Do I need a boat licence for a yacht charter in Bahamas?

A yacht charter in the Bahamas means that you are required to carry a cruising permit. This can be obtained online prior to your arrival or in person when you enter one of the ports in the Bahamas. As it saves a lot of hassle, officials really appreciate it when you obtain the cruising permit online. This cruising permit is required for anyone looking to sail in Bahamian waters and will be checked by officials.

How much does it cost to charter a yacht in the Bahamas?

Charter a yacht in the Bahamas for a luxury boat holiday. It is not a destination for budget travellers. On average it costs $ 205 to rent a sailboat per person per day. More luxurious boats like a motor catamaran can be more expensive at $ 1000 per person per day. Yacht charters in the Bahamas can be made with or without a skipper. However, the price of hiring a skipper will be added to your bareboat charter.

How much are the marina fees?

Marina fees can vary depending on the season, the size of the yacht and the marina, but in general a smaller yacht can cost between 7-10 EUR per foot per week, while a bigger one would cost 10-15 EUR per foot per week.

How much does the fuel cost?

With an all-inclusive offer you don't have to worry about paying extra for fuel. It is usually included in the original price.

How much do you tip your skipper?

You should expect to tip your skipper around 20%, but you can always tip more.

How do we arrange shopping for our charter?

There is usually a supermarket at the marina, that is often more expensive. However, most marinas will have a local supermarket that is reachable via a short taxi ride. Here you can purchase all your groceries for the week. You can also find local supermarkets during your charter in other locations.

Boat Rental and Yacht Charter in Bahamas

The Bahamas invites you to a world of island-hopping bliss, with its crystal-clear waters and endless horizons. A skilled guide will lead you through the best snorkeling spots, hidden coves, and sun-kissed beaches.

Our Highest Reviewed Boats in Bahamas

Highest reviewed boats

Palm Cay Marina, Nassau, Bahamas
5.0 (1)
Leopard 42
Catamaran
2022
8 beds
3 cabins
3 bathrooms
12.67 m long
Captain optional
Full batten mainsail
From$657/day
Marsh Harbour Marina, Marsh Harbour, Bahamas
4.7 (7)
Fountaine Pajot Elba 45
Catamaran
2022
8 beds
4 cabins
4 bathrooms
13.45 m long
Captain optional
From$1,500/day
Paradise Island Charter Dock, Nassau, Bahamas
Adventure 34
Speedboat
1999
10.36 m long
Crew obligatory
300 hp engine
From$1,953/day
Paradise Island Charter Dock, Nassau, Bahamas
Chris-Craft 48
Motorboat
1976
14.63 m long
Crew obligatory
420 hp engine
From$2,216/day
Paradise Island Charter Dock, Nassau, Bahamas
Hatteras 55
Motorboat
1983
16.76 m long
Crew obligatory
500 hp engine
From$3,267/day
Paradise Island Charter Dock, Nassau, Bahamas
Tiara 38
Motorboat
2000
11.58 m long
Crew obligatory
450 hp engine
From$1,953/day
Paradise Island Charter Dock, Nassau, Bahamas
Bertram 31
Motorboat
1976
9.45 m long
Crew obligatory
215 hp engine
From$1,704/day
Palm Cay Marina, Nassau, Bahamas
Dufour 390 Grand Large
Sailboat
2020
6 beds
2 cabins
2 bathrooms
11.93 m long
Captain optional
Full batten mainsail
From$494/day
Marsh Harbour Marina, Marsh Harbour, Bahamas
Leopard 45
Catamaran
2021
10 beds
5 cabins
5 bathrooms
13.72 m long
Captain optional
Full batten mainsail
From$851/day
Palm Cay Marina, Nassau, Bahamas
Leopard 45
Catamaran
2022
10 beds
5 cabins
4 bathrooms
13.72 m long
Captain optional
Full batten mainsail
From$851/day
Palm Cay Marina, Nassau, Bahamas
Leopard 45
Catamaran
2023
10 beds
5 cabins
4 bathrooms
13.72 m long
Captain optional
Full batten mainsail
From$933/day
Marsh Harbour Marina, Marsh Harbour, Bahamas
Leopard 46
Catamaran
2023
10 beds
5 cabins
4 bathrooms
14.06 m long
Captain optional
From$4,390/day
Marsh Harbour Marina, Marsh Harbour, Bahamas
Bali 4.4
Catamaran
2024
6 beds
3 cabins
3 bathrooms
13.5 m long
Captain optional
Furling mainsail
From$1,350/day
Marsh Harbour Marina, Marsh Harbour, Bahamas
Seawind 1260
Catamaran
2021
5 beds
3 cabins
2 bathrooms
12.5 m long
Captain optional
Full batten mainsail
From$1,115/day
Marsh Harbour Marina, Marsh Harbour, Bahamas
Fountaine Pajot Isla 40
Catamaran
2023
8 beds
4 cabins
2 bathrooms
11.93 m long
Captain optional
Furling mainsail
From$1,047/day

