FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions About Yacht Charters in the Bahamas

Everything You Want to Know About Yacht Charters in the Bahamas

Planning a yacht charter in the Bahamas comes with a lot of questions and we think that is a great thing. The more you know before you book, the better your experience is going to be. We have put together this page to answer everything we get asked on a regular basis, from how pricing works and what is included on each yacht, to what destinations you can reach, how long trips take, and what the whole process looks like from start to finish. If you do not find the answer you are looking for here, our team is always just a message away.

At Bahamas Yacht we specialize in private day charters, overnight trips, and multi-day term charters departing from Nassau. Our fleet includes sailing catamarans, luxury motor yachts, and large group vessels ranging from 35 feet all the way up to 110 feet. Every single charter is 100% private, meaning your group has the entire yacht to yourselves for the full duration of your time on the water. Browse the questions below and reach out to us at info@BahamasYacht.com whenever you are ready to start planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the questions we hear most often from guests planning their Bahamas yacht charter. If something is not covered here, do not hesitate to reach out to us directly at info@BahamasYacht.com and we will get back to you quickly with everything you need to know.

Every charter includes the yacht, a licensed Bahamian captain, and crew. Fuel for standard routes to Rose Island and Green Cay is included. Snorkeling gear is included on all vessels. Food, drinks, and water toys vary depending on the specific yacht you choose. Some yachts are fully all inclusive with open bar and gourmet meals, while others include lighter refreshments. When you contact us we will walk you through exactly what comes with the yacht you are interested in so there are no surprises on the day.

No license or boating experience is required. In the Bahamas, private guests are not permitted to captain or operate a charter vessel themselves. Every yacht in our fleet comes with a fully licensed and experienced Bahamian captain and crew. Your only job is to relax and enjoy the ride. Self-drive yacht rentals do not exist here and that is actually a good thing, because our captains know these waters better than anyone.

Yes, every charter is completely private. Your group has exclusive use of the entire yacht for the full duration of the charter. We do not run shared tours or group bookings with strangers. When you book with Bahamas Yacht, the vessel belongs entirely to you and your guests from the moment you step aboard until the moment you return to the dock.

Pricing depends on the yacht, the duration of the charter, and the destination. Day charters start from around $2,000 USD for smaller vessels and go up to $13,500 USD and beyond for large luxury motor yachts and superyachts. All prices are subject to 14% Bahamas government tax and crew gratuity, which is typically 15 to 20% and is not included in the charter rate unless otherwise stated. The best way to get an accurate price is to contact us with your group size, date, and preferred destination so we can match you with the right yacht at the right rate.

In most cases, no. The Bahamas government charges a 14% sales tax on all yacht charters and this is added on top of the base charter rate. A small number of our vessels quote prices with tax already included, and we will always make this clear when providing you with a quote. When budgeting for your charter, please plan for 14% tax and 15 to 20% crew gratuity on top of the base rate.

Gratuity is not included in the charter rate on most of our vessels unless specifically stated. It is standard practice in the Bahamas to tip the crew at the end of the charter. The typical range is 15 to 20% of the base charter rate. Gratuity is given directly to the captain, who distributes it among the crew. Our crew works hard to make your day exceptional and they genuinely appreciate it.

Our fleet includes luxury sailing catamarans, private motor yachts, sport yachts, flybridge superyachts, and large group power catamarans. Vessels range from 35 feet up to 110 feet and can accommodate groups from 2 guests all the way up to 60 guests depending on the vessel. Whether you are looking for an intimate day on the water or a large celebration with dozens of guests, we have a yacht for you.

Most day charters run either 4 to 5 hours for a half day or 8 hours for a full day. Some vessels also offer 6 hour options. The most popular choice for guests visiting Rose Island and Green Cay is the full day 8 hour charter, which gives you plenty of time to cruise, snorkel, swim, enjoy lunch on board, and still make it back to Nassau before sunset. For longer destinations like Exuma, a full day charter is always required.

