The Exumas have attracted traditional yachts since the early days of Bahamian cruising, and the classic charter fleet operating in these waters continues that tradition. Wooden schooners, gaff-rigged ketches and heritage motor yachts anchor in the same coves where their forebears anchored 80 years ago, and the absence of large-scale development on most of the 365 cays means the view from the cockpit has changed little in the interim. The classic charter fleet available for an Exumas voyage numbers approximately eight published yachts, including wooden sailing vessels maintained to high standards, heritage motor yachts from the golden age of naval architecture, and traditionally rigged expedition ketches. Weekly rates for classic charters in the Bahamas run from approximately 75,000 euros to 350,000 euros, reflecting the labour-intensive maintenance these vessels require and the skilled crews who work them. The advance provisioning allowance of roughly 30 percent covers food, drink, fuel, marina fees and the Bahamian cruising permit. Classic charters operate November through April, entirely within the trade-wind season and well clear of the hurricane zone. The Exumas reward a classic yacht slower pace: dropping the hook early in the afternoon to explore by dinghy, staying an extra day when the anchorage earns it, and navigating by the colour of the water and the knowledge of the crew rather than the urgency of a schedule.