The Borrow A Boat Difference

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Speedboat navigating around boats in marina

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“The company offers personalized guidance for finding the best deals. Their assistance was crucial for my first self-skippered sailing vacation.”
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Israel
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Portugal
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Switzerland
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United Kingdom
“Giulia quickly found a good yacht at a fair price. The boat owner was responsive. I'll consider using Borrow A Boat again.”
Henry
France
“I chartered a boat for the first time and I am thrilled with the service. I received personal advice from a very friendly and competent lady and was able to contact the same employee with my questions repeatedly, either in writing or by phone.”
CM
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Germany
“I have to say that we had an excellent customer experience when dealing with Borrow A Boat. Our agent 'Luke' responded in a timely manner and offered us a very good deal. I can wholeheartedly recommend Borrow A Boat for anyone looking for a hassle-free experience when seeking a yacht charter.”
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Ireland
“Booking our gulet trip with Eray was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. He was incredibly responsive, patient, and knowledgeable, answering all our questions and helping us find the perfect vessel for our needs.”
MC
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Switzerland
“We had a great experience chartering a Hanse 575 in Turkey through Borrow A Boat. Prompt service and smooth payment process.”
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Germany
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Italy
“Borrow A Boat provided excellent service from start to finish. I'll use them for future bookings.”
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United Arab Emirates
“Tom provided excellent, responsive service on short notice. We'll use his company again and highly recommend him.”
Carolyn S.
United States

Book Your Boat in 3 Easy Steps

Booking a boat online has never been easier. Follow these simple steps to secure your dream boat today. Our team of experts ensures you get the boat you want; quickly and efficiently.

Select Your Ideal Boat Type

Three Ways to Sail in Bahamas

Explore Bahamas with our yacht charters and boat rentals suited for all experience levels. From bareboat options for seasoned sailors to skippered and fully crewed experiences, plus license-free boats for beginners, we offer the perfect vessel to discover Bahamas's beautiful waters your way.

Bareboat / Captain Optional

Ideal for experienced sailors seeking complete freedom and control for their Bahamas yacht rental experience.

•Complete control over sailing itinerary around Bahamas
•Privacy and intimacy for your group
•Opportunities to improve sailing skills in Bahamas's waters
•Cost-effective boat rental option for larger groups

Show all bareboat rentals in Bahamas

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

Perfect for those seeking a balance of freedom and expert guidance while enjoying a boat rental in Bahamas.

•Professional navigation and safety with local Bahamas expertise
•Local knowledge and recommendations for hidden gems in Bahamas
•Relaxed sailing experience in the beautiful waters of Bahamas
•No license required for your Bahamas yacht charter adventure

Show all skippered rentals in Bahamas

Fully Crewed

The ultimate luxury yacht charter experience in Bahamas with full professional service.

