The Bahamas: Chartering in Paradise

Though many think of Nassau when they consider the Bahamas, the clear, shallow waters and crowd-free anchorages of the rest of the island chain are also only a short hop by plane or powerboat from Florida. While northerners think of the Bahamas as a winter destination, Floridians use the nearby islands as a summer getaway. A former member of the British Empire, there are four distinct groups of islands that make up this sprawl of a country: Abacos in the north,  the Exumas, all the way south to Turks and Caicos.

This West Bay lies in a cove not far from Bimini, a half day off the Florida coast and close to the thoroughfare of the gulf stream—yet one of the hidden gems of the region.

Shalimar, a 118' Benetti, has a combination of speed and luxury to explore as many islands as possible during a charter period. She has jet skis, high speed tenders, dive equipment, and all the toys, along with a moderately shallow draft to make her an ideal island explorer.

Speaking of jet skis, they are one of the most popular toys on board large yachts, especially among the network of safe and warm waterways of the Bahamas. Variations of speed and performance should be considered when researching options for purchase or charter.

The Abacos have some of the finest beaches, warm water coves, and calm anchorages in the Bahamas chain. Once the anchor drops into a puff of sand, swimming is an irresistible activity.