Overview
The Abacos are a group of islands and cays forming a boomerang-shaped chain which stretches nearly 130 miles from Walker's Cay in the north to Hole-In-The-Wall in the south. The configuration creates naturally protected waters referred to commonly as the Sea of Abaco. The abundance of reefs and clear, crystal blue waters make for a favorite cruising ground for yachtsmen and an ideal location for seeing a wide variety of beautiful marine life.

Easy air access from anywhere in North America makes this the Caribbean that's close to home. From all corners of the world visitors come to find warm sun, the most beautiful sailing waters and soft with sand beaches. The sheltered harbors of the Abacos create a haven for us as we explore all the activities offered by this beautiful region. Colonial towns are gems of New England architecture and the ecosystem provides a rich outdoor experience for nature lovers.

SAMPLE ITINERARY
Upon arrival into Marsh Harbor Airport, take a short taxi into town on your way to our home base at Harbour View Marina. Arrive early to explore the Marsh Harbor town. Originally the sponging center of the Bahamas before becoming an agriculture hub, Marsh Harbor is now one of the main settlements in the northern islands. The islands include several restaurants and some of the best night life in the Bahamian chain, as well as great shopping for local arts and gifts. Later on that evening we'll enjoy dinner on the yacht and discuss the week's agenda.

Cruising Day 1: We cruise towards Great Guana Cay where we anchor off a lovely cay in Fishers Bay. Great Guana is the home of the locally famous Nippers Bar with its equally famous Sunday hog roast. Set with a back drop of a beautiful Atlantic long white beach, Nippers is the ideal way to waste away your Sunday. Beaches, snorkeling, diving or eating and drinking - there is something for everyone.

Cruising Day 2: After lunch we cruise to Treasure Cay which was listed in National Geographic's Top 10 beaches in the World! Can sand really be that soft? It also has every convenience one could desire including excellent bars and restaurants as well as tennis, golf, swimming and several shops.

Cruising Day 3: We set off for a cruise to Man of War. Man of War is a sleepy, but prosperous and well maintained settlement. The Alburys, famous for their Bahamian smack boats, to this day continue to build both small dinghies and larger vessels in the town. Don't forget to check out Sally's take-out offering delicious local food. Snorkeling can be found on the ocean side of the island. But watch out for the resident crocodile!

Cruising Day 4: Step off the boat and wade through crystal blue waters onto Tahiti Beach. The waters are shallow and the sand is so soft - is there a better way to get to a beautiful beach? After lunch, we cruise up to Hope Town, which is one of the most picturesque harbors in the Bahamas. Dominating the town is the well-photographed red and white striped lighthouse, which is one of only three kerosene, manned lighthouses in the world and still in use by sailors in the Bahamas. It also provides amazing panoramic views of your cruising grounds. Hope Town is a charming settlement with a wide selection of gift shops, restaurants historic museums and homes. Spend the evening eating ashore at one of the lovely harbor side restaurants.

Cruising Day 5: We cruise down to the South of Abaco to find our own secluded island. Spend the day laying on the beach or snorkeling the reefs with its abundance of sea life or going down deeper for those who want to dive. There is nothing like having an island all to yourself. Spend your early evening drinking cocktails whilst watching the sunset.

Cruising Day 6: A delicious breakfast and we head back toward Harbour View stopping at Matt Lowes Cay. We enjoy swimming in the Sea of Abaco before heading back to the marina for dinner ashore and celebrating our fantastic week with the local people whilst listening to local bands.

Departure Day: After breakfast, we swap emails and photos and we send you home with great memories and anticipation for your next sailing vacation with Festiva Sailing Vacations.