When I first landed in Nassau, I had no plan. Just a sundress, a book, a swimsuit, and a vague idea of a “vacation in paradise.” But after a couple of days on Paradise Island, something felt off. Was this it? People kept talking about swimming pigs, pink sand, blue holes, and little islands you could only reach by boat. So I ditched the all-inclusive idea and decided to experience the Bahamas properly: one island at a time.
This is my full, honest guide to island hopping in the Bahamas—what’s worth it, what I’d skip next time, and why this is the kind of trip you’ll remember forever.
Why stay on one island when there are 700?
The biggest mistake people make? They stay in Nassau. Don’t get me wrong—there’s energy, food, beach clubs, and history. But the real Bahamas are found off the beaten path.
Harbour Island is soft and stylish. Exumas are raw and wild. Andros is earthy and untouched. Cat Island? Soulful and slow.
Every island has its own rhythm, scenery, even pricing. That’s why island hopping isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about letting the country surprise you, over and over.
So how do you actually get from island to island?
🛳️ 1. Ferries: The easiest and most scenic start
Bahamas Ferries offers regular connections between Nassau and many major islands. These catamarans are faster than you’d expect and sometimes more comfortable than flying.
- Routes to: Harbour Island, Eleuthera, Andros, Cat Island
- Prices: $55–$120 depending on distance
- Duration: 1.5 to 6 hours
- Pros: Affordable, sea views, simple boarding
- Cons: Delays if the wind picks up
💡 My tip: Book online a few days in advance—especially if you’re on a tight schedule. The boats do fill up.
What I’d do differently next time? Bring ginger gum. Even on catamarans, the sea can be rough, and it made a big difference.
🛫 2. Domestic flights: Faster and surprisingly smooth
I didn’t expect inter-island flights to run so well. Small airports, no security lines, and sometimes only six passengers onboard. But it works.
- Flight Nassau → Georgetown (Exumas): 35–45 minutes
- Airlines: Bahamasair, Western Air
- Also flies to: Eleuthera, Long Island, Cat Island, Bimini…
- Price range: $90–$180
💡 What saved me money? Using a VPN. Seriously.
🛰️ My essentials: NordVPN + Saily = Freedom to move (and stream)
- I use NordVPN while traveling for several reasons:
- I get cheaper flight and hotel deals by browsing from a US or Mexico IP
- I can safely access my banking apps and emails over hotel Wi-Fi
- I still get my Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube content like at home
- I feel safer when working or booking things on public networks
And for mobile data? Saily eSIM is a lifesaver. Just activate, top up what you need, and you’re online in minutes. It even worked in parts of the Exumas where others had zero signal.
👉 This combo (NordVPN + Saily) has made my island hopping smoother, safer, and cheaper.
⛵ 3. Hiring a boat: A luxury I absolutely don’t regret
One day, a friend and I split the cost of a private boat tour from Georgetown. It turned out to be one of the highlights of the entire trip.
- Price: from $600/day for a group
- Route: Georgetown → Pig Beach → Thunderball Grotto → Sandbar → back
- Experience: snorkeling, sandbars, floating pigs, and freedom
💡 Important: Always check what’s included. Drinks? Gear? Bathroom? Ask in advance and look up reviews. Not all tours are created equal.
Islands worth hopping to (and why)
🐷 Exumas
Yes, the pigs are cute. But the clear blue water and the endless sandbars were the real show. Unbelievably photogenic. And yes, it’s really that turquoise.
🌸 Harbour Island
The pink sand is no exaggeration. At sunset, it glows softly. The island itself is upscale, quiet, and classy. Rent a golf cart and cruise around like a local.
🌿 Andros
This is where nature lives. Mangroves, caves, blue holes, and barely any tourists. I had the best fish tacos of my life here.
🧘♀️ Cat Island
Zero crowds, total peace, and a spiritual feel I didn’t expect. Climb Mount Alvernia and just sit there for a while. I promise, it’s worth it.
Planning a 10–12 day itinerary?
Here’s what worked best for me:
- Days 1–3: Nassau (settle in, try rum cake, visit Queen’s Staircase)
- Days 4–6: Exumas (boat day, pigs, sandbars, snorkeling)
- Days 7–9: Harbour Island (beach, cocktails, wandering in flip-flops)
- Days 10–12: Andros or Cat Island (digital detox, nature, stillness)
What does it all cost?
| Service | Estimated Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Nassau–Eleuthera ferry | $62–$95 |
| Domestic flight to Exumas | $90–$150 |
| Private boat (group) | from $600/day |
| Saily eSIM (5 GB) | $15–$25 |
| NordVPN (monthly deal) | $3–$6 |
💡 Ways I saved:
– Using VPNs to unlock regional flight/hotel prices
– Booking ferry tickets directly through official sites
– Sharing private tours with other travelers
🙅♀️ A few things I learned the hard way
- Weather can change fast. Always build in buffer days.
- Wi-Fi is unreliable. Mobile data is more dependable.
- Cash is king. ATMs are not on every island.
- Island time is real. People move slowly. Let go of your schedule.
Final thoughts: Travel slower, go deeper
Island hopping in the Bahamas changed how I travel. It’s not about “seeing everything.” It’s about feeling more—more sea, more sky, more quiet moments. Like sitting at the front of a boat, staring at a sandbar that barely peeks above water, and thinking, maybe I’ll stay right here today.
Don’t over-plan. But do come prepared. A good VPN, offline maps, Saily for data, and a willingness to go with the wind. You’ll find places where your phone stops working—but your heart finally tunes in.
FAQ – Island Hopping in the Bahamas
Do I need to book inter-island ferries or flights in advance?
Yes, especially during peak season (December–April). Ferries and small domestic flights can sell out days in advance. Online booking is highly recommended.
Is island hopping in the Bahamas expensive?
It depends on your route and transport choice. Ferries are budget-friendly, flights are faster but pricier, and private boats are luxurious but expensive. Sharing costs or combining methods helps lower the total price.
What’s the best way to stay connected on multiple islands?
Using a prepaid eSIM like Saily is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to have data across the Bahamas. Pair it with a VPN like NordVPN for safe browsing, streaming, and better travel deals.
Can I visit the swimming pigs without an organized tour?
Yes, if you’re staying in the Exumas or renting a private boat from Georgetown. However, most travelers prefer day tours that include Pig Beach and other nearby attractions.
What should I pack for island hopping?
Pack light and practical: quick-dry clothing, waterproof bag, reef-safe sunscreen, offline maps, and a power bank. Don’t forget cash and a solid VPN for security and savings.
