Student Portal
Welcome to Your Sailing Adventure
Exumas, Bahamas Base Guide
Welcome Aboard
Congratulations!
Welcome and congratulations on taking the next step in your sailing journey! We are excited to welcome you aboard for our Nassau to Exuma adventure.
This trip combines the experience of living aboard with hands-on sailing education as we explore the spectacular Exuma island chain. You'll gain confidence, build skills, and make lasting memories while discovering one of the most beautiful cruising grounds in the world.
Your Journey
Itinerary
Our itinerary is weather dependent and may be adjusted for safety and conditions. Here is a typical route through the Exumas.
Each day includes sail training, theory sessions, and hands-on learning. You also gain access to online learning modules to help you prepare for your exam.
Nassau to Norman's Cay
Norman's Cay to Warderick Wells
Warderick Wells to O'Brien's Cay
O'Brien's Cay to Staniel Cay
Staniel Cay to Shroud Cay
Shroud Cay to Athol Island
Nassau — Disembarkation
Getting There
Flights & Transfers
You will fly into Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau. Once you exit the airport, approach the taxi stand to arrange your ride to the Nassau Harbour Club where you'll check in and move aboard.
Taxi tips: If you don't have cash, ask specifically for a taxi that can take card before getting in. Always confirm the price before agreeing — expect to pay between $55–$80 USD from the airport to the harbour club.
At the end of the trip, drop-offs will be by tender from our anchorage to Nassau Yacht Haven.
We'll coordinate details through a WhatsApp group closer to departure so everyone has the latest information. Please plan your flights to arrive in Nassau with enough time before boarding and to allow flexibility on departure day in case of delays.
Nassau Harbour Club
Our meeting point for check-in and boarding
- Amenities: Restaurant & bar (Latitudes), pool, showers, WiFi, close to downtown Nassau
- Check-In: Boarding begins at 5pm
- Location: East Bay Street, Nassau, The Bahamas
Where to Stay
Hotel Suggestions
Near Nassau Harbour Club
Margaritaville Beach Resort
Full-service, oceanfront, short ride to the harbour club.
British Colonial Hilton
Classic Nassau landmark on Bay Street, central location.
Courtyard by Marriott
Budget-friendly, steps from Junkanoo Beach and downtown.
Tip: Airbnb also offers many affordable stays near East Bay Street or Cable Beach.
Where to Eat
Restaurant Suggestions
At Nassau Harbour Club
Latitudes
Waterfront dining right at the harbour club with harbour views, fresh seafood, pizzas, sushi, and teppanyaki.
Nearby / Downtown Nassau
Syrah
Mediterranean-inspired wine bar and restaurant.
The Poop Deck
A Nassau institution with classic Bahamian seafood and harbour views. East Bay Street location.
Café Matisse
Italian fine dining in a charming courtyard behind Parliament Square.
Lukka Kairi
Creative Bahamian cuisine on the waterfront.
Oku Sushi Bar
Intimate modern Japanese and sushi downtown.
Fish Fry at Arawak Cay
Lively local shacks serving conch fritters, fried snapper, and Bahamian specialties.
Explore
Local Area Guide
The Exumas are a chain of 365 islands and cays stretching more than 130 miles through the central Bahamas. Known for their sapphire-blue waters, unspoiled anchorages, and incredible marine life, they offer some of the most spectacular cruising grounds in the world.
Highlights include snorkeling at Thunderball Grotto, exploring Warderick Wells in the Exuma Land and Sea Park, swimming at the Washing Machine sandbar, and discovering hidden anchorages along the way. Sailing here combines learning, adventure, and relaxation in equal measure.
Things to Do in Nassau if Arriving Early
Climb this historic limestone staircase and explore one of Nassau's best viewpoints.
Tour this historic estate and sample locally made rum.
A curated collection of Bahamian art in a beautifully restored mansion.
Explore Nassau's bustling downtown for local crafts and duty-free shops.
Famous for its marching flamingos and lush tropical grounds.
Great for a relaxed beach day without leaving the city.
A lively strip of restaurants and stalls serving authentic Bahamian dishes like conch fritters and fried snapper.
Nassau offers a mix of history, culture, and vibrant nightlife, making it a great place to add on to your Exumas adventure.
Prepare
Reading Your Textbooks
We'll be getting your textbooks in the mail to you as soon as possible. If you are completing the Basic Cruising level, please read "Basic Cruising Skills" by Gillian West before the trip. If you are registered for the Blended or Intermediate Cruising level, we recommend supplementing your knowledge with the Intermediate Cruising Notes.
PLEASE read through these at least once before the trip! This is an intensive course, with a lot of skills and material to cover. You will significantly increase your chance of passing each level of certification if you read your material in advance.
We find that students who prepare ahead of time come aboard far better equipped, learn more quickly, and ultimately end up being able to enjoy the course more. The more prepared you are, the more time you'll have for fun.
Health
Sea Sickness
If you are prone to sea sickness, it's best to plan ahead so you can fully enjoy your time on the water. A few simple steps can make a big difference:
- Stay well hydrated and get plenty of rest before sailing
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and greasy foods
- Spend time above deck, keep your eyes on the horizon, and take the helm if you're comfortable — it often helps to steady you
- Let your crew and instructor know if you're not feeling well so we can support you
Over-the-counter or prescription remedies can also be effective if you know you are prone to motion sickness. Sometimes seasickness occurs on the first day and your body acclimates to the rhythm of being at sea.
Note for the Exumas: While much of the sailing is inside the chain of cays in protected waters, there are times when we will cross more open channels or pass through reef cuts. These stretches can feel a little more rolly than the sheltered waters. Being prepared ahead of time ensures you'll spend more time enjoying the adventure and less time feeling unwell.
Important
Travel Insurance
We HIGHLY recommend you purchase travel insurance for this trip.
The course is non-refundable. If you need to transfer your spot to another participant, there is a $150 CAD administration fee.
For custom trips that use charter company vessels outside of our fleet, the transfer fee is $300 CAD. These companies have strict policies around refunds and crew changes, and we must follow their requirements.
Travel insurance can help protect you in the event of medical emergencies, delayed flights, or unexpected trip interruptions. Having coverage means peace of mind for you and your crew, and ensures that your investment in this adventure is protected.
SO PLEASE BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE!
If you have questions about what is the best insurance for you, please inquire with Cathy Davis when booking.
Get Ready
Packing List
Please pack all items in soft-sided, collapsible luggage like duffel bags or backpacks. No wheeled luggage — there is no place to store it on the boat. Everyone will have shelves and a closet in their cabin to unpack into.
Clothing
Essentials
Gear
Course Materials
Highly Recommended Purchases
Questions?
Get in Touch
Email us at hello@happysailing.ca for any concerns or suggestions.