Rose Island and Green Cay are by far the most popular destinations for day charters from Nassau. Located approximately 10 miles from Nassau and about 20 minutes by boat, Rose Island offers stunning white sand beaches, clear turquoise water, beautiful coral reefs, and a resident family of sea turtles that guests can snorkel with right in the shallows. It is an accessible, breathtaking, and genuinely unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.

Yes and it is one of the highlights of almost every charter we run. Green Cay at Rose Island is home to a large resident family of sea turtles that guests can swim and snorkel with in the wild. No tanks, no tours, no crowds. Just you, the warm clear water, and some of the most beautiful sea turtles you will ever see up close. Snorkel gear is included on all of our vessels so you are always ready when we drop anchor.

Absolutely. We offer two ways to experience the swimming pigs. The first option is a nearby pig beach experience at Athol Island, just minutes from Nassau. Our catamaran holds an exclusive arrangement with this location and guests can add a 30 minute swim with the pigs stop for just $40 per person before continuing on to Rose Island. The second option is a full day trip to the original Pig Beach in Exuma, which is approximately 75 miles from Nassau and takes around 3 hours each way by high speed motorboat. Exuma trips require a full day charter and come with a significant fuel surcharge. Both experiences are incredible and we are happy to help you choose the right one for your group.

The Exuma Cays are approximately 75 to 85 miles from Nassau depending on your exact destination. By high speed motorboat the ride takes just under 3 hours each way. This is a full day commitment and guests should be prepared for an exhilarating open water ride before reaching one of the most beautiful destinations in the entire Caribbean. The experience of visiting the swimming pigs, feeding the iguanas, and swimming with sharks at Compass Cay makes every minute of the journey worth it.

Beyond Rose Island and Exuma, popular destinations include Spanish Wells, Harbor Island, the Berry Islands, Staniel Cay, North Exuma, and Highbourne Cay. Some of these destinations are available only on specific vessels due to range and fuel requirements. Destination options and additional fuel charges vary by yacht, so contact us and let us know where you want to go and we will match you with the right vessel.

No, not every yacht in our fleet is available for Exuma trips. Some vessels are set up specifically for Nassau day charters to Rose Island and nearby destinations only. Exuma trips require boats with the right range, speed, and fuel capacity to make the journey safely and comfortably. When you reach out to us, let us know that Exuma is your goal and we will show you the options that can get you there.

It depends on the yacht. Some of our vessels are fully all inclusive with a gourmet lunch prepared fresh on board by a private chef, complete with appetizers, entrees, sides, and dessert. Others include lighter refreshments such as water, soft drinks, fruit platters, and snacks. A few of our more budget friendly options offer the ability for guests to bring their own food on board. Every yacht listing specifies exactly what food and drink is included, and we are always happy to clarify before you book.

Many of our yachts include an open bar as part of the all inclusive charter package. This typically covers a full selection of spirits including vodka, rum, tequila, gin, and whisky, along with beer, wine, champagne, soft drinks, juices, and water. Some vessels include signature cocktails as well. On yachts where alcohol is not included, guests are generally welcome to bring their own. We will always be upfront about what is and is not included when we send you a quote.

On many of our vessels, yes. Some yachts allow guests to bring their own food and beverages including alcohol to supplement what is already provided on board. On fully all inclusive yachts with a dedicated chef and bar service this is generally not necessary, but you are still welcome to bring special items like a favorite bottle of champagne or a birthday cake. Just let us know ahead of time and we will make sure it works for your charter.

Water toys vary by yacht and owner. Every single vessel in our fleet includes snorkeling gear as a standard item. Beyond that, many yachts offer paddleboards, kayaks, floating mats, tenders, and tubes. Larger and higher end yachts may also include jet skis, sea bobs, wakeboards, water skis, subwings, water trampolines, and more. When you are choosing a yacht, we will share the full water toy list for that specific vessel so you know exactly what to expect on the day.

