Cat Island runs 48 miles from north to south along the central Bahamian chain, positioning it as one of the most rewarding motor yacht destinations in the region. Unlike the more accessible Exumas, Cat Island sees comparatively few charter yachts, meaning anchorages at Fernandez Bay, New Bight and The Bight are frequently uncrowded even in peak season. The island rolling hills, the highest point in the Bahamas at Mount Alvernia, and the winding inlets along its western shore reward a crew willing to explore beyond the obvious.
Motor yachts are particularly well suited to Cat Island because of the distance involved: it sits roughly 130 nautical miles southeast of Nassau, and the crossing from Florida or Bimini is comfortably managed at cruising speed over a day. The charter fleet available includes 162 motor yachts from well-maintained 25-metre cruisers with sport fishing outriggers to 50-metre-plus superyachts carrying submersibles and beach club platforms. Range, comfort and crew experience all weigh in the motor yacht favour on a Cat Island itinerary.
Weekly rates range from approximately 40,000 euros for a mid-size motor yacht to 350,000 euros for the largest and most capable superyachts. The advance provisioning allowance of around 30 percent covers fuel, provisions sourced in Nassau before the crossing, marina fees and crew gratuity. Fuel consumption increases on longer Bahamian circuits, and captains typically plan a Nassau stop for reprovisioning on extended itineraries.
From Cat Island, the inner route to the Exumas via Conception Island and Long Island passes through some of the most unspoiled waters in the Caribbean basin. Conception Island itself is a protected national park with nesting sea turtles and no permanent settlement. Fernandez Bay on Cat Island west coast provides a reliable anchorage with a small resort serving fresh food and cold drinks.
