Staniel Cay

Whilst the island has a vibrant population, pastel stilt houses on azure waters and an impressive marina, most Bahamas yacht charter guests come to see the Exumas’ most notable residents: the swimming pigs. Spend a day swimming with Staniel Cay’s porcine inhabitants, kayak in the lagoons and picnic on the deserted beaches. For the more active, diving with sharks and exploring James Bond’s Thunderball Grotto will get the heart racing. 

8 miles north of Staniel Cay lies Compass Cay, an island characterised by pristine beaches, turquoise seas and a famed population of docile nurse sharks. These curious creatures can live up to 25 years, are able to grow to almost ten feet long and are adorably acclimatised to humans, being much-loved members of the Compass Cay population. Float around with these intriguing creatures and then visit Rachel’s bubble bath, a bubbling lagoon, for a fun afternoon. 

The WWII era plane wreck at Norman’s Cay is a must see when visiting the islands of the Exumas. Ditched in the 1970s and used for drug trafficking by the infamous Carlos Lehder, the plane is easily reachable and provides an interesting and unique snorkelling destination. If you want more, head ashore to discover interesting remnants of Norman Cay’s turbulent past. With its famous swimming pigs, vibrant community, and James Bond connection, Staniel Cay is a must-visit destination for a Bahamas yacht charter.