•Complete relaxation and comfort throughout your Bahamas boat journey
•Professional crew service tailored to your needs
•Gourmet dining experience featuring local Bahamas cuisine
•Personalized itinerary planning to explore the best of Bahamas

Show all crewed charters in Bahamas

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Discover the Magic of Bahamas with a Boat Charter

Experience the ultimate island paradise in the Bahamas, where crystal-clear turquoise waters meet powder-white beaches across more than 700 stunning islands. From the vibrant marine life of the Exumas to the secluded cays of the Abacos, chartering a boat here opens up a world of tropical adventures, where each day brings new discoveries and pristine anchorages.

Flexible Booking That Fits Your Plans
Start your Bahamas adventure with just 15% down and spread the remaining cost over three easy payments. Select boats offer free cancellation up to 30 days before departure, giving you peace of mind when planning your tropical getaway. Plus, look out for exclusive early booking discounts that can save you up to 20% on certain dates.
The Perfect Boat for Every Sailor
Whether you're dreaming of a luxurious motor yacht in Nassau, a spacious catamaran for family fun in the Exumas, or a cozy sailboat for an intimate escape, we've got you covered. Prices start from $350/day for sailboats, while catamarans and motor yachts offer premium comfort from $500-1200/day, depending on size and season.
Year-Round Sailing Paradise
The Bahamas offers excellent sailing conditions throughout the year, with steady trade winds and calm waters within the island chains. December to April brings perfect 75-85°F temperatures and lower humidity, while summer offers warmer waters and quieter anchorages. Popular routes include the Exuma Cays, where you can visit the famous swimming pigs and snorkel in Thunderball Grotto.
Seamless Local Support
From the moment you land, we've got everything arranged. Our partnership with reliable airport transfer services ensures smooth transitions to your marina, while our local charter bases provide comprehensive briefings and support. Professional skippers are available for those who want guidance or don't hold a license, making your Bahamas sailing adventure accessible regardless of experience.
Island-Hopping Freedom
Each Bahamian island offers its own unique charm, from the bustling markets of Nassau to the pristine beaches of the Berry Islands. With a chartered boat, you're free to explore hidden coves, drop anchor at secluded beaches, and discover world-class diving spots at your own pace. The short distances between islands make for easy day trips and flexible itineraries.

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The Borrow A Boat Promise

We Make Boating in Bahamas Easy

Experience the ultimate yacht charter and boat rental in Bahamas with our seamless booking platform. From luxury vessels to affordable options, discover the perfect boat for your Bahamas adventure today.

Secure online payments: Book your Bahamas boat rental with confidence through our protected payment system, ensuring your transaction is safe and worry-free.
Avoid endless back-and-forth with brokers: Our streamlined platform connects you directly with verified boat owners in Bahamas, saving you time and hassle when booking your perfect vessel.
Book your charter within minutes: Our user-friendly system lets you secure your Bahamas yacht charter instantly, with immediate confirmation and all details at your fingertips.
Best offers on 1000s of boats: Choose from the largest selection of boat rentals in Bahamas, with competitive prices and exclusive deals on everything from sailboats to luxury yachts.

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Piqued Your Interest?

+1 727 258 5406

Our Favorite Boats in Bahamas

All Recommended Boats

The Bahamas Yacht Charter Guide

Crystal clear waters and 700 islands offering world-class sailing conditions and vibrant marine life

Perfect for:

