The Best Boat Rentals in the Bahamas

Pricing varies by boat size, season, and whether you choose a captain. As a quick guide, smaller motorboats and center consoles often start around $400–$800 for a half day, while mid‑range private charters for island hopping or snorkeling commonly run $900–$1,800 for a half day and $1,500–$3,000 for a full day. Premium yachts can range from $2,500 to well over $6,000 per day. Rates typically include the boat, a licensed captain or crew when applicable, standard safety gear, and basic ice and water. Fuel may be included for set routes but is sometimes charged based on usage. Snorkel gear is frequently provided; gratuity and VAT are usually extra. Always review the listing details to see exactly what’s covered.

You’ll find a wide mix suited to different group sizes and budgets. Popular options include center consoles for snorkeling and sandbar stops, sportfishing boats for offshore or reef trips, sailboats and catamarans for relaxed cruising, and motor yachts for larger groups or special occasions. Many listings offer shaded seating, Bluetooth sound, coolers, and swim ladders to make the day comfortable for everyone.

Most visitors choose captained charters because local skippers know the reefs, channels, and best spots, which makes the day easier and safer. Self‑operated (bareboat) options may be available for experienced boaters; operators typically require you to be an adult, show boating experience, and follow local navigation and safety rules. If you want a stress‑free day focused on your group, opt for a captain; if you’re confident handling local waters, ask the owner about bareboat requirements before booking.

Common departure points include Nassau Yacht Haven and Bay Street Marina in Nassau, Hurricane Hole Marina on Paradise Island, and Palm Cay Marina on New Providence’s southeast side. For the Out Islands, many trips leave from George Town in Great Exuma, Staniel Cay in the Exumas, Marsh Harbour in Abaco, Spanish Wells and Harbour Island in Eleuthera, and Alice Town or Resorts World in Bimini. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed after booking.

Expect clear turquoise water, white‑sand beaches, and vibrant reefs. Around Nassau and Paradise Island you can cruise past Atlantis, snorkel near Green Cay to look for sea turtles, visit Rose Island’s beaches and sandbars, and explore the underwater sculpture near Clifton. In the Exuma Cays, highlights include Thunderball Grotto, sandbars that appear at low tide, friendly iguanas, and famously bright water inside protected parks. Abaco and Eleuthera offer sheltered cays, coral gardens, and colorful harbors perfect for a relaxed day on the water.

If you book a captained charter, you don’t need a boating license—your crew handles the vessel. For self‑operated rentals, requirements vary by owner, but you should expect to show boating experience, meet age minimums, and comply with local safety rules. If you’re unsure, choose a captained option; it removes the paperwork and lets you focus on your itinerary.

Yes, families are welcome on most charters. Boats carry required safety equipment, including life jackets in a range of sizes. Captains will brief your group on safe seating, swimming stops, and reef etiquette. If you’re bringing infants or young children, mention their ages when booking so the crew can prepare the right sizes and recommend a calm‑water route.

Most private charters allow you to bring snacks, picnic items, and beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice. Alcohol is generally permitted for guests 18 and older. Some owners offer add‑on catering or can suggest popular dockside pickup spots. Glass is often discouraged for safety, so plan on cans or reusable containers whenever possible.

Pet policies vary by boat. Some captains allow small, well‑behaved dogs on private trips with advance approval, and may request a cleaning fee. If you’re hoping to bring a pet, choose a private charter, let the owner know your pet’s size and temperament, and bring a towel, fresh water, and a leash for dock areas.

The Bahamas enjoys warm weather year‑round, but summer and fall can bring pop‑up showers or tropical systems, and winter “northers” can make seas choppy for a day or two. Captains monitor marine forecasts closely and will adjust the route or reschedule if conditions aren’t safe. Each listing has its own cancellation policy; if the captain cancels due to weather, you can typically reschedule or receive a refund according to that policy. For the smoothest seas, morning departures are often best.

Absolutely. Private charters are popular for celebrations because you control the guest list, music, and pace of the day. Many boats comfortably host 8–12 guests, with larger yachts available for bigger groups. To simplify planning, share your headcount, preferred date and time, and any must‑do stops (like a sandbar swim or snorkeling) when you inquire. Captains can suggest routes that keep everyone together and maximize time in the water.

The most popular months are December through April for dry, settled weather, so book early for holidays and spring break. Summer and early fall offer warm water and great visibility but fall within hurricane season, so it’s smart to keep plans flexible. Major holiday weekends like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day see strong demand with U.S. visitors, and local events can also fill calendars. Weekdays are quieter than weekends, and morning trips usually have calmer seas and clearer water.

Yes. Private charters can arrange day trips to the Exuma Cays to see the swimming pigs at Big Major Cay near Staniel Cay, snorkel Thunderball Grotto, and stop at sandbars and iguana beaches. From Nassau, shorter days often include Rose Island, Green Cay, and nearby reefs; from Bimini, popular routes include the SS Sapona wreck and shallow sand flats. Discuss timing with your captain—full‑day charters provide the most flexibility for multiple stops.

Several beloved traditions bring extra buzz to the islands and marinas. The National Family Island Regatta in Exuma typically takes place in spring, Junkanoo parades light up Nassau around late December and New Year’s Day, and Bahamas Independence celebrations in early July are popular. During these periods, boats and prime time slots book up quickly. If your dates overlap, reserve early and consider a weekday or earlier start to avoid crowds.