In this ultimate guide, I reveal to you everything you absolutely need to know to succeed in your trip to the Bahamas ! Sailing in this paradise is like entering a living postcard. I had the chance to explore this magic archipelago for almost a year in 2019-2020, during my first year of sailing with my first sailboat, and now, in 2025, I'm back with my catamaran Atypic 2.0. These turquoise waters and pristine beaches have left me with lasting memories, and I want to share with you all my best tips and tricks in this guide for a unforgettable experience .
✈️ How to get to the Bahamas?
The Bahamas are easily accessible thanks to several international airports, serving the main islands of the archipelago.
International Airports in the Bahamas:
✈️ Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) – Nassau
✈️ Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) – Freeport
✈️ Exuma International Airport (GGT) – Great Exuma
✈️ Leonard M. Thompson International Airport (MHH) – Abacos
✈️ North Eleuthera Airport (ELH) – North Eleuthera
✈️ San Salvador International Airport (ZSA) – San Salvador
✈️ Long Island Deadman's Cay Airport (LGI) – Long Island
How to get around between the islands?
🚤 Ferries and boats : Several companies, such as Baleària Caribbean And Bahamas Ferries, provide regular connections between Nassau and the main islands (Exumas, Eleuthera, Abacos).
💰 Approximate prices :
- Nassau → Exumas, Eleuthera, Abacos : $60 to $150 US per trip
- Fort Lauderdale (Florida) → Bimini or Grand Bahama : $200 to $350 US round trip
🛩️ Domestic flights : Companies like Bahamasair, Western Air And Pineapple Air offer flights between Nassau and the other islands, a quick way to avoid long sea crossings.
💰 Approximate prices :
- Nassau → Exumas, Eleuthera, Abacos : $100 to $250 US one way
- Nassau → Grand Bahama or Long Island : $150 to $300 US one way
🛥️ ⛵ Boat rental or private excursions : For a more personalized experience, it is possible to rent a boat or to book a private transfer to neighboring islands. Rates vary depending on the boat and duration of the rental.
Getting around Nassau 🚖 🚌 🚗
In Nassau, the public transport are limited, but there are several options for getting around the island easily. taxis and the jitneys (local minibuses) are the most common means of transport. Uber and Lyft are not available.
🚖 Taxis
Taxis, often minivans, are available at airport, hotels, cruise ports and tourist areas. They are recognizable by their yellow license plate and registration "Taxi".
- Taxis are equipped with counters, but these are not generally used.
- Always ask for the price before boarding, as fares may vary.
- Cash payment only.
📍 Examples of fixed rates:
- Airport → East of the island completely : Up to $70 USD
- Cruise Port → Paradise Island (Atlantis) : Around $25 USD
I share with you Mr. Albury's Whatsapp contact if you are looking for a reliable taxi in Nassau: +1 (242) 434-3167
🚌 The jitneys
The jitneys are an economical alternative to taxis. They are small local buses, easily recognizable by their green plate, which circulate on fixed, but flexible routes.
📍 Where to find them?
- Mainly on and around Bay Street.
- Other waiting points: intersection of Charlotte & Bay Streets.
💡 Good to know:
- No need for an official stop, just wave to them to get on board.
- The routes are not always well indicated, it is better to ask the locals.
- No jitneys serve Paradise Island (Atlantis).
- No service after 6 p.m.
- Do not operate on public holidays.
💰 Price:
- $1.50 to $2.25 USD, depending on distance.
- Cash payment only (plan for the exact change, as the driver is not required to return the difference).
🚗 Car rental
You can also rent a car, but attention :
- They drive on the left in Bahamas, although many vehicles have the steering wheel on the left, as in North America.
- The roads follow the British model, with UK signs and roundabouts, which can be surprising at first!
The island of Nassau (New Providence) measures approximately 34 km long and 11 km wide, which makes it easy to cover in one day. Whether in taxi, in jitney or in rental car, each mode of transportation has its advantages depending on your budget and comfort level. If you are looking for a quick and direct option, the taxis are practical, while the jitneys offer an economical alternative for day trips. For complete freedom of exploration, the car rental can be ideal, provided you are comfortable with the driving on the left. No matter your choice, getting around Nassau is easy and an integral part of the experience on this vibrant and colorful island!
