Take Your Kids on an Abacos Vacation
Summer is quickly approaching, so kids will be out of school soon and ready to spend more time with friends and family. Take advantage of this long-awaited break by booking an Abacos vacation with Air Unlimited. We offer a top-notch flight experience to some of the Caribbean’s most unique island destinations, perfect for the whole family.
The Bahamas has hundreds of islands, but instead of going to the overcrowded and commercialized areas, take your family to the relaxing and intimate islands of the Abacos. Here, your kids will delight in the wonders of island culture and ocean life, taking time off from their screens to enjoy breathtaking scenery and adventure. Parents can bask in the sun, enjoying some much-needed relaxation, while the kids play in the shallow, clear waters and build sandcastles by their feet.
If you’d like to go fishing with your kids, but don’t want to commit to a full day out on the water, we recommend visiting a public dock – visitors are welcome to fish at most local docks in Marsh Harbour, Treasure Cay, and Hope Town. Regardless of where you decide to drop a line, if you plan to fish without a licensed guide it is recommended that you look into the Fishing Rules and Regulations, and consider asking a local dive shop or charter guide with any questions during your trip. Once you get situated fishing, your kids will love the experience of catching their first fish, and you can identify fish together using a simple fishing guide.
Parents can also look into the Bahama Buddies Program for their younger ones to experience the island from the local perspective. This program pairs local children with Abaco visitors to explore the island together, learning firsthand how the community lives, and trying out popular island activities, like catching and cleaning fish, cracking conch and making island crafts. The Abaco Beach Resort hosts the program and participants always walk away with fun memorabilia, photos and exciting stories to tell those back home.
After a fun-filled vacation, top it off with a sweet treat that you know the whole family will enjoy. The Island Bakery in Marsh Harbour is a perfect place to cool off while enjoying baked bread and pastries that have delighted guests for decades. Cafe La Florence in Treasure Cay is another great option for the sweet tooth in your family. They’re famous in the islands for their freshly baked cinnamon rolls, which are big enough for two.
From its quaint beaches and tropical adventures to its tasty treats, the Abacos is the perfect place for the ultimate family trip. Avoid the summer crowds often found at the Bahamas’ main tourist hotspots and choose to take an Abacos vacation instead. Start your trip off with Air Unlimited to by-pass long lines and packed planes, so your trip is hassle-free from start to finish! Book online today and check out our coupon books here.
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From Private Planes to Friends & Family: What We’re Thankful For
As we all get ready to gather with family and loved ones this Thanksgiving, the Air Unlimited team wanted to share what we’re thankful for this year. From being excited to go to work every day to helping people create unforgettable memories on our private planes, there is a lot for us to be grateful for.
Co-Founder and Pilot Chick Gregg and his wife Lisa: “We’re thankful for our family’s health after a year that has brought us closer together.”
Office Manager Melissa Manchester: “I’m forever thankful for my husband, RJ. No matter what is going on in life, he always manages to make me smile and laugh. I’m thankful for the opportunity to work with our amazing team at Air Unlimited. I’m thankful for family, the time we get to spend together and for friends that have turned into family.”
Co-Founder and Pilot Mark Neubauer: “I am thankful for God, my Family, our Company and all our loyal passengers!”
We get the opportunity to not only work with a spectacular team here at Air Unlimited, but also to serve some amazing customers. The second you step into our private hangar, you become part of our extended family. Our lives are enriched by making your experience on our private planes unlike any other. We’re thankful for each and every one of you who has flown with us over the years. We look forward to continuing to serve you wherever your vacation dreams may lead you.
Happy Thanksgiving!
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From Kenya to Flights to the Abaco Islands
Alan Rodney Griffin has lived all over the globe, and three of his passions have remained consistent throughout his travels: aviation, Africa and his faith. There were many times over the course of his career where these passions overlapped in his work as a pilot. Air Unlimited is happy to have this seasoned pilot offering flights to the Abaco Islands from the Orlando-Sanford International Airport.
