Mayaguana is one of the defining explorer destinations in the Bahamas, combining extreme remoteness with exceptional diving, abundant wildlife and none of the anchor pressure that has degraded reefs in the more popular islands. Lying at the far southeastern edge of the archipelago close to the Turks and Caicos, the island requires a vessel with real range, full self-sufficiency and a crew willing to make the passages. The reward is an island almost entirely to the yacht.
The explorer fleet available for a Bahamas charter runs to around 15 yachts, from 28-metre purpose-built expedition vessels to larger motor yachts with extended range and full diving equipment. These vessels hold the fuel capacity to reach Mayaguana and remain on anchor for a week or more. The dive equipment carried by the best explorer yachts suits Booby Cay well, where the reef walls drop away in exceptional visibility.
Weekly rates for explorer yacht charters in the Bahamas begin at approximately 50,000 euros per week and reach 350,000 euros or more for a larger purpose-built vessel. An advance provisioning allowance of roughly 30 percent covers fuel, food, berthing and drinks. Mayaguana is fully off-grid for provisioning, so complete planning is required before departure from Nassau.
An explorer itinerary on Mayaguana anchors in Abraham Bay for two to three nights, dives Booby Cay, explores the flamingo territory by tender and then continues to Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos or turns northwest through Inagua and Long Island.
