How to Get to the Berry Islands: A Complete Flight, Boat & Marina Access Guide
INTRODUCTION
The Berry Islands are one of the closest Out Island groups to both Nassau and South Florida, making them surprisingly accessible despite their remote atmosphere. Whether you're planning a fishing adventure in Chub Cay, a beach holiday on Great Harbour Cay, or an island-hopping excursion to Hoffman's Cay Blue Hole, there are several convenient ways to reach the archipelago.
Because the Berry Islands consist of nearly 30 cays spread across the Great Bahama Bank, transportation varies depending on which island you intend to visit. Commercial domestic flights, private charters, yachts, and recreational boats are the primary ways to arrive, while ferries have only limited applicability. This guide focuses specifically on transportation options. For accommodations, attractions, and itinerary ideas, continue to the Ultimate Berry Island Travel Guide.
FLYING TO THE BERRY ISLANDS
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach the Berry Islands.
Most travelers connect through Nassau (Lynden Pindling International Airport) before boarding a domestic flight to:
Great Harbour Cay receives scheduled domestic service from Nassau, while Chub Cay accommodates scheduled and charter flights, including some direct services from South Florida.
ARRIVING THROUGH GREAT HARBOUR CAY
Great Harbour Cay serves as the primary gateway for most leisure travelers exploring the Berry Islands.
The island offers:
Many visitors use Great Harbour Cay as their base before exploring Hoffman's Cay, Little Harbour Cay, and other nearby islands.
FLYING INTO CHUB CAY
Travelers focused on sport fishing, luxury boating, or resort stays often choose Chub Cay International Airport.
Advantages include:
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Customs and Immigration facilities
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Private aviation services
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Direct flights from South Florida on select carriers
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Easy access to Chub Cay Resort & Marina
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Connections to private yacht itineraries
Chub Cay is especially popular with anglers and private boat owners.
TRAVELING BY PRIVATE BOAT OR YACHT
The Berry Islands are one of The Bahamas' premier boating destinations.
Private vessels commonly arrive from:
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Nassau
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Bimini
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Florida
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The Abacos
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The Exumas
After clearing Customs and Immigration at an official Port of Entry, visitors can explore the cays at their own pace. Popular marinas include those at Great Harbour Cay and Chub Cay.
ARE THERE FERRIES TO THE BERRY ISLANDS?
Unlike some Bahamian island groups, ferry options to the Berry Islands are limited and schedules may change.
While some private and mailboat services have historically connected Nassau with Great Harbour Cay, service is less frequent than air travel and may not operate daily. Travelers should confirm schedules directly with operators before planning their trip.
For most visitors, flying remains the most reliable option.
ISLAND HOPPING FROM THE BERRY ISLANDS
Once you arrive, exploring nearby cays is usually done by:
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Private boat
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Guided excursions
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Fishing charters
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Yacht
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Local captains
Popular day trips include:
Island hopping is one of the defining experiences of visiting the Berry Islands.
TRANSPORTATION ON THE ISLANDS
Transportation differs between islands.
Common options include:
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Golf carts (where available)
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Rental vehicles on Great Harbour Cay
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Walking within settlements
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Boats for inter-island travel
Because many cays are uninhabited, boats are essential for reaching several of the Berry Islands' best natural attractions.
TRAVEL TIPS BEFORE YOU GO
To make your journey smoother:
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Book domestic flights well in advance during peak season.
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Allow extra connection time when transferring in Nassau.
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Confirm marina reservations before arrival.
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Check weather and marine forecasts if traveling by boat.
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Bring cash for smaller local businesses where card acceptance may vary.
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Coordinate excursions before arriving if visiting remote cays.
TRAVELER PLANNING INFORMATION
Transportation
The Berry Islands can be reached by:
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Domestic flights from Nassau
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Direct select flights from South Florida
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Private charter aircraft
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Private yachts
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Recreational boats
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Limited ferry or mailboat services
Accessibility
Great Harbour Cay offers the easiest access for most travelers, while remote cays require boat transportation.
Best Season
November through May generally offers calmer weather and better boating conditions.
Family Suitability
Flying into Great Harbour Cay is the simplest option for families planning a relaxed island holiday.
Cost Expectations
Commercial domestic flights are generally the most practical choice, while private charters and yacht transfers provide greater flexibility at higher cost.
FAQS
How do you get to the Berry Islands?
Most visitors fly from Nassau to Great Harbour Cay or Chub Cay, while others arrive by private yacht or charter boat.
Is there an airport in the Berry Islands?
Yes. The two primary airports are Great Harbour Cay Airport (GHC) and Chub Cay International Airport (CCZ).
Can you fly directly from Florida?
Yes. Select airlines operate direct services from South Florida to Chub Cay and, on some schedules, Great Harbour Cay.
Are there ferries from Nassau to the Berry Islands?
Limited ferry and mailboat services may be available, but schedules are not as frequent or predictable as flights. Always verify current timetables before traveling.
Can you island hop around the Berry Islands?
Yes. Most island hopping is done by private boat, guided excursion, or charter.
What is the easiest island to use as a base?
Great Harbour Cay is generally the most convenient base because it combines an airport, marina, accommodations, dining, and access to nearby attractions.
Do you need a boat in the Berry Islands?
Not to reach Great Harbour Cay or Chub Cay, but a boat is highly recommended for exploring many of the surrounding cays and natural attractions.
EXPLORE MORE BERRY ISLANDS GUIDES
Continue planning your trip with:
LOCAL & DESTINATION CONTEXT
The Berry Islands are positioned between Nassau, Bimini, and The Abacos, making them an accessible Out Island destination for domestic and international travelers. Great Harbour Cay and Chub Cay function as the primary transportation hubs, while nearby destinations such as Hoffman's Cay, Little Harbour Cay, and Devil's Cay are typically explored by boat. This combination of air access, marinas, and island-hopping opportunities makes the Berry Islands one of The Bahamas' most rewarding destinations for boating, fishing, and coastal exploration.
CONCLUSION
Getting to the Berry Islands is straightforward once you understand the available transportation options. Scheduled flights to Great Harbour Cay and Chub Cay provide the quickest access, while private boats and yachts open the door to exploring the archipelago's many secluded cays and beaches.
After planning your route, continue to the Ultimate Berry Island Travel Guide to discover where to stay, what to do, and how to experience the very best of the Berry Islands.
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Updated as of July 2026.