The Abaco Islands of the Bahamas – devastated by a hurricane in 2019, and avoided by tourists and travelers for years. It’s well past time to go back.
As a long-time Abaco Islands sailing fan, I couldn’t have been happier to have the opportunity to visit these unique islands once again. Their electric blue waters, powdery white sand beaches, and friendly local culture hold a special place in my heart. It’s been several years since my last visit – over 5 years, and before devastating Hurricane Dorian of 2019. A Dream Yacht charter would be a great way to rediscover the beautiful islands of the Abacos. And I was eager to see how the islands had recovered and what the “renewed Abacos” had to offer.
Traveling to the Abacos
Reaching the Abacos, Bahamas is easy from Florida, with many connecting flights from Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Orlando and more. I connected through Ft. Lauderdale, and the flight is just over an hour. The views on approach are spectacular, and you can feel the excitement onboard growing with passengers taking pictures from their window seats.
At the small Marsh Harbour Airport, customs and immigration are a breeze and a few steps after I was greeted by a line of ready and waiting taxis. Sam was my friendly driver, enthusiastically sharing local hurricane stories and experiences throughout the short 10 minute ride. Schools, markets, government buildings and housing – nearly everything we passed was either fully repaired or entirely newly built. Including the Conch Inn Marina where the Dream Yacht base is located.
Dream Yacht & Conch Inn Marina
The Conch Inn Hotel and Marina is better than ever – entirely rebuilt but keeping its local charm and flavour, and complete with the new onsite Snappa’s Bar and Grill, where visitors can enjoy amazing local cuisine with a view. I arrived early for my charter and had a couple hours to kill, and I couldn’t imagine a better place to spend it than with the hospitable servers and a frothy island cocktail.
Aboard my sailing charter, I was spoiled for choice when it came to exploring the Abacos. The islands offer a wide range of experiences, from snorkeling and diving to fishing and beachcombing. And with so many beautiful anchorages and harbors, it’s easy to find a secluded spot to drop anchor and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the islands.
Sunday at Great Guana Cay
But the first stop was an easy choice. It was Sunday. Sunday in the Abacos always calls for a visit to Great Guana Cay. The island is known for its lively Sunday pig roast party at Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill, as well as the “after-party” hangout at Grabber’s, a short walk across the island. The “pilgrimage” to the parties is half the fun, where you’ll meet with a steady stream of walking and golf-carting tourists and locals headed for the event.
We found both venues (and all the shops and marinas in between!) fully recovered and in full swing with spring break revellers side-by-side with aged salty sailors and locals. It’s a diverse crowd and everyone is welcome. If the Nipper’s dancing and music become too much, a set of stairs take you down the bluff to one of the most stunning and tranquil pink-ish sand beaches you’ll find.
Hope Town – rebuilt & refreshed
You can’t visit the Abacos without a stop at the famed Hope Town on Elbow Cay, and it’s as beautiful as ever with pastel-color houses lining the harbor. This charming island is home to a beautiful beach, a historic (still functioning) kerosene-powered lighthouse, and a quaint village with shops, restaurants, and galleries.
I spent hours exploring the island, chatting with the locals, and soaking up the laid-back atmosphere before retreating to the well-known afternoon gathering spot, Captain Jack’s, for a rum-filled “Jack Hammer” cocktail.
There are no cars allowed in Hope Town, but plenty of golf carts to rent for exploring the island. It’s a great way to see the whole island and stop at local eateries and beaches along the way.
Green Turtle Cay – if you know, you know
Green Turtle Cay is a very special place. If you know, you know. It holds a quiet charm and welcoming vibe unlike any other place I’ve visited.
We started in the tiny settlement of New Plymouth, where we walked the narrow streets admiring the views and ducking into small shops and museums – including a stop to take in some history at the Loyalist Memorial Sculpture Garden where life-sized bronze bust sculptures honour the lives of prominent Bahamians.
At Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar we enjoyed a “Goombay Smash” that they’re known for, and even met the legendary Brendal Stevens. This larger-than-life dive shop owner on Green Turtle Cay was more than happy to sit and regale us with tales of his maritime exploits.
The delightful locals here were quick to share their hurricane stories, with pride for how well they’ve recovered following several very difficult years. And it was clear that they welcome yacht charter visitors with open arms.
Plan your Abacos sailing trip
Throughout my Abacos sailing trip, I was struck by the incredible variety of things to do. From the vibrant culture and history of the islands to the stunning natural beauty and wildlife, there’s something for everyone in this incredible archipelago. And as I sailed from island to island, I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience it all.
If you’re planning a yacht trip to the Abacos, here are a few of the places and experiences you won’t want to miss:
- Green Turtle Cay: Explore the quaint New Plymouth village, stop at Green Turtle Club and enjoy the beautiful beaches.
- Elbow Cay: Visit the historic lighthouse, stroll through Hope Town, and swim, and soak up the sun on the stunning Tahiti Beach.
- Pelican Cays Sea Park’s coral reef: Dive or snorkel to discover the stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life.
- Manjack Cay: Drop anchor here and enjoy the pristine beaches and the opportunity to interact with gentle sting rays!
- Guana Cay: Visit on Sunday for the parties, or any day of the week take in the fun beach bars and stunning beaches.
The Abacos are a true gem of the Bahamas, and a must-visit destination for those that enjoy quaint seaside villages, vibrant beach bars, white sand beaches and the clearest blue waters.
So come and discover the “renewed Abacos” for yourself – you won’t be disappointed!
Get in touch with a Dream Yacht charter planner today.
