Sample Itinerary
Calm waters, warm breezes and panoramic beauty make this 120-mile–long chain of islands a boating paradise. If snorkeling and diving are the activities of choice, enjoy underwater caves and colorful coral reefs where you may even find turtles, eagle rays and sharks. Numerous marinas dot the shoreline offering boat access to the scalloped coast of bays, coves and protected harbors. Those who prefer to explore by land will find charming colonial towns on Green Turtle Cay, and countless hotels, restaurants and bars throughout.
-
Day 1 - Marsh Harbour
Arrive by commercial or private plane to Marsh Harbour, the third largest settlement in The Bahamas. Travel to the Conch Inn Marina, homeport of your vessel. Drop off your bags, familiarize yourself with your vessel and head to town for a little provisioning. At Maxwell’s Superstore you’ll find everything from steaks to salad and tanning lotion to flip flops. Once loaded on board, receive your charter briefing and vessel orientation. With this complete, you are on your way in search of your first sunset in The Bahamas. You may also choose to stay at the marina and enjoy dinner in Marsh Harbour and plan for an early start in the morning.
-
Day 2 - Hope Town in Elbow Cay
Settled by British Loyalists in 1785, the quaint Hope Town has a unique history and picturesque architecture like no other in the Abaco. Overlooked by the red and white stripes of the Elbow Reef Lighthouse, Hope Town is best explored on foot. From the historic ocean front church to Abaco Inn or Hope Town Inn sightseeing, dining and relaxing await you in the relaxing pace of Hope Town. Golf cart rentals are available to explore the islands in further depth.
-
Day 3 - Man-O-War Cay
Discover the boat building capital of The Bahamas. The Albury family (who operate the Albury Ferry service) are still in the boat building business today. Joe Albury builds handcrafted boats from his workshop. For maritime historians or simply those wanting to see old world craftsman at work, a stop at Man-O-War deserves to be on your list. Explore by walking the road, navigating by bicycle or in a rented golf cart. Mooring in the serene cove at the south end will provide a tranquil night, amazing sunrise and restful anchorage.
-
Day 4 - Green Turtle Cay
Home to a population of around 450, New Plymouth is the main settlement on the island where you will find the Albert Lowe Museum and Loyalist Heritage Sculpture Garden. Green Turtle Cay has some great diving and snorkeling sites along its outer reef. A fantastic base for discovering the Abacos unique marine life, it is within proximity to the stingrays and sharks found at Manjack Cay as well as the swimming pigs of No Name Cay.
-
Day 5 - Manjack Cay
A privately owned and undeveloped island. Spend the day exploring the unspoiled beaches perfect for swimming, shelling and picnicking with your family and friends. It is also home to friendly stingrays that will swim up and greet you.
-
Day 6 - Great Guana Cay
Start heading back and visit the beautiful beaches, a picturesque settlement, spectacular sunsets and world-class sailing are the highlights of Great Guana Cay. Nippers Beach Bar and Grill is a renowned beach hangout, particularly on Sundays when they have their pig roast buffet.
-
Day 7 - Final Day
Enjoy an early morning breakfast and swim before you make your way back to Marsh Harbour. Once you complete your boat debrief with the MarineMax Vacations team, you'll head home with a week's worth of memories and, most likely, dreams of returning again soon.
-
More to Explore!
Options worth considering: Depending on length of stay other places to explore include: Lubers Cay, Little Harbour: Travelling further to the southernmost harbor in the cruising grounds Little Harbour is home to eclectic artists and the historic Pet’s Pub. A beautiful place to finish your day with painted sky at sunset and a fun evening ashore.
Questions? We've Got Answers!
Arriving in the Bahamas