⛵🚤 Why I recommend visiting the Bahamas by boat?!
The Bahamas are a must-see boating destination thanks to their ideal sailing conditions: constant trade winds, short distances between islands and shallow, crystal-clear waters, offering safe sight-of-sight navigation. Sailing in the Bahamas means enjoying total freedom to go from one island to another and explore several paradises during the same trip. Many protected natural anchorages allow you to drop anchor in isolated bays, often accessible only by boat, to enjoy deserted beaches.
The Bahamas is not just a destination, it is a real playground for sailing and nature enthusiasts. With more than 700 islands and 2400 cays, each stop is a new discovery. What distinguishes this archipelago from other places I have sailed is this incredible turquoise water that surrounds us as far as the eye can see. 
Why is the water turquoise?
🌐 Shallow depth : Light penetrates easily.
🏖️ White sand : It reflects light, amplifying the turquoise.
🌊 Pure water : Little sediment, therefore clear water.
🌱 Few algae : The water remains crystal clear.
This intense turquoise is even visible on Google Maps satellite images, making the Bahamas one of the few places in the world where you can sail with endless turquoise water for hours.
The Bahamas form a vast archipelago with varied atmospheres:
🏝 New Providence, home to the capital Nassau, is the cultural and economic heart of the country, with its resorts, colonial history and lively atmosphere.
🌊 The Exumas, to the east, are famous for their crystal clear waters and deserted beaches.
⛵ The Abacos, further north, are a sailor's paradise with their picturesque villages and unspoiled coral reefs.
🎣 The Bimini Islands, near Florida, are renowned for their deep-sea fishing and legendary waters that are said to have inspired Hemingway.
🌿 The Outer Islands, such as the Berry Islands, Andros (the largest island, known for its blue holes and diving), Eleuthera (for the Glass Window Bridge) and Harbour Island, appeal to travelers in search of authenticity, pink beaches and unspoiled nature.
Whether you are a fan of sailing, diving, relaxation or adventure, Each region of the Bahamas has something unique to offer ! ⛵🌴✨
☀️ When to go? The ideal weather to enjoy the Bahamas
The Bahamas are sunny almost all year round, but the best time to visit this paradise is between December and April. Winds are constant, rainfall is low, and the risk of tropical storms is minimal.
Bahamas Climate (December to May)
|
Month |
Air temperature |
Water temperature |
Precipitation |
Wind |
Humidity (%) |
|
December |
19°C - 26°C |
24°C - 26°C |
Weak |
12-22 knots |
72 - 76% |
|
January |
18°C - 26°C |
23°C - 25°C |
Weak |
12-22 knots |
71 - 75% |
|
February |
20°C - 27°C |
24°C - 26°C |
Very weak |
10-20 knots |
70 - 74% |
|
March |
21°C - 28°C |
24°C - 26°C |
Weak |
10-18 knots |
69 - 73% |
|
April |
22°C - 29°C |
25°C - 27°C |
Slightly higher |
8-15 knots |
70 - 74% |
|
May |
24°C - 30°C |
26°C - 28°C |
Average (beginning of rainy season) |
8-14 knots |
75 - 80% |
💨 Northers, these cold fronts coming from the north
Between November and March, the Bahamas may be affected by Northers, cold fronts that bring cooler winds and sometimes a few showers for a day or two. These episodes can make the sea rough, but nothing dramatic if you choose your anchorages carefully. Once the front has passed, the sun returns quickly, offering beautiful days of sailing with favorable winds.
🌪️ Hurricane season
The official hurricane season in the Bahamas runs from June 1 to November 30, with a peak activity between August and October.
Whatever the season, good preparation allows to fully enjoy the Bahamas and its turquoise waters in the best conditions. ⛵☀️🏝
🎒 Luggage: what to bring?
Packing your bag for an adventure in the Bahamas means thinking light, practical and comfortable. With the sun, the sea and sailing, the main thing is to protect yourself from the sun, stay comfortable and have everything you need to fully enjoy your stay.
