There’s nothing quite like a trip aboard a sailing yacht. The peace, the connection to the ocean, and the beautiful destinations. For JFA CEO and Founder Captain James Fachtmann, one of his very favorite spots he recommends visiting is The Exumas in the Bahamas. It’s sapphire, crystalline blue waters and breathtaking views make this spot a slice of pure heaven on earth.
“When you get there, you realize that’s where all the mega yachts go,” says Fachtmann. “Why? Because it’s so beautiful and pristine. It’s away from everything and just gorgeous.”
There’s many ways James recommends hitting up the islands. Start in Nassau, go down the Exuma chain, and turnaround either in Turks and Caicos or at the Great Exuma Island where there’s a Sandals resort.
Made up of 365 islands, the Exumas is a paradise that’s one of the most stunning spots on the planet boasting some of the clearest water on earth. You can even see the brilliant colors of the water and white sand from outer space!
One of James’ “must sees” while visiting is the world famous Thunderball Grotto, where the James Bond movie, Thunderball was filmed. Located just 80 miles south of Nassau, this underwater cave is a hidden gem full of tropical marine life, coral and underwater tunnels. Swim, snorkel or dive to enjoy this amazing spot.
In addition to Exumas, another top excursion James recommends is Warderick Wells, which is at the entrance to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, north of Staniel Cay. Because it’s a park, all of the land and animals are protected, and visitors can see everything in its natural glory. Hike the various trails, relax on the beach or catch a magical glimpse of whales in the ocean.
One of the great features here is that the scuba diving off Norman Island is next level with rocky pinnacles to shallow caves underwater. Norman Island also is believed to be the inspiration behind Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island novel as pirates used to use its shores to stow secret fortune.
You could spend weeks traveling throughout the Exumas or a long weekend. Either way, you’re in for something special and with what James describes as a destination where there’s “something for everyone” visitors will want to return again and again!
