One catamaran day here can spoil land life forever. The Exumas are known for clear water and secret-feeling anchor spots, and this private 4 days / 3 nights trip is built for that sailing lifestyle. I love having your own crew-led route with Captain Glenn Wakefield handling the course, and I love the space to actually relax onboard with up to three ensuite bedrooms. One thing to plan for: food and drink are not included, so you’ll want to budget for groceries, dining add-ons, or whatever setup you request.

This is a true private sailing experience, not a cruise with assigned lines and crowded beaches. You get use of snorkeling gear, plus scuba gear (including tanks and a compressor), along with paddleboards, kayaks, and a dinghy for getting to shallower spots. The vibe is part adventure, part slow-motion vacation: swim, snorkel, dinghy around mangroves, then settle in for shade and sunsets.

If you want nonstop partying, this may feel more mellow than you expect. But if you want the Bahamas from the water with a captain who knows how to move around the islands, it’s an easy yes.

Key things I’d put on your radar

• Captain Glenn Wakefield charts the course so you’re not spending vacation time studying weather and routes
• Up to three ensuite bedrooms means privacy and comfort for couples, friends, or families
• Scuba is included with tanks and a compressor, not just snorkel gear
• Lots of water toys: paddleboards, kayaks, dinghy rides, and sand bar / beach time
• Flexible routing starting from Staniel Cay Yacht Club, with options listed from Staniel Cay, Exuma, or Nassau
• Food and drink are extra, so your total trip cost depends on how you handle meals

Sailing the Exumas on your own catamaran: the real appeal

The Exumas have a reputation for postcard water, but the bigger magic is how the islands feel from a boat. From an anchored catamaran, you can swim right off the stern, snorkel over reefs without a long commute, and chase the calm spots that make this region special. On a private sailing trip, you’re also not locked into one timetable that fits a big tour schedule.

This experience is priced per group (up to 6), which changes the whole math. Instead of “paying for a seat,” you’re paying for a boat, a captain, and a full onboard setup for your group to use. At $7,000 for up to six people, the per-person cost works out much more like a lodging-plus-adventure package than like a typical day tour—especially since snorkeling and scuba equipment are included.

And the onboard setup matters. You’re not just sleeping on a mattress below deck. The catamaran has three bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms (up to three full en-suite rooms), plus a kitchen, fridge/freezer, and an outdoor BBQ. That’s a big deal for a 4-day / 3-night trip because you’ll want to reset between swims without feeling cramped or scattered.

The boat setup: privacy, shade, and space you’ll feel fast

The most practical thing I look for on a sailing stay is how you’ll live in the space. Here, you’ve got a new-feeling catamaran with a lot of outdoor living space and dedicated sleeping rooms with bathrooms. When you’re sharing water time with six people, privacy becomes comfort time—especially if someone wants a nap while someone else wants to explore.

What I like most about the setup:

• En-suite bathrooms mean fewer compromises during the day’s logjam moments (sun up, swim, rinse, repeat).
• Outdoor space is where the trip happens. You’ll spend a lot of time in shade, hanging out with wet gear, and transitioning between activities.
• A real kitchen plus fridge/freezer gives you options for how you handle meals when food isn’t included.

You should also plan around sea days and weather. On a sailing trip, wind and sea state can change the day. That doesn’t mean your trip falls apart—it means your captain adjusts.

Captain Glenn Wakefield: why a good captain matters here

Captain Glenn Wakefield is at the center of why this trip gets such strong praise. The practical value of a great captain is simple: he knows where conditions are manageable, where the best snorkeling happens, and how to build a route that fits your pace. In the reviews, people repeatedly highlight how Captain Glenn takes the group to remote and interesting spots, including caves and off-the-beaten places for swimming and snorkeling.

I’d also take seriously the idea that this is set up for fun, not just transportation. The trip includes informal sailing lessons if you want them, which is a nice touch because it turns you from passive passengers into people who understand what they’re seeing.

