Mayaguana offers a family charter experience that is almost impossible to find elsewhere in the Bahamas: complete solitude combined with safe anchorages, pristine snorkelling and a deserted beach that the family has entirely to themselves. The island is one of the least visited in the archipelago, lying at the far southeastern edge of the Bahamas close to the Turks and Caicos. For a family wanting to escape the organised itineraries of the more popular islands, Mayaguana is the answer.
The family fleet available for a Bahamas charter includes around 65 published yachts spanning motor and sailing designs from 24 metres upward. Many are fitted with jet skis, kayaks, snorkelling gear and waterslides as standard. The best family yachts carry a trained stewardess alongside the regular crew and chefs who plan menus around younger guests.
Weekly rates for family charters in the Bahamas range from approximately 50,000 euros per week for a smaller yacht to over 500,000 euros for a large flagship with extensive water toys. An advance provisioning allowance of around 30 percent covers food, fuel, dockage and drinks. Mayaguana has no local shops or provisioning, so stocking fully in Nassau before departure is essential.
A family itinerary on Mayaguana bases in Abraham Bay, with the tender running to the beach each morning. Booby Cay off the northwest coast provides the best snorkelling for older children, while the wide beach at Abraham Bay suits the youngest guests. The island has a small flamingo colony and abundant birdlife along the shoreline.
