Port information & tips for Exuma Island
The Exumas are a true island paradise in the Bahamas, delighting visitors with pristine nature and breathtakingly crystal-clear water. The extensive chain of islands radiates an exclusive yet relaxed atmosphere, where the vibrant turquoise of the sea meets powdery white sand beaches to create a perfect postcard idyll. Unforgettable highlights include the famous swimming pigs at Big Major Cay, the expansive Elizabeth Harbour, and the picturesque Stocking Island with its hidden coves. Cruise ships usually anchor off the coast, allowing guests to arrive by tender boat directly at Government Wharf in the heart of George Town. Local markets are within easy walking distance of this central arrival point, while water taxis provide a direct route to the surrounding coastal highlights.
The Exumas, a fascinating archipelago in the Bahamas, are primarily accessible for cruises from the DACH region via a Fly & Cruise arrival. Since larger ocean-going vessels usually visit the island group as a port of call, Exuma International Airport (GGT) on Great Exuma serves as the most important hub for guests starting smaller expedition or yacht cruises here. Due to the long journey, an overnight stay in advance is recommended to start your cruise adventure relaxed.
Airplane
Exuma International Airport (GGT) on Great Exuma is the nearest airport and your destination airport for a cruise in the Exumas. There are no direct flights from the DACH region, so the journey involves at least one stopover, usually via major US hubs such as Miami (MIA), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Atlanta (ATL), or Charlotte (CLT). Connections via Nassau (NAS) in the Bahamas are also possible, which often allows for a smooth onward journey.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Exuma International Airport (GGT), you can easily reach the hotels and marinas in the area around George Town, the main town of Great Exuma. The airport is only about 15 to 20 minutes' drive from George Town. Taxis are available at the airport and offer a quick connection. Many hotels and charter companies also organize private transfers on request, ensuring a particularly comfortable start to your vacation.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Arrival on the day before is strongly recommended for cruises departing from the Exumas. The long flight times and the necessity of connecting flights make an overnight stay on Great Exuma advisable to buffer for flight delays and arrive relaxed on embarkation day. Hotels in George Town or along the picturesque coast offer many opportunities to enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere even before your cruise begins and to sleep off the jet lag in peace.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and consider that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
The Exumas, a fascinating archipelago in the Bahamas, are primarily accessible for cruises from the DACH region via a Fly & Cruise arrival. Since larger ocean-going vessels usually visit the island group as a port of call, Exuma International Airport (GGT) on Great Exuma serves as the most important hub for guests starting smaller expedition or yacht cruises here. Due to the long journey, an overnight stay in advance is recommended to start your cruise adventure relaxed.
Airplane
Exuma International Airport (GGT) on Great Exuma is the nearest airport and your destination airport for a cruise in the Exumas. There are no direct flights from the DACH region, so the journey involves at least one stopover, usually via major US hubs such as Miami (MIA), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Atlanta (ATL), or Charlotte (CLT). Connections via Nassau (NAS) in the Bahamas are also possible, which often allows for a smooth onward journey.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Exuma International Airport (GGT), you can easily reach the hotels and marinas in the area around George Town, the main town of Great Exuma. The airport is only about 15 to 20 minutes' drive from George Town. Taxis are available at the airport and offer a quick connection. Many hotels and charter companies also organize private transfers on request, ensuring a particularly comfortable start to your vacation.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
Arrival on the day before is strongly recommended for cruises departing from the Exumas. The long flight times and the necessity of connecting flights make an overnight stay on Great Exuma advisable to buffer for flight delays and arrive relaxed on embarkation day. Hotels in George Town or along the picturesque coast offer many opportunities to enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere even before your cruise begins and to sleep off the jet lag in peace.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for the journey to the port accordingly and consider that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination - is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and the notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
Arrival in George Town usually takes place by tender boat directly at Regatta Point, which makes access to the heart of the island and the surrounding bays particularly easy.
Water Taxi
These practical boats depart directly from the pier and take you to the famous beaches of Stocking Island in a short time. The boat trip is also an excellent way to admire Elizabeth Harbour from the water.
Taxi
Numerous taxis are available at Regatta Point, allowing for a comfortable onward journey to more remote beaches or resorts on Great Exuma. Drivers also often offer private island tours and are happy to share their knowledge of the local culture.
On Foot
The charming center of George Town, with its colorful buildings and local straw market, is located immediately at the landing stage and can be reached in less than 5 minutes. A stroll through the town is therefore the most direct way to experience the relaxed flair of the Exumas.
To experience the paradisiacal diversity of the Exumas at its best, a combination of the charming island center and the fascinating natural wonders of the surrounding cays is ideal.
George Town
The relaxed island capital on Elizabeth Harbour invites you to stroll through its pastel-colored buildings and small boutiques and is also the ideal starting point for all boat tours into the surrounding islands.
Stocking Island
This offshore island paradise is easily accessible via a short water taxi ride and impresses with snow-white sandy beaches and the famous beach bar Chat 'N' Chill, which is perfect for a relaxed day by the turquoise sea.
Big Major Cay
An excursion to this world-famous beach allows for a unique encounter with the swimming pigs of the Bahamas and, thanks to the crystal-clear water, also offers an unforgettable natural experience in the heart of the untouched Exuma Cays.
Stocking Island
Idyllic Stocking Island is easily accessible from the harbor in George Town by water taxi in less than ten minutes and, with the famous "Chat 'n' Chill" beach club, offers a perfect spot for relaxing hours by the turquoise water. Thanks to its prime location, you can enjoy a fine sandy beach and an authentic atmosphere with freshly caught conch salad and cool refreshments right on the shore. In addition, friendly rays can often be observed in the shallow water, making your stay a special nature experience. Ideally, visit the island in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere to the fullest, and plan your return trip by boat at least ninety minutes before departure.
The return journey to the Government Dock in George Town is very relaxed and safe, thanks to the central location of the landing site and the manageable structure of the island's capital. Since cruise ships in the Exumas usually lie at anchor, this central pier is your fixed starting point for the tender boats back to the ship.
Water Taxis
From the popular beaches on Stocking Island, such as the well-known Chat 'N' Chill, water taxis will take you directly back to the Government Dock in George Town in just a few minutes. The boats run at short intervals and the departure points are clearly marked on the beach, allowing you to start your return journey to the ship punctually and stress-free.
Taxis
Central taxi stands can be found directly at the Government Dock as well as in front of prominent landmarks like the Peace & Plenty Resort in the town center. Additionally, drivers can be conveniently called at any time via local restaurants or shops, providing you with a reliable ride from more remote beaches or island attractions.
On Foot
Within George Town, you can easily reach the tender boat landing stage on foot, as the main shops, cafés, and the straw market are located directly around the harbor area. Thanks to the friendly atmosphere and the clear visibility of the port, you will find your way to the pier at any time without detours and can also enjoy a short walk along the water.