Here is a list so you don't forget anything!
Essential clothing
☀️ Swimwear – You will often be in the water!
👕 Lightweight shorts and t-shirts (in breathable fabric)
🌊 Rash guard (anti-UV) to avoid sunburn when sailing and snorkeling
🧢 Cap or hat to protect you from the sun
🕶️ Polarized sunglasses (essential on the water!)
🩴 Sandals or flip flops
👟 Water shoes or lightweight sneakers
🧥 Lightweight windbreaker jacket
👖 1 pair of lightweight pants
🧢 1 hoodie or light sweatshirt for cool mornings
👗 1 casual outfit to go ashore (eg light dress, linen shirt)
Other essentials
🛂 Passport (check its validity!)
💧 Reusable water bottle (ideal to avoid plastic)
🛁 Microfiber towel (dries quickly and takes up little space)
🧴 Water-resistant sunscreen SPF 50+
🦟 Mosquito repellent (essential for evenings on land)
🎒 Waterproof bag to protect your phone and other belongings
🤿 Mask and snorkel (if you want to avoid borrowing any)
📷 GoPro or underwater camera to immortalize your adventures
💊 Necessary medications – Take what you usually take and anything else that might be useful to you while traveling
In short, favors lightweight, breathable and easy-to-dry clothing. The key element is protection from the sun and wind, while remaining comfortable for sail and enjoy the beaches ! ⛵☀️🌊
🌐 Internet: Your connection options
No matter which Internet option you choose, it is often reassuring, especially when you are far from home, to have access to Google Maps to visualize the route, translate conversations, get answers to your questions or communicate with your boat host, your point of contact or your family.
Starlink: Most sailboats are equipped with Starlink, so you can enjoy unlimited and very fast Wi-Fi once on board the boat.
Local SIM card to insert into your phone: You can get one at the airport kiosk. They will even install it in your phone. Make sure it works before you leave the airport. Also make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with international SIM cards if you opt for this option.
Electronic SIM card (eSIM): Airalo’s Global Card, which works in 136 countries, is available for $13.50 CAD with 1GB of data valid for 7 days. Perfect for your commute from the airport to the boat with Starlink. You can install it before you leave your country, as it requires a Wi-Fi connection during installation.
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Promo code for existing customers:
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Additional promo code:
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Once you arrive at your destination, you have a choice: disconnect and fully enjoy your stay 🌴, or stay connected to share your adventure, explore social networks or even work remotely. 🌐
🤿 What activities to do in the Bahamas?
The Bahamas is more than just a dream destination with white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. This archipelago is full of activities for sea lovers, explorers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you are a diving enthusiast, a thrill-seeking fisherman or simply curious to explore unique places, the Bahamas promises you an unforgettable experience.
🤿 In the water
🐠 Snorkeling on coral reefs : The seabed is teeming with life and the corals are magnificent. I have often come across turtles, rays and even nurse sharks.
🚢 Snorkeling on wrecks and artificial reefs : In addition to the natural coral reefs, it is possible to explore wrecks of planes and boats scattered throughout the archipelago. These remains, submerged for decades, have become real artificial reefs, sheltering abundant marine fauna and contributing to the growth of coral.
🤿 Scuba Diving in the Bahamas: An Underwater Paradise
The Bahamas is a dream destination for scuba diving, offering exceptional visibility, year-round warm water and impressive biodiversity. Divers can explore colorful coral reefs, spectacular wrecks and steep drop-offs, not to mention famous blue holes like the Dean's Blue Hole on Long Island. The archipelago is also renowned for its shark diving, particularly at Tiger Beach (Grand Bahama) for tiger shark viewing and the Exumas for hammerhead and nurse sharks.
Dive centers are numerous and well equipped, but reservations are recommended, especially in high season. The Bahamas enforces standards PADI and SSI, and some sites require advanced certification due to depth or currents. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, you will find sites here suitable for all levels for an unforgettable underwater experience!
