Yachting in the Bahamas offers far more than sun-soaking by the jacuzzi and sipping rum cocktails. These islands are home to some of the most scenic and remote hiking destinations in the Caribbean. Accessible only by yacht, these islands and cays provide a rare opportunity to explore untouched natural wonders, experience breathtakingly panoramic and picture-perfect views, and discover the region’s hidden historical treasures.
A yacht charter opens the door to some of the Caribbean’s most stunning hiking opportunities, and many of the Bahamas’ islands and cays remain undeveloped and are accessible only by yacht, making them a treasure trove for adventurous travelers.
When you charter a yacht in the Bahamas, remote hiking locations provide a unique way to connect with the natural beauty of the region, and nothing boosts an Instagram feed like stunning photos of dramatic cliffs and secluded trails or lush interiors teeming with wildlife.
Here are the top hiking locations in the Bahamas accessible only by yacht and one of the best charter vessels to help you get there.
Warderick Wells, Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park
Warderick Wells, located within the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, is one of the most spectacular destinations in the Bahamas for yachters and hikers alike. The island features a network of well-maintained trails that wind through dense vegetation, beautiful seaside cliffs, and secluded beaches. The most famous trail leads to Boo Boo Hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding cays and bright blue waters.
At the summit of Boo Boo Hill, visitors will find a makeshift shrine of driftwood left by past sailors. The views from the top are unforgettable, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the light cascades down from the summit to the teeming vegetation below.
The island’s trails pass through habitats rich with Bahamian flora and fauna, including hutias (a native rodent), iguanas, and an abundance of birdlife. Accessible only by private yacht charter, Warderick Wells offers an exclusive hiking experience surrounded by unspoiled visual splendor and incredible photo opportunities.
Great Guana Cay, Abaco Islands
Great Guana Cay, located in the Abacos, is a quiet island with a rugged coastline and an extensive trail system that is a haven for nature lovers. The Atlantic Side Trail runs along the island’s windward Atlantic coast, offering stunning views of the towering cliffs, crashing waves, and vibrant coral reefs just offshore.
Hiking inland reveals dense tropical vegetation, including sea grapes and mangroves. Birdwatchers in particular will appreciate the variety of species found here, including the Bahama Woodstar and Red-legged Thrush. But one of the major draws to this cay is the fact that so many of the trails lead to pristine, secluded beaches where hikers can cool off in the calm, turquoise waters. Accessible by yacht, Great Guana Cay is the perfect destination for combining hiking with snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on a private beach that belongs to you alone.
Cat Island
Cat Island is an off-the-beaten-path destination in the central Bahamas, home to lush landscapes, historic sites, and trails that reward hikers with stunning views as well as cultural insights.
Mount Alvernia Trail leads to the highest point in the Bahamas, Mount Alvernia, where hikers will find the Hermitage, a small stone monastery built by Father Jerome in the early 20th century. The panoramic views from the top are spectacular, encompassing the island’s rolling hills and aquamarine waters. As you hike, you’ll encounter remnants of old plantations and other historical landmarks that tell the story of the island’s past. Cat Island’s relative remoteness and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for yachters looking for a hiking adventure combined with cultural exploration.
Life is Good on Long Island
Known for its dramatic cliffs and stunning beaches, Long Island offers some of the best hiking experiences in the Bahamas for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Start your adventure at Dean’s Blue Hole, the world’s second-deepest blue hole, before hiking along trails that wind through coastal cliffs and offer incredible ocean views. Then continue on to Columbus Point Trail, leading to a monument marking Christopher Columbus’s first landfall in the Bahamas. The hike is relatively easy but provides stunning vistas of the island’s coastline and surrounding waters. Trails on Long Island often lead to hidden beaches with networks of incredible limestone caves, perfect for exploring after a day of hiking. Accessible by yacht, Long Island’s hiking trails showcase the island’s rugged beauty and provide a unique opportunity to discover its hidden gems — from caving to blue hole diving.
Choose VIRTUE for Your Adventure
If you’re looking for the right vessel to ride on your way to these fantastic locales, you absolutely need to take a look at VIRTUE, one of our top charter vessels. The definition of luxury and accessibility, VIRTUE’s four deck layout includes a spacious sundeck and a forward sunbathing area, along with a full head in the sky lounge.
To amplify charter flexibility, VIRTUE has five spacious staterooms, each with an ensuite bathroom, while dark mahogany wood and light soft furnishings combine in Francois Zuretti’s classic and elegant design to create a playful atmosphere. The Master Suite is located in a prime position forward on the main deck, with a connecting walk-through private study for moments when you need a little me time or to plug in to work for a moment.
The main salon makes the perfect place to gather for pre-dinner cocktails or to unwind after a long day hiking the trails, and the layout is designed for entertaining—with a large dining table for perfect al fresco feasts and evening drinks. And if you’re wondering how much a charter yacht aboard VIRTUE is, winter pricing starts at $130,000 per week.
We Help Plan Your Perfect Itinerary
Whether you’re trekking to the summit of Boo Boo Hill in the Exumas, exploring the lush landscapes of Cat Island, or hiking along the rugged coastline of Long Island, the Bahamas’ hiking trails promise an unforgettable adventure. For yachters looking to combine their love of the sea with a passion for exploration, the Bahamas is a paradise like no other. While we are happy to advise you on your island-hopping itinerary, you ultimately have the final say on where to go and when during your luxury yacht charter in the Bahamas. Even before you board your charter, our team plans out every detail of your journey, from private jet details to car accommodations, getting you where you need to be in style and comfort.
Moran Yacht & Ship has spent 30 years overseeing unforgettable yacht charters for people who demand only the best from their high-end destination travel. Contact us today to start your maritime adventure in the Bahamas.