Our fleet covers a very wide range. Smaller vessels accommodate 6 to 12 guests, mid size motor yachts typically handle 12 to 14 guests, and our largest options including the 70ft Santtina Catamaran and the 80ft Atlantis II can host up to 55 and 60 guests respectively for day charters. Whether you are a couple looking for an intimate private experience or a company planning an event for 50 people, we have a vessel that fits your group.

Yes. Several vessels in our fleet are available for overnight charters, including our 560 Lagoon Catamaran, 620 Lagoon Catamaran, 64ft Sunseeker Predator, 58ft Searay, 80ft Sunseeker, 105ft Sunseeker, and more. Overnight charters include full meals, all beverages, and a complete crew on board throughout your stay. Pricing for overnight charters includes a base rate, an APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) to cover fuel, food, drinks, and running costs, plus applicable tax. Contact us with your dates and group size and we will put together a detailed quote.

APA stands for Advanced Provisioning Allowance. It is a prepaid fund, typically set at 25 to 40% of the base charter fee, that is collected before your charter begins and used to cover all running costs during the trip. This includes fuel, food, beverages, docking fees, marina fees, and any other expenses that come up along the way. At the end of your charter, any portion of the APA that was not spent is returned to you within two weeks. The APA system is standard practice across the yacht charter industry and ensures that everything is taken care of without any surprise charges during your trip.

Yes. Several of our vessels are available for 3 day, 5 day, weekly, and extended term charters. A week long charter gives you the freedom to island hop across the Bahamas at your own pace, stopping at destinations like Exuma, Staniel Cay, the Exuma Land and Sea Park, Rose Island, Green Turtle Cay, and many more. Weekly charters include full crew, all meals, and all beverages. Rates are quoted based on the vessel and season. Reach out to us and let us know how many nights you have in mind and we will take it from there.

Cancellation policies vary by yacht and are determined by the individual vessel owner. Before you pay a single dollar, we will share the full cancellation terms for the specific yacht you have chosen so you know exactly where you stand. As a general rule, the first step is always to pick the yacht you want. Once we confirm availability we send you the complete booking terms including the cancellation policy before any payment is required. We believe in full transparency from the start.

Safety is always the priority. If weather conditions are unsafe for the charter, we will work with you to reschedule to a better day. The Bahamas enjoys excellent weather for most of the year and serious disruptions are rare. Light rain or passing clouds do not typically affect a charter. The captain makes the final call on whether conditions are suitable to depart, and that decision is always made with guest safety in mind. Specific weather cancellation terms are outlined in the booking agreement for each vessel.

We recommend booking as early as possible. The most popular vessels fill up quickly, especially during peak season between December and April, and around major holidays. For holiday weekends, New Year's, spring break, and Easter, booking several months in advance is strongly advised. For off peak travel we can sometimes accommodate bookings with shorter notice, but contacting us early always gives you the best selection of yachts and the most flexibility on timing.

The Bahamas is a year round destination with warm water and plenty of sunshine in every season. The most popular time to visit is December through April when temperatures are slightly cooler and the weather is exceptionally stable. The summer months from May through August are warm and beautiful with calm seas most days. Hurricane season runs officially from June through November, with the most active period being August through October. We monitor conditions closely year round and peak season charters do book up fast so plan ahead.

Departure location depends on the specific yacht you choose. Our vessels are docked at several marinas around Nassau including Nassau Yacht Haven, Hurricane Hole Marina, and Bay Street Marina. When you book with us we will provide the exact departure location, parking details, and any other logistical information you need well ahead of your charter date.

Absolutely. Every charter is private and built around your group. You can work with us and the captain to plan an itinerary that fits exactly what you want to do and where you want to go. Our captains are extremely knowledgeable about the Bahamas and can suggest stops, hidden beaches, and snorkeling spots that most visitors never discover. Just tell us what kind of day you are envisioning and we will help make it happen.