Alan’s passion for flying started when he was just 11 years old. He watched a film strip about missionaries who were killed in Ecuador with Nate Saint as their pilot. Saint’s bravery and commitment inspired Alan at a very young age, and he strived to consistently embody these traits throughout his career. He began his journey to become a pilot in 1968 after leaving his home in the UK to live in South Africa. He began teaching at St. Mary’s School in Nairobi where he taught the current President of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta. He tirelessly worked and saved up enough money to pursue his dreams.
By 1974 he received his private pilot license in Kenya. Alan, a man of many passions, knew it was time to move on to his next goal. Before he was able to teach in Nairobi, Alan had to go through a teacher training course. He was satisfied with this career, but he had aspirations to attend a university and expand his knowledge of aviation, which would provide more opportunities. One year after earning his private pilot license, Alan moved to Texas to attend Le Tourneau University. 
This was the start of even greater things for Alan. He received a Bachelor of Science in aviation and bible studies, met his wife Ruth and began working at the Gregg County Airport in Longview, Texas.
His commitment to aviation education led Alan back to Africa once again. He continued his flight training and worked in commercial aviation in Kenya. During his time there, Alan used every flight as a learning experience. This is a method of thought he still practices to this day.
Now, Alan, Ruth and their two oldest children live in Orlando. Alan’s newest venture is working with Air Unlimited piloting flights to the Abaco Islands. As a contract pilot, he has made many flights to the Abaco Islands, but he is looking forward to traveling there for pleasure instead of work. Prior to working with Air Unlimited, Alan had only visited Treasure Cay, Staniel Cay and Exuma for a photoshoot of the EADS Socata TBM 850, a high performance single engine turboprop.
In Alan’s many successful years as a pilot, he has yet to visit one destination that he can call his absolute favorite. He does have one major life goal in mind, though. New Zealand is more than 8,000 miles from Orlando over open ocean, but with dedication, Alan hopes to find a way to pilot a plane there. He has more goals on the horizon like piloting more gliders, amphibian flying, and learning how to fly a helicopter. It’s easy for him to stay motivated and inspired while working with Air Unlimited. He also keeps a healthy work-life balance and spends time gardening, exercising, helping his church, and of course being a couch potato when the opportunity presents itself.
Keep an eye out for Alan on your next flight to the Abaco Islands! If you’re looking for a good story, don’t hesitate to ask him about his many travels abroad.
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Best Gadgets To Have For A Flight To The Bahamas
What can make your 90-minute flight to the Bahamas even better? Gadgets! As you settle into one of Air Unlimited’s comfy aircraft cabins and sink into the over-sized loungers, you’ll want a few gadgets to keep you energized and powered up for your vacation. From headphones, to solar powered backpacks to an E-reader, we’ve got it all. Check out these top must have gadgets below.
Headphones
There are hundreds of headphones on the market today – in-ear, over-ear, waterproof, noise cancelling, rechargeable and the list goes on. A good choice for a flight to the Bahamas is the Audio-Technica ATH-ANC33iS QuietPoint Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones. It is budget friendly and perfect for when packing light on a trip. They cancel up to 90% of noise so you can enjoy your favorite playlist.
Power Bank
After listening to music for an hour on your smartphone, your battery is bound to drain. The Anker PowerCore 10000 is a great gadget to have in your bag helping to keep you powered up all through the flight and long after you land in the Abacos. This is another budget friendly gadget, so you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank before you’re even on your vacation. This power bank is about the size of a credit card so it can easily fit into any bag or your pocket.
Solar Backpack
If you want a portable charging option that’s more versatile than a power bank, the BirkSun bookbag is the way to go. This water-resistant backpack comes with a built-in 3,000 MAH battery you can charge separately and a solar panel that creates 1% phone charge for every two minutes in sunlight. For all day adventures, such as beach hopping in Treasure Cay, this bag will hold a towel, sunscreen, two water bottles and more all while using sustainable energy to keep your phone charged all day.
E-reader
A 90-minute flight is the perfect excuse to get lost in a book while flying over the Atlantic. The Kindle Paperwhite E-reader is a great option allowing you to enjoy your favorite book without a glare. The Kindle is lightweight and only six inches tall, so it’s very easy to transport. The battery charge lasts for weeks, so if your ideal vacation looks like lying on the beach with a book and a tropical drink, the Kindle will be there every step of the way.
