films, are an absolute must. You can visit the wonderful swimming pigs in Big Major Cay, which is very close to Staniel Cay. They are the Bahamas’ most representative icon!
Shroud Cay: Possibly the most beautiful island in the world
It’s difficult to describe how beautiful Shroud Cay is, but it is the stuff of legend, and we are effectively visiting on our private yacht! There are tropical mangroves, virgin white sand beaches, and crystal clear blue waters. You can explore Driftwood Beach, where you can walk to the island’s highest point and share one of the best sunsets in the Caribbean. The mangroves are lovely to explore, or you can swim among sea turtles, lobsters, and tropical fish in Coral de Fuego or Wax Cut Drift Dive.
Cayo Norman
Norman Cay is one of the Exuma and Bahamas islands that really attracts tourists and many a Bahamas yacht charter. It is an abandoned island with a history of drug trafficking! However, these days, it is all about its coral reefs and the sunken plane that rests in the crystal clear waters. It is worth seeing it underwater!
The Sailing Season in the Bahamas
The sailing season in the Bahamas typically runs from December to April. This period is favored due to its relatively cooler and more stable weather conditions, which are ideal for sailing. The temperatures during these months are usually much more comfortable than at other times.
PLEASE NOTE: THESE ARE TRUE SAILING ADVENTURES
These are true sailing adventures that require more than just a presence on board—they demand enthusiasm, teamwork, and a positive spirit from each crew member. To fully embrace and benefit from these experiences, it’s crucial that crew come prepared to contribute actively to the life and tasks on the vessel. Those who step up with the right attitude will find that the rewards are immense. Not only will you gain new skills and face exhilarating challenges, but you’ll also forge deep connections with fellow adventurers and create memories that last a lifetime.
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