🎣 Sea fishing : The Bahamas is a deep-sea fishing paradise, where a wide variety of fish can be caught. Depending on the season and location, you can catch mahi-mahi (dolphin fish), wahoo, tuna, marlin and barracuda. The archipelago's fish-rich waters also attract big-game fishermen, particularly in the Abacos and Exumas, where the currents favor the presence of large specimens. Fishing regulations are strict, and it is advisable to inquire about quotas and restrictions before setting out on an excursion.
🐟 Hawaiian Sling Fishing : In the Bahamas, harpoon guns are strictly prohibited, but the Hawaiian Sling, a rubber band spear, is permitted for spearfishing. This technique requires more skill and is ideal for catching lionfish, snappers, groupers and triggerfish. For seafood lovers, lobster is a popular catch, but be warned: the season is closed from April 1 to July 31 to protect their reproduction. It is also prohibited to catch lobsters carrying eggs.
⚠️ Be careful Ciguatera: a risk to be aware of
Ciguatera is a food poisoning caused by a toxin found in some reef fish in the Bahamas and the Caribbean. It is produced by microalgae and accumulates in the flesh of predatory fish such as grouper, barracuda, jacks and some species of snapper. This toxin is neither destroyed by cooking nor detectable by taste, and can cause digestive and neurological symptoms in humans. To avoid any risk, it is advisable to inquire locally about fish to avoid and to favor smaller catches, which are less likely to be contaminated. 🎣 ⚠️
🦈 How to deal with sharks?
The Bahamas is one of the few places in the world where sharks are protected by law. Since 2011, shark fishing has been banned, making the archipelago a marine sanctuary where these magnificent creatures can roam freely. Several species can be observed there, such as nurse sharks, lemon sharks, or even the impressive tiger sharks and hammerhead sharks.
Snorkeling with sharks can be an incredible experience, but it is important to follow certain practices to ensure your safety.
Here are the best practices to adopt:
✔️ Stay calm and relaxed : Sharks are sensitive to vibrations and sudden movements. Avoid panicking or swimming frantically.
✔️ Keep a respectful distance : Don't get too close and let them evolve naturally. A curious shark may come and take a look, but it is essential not to invade it.
✔️ Always look at the shark : It is best to maintain eye contact and turn slowly to always have it in your field of vision.
✔️ Stay in groups : When snorkeling, it is safer to stay in groups than alone. Sharks perceive large groups as larger entities.
✔️ Observe their behavior : A shark that swims slowly and calmly is not a threat. If its behavior becomes more nervous (rapid movements, arched back, lowered fins, or if it circles around you), it is time to calmly back away.
🚫 Don't touch sharks : Even if they seem peaceful, it is important not to try to touch them so as not to scare them or provoke a defensive reaction.
🚫 Don't swim with dead or fresh fish : The smell could attract sharks and put them into hunting mode. If you're fishing, get your catch out of the water as quickly as possible.
🚫 Don't turn your back on them suddenly : Keep an eye on them and avoid sudden movements.
🚫 Don't feed them : This changes their natural behavior and can cause them to associate humans with food, which can be a problem in the long run.
🚫 Don't wear shiny items : Sparkly jewelry or accessories can look like fish scales and unintentionally attract their attention.
🏝️ Out of water
⛵ Sailing: With its constant trade winds, its crystal clear waters and his Short distances between islands, the Bahamas offer exceptional sailing conditions, suitable for both experienced sailors and adventure-seeking boaters. With its shallow waters and well-charted underwater terrain, navigation is easy mainly by sight, allowing you to safely explore the many sheltered anchorages and deserted beaches accessible only by boat.
🏰 Visit Nassau's Historic Sites: Delve into the history of the Bahamas by visiting Fort Charlotte, Fort Fincastle and the Queen's Staircase, remnants of the colonial era offering breathtaking views of Nassau. The Pirates Museum is also a must-see stop to learn about the fascinating history of the Pirates of the Caribbean.
🌿 Discover the natural baths: The Bahamas are full of natural pools nestled between the rocks, dug by the tides and filled with crystal clear water. These hidden baths offer a unique experience: a relaxing swim in the middle of nature, far from the crowds. Whether in the Queen's Baths in Eleuthera or in the natural pools of the Exumas, each site promises a moment of pure well-being, with a breathtaking view of the ocean.
