Staniel Cay

Most yacht charters in the Exumas stop at Staniel Cay, a paradise in the middle of the beautiful Exumas.

The Exumas are a stretch of 365 islands to the southeast of Nassau. In the center is Staniel Cay. To the east is Exuma Sound where deep water reefs lie and fishers head for deep sea catches. To the west are the shallow waters, where yachts sail between the islands and snorkelers enjoy the amazing underwater life around the reefs.

Staniel Cay Yacht Club

The most popular snorkeling attraction in Staniel Cay is, of course, Thunderball Grotto. This hollowed out rock attracts people from all over the Bahamas and was featured in the movie Splash as well as two James Bond movies. At low tide, you can swim in and observe the amazing number of bright fish, sponges, coral, and other marine life – all living within the hollowed out “bowl.” The rock above has eroded, allowing spots of sunlight to enter and illuminate the entire area. Thunderball Grotto, as well the adjacent two islands, are protected by the Bahamas National Trust.

Thunderball Grotto

The beaches of Staniel Cay extend practically the entire length of the island, allowing for plenty of opportunities to claim your own section. The locals are friendly and you can find some shops and restaurants on this tiny island. Staniel Cay Yacht Club is a popular meeting places for the locals and yacht charter guests.