We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a light cover up, and a towel. Reef safe sunscreen is appreciated in the Bahamas to protect the coral and marine life. If you wear prescription glasses or contacts, bringing a strap to secure them in the water is a good idea. Everything else including snorkel gear, water toys, food, and drinks is taken care of on board depending on your chosen vessel.

Yes, children are welcome on all of our charters. A day on the water in the Bahamas is an incredible experience for kids and families. Life jackets in appropriate sizes are available on board. Some of our larger group vessels have specific pricing tiers for children, typically at a reduced rate for ages 3 to 16. Children under 3 are generally free of charge. Let us know the ages and number of children in your group when you inquire and we will factor that into your quote.

Yes, we absolutely love hosting weddings on the water. The Bahamas is one of the most stunning wedding backdrops in the world and exchanging vows on a private yacht with the crystal clear ocean all around you is an experience that neither you nor your guests will ever forget. We can accommodate intimate ceremonies for small groups and larger celebrations depending on the vessel. Contact us early so we can reserve the right yacht for your date and help you plan every detail.

Without a doubt. A private yacht charter in Nassau is one of the best bachelor or bachelorette party experiences you can plan anywhere in the world. Open bar, music, water toys, sunshine, and the Bahamas all to yourselves. Whether your group is 8 people or 40 people, we have a yacht that fits. Many of our all inclusive vessels come with full bar service, bartenders on board, and the kind of energy that turns a party into a memory people talk about for years.

Yes. Corporate events and private group outings are a great fit for yacht charters in Nassau. Whether you are entertaining clients, rewarding your team, or hosting a company celebration, a private yacht charter creates an impressive and memorable setting that no hotel event room can match. We have vessels that comfortably accommodate corporate groups of all sizes and can work with you on custom menus, branding, and entertainment options upon request.

Yes. Snorkeling gear is included on every vessel in our fleet as a standard item. The waters around Rose Island, Green Cay, and the other destinations we visit are filled with tropical fish, vibrant coral, and sea turtles, so we make sure every guest on every charter has everything they need to get in the water and explore. You do not need to bring your own gear unless you have a personal preference for a specific mask or fin type.

Safety is something we take very seriously. All of our vessels are fully licensed by the Bahamas Maritime Authority and are inspected regularly. Every yacht carries life jackets for all guests, first aid kits, flares, fire extinguishers, and emergency communication equipment. Our captains are licensed professionals with years of experience navigating Bahamian waters. You are in very capable hands from the moment you step aboard.

Yes. All of the motor yachts and catamarans in our fleet have at least one bathroom on board, and most of the larger vessels have multiple heads. Our superyachts have full en suite bathrooms attached to each private cabin. For day charters to Rose Island and nearby destinations there is also the option to swim ashore and use beach facilities at certain stops depending on the itinerary.

Most of our motor yachts and catamarans have air conditioned interior cabins and salon areas. The open decks and outdoor areas rely on the natural sea breeze, which in the Bahamas is almost always refreshing and comfortable. If staying cool in an air conditioned space is important to your group, mention it when you contact us and we will make sure to recommend vessels that have you covered.

Extensions are sometimes possible depending on the yacht's schedule for that day. If you want more time on the water, speak to your captain as early as possible during the charter and we will do everything we can to accommodate the request. Extra hours are charged at the vessel's published hourly rate. We always recommend booking the longer option upfront if you think there is any chance you will want more time, as availability for extensions is never guaranteed.

Smoking policies vary by yacht and are set by the individual vessel owner. Some yachts permit smoking in designated outdoor areas only, while others are entirely non smoking. If smoking is important to your group, let us know when you inquire and we will match you with a vessel where it is permitted.

Pet policies vary by vessel and owner. Some of our yachts welcome well behaved dogs on board while others do not permit pets. If you would like to bring a pet along, please mention this when you contact us and we will let you know which vessels can accommodate your furry companion.

