Royal Island Yacht Charter: Secluded Harbour & Private Island Luxury in Eleuthera

Located just west of Spanish Wells and off the northern coast of Eleuthera, Royal Island is a secluded private island surrounded by clear turquoise water, undeveloped coastline, and one of the most protected natural harbours in this part of the Bahamas. Its position between Nassau, Spanish Wells, Harbour Island, and the Abacos makes it a particularly useful stop on longer yacht itineraries through northern Eleuthera.

The approximately 430-acre island combines rugged natural coastline with an exclusive private resort, white-sand beaches, walking trails, and extensive areas of untouched vegetation. Unlike nearby Spanish Wells or Dunmore Town, there is no public settlement or commercial waterfront, giving Royal Island a much more private and isolated character.

For yacht guests, however, the greatest attraction is Royal Island Harbour. The almost enclosed natural basin provides exceptional shelter and has long been used by yachts traveling between Eleuthera, Nassau, and the Abacos. Once securely anchored, guests can enjoy calm-water swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and tender exploration while remaining only a short cruise from some of northern Eleuthera's best-known destinations.

Royal Island Harbour is entered through a single relatively narrow opening on the southern side of the island. Cruising guidance identifies a small cay near the center of the entrance, with the deeper route passing to its west. A submerged rock has historically been reported on the eastern side, making accurate positioning particularly important.

The harbour entrance and surrounding waters should be approached using current charts, good daylight, depth monitoring, and up-to-date local knowledge. Historical cruising guidance has reported a minimum entrance depth of roughly eight feet, but deeper-draft yachts should never rely on historic figures alone and should verify present conditions before entering.

Royal Island Harbour is one of the most protected anchorages around northern Eleuthera, offering virtually 360-degree shelter once inside. Cruising guidance reports approximately 6 to 10 feet of water with good holding in sand, making it particularly valuable when weather conditions are less favorable elsewhere around Spanish Wells or northern Eleuthera.

There are currently no conventional public yacht services within the harbour, so visiting vessels should arrive self-sufficient in fuel, water, provisions, and other requirements. The island itself is private, meaning anchoring in the harbour does not automatically provide unrestricted shore access.

Royal Island currently operates as an exclusive private-island resort, with five beachfront villas, a pool, spa and fitness facilities, dining, and personalized guest experiences. North Eleuthera Airport is approximately a 15-minute boat transfer away, making the island remarkably accessible despite its secluded atmosphere.

The island also has a fascinating maritime history. Royal Island Harbour was used by ships and privateers centuries ago, and the interior contains the ruins of an old estate with stone buildings and former outbuildings. Pirate Henry Every is recorded as having anchored at Royal Island in 1696 while attempting to evade capture.