Bahamas, Boarding, and a One-of-a-Kind Holiday

As we celebrate Thanksgiving and cruise into the holiday season, you might be looking for ways to warm up.

You could turn up the heat—or you could visit a place where the heat never really goes away. And what better way to get there than by boat? On today’s virtual tour, we’re exploring the Bahamas, where gorgeous island vistas, azure H2O and ample on-the-water opportunities await every kind of boater… whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or, more likely, a bit of both.

Ready to cruise? Just keep reading!

What to bring

If you’re traveling from a nearby spot, such as Florida’s East Coast (a popular access point to the Bahamas), you will be able to sink your toes into the dazzling water and bright white sand in no time. And of course, getting there by boat is half the fun! Here’s what you will want to bring for your tropical excursion:

• Swimwear: Since so many of your Bahamian activities will likely include time in (or near) the water, you can’t go wrong with plenty of swimwear. Bring at least a couple sets so you never have to wait for your last piece to dry in order to enjoy the day!
• Casual cover-ups: Anything you can toss over your swimsuit to grab lunch or make your way to other nearby activities will be sure to come in handy.
• Trek-friendly shoes: Don’t let the Bahamas’ near-endless expanse of bright blue water and soft sand fool you—there is still a variety of terrain to explore here, some of which may call for sturdier walking shoes, or footwear that can handle rocky crags that overlook the water.
• Formal wear: Many of the places you’ll explore call for casual, beach-friendly wear. However, there may be a night or two when you want to enjoy an elegant night out—or simply throw your own on-board dinner for two. Bring along at least one set of dinner-ready clothes to be prepared for it all.
• Sunscreen: Haven’t stocked up on sunscreen since the summer? We understand! Just be sure to pick some up (and lather up) for your Bahamian excursion, where it will surely come in handy.
• Water sports gear: As you’ll soon see, there are plenty of places to enjoy water sports in the Bahamas! Bring along your wakeboard, skis, rope, personal floatation device and everything else you’ll need to jump right in.

Goggles and snorkel gear: You can always rent this equipment on-site, too, but whatever you do, be sure to make some time to explore the underwater expanse of the Bahamas! It’s just as beautiful as the world above.

Where to go

The Bahamas—plural. There are several islands to see and waters to explore. Here are a few top picks for sport-minded travelers…

• Berry Islands: Quiet, private, idyllic escapes await in the Berry Islands—a well-kept secret of the Bahamas. Here, you’ll find relaxing, out-of-the-way waterscapes where you can enjoy some relief from the surf and create your own wake. Shroud and Alders Cays are two especially vibrant spots to explore here. When you’re done, swim up to the sand and laze around, enjoying the warm sun and cloudless sky above.
• Exuma: Swim with pigs and then do some boarding here at Exuma! The island is known for its unique attractions, including a friendly bunch of pigs who call its shallow water “home,” as well as ample opportunities for getting out on your gear and riding the wake close to shore. Here, protected spots will offer a break from the waves, providing the perfect spot for long runs on your board or skis.
• Harbour Island: Famous for the charming, pastel facades of Dunmore Town, Harbour Island is perfect for cruising. Enjoy the scenery onshore or cruise along the famous pink-sand beach—or jump out and walk it for yourself—and then kick things up a notch with a fast-paced cruise offshore!

A new “home” for the holidays?

Even if you’re spending the holiday season away from your usual digs, you can still bring a sense of “home” along on your travels! Here in the Bahamas, you can enjoy a beautiful dinner at one of many gorgeous waterfront venues—or craft your own experience, with an on-board dinner al fresco or perhaps a potluck picnic in the sand. One thing’s for sure: Each offers a chance to unwind after a thrilling day on the water.

Wake sports in the heart of paradise? Check. We hope that today’s virtual tour helps inspire your next Vortex adventure.