Freeport sits on the southern coast of Grand Bahama Island and serves as the Bahamas’ closest port of entry for yachts crossing from Florida. The passage from Fort Lauderdale covers fewer than 100 nautical miles, and a motor yacht makes the crossing in three to four hours with the stability and range to reach sheltered anchorages by early afternoon. The city’ deepwater port handles yachts of all sizes, and Port Lucaya Marina provides fuel, provisions and a lively waterfront base. Beyond the port, Grand Bahama reveals a quieter character. Lucayan National Park contains two of the world’s longest explored underwater cave systems, accessible by tender through mangrove creeks. Gold Rock Beach, at the park’s eastern edge, is a long arc of protected sand. Peterson Cay National Park, a short ride east along the coast, sits inside a ring of decent coral reef. UNEXSO, the Underwater Explorers Society at Port Lucaya, is one of the Caribbean region’s best-regarded dive operations for those who want a certified programme. Motor yachts in the Bahamas range from around 50,000 euros per week on a well-maintained 30-metre to over 400,000 euros for 80-metre superyachts. Budget an additional 30 to 35 percent as an advance provisioning allowance (APA) to cover fuel, food, berthing and drinks. The high season runs December through April and good yachts book four to six months in advance. Freeport also works well as a gateway for a broader itinerary, connecting north to the Abacos cays and south toward Nassau and the Exumas.
