Secret Island Stops Only Yacht Captains Know

There’s a special kind of satisfaction in knowing the spots the tourists haven’t found yet. Not to be all secretive about it, well, maybe just a little…but that kind of knowledge comes from years of navigating packed marinas and quietly slipping away to where the real magic happens - away from the crowds and tourist traps.  

The most unforgettable places often don’t show up in land-based travel guides, or worse, at the top of your search results on Safari. These are the tucked-away places you only find if you know where to look, or if you’re lucky enough to know someone who has charted these waters time and time again.

Being a superyacht captain means I have been able to explore some of the most amazing corners of the world from the water, where the true adventure begins. When arriving by boat, you learn to see the islands differently. After all, I’m not just driving a yacht, I’m giving guests the experience of a lifetime, and sometimes, that means steering away from the expected. 

Here are a few of my favorite hidden island gems—spots only a captain (and now, you) would know:

O'Brien's Cay - Bahamas 

This is one of my all-time favorite tucked-away destinations. O’Brien’s Cay is part of the Exumas but feels like a world away. The reefs are vibrant with so much sea life, and there is even a sunken seaplane wreck you can explore while snorkeling or diving. It feels like an untouched space - peaceful and far from the crowds. 

Torch Cay,  Bahamas

If a spot is more heavily populated by wildlife than people, chances are it’s a favorite of mine and I’ve fallen in love with it. Torch Cay is a private island and a sanctuary for sea turtles, iguanas, key deer, fish and more. If you enjoy paddleboarding it is ideal because the waters are calm and perfect. It is a true escape!

Smuggler’s Cove, Tortola

Tortola is not a secret, but Smuggler’s Cove feels like one. It is tucked away and only accessible by tender. It’s not commercialized or crowded, it just feels like you stumbled on to a deserted island. It’s private, but also Nigel’s Snack Shack is nearby and you can grab the best post snorkeling seafood there. 

Colombier, St. Barths

St Barts is all about the glitz and glam, but Colombier Bay is a different kind of luxury. It is quiet, nature filled and a perfect little secluded bay. It’s not where most boats go first and that is exactly why I love it. There is snorkeling of course, but you can also hike orchid lined trails that lead to incredible views and mysterious bat caves. It’s still St. Bart’s but more of its natural beauty. 

Sandy Island, Anguilla

Just off of Anguilla’s north coast is Sandy Island, a tiny little hidden gem that has everything you could ever want - clear water, soft sand, a rustic open air restaurant with the best lobster you will ever have - and a tiki rum bar that feels like a beachy dream. You’ll need a tender to get there but trust me - it is totally worth the trip. 

Every captain has their own list, and these are just a few of mine, but they are the places where time slows down for me, and where I am truly able to disconnect. I hope you get to experience these islands for yourself - but remember to please keep them protected, keep them clean, and keep them a secret!