Island Hopping

Beach Lovers

Snorkeling

Information type
High and Low Season
Description
Peak season runs December through April with premium rates and perfect weather. Low season from May to November offers better rates but occasional rain.
Best Months to Book:
February, March, April
Information type
Marinas, Ports and Mooring
Description
Modern marinas throughout the islands with full-service facilities. Many protected anchorages and mooring fields available.
Best Places to Stay:
Nassau Harbour Club, Atlantis Marina, Bay Street Marina
Information type
Wind & Weather
Description
Steady trade winds and tropical climate create ideal sailing conditions. Water temperatures remain warm year-round with occasional afternoon thunderstorms in summer.
Temperature & Winds:
70°F to 90°F, 10-20 knots (Beaufort 3-5)
Information type
Required Licenses and Certifications
Description
No specific license required for private yacht charter, but charter companies typically require sailing experience documentation and competency proof.
Best License to Hold:
International Certificate of Competence, ASA 104 Bareboat Certification

Currency:
Bahamian Dollar
Season:
November - June

Sailing Conditions in Bahamas

The Bahamas, with its crystal-clear waters, 700+ islands, and year-round sailing opportunities, represents one of the world's premier sailing destinations. The archipelago offers diverse sailing experiences from the protected waters of the Abacos to the more challenging passages of the Out Islands. The primary sailing season runs from November to April, when temperatures are moderate and hurricane risk is minimal, though sailing is possible year-round with proper planning.

Wind Conditions

•The Abacos experience steady trade winds averaging 10-15 knots (Beaufort 3-4) throughout most of the year, making it ideal for consistent sailing
•The Exumas typically see easterly trade winds of 15-20 knots (Beaufort 4-5) during winter months, moderating to 10-15 knots in summer
•Eleuthera and Cat Island experience stronger winds during winter months, often reaching 20-25 knots (Beaufort 5-6)
•The Berry Islands see consistent easterly trades of 12-18 knots (Beaufort 4), with occasional stronger winds during cold fronts
•Nassau and Paradise Island area experiences moderate winds of 10-15 knots (Beaufort 3-4), with occasional gusty conditions during squalls

Sea State

•The Sea of Abaco offers protected waters with wave heights typically under 2 ft (0.6 m), perfect for comfortable sailing
•The Exuma Sound can experience swells of 4-6 ft (1.2-1.8 m), particularly during winter months
•The Atlantic side of the Out Islands can see significant swells of 6-8 ft (1.8-2.4 m) during strong weather systems
•The Great Bahama Bank provides relatively calm waters with waves rarely exceeding 3 ft (0.9 m)
•The Providence Channel can experience choppy conditions with waves of 4-5 ft (1.2-1.5 m) during stronger winds

Temperature

•Winter (November-April): Air temperatures range from 70-75°F (21-24°C), water temperatures around 72°F (22°C)
•Summer (May-October): Air temperatures reach 85-90°F (29-32°C), water temperatures up to 84°F (29°C)
•Evening temperatures during winter can drop to 65°F (18°C), requiring light layers for comfort
•Humidity levels are moderate in winter but can reach 85% during summer months

Tides and Currents

•Tidal ranges are relatively modest, typically 2-3 ft (0.6-0.9 m) throughout the islands
•The Gulf Stream influences the western edges of the Bahamas with currents up to 2.5 knots
•Strong tidal currents occur in cuts between islands, particularly in the Exumas, reaching up to 3 knots
•The Providence Channel experiences consistent easterly currents of 1-2 knots
•Shallow bank areas can experience significant tidal flows during spring tides

Best Sailing Areas for Different Skill Levels

•Beginners: The Sea of Abaco offers protected waters, numerous anchorages, and easy navigation. Hope Town and Green Turtle Cay provide excellent starting points with good facilities
•Intermediate: The Exumas chain provides a perfect progression with slightly more challenging conditions. Georgetown and Staniel Cay offer good base locations with moderate sailing conditions
•Advanced: The Out Islands, including Eleuthera, Cat Island, and Long Island, present more challenging open-water passages and navigation requirements. The remote Berry Islands and Columbus Bank also offer exciting blue-water sailing opportunities

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Best Time to Rent a Boat in Bahamas

The Bahamas, with its 700+ islands and crystal-clear waters, offers year-round sailing opportunities across the Exumas, Abacos, and Berry Islands. This tropical paradise combines reliable trade winds, shallow turquoise banks, and deep ocean passages, making it ideal for both casual cruising and blue-water sailing. The archipelago's unique geography creates natural harbors and protected anchorages, while its position in the subtropical Atlantic ensures generally favorable sailing conditions.