Air Unlimited is happy to offer suggestions for island activities and answer any questions you may have. Give them a call at 407-585-4300.
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Why Air Unlimited’s Co-Founder Dreams of Flying His Private Jet to Europe
Charles “Chick” Gregg is co-owner and captain at Air Unlimited, and anyone who speaks with him can immediately see that he has a true passion for flying. A lover of all things plane-related, Chick knew he wanted to be a pilot as a small boy while flying right seat with his father.
After graduating from UF with a degree in civil engineering, Chick began his flying career at 27 years old piloting a Bonanza, visiting job sites across the southeast US. After many years of owning and running successful businesses in construction and homebuilding, while enjoying his love of recreational flying, retirement came early. It was then that his flying passion turned into a new career.
Having traveled to the Bahamas many times over the last 30 years, Chick had a deep connection with the island life, especially the Bahama’s best kept secret: The Abaco Islands. Knowing the travel industry lacked reliable transportation directly to and from these scenic islands, Chick joined forces with co-founder, Mark Neubauer, to launch Air Unlimited Charter Services. This airline brand is complete with an aircraft fleet that flies guests from the Orlando Sanford International Airport directly to Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay in the Abaco Islands in less than 90 minutes without the “big airport” hassle. Aside from the scheduled island service, Air Unlimited is also known for its customizable and dependable charter service, featuring a private jet where you can often find Chick positioned in the left seat as Captain.
Chick has always loved to travel, so being able to pilot his own private jet to Hope Town, or take his family to one of the nearby famous sights in the Abacos, is just another perk of the job.
On any given day, you can find Chick sitting behind the desk at his airport office working the numbers for the business or solving problems, and always wearing many hats. “Our customers are the reason I continue to work hard to improve Air Unlimited’s service each day,” said Chick. “They often become like family.”
Another favorite “job” he routinely performs is quoting and piloting charter and private jet flights.
Chick is committed to growing new services, such as their Organ Transport Medical Flights. “These flights are making a difference in people’s lives, which we take very seriously,” said Chick. “The responsibility means a lot to our entire team.”
When Chick isn’t flying, he’s usually still thinking about flying – as a true pilot would do. In his spare time, he is building an aircraft with his three sons. Chick is dedicated to his work, but he does know how to relax and often travels to his home in Colorado with his wife, Lisa, and their two yellow labs, who travel in style, thanks to their “pilot dad.” While there, he enjoys relaxing, as well as skiing and entertaining friends. He frequently enjoys spending time with his four children and their spouses, four grandchildren and his amazing mother-in-law. Closer to home, Chick’s other go-to destination is his farm in Georgia, where he flies routinely with his brother and other good friends to hunt or work the land.
Chick and Lisa enjoy traveling nationally and internationally, often with groups of friends to celebrate important milestones. Chick’s list of destinations is quite extensive, but says his favorite trip involves visiting Napa Valley, California.
While Air Unlimited’s focus is on flights to the Abacos, Chick’s dream destination is to pilot his private jet to Europe with his wife. He has the ambition and the tools so it probably won’t be long before it becomes the Gregg’s next big adventure!
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Flying Privately: Everything You Need to Know About Aircraft Charter
A bachelorette party in a tropical land; a last-minute vacation for a family of five; an important business trip a few states away. What do all of these have in common? Each of these trips – no matter how different their intent, length or party size – could all benefit from travelling via an aircraft charter. The difference in flying via a commercial airplane or an aircraft charter could mean the ability to guarantee a family with small or nervous children the chance to fly together in privacy. It could be the perfect start to a weekend in paradise instead of experiencing the hassle of lost baggage and delayed flights. It could even mean more presentation practice to ensure sealing a big business deal while arriving stress-free before a very important meeting.
