The Abacos, a 120-mile-long chain of islands in the northwest Bahamas, is a popular family vacation destination. Our beaches are long and beautiful, with crystal clear aquamarine water and charming fishing villages. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly. Boaters, fishermen, and water sport enthusiasts flock to Abaco. It’s a popular spot for extravagant weddings, honeymoons, and family vacations.
If you only visit Nassau, you have only scratched the surface of the Bahamas. Visit one of the country’s out islands, known colloquially as the “Family Islands,” for a truly Bahamian experience. Meanwhile, on Bay Street, there are no loud casinos, high-rise hotels, or peddlers selling cheap t-shirts.
Additionally, to protect its citizens and visitors, the Bahamas government has implemented several COVID-19 pandemic protocols.
So, if you’re dreaming of your next vacation or adventure, then you’ve come to the right place. Read on to get the latest scoop on our ultimate 2022 travel guide to the Abacos.
Arriving at the Abacos
-
Traveling by Air
The majority of international visitors to Abaco arrive at Marsh Harbour’s Leonard Thompson International Airport. Along with Bahamasair, charter and private planes use Treasure Cay’s smaller airport. Moore’s Island, Sandy Point, Walker’s Cay, and Spanish Cay all have smaller airports.)
Flight times from Florida differ depending on the origin city.
You can also fly from Nassau to Abaco. The flight lasts about 30 minutes.
-
Traveling by Sea (Private)
Given Abaco’s world-class boating waters, it’s no surprise that many visitors arrive by sea. Customs and immigration must be cleared if entering the Bahamas by private vessel.
To accomplish this, go to one of the authorized entry points and present the following documentation, such as the form for Customs Clearance (Bahamas), your Bahamas Immigration Card, and your valid passport.
-
Traveling by Sea (Public)
A passenger ferry departs from Nassau for Abaco on a strict schedule. If you don’t want to fly, you can take the Balearia Caribbean Fast Ferry from Fort Lauderdale.
From Lauderdale to Grand Bahama, a short ferry ride can bring you to Crown Haven on the north end of Little Abaco. Then, you can have a rental car or taxi waiting for you when you arrive in Crown Haven.
-
Traveling by Mailboat
A mail boat ride from Nassau to Abaco is also an option for the more daring. The M/V Legacy visits Nassau, Marsh Harbour, and the Abaco Cays on a weekly basis. On a 12-hour trip with basic accommodations, you can learn about Abaco’s history. For many years, most Abaconians relied on mail boats for transportation.
Getting Around the Abacos
-
Ride a Taxi
Taxis will be waiting for you if you arrive by regular flight at Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay. It is still advisable to book transportation in advance.
Additionally, the ferry ride from Marsh Harbour to Treasure Cay or Green Turtle Cay takes about 45 minutes and costs $100. The majority of taxis are minivans that can accommodate four adults and their luggage.
-
Ride the Abaco Ferries
The mainland of Abaco is linked to the cays by ferries. You can find the current Abaco ferry schedule here.
-
Use a Car Rental
For visitors to the Abaco mainland or residents of one of the cays who wish to visit the other for the day, both Treasure Cay and Marsh Harbour offer car rental services.
-
Use a Rented Golf Cart
Golf carts are the most popular mode of transportation in the Abaco Cays and Treasure Cay (which is actually on the mainland).
Conclusion
Sometimes, all you need is a short (or extended) getaway. No matter what experience you’re looking for, a visit to the Abacos seems to be the treat you might just need. And with this Abaco visitor’s guide, travel planning could be a breeze!
Velox Air Charter is an on-demand private jet charter service for your next holiday. With us, you can book with confidence! Call us today at (954) 686-4191 or email us at charter@veloxjets.com!