Yes. We can arrange DJ services, live music, and other entertainment add ons for your charter upon request. Most of our yachts already have high quality sound systems on board that can be connected to your own playlist via Bluetooth. If you want a dedicated DJ for your event, reach out to us in advance and we will make the arrangements. Entertainment add ons are quoted separately from the base charter rate.

Yes. Professional photography, video, and drone coverage can be arranged for your charter. Having a dedicated photographer on board means you and your guests can focus entirely on enjoying the day while every special moment is captured beautifully. This is especially popular for weddings, proposals, anniversary trips, and birthday celebrations. Photography and videography services are booked separately and availability is limited, so reach out early if this is something you want to add.

Yes. The famous sunken plane near Norman's Cay in Exuma is one of the most unique snorkeling attractions in the entire Bahamas. It sits in shallow enough water that snorkelers can explore it without scuba gear. This stop is typically included as part of an Exuma itinerary alongside the swimming pigs and other Cay destinations. If visiting the sunken plane is on your bucket list, let us know and we will build it into your route.

The process is simple. Start by contacting us through the form on our website or by emailing us at info@BahamasYacht.com. Let us know your preferred dates, group size, destination ideas, and any special requirements. We will come back to you with a current list of available yachts that match your needs, along with pricing and photos. Once you pick the yacht you want, we send you the full booking details and cancellation terms before any payment is requested. We keep the whole process straightforward and personal from start to finish.

We do our best to keep the information on our website as up to date as possible, but we are a hands on charter operation and not a large agency with a dedicated web team updating prices in real time. Yacht availability, pricing, and fleet composition can change at any time due to factors like new acquisitions, seasonal repositioning, maintenance, or sales. For the most accurate and current information on what is available in Nassau right now and what it costs, please contact us directly. We respond quickly and will give you a straight answer.

Payment methods vary by vessel and owner. Most charters can be secured by wire transfer or credit card. Some vessels may have a processing fee for credit card payments. We will provide full payment details when we send you the booking agreement for your chosen yacht. A deposit is typically required to confirm the reservation, with the balance due closer to the charter date.

Yes, but a catamaran charter to Exuma requires a minimum of two nights. Catamarans are not as fast as high speed motor yachts, so the journey from Nassau to Exuma or Staniel Cay takes considerably longer and cannot be done comfortably as a day trip. A two or three night catamaran charter to Exuma is actually a wonderful way to experience the journey, as you get to sail through some of the most beautiful water in the world, stop along the Exuma Cays, and arrive well rested and ready to explore.

In some cases, yes. Certain vessels can arrange a pick up from hotel docks or nearby marina locations depending on where you are staying. For example, guests staying at Atlantis can sometimes be picked up at a nearby dock, though docking fees may apply and will be added to the charter rate. Let us know where you are staying in Nassau when you inquire and we will do our best to make boarding as convenient as possible for your group.

Yes. Several of our vessels carry fishing gear as part of their standard water toy collection. The waters around Nassau and the Exuma Cays are rich with marine life and offer excellent opportunities for casual fishing throughout the day. If sport fishing is your primary goal, let us know and we can discuss dedicated fishing charter options and the right vessel for that type of trip.

We are a small, hands on team that genuinely cares about every charter we put together. We are not a booking platform or a middleman. When you contact us you are talking directly to the people who know the fleet, know the captains, and know the Bahamas inside and out. We take the time to understand what you are looking for and match you with the right yacht for your group and your goals. We have access to one of the widest selections of private charter vessels in Nassau and we work hard to make sure your experience on the water is everything you hoped it would be and then some.
Still Have Questions? We Are Here to Help.

If you did not find the answer you were looking for above, we want to hear from you. Every charter is different and every group has different needs, so the best information we can give you is always going to come from a direct conversation. Reach out to us through the contact form on our website or email us directly at info@BahamasYacht.com and our team will get back to you promptly with everything you need to plan an unforgettable day on the water in the Bahamas.