Air Unlimited may be known for hassle free and easily enjoyed scheduled seating, but the airline also offers custom chartered flights. Both options receive the highest amount of customer service and the benefits of flying privately, but a charter service is the best way to have a completely customizable flight experience. Charters ensure that your party is the only one on the aircraft, which is why they are the perfect option for families or groups looking for a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Flying with small children can already be a challenge, and unneeded pressure is added when fellow passengers deliver disgruntled stares if a child is in distress. When flying via an aircraft charter, there are no passengers on the plane, so children can be comforted without the addition of parental stress. Chartered flights can also be more enjoyable for groups like college friends travelling back to their alma mater and want to vocally reminisce the whole ride there.
Passengers of chartered flights are not limited to travelling strictly from Sanford, FL to Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay either. Because these flights are completely customizable, you are able to pick which airports you leave from and fly into, as well as the date and time for all flights. If you are flying to a destination for a very short amount of time, you can even arrange for the pilot and aircraft to wait for your party and fly back the same day. Talk about VIP!
What could be better than flying to your vacation destination with four of your best friends in a private aircraft charter? Doing all of this while eating bruschetta and drinking champagne at 39,000 feet! Gone are the days of peanuts and ginger ale, aircraft charters with Air Unlimited allow catering services for the ultimate luxury experience.
For more information about the aircraft charters offered at Air Unlimited, head here and be sure to call us for additional information at (407) 585-4300.
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Things You Didn’t Know About Flights with Air Unlimited
Vacations give you time to relax, recharge and explore new places. Before you begin your vacation, however, the stress associated with travel can cause a bit of a rough start. When you fly with Air Unlimited out of the Orlando Sanford International Airport, you experience unparalleled service and comfort, and avoid the many stressors associated with flying. Say goodbye to long TSA lines and hefty fees, and hello to comfort the unlimited way.
Not a fan of having to arrive two hours before your flight just to get through TSA lines? Lucky for you, Air Unlimited is located in a private hangar in the Orlando Sanford International Airport, and performs their own security checks. This means that guests bypass the chaos and lines usually experienced at other airports. Instead, guests go through a personalized check-in process in the Air Unlimited office, and only need to arrive an hour before take-off. If you’re a frequent public economy-class flyer, you’re in for quite a treat.
We’re not exaggerating when we say that every seat is first class. With seating for four to nine passengers, each state-of-the-art seat was created for comfort, and has its own window. Each flight to the Abacos is about 90 minutes, and with such a comfy cabin, the time will literally ‘fly by’. As the aircraft descends, you will get a sneak peek and aerial view of the Bahamas before you even land. The crystal clear, blue water will make it very easy to spot a bull shark or a spotted eagle ray swimming near the surface.
Good news for any worried pet parents – Air Unlimited is completely pet friendly! We allow pets to fly in the cabin with you instead of in a cage in the cargo hold like other commercial airlines. There are rules of course, and the pilot has the final say for which animals can fly and which might be better off staying home, but a quick call to Air Unlimited before booking your flight will get you all the answers you need for traveling with your furry friend. For those looking to travel with more than one pet, there is a two-pet per owner limit. Once approved by the Air Unlimited team, all you’ll need is a permit from the Bahamas Ministry of Agriculture, and you and your furry friend will be good to go!
Air Unlimited makes it a point to never surprise customers with hidden fees or adding obscene charges for baggage. We also provide a free and secure parking area so travelers don’t have to worry about additional parking charges or how to retrieve their car after returning from a vacation. With Air Unlimited, guests are truly in good hands, and are never treated as just another number aboard a plane.
The Air Unlimited team aims to give you the best preflight and travel experience to start your vacation off on the right foot! For flight inquiries or to hear more about what Air Unlimited has to offer, give us a call at 407-585-4300.
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Discover Your Perfect Weekend with a Flight to the Abaco Islands
The Abaco Islands are filled with entertainment and adventure, featuring beachside resorts, five-star restaurants, beach bars, boat rentals and local shops on almost every corner. For those that may be visiting just for the weekend, it’s especially important to make the most out of your time. Below are our weekender tips and recommendations to help you plan the perfect trip before boarding your flight to the Abaco Islands.