One more thing that came through in the experiences: the captain doesn’t just follow a script. If conditions shift, the itinerary can shift too—so you’re not stuck “doing the plan” no matter what the ocean says.

Water toys and underwater time: snorkeling, scuba, and more

If your main goal is time in the water, you’re in the right place. This trip includes:

• Snorkeling equipment
• Scuba equipment, plus tanks and a compressor
• Paddleboards and kayaks
• Dinghy trips that can reach mangrove rivers and tiny islets
• Beach time, including sand bars and private beaches
• Beach towels and shade on board (helpful if the day is sun-heavy)

The scuba piece is a big differentiator. Some sailing trips treat scuba as “bring your own gear, or pay extra.” Here, you’re set up for it. Just remember: the actual ease of scuba depends on conditions and your comfort level, and the trip is designed for active water time.

Also, the “floating rear beach” concept means you’re not always scrambling to get in and out of the water. That style of access can make a big difference if you’re traveling with different ages or skill levels.

A realistic day-by-day flow in the Exumas (and how to enjoy it)

No two routes will be identical, because the captain is tracking weather and conditions, but this is the rhythm you should expect for a 4 days / 3 nights catamaran stay in the Exumas.

Day 1: Meet at Staniel Cay Yacht Club and settle into boat life

You start at Staniel Cay Yacht Club, Main Street Staniel Cay. From there, you’ll get your bearings fast: where gear lives, how the water access works, and what the onboard activity plan looks like for the day. This is the easiest day to set your pace. If you want to snorkel right away, you can. If you want to do an easy first swim and then just enjoy the motion of sailing, that works too.

This day often sets the “mode” of the trip—more chill and acclimation, or more active adventure—depending on conditions and your group energy.

Day 2: Snorkeling and caves, plus dinghy exploring in mangrove areas

A big part of what makes the Exumas special is the variety of underwater scenes and the way shallow areas connect to smaller coves and islets. This trip is built for that mix. You’ll have time for snorkeling at the day’s chosen spots, plus water toys that help you go beyond the obvious beach views.

One of the most memorable categories for this itinerary is the dinghy time. You might find yourself going through mangrove rivers and out toward tiny islets where the vibe is quieter and the scenery feels more personal than the main-view areas.

Some stops can also include caves for swimming and snorkeling. Reviews emphasize that Captain Glenn knows spots that aren’t just typical checklist stops, which matters because cave and reef time is where a good route choice really pays off.

Tradeoff to consider: this is a “be ready” itinerary. Even if you’re relaxing, you’ll likely be stepping into and out of water multiple times a day. Bring swimwear you don’t mind getting salt-stiff, and have a dry kit ready for sunscreen and spare layers.

Day 3: Sand bars, private beach time, and longer swim windows

By day three, you’ll have the routine down: rinse gear, grab towels, sunscreen, then go. This is often where sailing trips in the Bahamas feel like a different world. The included plan supports sand bars, private beaches, and long hangout windows where you can do a few swims and still have downtime.

If you like water sports, this is also a day where paddleboards and kayaks can shine. Reviews also mention activities like informal sailing and various water fun setups, which tends to happen when the route offers a calm stretch and a safe place to play.

If you’re traveling with mixed preferences—one person wants constant action, another wants quiet—day three is where you can split that difference. The boat is your “home base,” and you can choose how long you stay on the water.

Day 4: A final adventure, then back to the meeting point

On the last day, it’s usually about finishing strong rather than rushing. You’ll spend time enjoying the water and the onboard feel one last time, then you’ll return to the meeting point at Staniel Cay.

This closing day matters because you’ll remember it as the “last look” at the places you anchored and swam. It’s also the day most likely to feel a little emotional for people who fall for the sailing lifestyle.

Food and drink: plan for it now, so the trip stays smooth

Food and drink are not included, but they can be arranged on request. Practically, that means you’re in control of how hands-on you want to be.