High Season (December to April)

Pros & advantages: •Perfect temperatures averaging 75°F (24°C) with low humidity and steady 15-20 knot easterly trade winds; •Clearest water visibility for snorkeling around Exuma Cays and swimming with pigs at Big Major Cay; •Full services available at major marinas in Nassau, Paradise Island, and Marsh Harbour with festive atmosphere
Cons & disadvantages: •Marina berths in popular spots like Staniel Cay and Harbour Island require booking months in advance; •Higher charter rates and crowded anchorages, especially during holiday weeks in the Abacos; •Cold fronts can bring occasional northerly winds up to 25 knots, requiring careful passage planning

Shoulder Season (May to June, November)

Pros & advantages: •Reduced charter rates and marina fees with still-pleasant temperatures around 80°F (27°C); •Less crowded sailing conditions around popular spots like the Swimming Pigs and Thunderball Grotto; •Perfect weather for island hopping between the Berry Islands with moderate 10-15 knot winds
Cons & disadvantages: •Increasing chance of afternoon thunderstorms, particularly around Great Abaco and Eleuthera; •Some beach bars and restaurants operate on reduced hours, especially in smaller cays; •Variable wind conditions can mean alternating between light winds and squalls requiring experience

Low Season (July to October)

Pros & advantages: •Lowest charter rates and excellent deals on marina slips throughout the islands; •Warmer water temperatures perfect for swimming and diving in the Exuma Sound; •Light morning winds ideal for novice sailors practicing in protected waters around Nassau
Cons & disadvantages: •Hurricane season requires flexible planning and comprehensive insurance coverage for charters; •Hot and humid conditions with temperatures reaching 90°F (32°C) and afternoon thunderstorms common; •Some facilities and restaurants in remote locations like Cat Island operate limited hours

For the optimal balance of weather and sailing conditions, plan your Bahamas cruise during the high season between December and April, especially if you're new to tropical sailing. Experienced sailors seeking solitude and value might prefer the shoulder seasons of May-June or November, when conditions are still favorable but crowds are thinner. While the low season offers the best rates, it requires more weather monitoring and flexibility due to hurricane risk, making it suitable only for highly experienced sailors with flexible schedules. Regardless of timing, the Exumas and Abacos provide the most protected waters and are recommended starting points for any Bahamas sailing adventure.

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New Boats in Bahamas

All New Boats

Which Boat to Charter in Bahamas?

When planning a yacht charter in Bahamas, selecting the right type of boat is crucial to ensure your sailing experience aligns with your preferences, group size, and desired level of comfort. Here's a quick overview of the most popular boat types available for charter in Bahamas:

Catamaran

Spacious, stable multi-hull vessels offering comfort and luxury for larger groups and families.

•Perfect for families and larger groups seeking stability and space
•Features spacious living areas with multiple cabins and large deck spaces
•Excellent stability and easy maneuverability for comfortable sailing

View 117 available catamarans for rent in Bahamas

Power Catamaran

Twin-hulled motor vessels offering exceptional space and stability with powerful performance.

•Combines catamaran stability with motorboat speed
•Spacious layout with excellent fuel efficiency
•Perfect for comfortable long-distance cruising

View 15 available power catamarans for rent in Bahamas

Monohull Sailboat

Classic sailing vessels perfect for authentic maritime experiences, combining tradition with modern comfort.

•Ideal for traditional sailing enthusiasts and smaller groups
•Offers a more authentic sailing experience with excellent performance
•More affordable compared to catamarans and motor yachts

View 6 available sailboats for rent in Bahamas

Motor Yacht

Luxurious powered vessels combining speed, comfort, and high-end amenities for premium cruising experiences.