Lodging
If you want to stay in a resort with a restaurant, activities and transportation all available on property, Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina is the place to be. The resort features waterfront rooms with personal decks and docks for private boats, as well as smaller rooms that are perfect for a couple’s beach getaway. Green Turtle Club works closely with Brendal’s Dive Center and offers discounts for resort guests, as well as scuba certification for all levels. The reefs of Green Turtle Cay are some of the best in the world, so you don’t want to miss out on a chance to explore the sea life right outside your bedroom window. Convenience is key at Green Turtle Club, so many activities are available directly through the resort. D&P Cart Rentals is located right on the property, making getting around the island even more accessible for guests. You’re definitely in for some fun and pampering while staying here!
If you want a more private experience, we suggest renting a cottage with Oceanfrontier Hideaways. Each loft-style cottage has two bedrooms, a private deck and a kitchen. With only six cottages on the property, you will feel like you’re ‘living like a local’ in these cozy lofts by the sea. However, you’re not completely on your own, because Oceanfrontier Hideaways has a working relationship with Dive Guana and Nipper’s Beach Bar, where guests can enjoy preferred rates and pool access. Stick around for Nipper’s Sunday pig roast and grab a “feared and famous” Nipper Juice, and you’ll blend right into the island ambiance.
Sight Seeing
Get a bird’s eye view from the top of the Hope Town Lighthouse. After 101 steps to the top, you will get a panoramic view of Hope Town and the surrounding islands, and you’ll also have a chance to take a look at the original lens and turning equipment in the lighthouse, made in the early 1900’s! The lighthouse was built in 1864, which speaks volumes about the Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society’s restoration efforts. How often do you get to visit places built more than a century ago?
Dining
The Treasure Sands Club is not your ordinary upscale restaurant in the Abacos. Located next to Treasure Cay Beach, this restaurant pairs traditional Bahamian food with European influence. Meals are prepared with utmost care, and most of what you eat is grown on their property at the Bahama Woodstar Farm. They believe that humans need to have a deeper connection with their food, and they hope to inspire others to feel the same. In fact, they feel so strongly about this concept that they started the Farm-to-Preschool Community Project by supplying preschoolers from Head Start Academy with nutritious, seasonal and culturally authentic lunches every day. Each meal includes a $1 donation to the program, so you can feel even better about eating exquisite Caribbean Lobster Stew or Mango Curry Shrimp. The Treasure Sands Club also takes pride in their French wine collection and can offer advice for the best wine pairings for each meal.
Beaches
With so many beaches in the Abacos, choosing the perfect one might be a challenge. But wouldn’t you want to spend an afternoon on one of the top 10 best beaches of the Caribbean? Treasure Cay Beach actually made the top 10 list from Caribbean Travel & Life, and the three-and-a-half mile powder-white beach lives up to its ranking. The contrast of the turquoise water along the shore line is something you’ll have to see to believe. Although this beach is open to the public, you’ll feel like you’re on your own private oasis as there is plenty of room to spread out and relax. You can take a break from the sun at Coco Beach Bar and Grill just 100 yards from the water and cool off with a frozen Bahamian drink. They also offer lounge chairs, a volleyball court and have a sports cabana to rent kayaks and banana boats.
Getting There
Some of these destinations are a bit spread out across the Abacos, but not to worry, between Albury’s Ferry Service and the plethora of golf cart rentals, your perfect weekend is a reservation away. Start your perfect vacation with a scheduled flight to Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay with Air Unlimited. Book your flight today by heading to our website!
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The Abaco’s Top Five Adventure Excursions Are Only a Private Plane Ride Away
Your vacation is finally here and after a quick and relaxing scheduled flight to the Abacos with Air Unlimited, the last thing you want to do is waste time researching activities and excursions to complete your itinerary. That’s why we’ve highlighted a few of the tried and true tours and activities that will completely immerse you in the exciting atmosphere of the Abacos.