🐖 Swimming with pigs: This is one of the most famous experiences in the Bahamas! There are now several islands that offer this activity. The most popular island is at Big Major Cay, better known as Pig Beach, you can observe and interact with swimming pigs splashing around in the crystal clear water. But be careful, they can bite!
🏝️ Hidden beaches: Visit Nassau's historic sites : Be amazed by deserted beaches accessible only by boat. Enjoy these unspoiled places by leaving the place as beautiful as you found it : leave no trash behind.
🚫 Conch shells (lambi) are subject to strict regulations in the Bahamas. It is illegal to export conch shells without an official permit. Customs may confiscate them if you do not have permission.
🚫 Corals and other protected marine elements are prohibited from export, even if found washed up on the beach.
Whether you are a diving enthusiast, a fishing enthusiast or simply looking for marine adventures, The Bahamas offers unforgettable experiences at the heart of an ecosystem of exceptional beauty. Sail, explore and respect these natural treasures so that this destination remains magical for everyone! 🌴✨
🇧🇸 The Bahamian people
Bahamians are known for their hospitality, their joy of living and their love of the sea. This people with African, European and indigenous origins have managed to preserve their traditions while opening up to the world. English is the official language, but the Bahamian Creole, a local variant influenced by English and African dialects, is widely spoken in everyday life. Music and dance take center stage in their culture, especially with the Junkanoo, a colorful festival where drums, whistles and flamboyant costumes invade the streets during major celebrations, such as those of Christmas and New Year.
Bahamians are also very attached to the sea, whether for fishing, sailing or diving. Their cuisine reflects this heritage with dishes of fried fish, conch (lambi), lobsters and rice with peas. Here, life follows a relaxed pace, and it is common to exchange a few words with the locals, who do not hesitate to share their culture with visitors. 😊🏝️
❌ Do not be rude or impatient : Bahamians have a relaxed pace of life and do not appreciate people who are in a hurry or stressed. Politeness is essential, so a simple "Hello, how are you?" before asking a question is always appreciated.
❌ Do not underestimate their culture and traditions : The Junkanoo, music and religion (mainly Christian) occupy an important place in their lives. It is essential to respect their beliefs and festivities.
❌ Don't expect an aggressive negotiation : Unlike other Caribbean islands, negotiation is not a common practice in the Bahamas. It is sometimes possible to ask for a discount, but always with respect and without insisting.
❌ Don't take a picture of someone without asking : As everywhere, it is best to ask permission before taking a photo.
In summary, Bahamians are welcoming and warm, but they appreciate it when you respect their pace of life, their environment and their traditions. 🇧🇸😊
Tips
Bahamians generally include the tips on the bill in restaurants, bars and hotels, but it's always good to check. Here's how it works:
✅ Restaurants and bars : Most establishments add automatically a 15% service on the bill. If not specified, it is customary to leave a tip between 15 and 20% depending on the quality of the service.
✅ Hotels and resorts : Some all-inclusive hotels and resorts add service fees to the invoice (often 10 to 15%). However, it is common to leave a tip to baggage handlers ($1-2 per bag) and to maid service ($2-5 per day) .
✅ Taxis and transport : Tipping is not not obligatory but appreciated. It is common to round the amount or leave 10-15% of the tariff.
✅ Guides and excursions : For activities like diving, fishing, boat trips, a tip of 10-20% is usual if the service was satisfactory.
Always check the bill before adding a tip, as some establishments already include the service charge. 😊
⭐ Ready to live your own adventure in the Bahamas?
Explore the Bahamas is diving into a world of paradisiacal beaches, crystal clear waters and unforgettable encounters. Whether sailing, diving among coral reefs or discovering Bahamian culture, this archipelago has so much to offer. With my experience in the Bahamas and my passion for travel and adventure, I love to guide, help and inspire you to discover this magical place. 🌴
📺 Want to see more? Find my Season 1 on YouTube, where I explored the Bahamas for the first time in 2019-2020 on board my first sailboat Atypic ! ⛵ 🌴 ✨