Exotic Island Getaways for Yacht Cruises
If you are looking for an exotic island getaway, which topical paradise is for you; Turks and Caicos vs Bahamas? The Turks and Caicos Islands and the Bahamas Islands are two of the best destinations on the planet.
Located in the Caribbean, these two countries offer miles of white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical vegetation. Consequently, people have a difficult time choosing between the Turks and Caicos vs Bahamas. They are also home to some of the most interesting historical sites in the region. So why do so many people love to visit these destinations? Let’s take a closer look!
Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos is a tropical Atlantic archipelago situated 575 miles south-east of Miami, Florida. These islands are located 75 miles north of the Dominican Republic and 180 miles north-east of Cuba´s eastern coast.
The country is a British Overseas Territory with a population of less than 45,000 people divided among nine inhabited islands. There are roughly 100 named islands and cays in the Turks and Caicos.
The Turks Islands, also known as Grand Turk and Salt Cay, are located on the eastern coast of the Bahamas. The larger Caicos Islands; Providenciales, North Caicos, Middle Caicos, East Caicos, South Caicos, and West Caicos lie to the west. A 20-mile ‘Turks and Caicos Passage’ separates the Turks Islands from the Caicos Islands.
Unlike many Caribbean countries, the Turks and Caicos have one of the lowest annual rainfall averages in the region. As a result, this regional climate results in a high percentage of sunny days and great weather.
Bahamas Islands
The Bahamas Islands is a small, independent nation situated south-east of Florida. These tropical islands are also located north of Cuba, in the northwestern West Indies region. The Caribbean islands group has around 700 islands and islets, as well as more than 2,000 cays (coral reefs). Only about 30 islands are inhabited.
The Bahamas has quickly become one of the world’s top vacation destinations. Nassau, on New Providence Island, is the archipelago’s political capital and commercial center. On the other hand, Bimini is the westernmost island of the Bahamas and is located about 50 miles east of Miami, Florida.
Distance: Turks and Caicos vs Bahamas
The distance between each country’s centers (straight line distance by air) is approximately 420 miles. However, the closest distance between each country’s borders (distance by air) is about 40 miles.
Activity Comparison: Turks and Caicos vs Bahamas
Snorkeling and Diving in the Turks and Caicos
Snorkeling or scuba diving in the turquoise seas is one of the most popular activities in Turks and Caicos. The islands are encircled by one of the world’s largest coral reef systems. This coral reef system sits on a vast underwater plateau with dramatic cliffs not far from shore. Therefore, this makes Grand Turk an ideal location for wall dives.
Turks and Caicos are home to over 40 dive sites, including one of the top five wreck dives world-wide. In addition, some of the best diving and snorkeling sites can be reached from shore. Shipwrecks, ancient and new, are scattered throughout these seas, making them ideal for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
The 20-mile-wide Columbus Passage (separating the Turks and Caicos islands) is a standard migration route for marine animals. Therefore, whales, dolphins, turtles, and rays can all be seen here, depending on the season. Aside from the migrating marine animals, the Colombus Passage is a prominent feature in the region.
This is one of the finest diving locations in the Caribbean! Its pristine beaches, abundant marine life, and excellent visibility draw tourists from all parts of the globe. Just imagine; untouched reefs, abundant sea life, and first-rate dive services. It’s no surprise that Turks and Caicos is one of the best diving destinations in the region.
Honeymoon in the Bahamas
The Bahamas is one of the most sought-out destinations for honeymoons, weddings, and romantic getaways. The archipelago’s string of Islands offers something for every taste. From the uninhabited islands with deserted beaches to the more developed ones with luxury resorts, there´s something for everyone!
With beautiful sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush vegetation, the Bahamas is simply incredible. The Bahamas is the perfect place to escape life´s everyday hustle and bustle, and enjoy quality time with loved ones.
Turks and Caicos vs Bahamas: Which to Choose?
The Turks and Caicos Islands and the Bahamas offer visitors a chance to experience two different sides of the Caribbean. Turks and Caicos are known for their laid-back vibe, while the Bahamas is a bit more fast-paced. However, these two island chains always have something to offer no matter what you’re looking for in a vacation. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in paradise!
Major Tourist Attractions in Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas
Exuma Cays Land and the Sea Park in the Bahamas
You may find some of the most beautiful seascapes in the Bahamas at Exuma Cays Land & Sea Park. The electric blue-colored sea melds with white sand to create a dazzling backdrop for a variety of water activities.
The Sea Park is located in the remote eastern Bahamas. Importantly, the Park is a no-take zone marine protected area, the first of its kind in the Caribbean. As a result, the region is popular with scuba divers and powerboating enthusiasts. The majority of visitors come to enjoy the excellent anchorages, diverse sea life, and crystal-clear waters. Don’t miss out on the island’s famous swimming pigs and Thunderball Cave, featured in James Bond.
Swim with Stingrays at Gibbs Cay (Turks and Caicos)
Have you ever wondered what feeling a stingray is like? On Gibbs Cay, off the Belize coast, you may caress these silky sea creatures in their natural habitat. Gibbs Cay is a short boat journey from Grand Turk’s eastern shore, which features a golf course and a resort. You may snorkel around the beautiful coral reefs surrounding the beach while feeding and swimming with the stingrays.
Best Time to Visit the Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas?
We recommend you visit the Turks and Caicos Islands from late spring to early summer. Between April and June is the optimum period to visit Turks and Caicos. Rainfall is low, with temperatures peaking at 83°F to 86°F. The remainder of the year stays relatively calm, with an average high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit
Go down to the Bahamas from mid-winter to late spring. The ideal time to go to the Bahamas is November to late April when the weather is nice. There are fewer people, and you’re outside the hurricane season.
Turks and Caicos vs Bahamas: Best Way to Get There
If you wish to travel in luxury to the Bahamas or Turks Caicos, consider going by motor yacht. Yacht cruises allow guests to explore some of the most beautiful and secluded areas of both island chains.
One of the best yacht cruise routes is from Turks and Caicos to Exuma Cays. You can also choose one of the many routes from the Bahamas to the Turks and Caicos Islands. No matter your choice, Turks and Caicos vs Bahamas, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
So what are you waiting for? Still trying decide between the Bahamas vs Turks and Caicos? Get in touch with our friendly staff and let´s start planning your dream island getaway! The Bahamas or Turks and Caicos await you.