Parrots, pubs, and caves, oh my! The South Abaco Adventure offered through Abaco Tours & Activities will take you on a walking tour to see one of the most colorful Abaco natives, the Bahama parrot. These parrots are the only ground nesting species in the Bahamas, so you’ll be happy to have a tour guide there to point out where these birds might be hiding. The next stop will be Little Harbor, where you’ll stop at the famous Pete’s Pub and Bronze Sculpture Garden. Pete’s Pub is your classic island hang out spot, complete with a beach bar, Bahamian seafood and weekly events and specials. Pete’s Pub is also home to a bronze foundry that has been up and running for more than three generations. Few places still have a facility like this, but after walking through the bronze garden yourself, you’ll see why they’ve kept it around. After grabbing a quick bite, like the delicious Mango Grilled Grouper, the tour will end at the Abaco Caves. These breathtaking caves are found in discrete pools throughout the island and are easy to miss if you aren’t with someone who knows where to find them. Once you’re in the water, you can explore from the surface or take a deeper dive, at your own risk. Either way, you’ll be ready to cool off in this amazing blue oasis.
At Brendal’s Dive Center, you’re almost always guaranteed to see dolphins on the Reef Trip and Wild Dolphin Encounter. These are not trained dolphins that you’ll be in the water with; the captain will take you to known dolphin-spotting reefs where you can take pictures from the boat or put your mask and flippers on as you slip into the water to see these beauties in their natural habitat. You’ll also be treated to lunch on a private beach with your choice of fresh seafood and island drinks.
Another Brendal favorite is the Abaco Swimming Pigs Adventure. You’ve probably seen someone you know visit the Bahamas and feed a giant swimming pig. Well now it’s your turn to get up close and personal with the Abaco’s most famous attraction! These friendly pigs are great with visitors of all ages and truly make for a unique island experience.
Get closer to nature on an Abaco Eco Kayak Adventure in Elbow Cay. It’s your choice where to start your trip from either Tahiti Beach, White Sound or Hope Town Harbour, but we suggest Tahiti Beach. It’s a secluded beach only reachable by foot, bike, or boat so you can enjoy being the king or queen of the beach before setting off on your adventure. This is a self-led tour, but don’t worry, Abaco Eco will explain exactly where to go to get the most out of your trip. Along the way, you’ll see dense mangrove islands with wading birds hunting in the shallows. Make sure to stop and check out the water underneath, because you might spot a school of fish or even a turtle or nurse shark.
Finally, for those who really want to see it all, you can book a week-long sailing trip with Cruise Abaco or create your own personalized boat trip. We’re serious when we say you’ll see it all, because the sailing trip begins at the Great Abaco Beach Resort in Marsh Harbour and sails through Guana Cay, Man O War, and Hope Town. You’ll have the opportunity to choose which vessel you would like to sail in and consult with your captain on exactly where you want to go. The eight-day sample itinerary includes exploring local shops, museums and landmarks, paddle boarding and snorkeling and of course eating amazing food along the way.
Let the experts guide you through these incredible islands and provide you with memories that will last a lifetime. The team at Air Unlimited is very familiar with the Abacos islands and would love to offer tips and recommendations on some of their personal favorite must-sees. Start your adventure with us by calling 407-585-4300 or visiting www.FlyAirUnlimited.com to book a flight to paradise.
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Pigs, Palms and Paradise: It’s Time to Experience Your Next Scheduled Island Flight
The Abaco Islands are made up of one main island and a string of smaller islands surrounding it, which together cover more than 650 square miles. For those looking to get the most out of their trip, this guide provides tips and tricks for traveling on land and over water, allowing you to bask in the beauty of the Abaco Islands in every way possible. One of the quickest and most convenient ways to begin your journey is with a scheduled island flight via Air Unlimited from Sanford, Florida to either Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay, Bahamas. These private flights fit up to nine passengers, eliminate the hassle of traditional airport lines and security revisions and make sure you get to the islands faster than most commercial airlines.
After flying for less than 90 minutes, you will arrive at either the Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay Airport, depending on which you’ve specified beforehand. Once you decide where you want to go, it’s totally up to you how you would like to get there. Both Marsh Harbour and Treasure Cay have rental cars, taxis, buses and ferries available, as well as bikes, mopeds and golf carts for easy island travel. Taxis are one of the most common methods for getting from one place to the next, or car rentals allow you to explore additional parts of the island on your own time. You may also want to check with your hotel ahead of time, as many of them offer transportation from the airport, depending on where you’re headed.