What the provided setup allows:

• You have a kitchen with a fridge and freezer.
• There’s an outdoor BBQ.
• You can plan meals that match your water schedule, rather than being trapped by restaurant hours.

My advice: decide early how you want meals to work. If your group likes cooking together, the kitchen setup supports it. If your group prefers someone else handling it, ask about what can be arranged and get clarity on how that process works. Since you’re paying for a private boat, you don’t want surprise costs around meals—so confirm the approach before you’re already out on the water.

Value for $7,000 per group: what you’re really buying

Price is always tricky because people compare this kind of trip to hotels or standard boat rentals. Here’s a more useful way to look at it: you’re paying for a floating suite, a captain, and included gear for multiple days.

At $7,000 per group up to six, the value improves when you actually use the full space:

• You’re not just paying for one shared activity; you’re paying for full-day access to snorkeling, scuba, and water toys.
• You’re getting the cost of the captain folded in, and you’re not handling the route planning yourself.
• You’re getting a private experience with your own onboard living space, including ensuite rooms.

Where value can drop a bit is if you don’t plan well around meals and on-water activity. Since food and drink aren’t included, the total trip price will depend on your choices. Still, because the major “boat costs” and activity gear are handled, you’re not scrambling day-to-day to add basics.

Also, this trip is often booked far in advance (on average 189 days). That’s a sign of demand, and it can matter if you’re trying to align with a specific date.

Who this catamaran trip fits best

This is a strong match for:

• Couples who want privacy but still want a lively “sailing day” feel
• Friends traveling as a group who want to stay together and explore quietly
• Families who want cabins with real bathrooms and want water activities included
• Anyone who wants to experience the Bahamas without the crowds and without spending vacation time in transit

It’s not ideal if:

• You dislike boat life routines (rinsing gear, adjusting to wind and sea conditions)
• You want meals included with zero planning
• You need a structured, fixed itinerary with no flexibility

Practical tips so you enjoy it from day one

• Pack for sun and salt. Think rash guard or swim shirt, and bring at least one set of dry clothes you’ll actually look forward to wearing.
• Bring a small dry bag for phones/keys. You’ll be in and out of the water, and a secure bag saves stress.
• If you plan to scuba, confirm what experience you have and how you want the day paced. The trip includes gear, but your comfort and preferences still matter.
• Plan your meal strategy early since food and drink aren’t included. Use the kitchen and BBQ setup if that suits your group.

Should you book this Exumas sailing catamaran experience?

If you’re dreaming about the Bahamas but tired of crowds and predictable resort routines, I think this is a smart way to spend your time. The combination of private boat life, Captain Glenn Wakefield’s route planning, and included snorkeling and scuba gear makes the core experience feel straightforward. You’re paying for access to real water time, not just a scenic ride.

I’d book it if you want:

• A trip where your group can spread out in ensuite rooms
• Plenty of chances to swim, snorkel, and play with the included water toys
• Flexibility in the route based on conditions

I wouldn’t book it if you want everything handled for free on the food side, or if you hate the idea that the ocean can influence the plan. But if you like being outside, staying on the water schedule, and letting a captain steer the day, this trip fits the bill.

FAQ

How long is the sailing catamaran experience?

It’s a 4-day, 3-night trip in this Exumas sailing experience format.

How many people can it sleep?

The catamaran has up to 3 full en-suite bedrooms and can comfortably sleep up to 6 guests (or more with children).

Where do we meet, and where does it end?

The meeting point is Staniel Cay Yacht Club on Main Street in Staniel Cay, The Bahamas. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

Is food and drink included?

No. Food and drink are not included, but they can be arranged for extra cost upon request.

What’s included for snorkeling and scuba?

The trip includes snorkeling equipment and scuba equipment, and it also includes tanks and a compressor for scuba.

Is this a private experience?

Yes. It’s private, and only your group participates.

What happens if I cancel?

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.