Wild Bahamas: Exploring the Out Islands

Our itinerary and routing will be flexible to account for weather conditions and ensure the best possible guest experience. The following is a sample itinerary, and is subject to change. Request a detailed itinerary using the form below for a comprehensive daily itinerary, price details, frequently asked questions, and more.

Day 1  | George Town, The Exumas

Arrive into George Town on the island of Great Exuma, and transfer to the National Geographic Sea Lion. Settle into your cabin, and meet the crew as we set off on our Bahamian adventure. (D)

Day 2 | Crooked Island - Long Cay

This morning, we arrive at Crooked Island, anchoring near Long Cay. After breakfast, we’ll take Zodiacs to shore to kayak Turtle Sound, an aquamarine waterway that cuts deep into the island. The sound draws sea turtles in search of calm waters, and we may see them surfacing as we paddle. The mangroves at the water’s edge make for great birding opportunities as well. This afternoon, gear up for our first snorkeling excursion, watching for schools of amberjacks, wrasses, and maybe a sea turtle as we swim over the reefs off Crooked Island. (B,L,D)

Day 3 | Acklins Island

Separated from Crooked Island by a three-mile wide channel, Acklins Island has been at different times in its history the haunt of pirates, an island of cotton plantations where enslaved people toiled, and, some say, an early stop on Christopher Columbus’s first voyage. This morning, walk across the island at its most narrow section and explore the fishing settlements on the lagoon side. After lunch on board, enjoy an afternoon of paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. (B,L,D)

Day 4 | Mayaguana

The easternmost island in the Bahamas, Mayaguana is the name given to the island by the original inhabitants of the Bahamas, the Lucayan people. On a morning walk on this rugged and remote island, learn about its history and the lost Lucayan culture. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as Bartsch’s iguanas, West Indian flamingoes, royal terns,  and Wilson’s plovers. In the afternoon, return to the magical undersea, snorkeling amid an extraordinarily diverse population of reef fish including blue tangs and princess parrotfish. (B,L,D)

Day 5 | Long Island

We’ll make our way back to the central islands of the Bahamas overnight and wake up in Long Island. Enjoy a full day of water activities here, including snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the vast lagoon that stretches along the island’s coast. Take Zodiac cruises along the shore, stopping to explore when we find interesting wildlife or sites. (B,L,D)

Day 6 | Eleuthera

Measuring 100 miles long but rarely more than two miles wide, Eleuthera is an island of pink sand beaches and wild landscapes. It was first settled in 1648 by a group of Brits known as the “Eleutheran Adventurers” who were escaping religious persecution. Today, visit the innovative Island School, which uses a unique, hands-on approach to teach science, conservation, and sustainability to international and Bahamian high school students. After lunch on board, choose to go snorkeling or learn about the island’s terrestrial flora and fauna while walking the trails of Leon Levy Native Plant Reserve. (B,L,D)

Day 7 | Conception Island

This morning, land on a white-sand beach on Conception Island, an uninhabited island that is now a national park. Set off on an easy hike, looking for tropicbirds and boobies that nest here, as well as many other bird species. The island is laced with creeks that we can access with our Zodiacs when conditions are right. Enjoy a final chance to snorkel in the rich waters surrounding Conception. This evening, toast our Bahamian adventure with a cocktail on the beach. (B,L,D)

Day 8 | George Town, Exumas - Home

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to George Town Airport for your flight home. (B)