Once you arrive in Treasure Cay, you can easily jump on a ferry and head to Green Turtle Cay. This is the easiest route to Green Turtle Cay and you will have plenty of time to explore Treasure Cay once you return. While visiting Green Turtle Cay, you can travel by foot (the island is just three miles long!) or rent a golf cart, if traveling with wheels is more your style. Golf carts are the locals’ transportation of choice, and there are plenty of rental facilities available for visitors to choose from.
For those that are more marine savvy, you can check out the fleet at Sunset Marine & Boat Rentals in Turtle Cay, and tool around the island or schedule a designated island hopping tour. Sunset Marine & Boat Rentals offers ten different kinds of boats, ranging from a versatile 17-foot Aquasport to a luxurious 26-foot Scorpion. On an island hopping tour you’ll have the chance to be guided to the surrounding islands that you may have previously missed, and if you choose to create your own itinerary, make sure to stop at a little island called No Name Cay, and feed the pigs in Piggyville. Yes, Piggyville is a real place with plenty of friendly, free-roaming pigs and piglets! Once you’re back in either Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay, and ready to relax on the beach or indulge in some authentic Bahamian food, you’ll definitely want to rent a golf cart – just remember that Bahamians drive on the left side of the road!
Knowing exactly how to get around in a foreign place can bring you so much peace of mind. Let Air Unlimited be your first choice for round trip scheduled island flights to the Abacos, and we’d be happy to offer further transportation and sightseeing suggestions along the way.
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Book a Private Jet for Lobster Season in the Abacos
Lobster season kicks off on August 1st, which means it’s time to pack up the gear and head to the Abacos with your fishing buddies. Since you’ll be on a boat from dawn till dusk loading up on the legal limit, we suggest taking Air Unlimited’s private jet to the islands to get you on the water as soon as possible. The Citation Mustang seats five, with more than enough room for all of your baggage and gear. If you’re traveling with more than four people, the King Air 200 is a better option. This aircraft seats nine comfortably with more head and shoulder space than most small aircrafts.
Unless you have your own boat in the Abacos, you will need to find a charter service to take you lobstering and typically, the charter boat captains will know all the best spots for taking full advantage of lobster season. If you are fishing off of a noncommercial boat, you will need to get a fishing permit from the Bahamian Customs Office. All Bahamian owned charter boats will already have fishing licenses but it’s always best to ask and make sure that everyone is covered.
Since it is illegal to dive for lobsters wearing scuba gear or any kind of air regulator, you will need to find shallow water to free dive in. The suggested depth is a spot where it only takes 30 seconds to get from the ocean floor to the surface. Spear guns are also illegal to use in the Bahamas, so keep your gear simple. All you will need is a mask or goggles, snorkel if desired, fins, a net and a tickle stick.
The last thing you want to do is get yourself and the entire boat in legal trouble from violating the Bahamian fishing guides, so be aware of the lobster regulations ahead of time. You are allowed six lobsters per person who is fishing (the captain doesn’t count). And you will need to make sure the lobster you are catching is not a female carrying eggs or a lobster too small for catching. This can be a bit tricky when you’re underwater and trying to gauge the size of the lobster or look under its tail for eggs while chasing it into your net. A lobster gauge is very useful in this situation. It is basically a small ruler made of aluminum, with indentations where you will need to place the gauge in between the lobster’s eyeballs and extend it to the end of its carapace. The measurement from the eyeballs to the carapace should be no smaller than 3 3/8 inches in length, or its tail should be at least six inches long. If your lobster reaches either of those measurements, it’s a keeper! If you catch a lobster that is under size or carrying eggs, just release it and move on.
