Cat Island earns its reputation as one of the Bahamas quieter charter destinations, making it an appealing choice for families looking to step back from the busier Exumas circuit. The island beaches are largely deserted, the waters off Fernandez Bay are shallow enough for young children and the absence of jet ski rentals and tourist cruises creates a pace that families with school-age children consistently describe as the highlight of their Bahamian trip. More than 65 family-oriented yachts are available for Cat Island itineraries, covering a range from nimble 14-metre catamarans to spacious 40-metre motor yachts with a dedicated children crew member.
A Cat Island family charter typically starts in Nassau, where the crew loads provisions before the crossing. Children can be involved in the passage itself, taking turns at the helm under the captain supervision and learning the basics of navigation. Landfall at Cat Island takes on a different quality from a Nassau beach resort: the approach to Fernandez Bay is quiet, the water is clear to the sandy bottom and the only other boats in sight are usually local fishing vessels heading back to Arthur Town.
Weekly rates for family charter yachts range from 25,000 to 200,000 euros per week, with most families targeting the 30,000 to 80,000-euro range for a well-equipped motor or sailing yacht with four cabins. The advance provisioning allowance of around 30 percent includes a major provisioning run in Nassau, local fish and produce sourced along the way, fuel and crew gratuity. Booking six months ahead is strongly advised for school holiday windows in December, February and April.
The Hermitage monastery atop Mount Alvernia, a short hike from New Bight, is one of those experiences children and adults both remember vividly. The climb takes 20 minutes, the views extend to the horizon in every direction, and the hand-built stone chapel at the summit was constructed by a lone Franciscan friar in the 1940s. From the yacht, the tender serves as both transport and a day-long activity platform.
