Cruising the exotic Exumas, Bahamas: Yacht Charter Itineraries

Astronauts could recognize only two sights from space: the Great Wall of China and the crystalline Bahamian waters. The Bahamas has more than 700 islands rimmed by some of the world's most spectacular coral reefs.

The Exumas (pronounced ex-UU-mas) are a hidden treasure: a mostly uninhabited, 120-mile long archipelago of 365 cays that stretch in a narrow crescent southeast from Nassau. In the crystal clear water ranging from pale aqua to deep sapphire, the bottom never seems out of reach. The crown jewel is the Exumas Cays Land and Sea Park, 174 square miles of fish-filled waters and miniscule cays populated with tropical birds, fauna, and the faded ruins of British Loyalist plantations. Anglers will find a haven outside the Park. The Exuma Flats are world-renowned for challenging bonefishing, and the 6,000-foot depths of Exuma Sound typically yield record amounts of Marlin and other spectacular game fish.

Snorkelers, SCUBA divers, kayakers, and naturalists can explore endless reefs, caves, and mangroves that are brimming with juvenile and adult indigenous wildlife. From the prehistoric Bahamian Iguanas on Allen's Cay to "Emily", the wild boar that swims out to greet visitors, the Exumas never cease to thrill.

Fortunately, the intricate shallow reefs that surround the Exumas keep larger and deeper drafted vessels away, thus leaving these truly virgin islands free of commercial development and cruise ship clutter. The few settlements and marinas have colorful character and island flair. The locals are a wonderfully peaceful people, and genuinely happy to meet visitors and share their beautiful home. You never know who you might meet at local watering holes like McDuffs on Norman's Cay or the Staniel Cay Yacht Club!

Although this paradise feels remote, access is an easy: a one-hour flight from Florida transports you to this magical world & natural beauty.

Like the rest of the Bahamas, the Exumas have a rather eclectic history. Lucayan Indians inhabited these islands until Columbus' arrival led to their demise. Pirates exploited the hidden anchorages, and British Loyalists grew cotton in its thin soil. Watermen tried their hand at running blockades during The Civil War and rum during Prohibition. A crashed cargo plane at Norman's Cay is a reminder of the area's drug-smuggling days. These are truly islands of adventurers.

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