Bimini position at the western edge of the Bahamas makes it a natural gateway for a sailing charter, especially for boats crossing from Florida on the prevailing southeasterly trades. The Gulf Stream runs between the Florida coast and Bimini, providing brisk upwind conditions on the westward leg and a reliable current-assisted passage on the return, making it a favourite among experienced offshore sailors. Once anchored, the shallow Bahamian water shows colours that no photograph quite captures.
The sailing fleet for Bimini numbers around 19 vessels, a curated selection of crewed sailing yachts ranging from classic sloop-rigged monohulls in the 18-metre range to modern performance catamarans with generous beam and deck space. Each comes with a qualified skipper and, on the larger examples, a full crew of three or four including a chef who adapts the menu to local produce available in Alice Town.
Weekly rates for crewed sailing yachts begin around 18,000 euros for a well-maintained monohull and rise to 80,000 euros or more for a 24-metre performance catamaran. The advance provisioning allowance of approximately 30 percent covers fuel, food, marina charges and drinks. Bimini charters often include a fuel allowance in lieu of the normal APA given the shorter distances involved compared to the wider Exumas.
Under sail, Bimini to the Berry Islands is a comfortable day beam reach in a moderate breeze. South from there, the Tongue of the Ocean opens up passage sailing toward Nassau and Andros, while the lee of Cat Cay offers a protected anchorage to wait for the right moment to cross back to Florida.