•Ideal for covering longer distances with speed and comfort
•Offers premium amenities and modern luxury features
•Perfect for exploring multiple destinations without wind dependence

View 5 available motorboats for rent in Bahamas

Speedboat

Agile, open boats designed for thrilling day trips and water sports activities.

•Ideal for exciting day trips and water sports
•Perfect for quick coastal exploration
•Easy to handle with great maneuverability

View 1 available Speedboat for rent in Bahamas

Gulet

Traditional wooden sailing vessels offering unique charm with modern comfort, ideal for luxury charter experiences.

•Traditional wooden sailing vessels with timeless charm
•Spacious deck areas perfect for entertaining and relaxation
•Comes with professional crew for a premium charter experience

No gulets available in Bahamas, view other locations

RIB

Rigid Inflatable Boats combining speed, safety, and versatility for dynamic water activities.

•Excellent for day trips and water sports
•Superior stability and safety in various conditions
•Perfect for coastal exploration and quick transfers

No RIBs available in Bahamas, view other locations

Houseboat

Floating vacation homes offering a unique blend of comfort and water-based living.

•Perfect for those seeking a floating apartment experience
•Ideal for calm waters and peaceful harbor stays
•Offers home-like comfort with full living amenities

No houseboats available in Bahamas, view other locations

When planning your Bahamas yacht charter, choose from our premium fleet of sailing yachts, motor yachts, and luxury catamarans. Whether you prefer a crewed or bareboat charter experience, our professionally maintained vessels offer ideal options for every group size and sailing expertise. Discover competitive charter rates and top-quality amenities for your perfect sailing vacation in Bahamas.

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Bahamas Yacht Charter FAQ

Do I need a boat licence for a yacht charter in Bahamas?
A yacht charter in the Bahamas means that you are required to carry a cruising permit. This can be obtained online prior to your arrival or in person when you enter one of the ports in the Bahamas. As it saves a lot of hassle, officials really appreciate it when you obtain the cruising permit online. This cruising permit is required for anyone looking to sail in Bahamian waters and will be checked by officials.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht in the Bahamas?
Charter a yacht in the Bahamas for a luxury boat holiday. It is not a destination for budget travellers. On average it costs $ 205 to rent a sailboat per person per day. More luxurious boats like a motor catamaran can be more expensive at $ 1000 per person per day. Yacht charters in the Bahamas can be made with or without a skipper. However, the price of hiring a skipper will be added to your bareboat charter.
How much are the marina fees?
Marina fees can vary depending on the season, the size of the yacht and the marina, but in general a smaller yacht can cost between 7-10 EUR per foot per week, while a bigger one would cost 10-15 EUR per foot per week.
How much does the fuel cost?
With an all-inclusive offer you don't have to worry about paying extra for fuel. It is usually included in the original price.
How much do you tip your skipper?
You should expect to tip your skipper around 20%, but you can always tip more.
How do we arrange shopping for our charter?
There is usually a supermarket at the marina, that is often more expensive. However, most marinas will have a local supermarket that is reachable via a short taxi ride. Here you can purchase all your groceries for the week. You can also find local supermarkets during your charter in other locations.

Need additional help?

Did not find what you were looking for? We are here waiting for you to contact us!

50,000 Boats Worldwide

15% Down Payment Only

200,000 Happy Customers

100% Insured and Verified

Experience The Joy Of Boat Vacations

Sailboat

Catamaran

Motorboat

Motor Catamaran

Speedboat

Gulet

Houseboat

RIB

Bareboat / Captain Optional

Skippered / Captain Mandatory

Fully Crewed

Flexible Booking That Fits Your Plans

The Perfect Boat for Every Sailor

Year-Round Sailing Paradise

Seamless Local Support

Island-Hopping Freedom

Piqued Your Interest?