To catch a lobster, you will need to find an area suitable for lobsters to live. This includes caves or artificial reefs where lobsters can hide. You will coax the lobster out of its cave by moving your tickle stick to the back of the cave and pulling it towards the front while hopefully running into a lobster. Once the lobster feels the tickle stick, it will shoot out of the cave so keep your net ready! After you catch one, make sure to measure it and twist your net to not let your catch free.
If you’re catching lobsters, hopefully you have a place to cook them. But if not, ask your charter captain for the best local restaurants that will cook your catch for you, and enjoy!
The Air Unlimited team is always ready to offer advice or recommendations for your lobster season adventure. Conveniently book your flight by giving us a call at 407-585-4300.
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3 Things You Can Find in the Abacos That You Can’t Find Anywhere Else
It only takes our guests leaving the Orlando Sanford International Airport to immediately get into vacation mode. With its secluded beaches, plentiful water activities, and luxury resorts, the Abacos is the ultimate island retreat. It is also home to some surprises that you can’t find anywhere else.
Sunday Pig Roast at Nipper’s
Nipper’s Beach Bar & Grill is your all-in-one island experience. Located on Great Guana Cay just across from Marsh Harbour, this venue offers fresh seafood, strong drinks, two pools, beaches that lead to a reef, and a tiki bar with a dance floor. Despite the amenities and colorful atmosphere, the main attraction is the Sunday Pig Roast. It is a buffet served every Sunday from 12:30 to 4 p.m. and includes roast pork, Cajun coleslaw and custard corn bread. Come for the food, stay for the party because this is one Sunday Funday that you can’t recreate anywhere else.
Try a Goombay Smash at Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar
One of the must-try drinks in the Bahamas is The Goombay Smash. This is a famous cocktail throughout the Bahamas that many places serve but its origin begins at Miss Emily’s Blue Bee Bar in Green Turtle Cay. Miss Emily created the drink in the 60’s in her tiny restaurant that now has a collection of business cards covering the walls from visitors throughout the years. She passed away in 1977 but her family has kept her business alive by serving her delicious Goombay Smash and traditional Bahamian food. The original recipe is her family’s best kept secret that many others have tried to guess. If you’re a fan of the Goombay Smash (most people are) you can purchase the drink by the gallon to enjoy throughout your trip. If you just can’t get enough of it and want to try making it yourself, a replica recipe is below.
- 2 oz. dark rum
- 1 oz. coconut rum
- ½ oz. apricot brandy
- 3 oz. pineapple juice
- 1 oz. orange juice
Shake, pour over ice and enjoy!
Marsh Harbour Reefs
Marsh Harbour is home to two artificial reefs that have been created by shipwrecks. One reef is actually made from locomotives that were captured by the confederacy during the Civil War and then sold to Cuba. There was an accident on their way to Cuba that caused the locomotives to sink about 20 feet to the ocean floor, and it has become a beautiful reef over time.
The other shipwreck was the U.S.S. Adirondack. It dates back to 1862 and was a 207-foot wooden gun boat also used in the Civil War era. It ran aground just six months after it was built, leaving behind 14 cannons that were onboard. The cannons and remains of the ship are scattered across the ocean floor, but don’t worry! Everyone aboard the ship made it safely to shore. Both reefs are only accessible by boat and do not require scuba gear to be explored!
Whatever your plans might be for the Abacos, start your journey with Air Unlimited’s scheduled luxury flights. Every seat on the aircraft is first class and in only 90 minutes your island adventure will begin. Once you arrive, don’t forget to try some of these things that make these islands so special. After all, the Abacos is the hidden gem of the Bahamas.
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3 Top Water Activities to do in the Abacos
While planning your trip to the Abacos, you might find yourself unable to decide which island destination you want to check out first. The adventure begins with your 90-minute scheduled island flight over clear blue water and miles of sandy white beaches, but the opportunities are endless once you arrive. Whether you’re cruising around on a fishing boat or taking relaxation into your own hands by renting a yacht to go island hopping, the Abacos has an opportunity for everyone to get their feet wet.
The Abacos has miles of peaceful beaches that keep people going back year after year, but also offer thrill seekers a unique experience, that isn’t for the weak of heart. At Dive Abaco you can find scuba and snorkel trips for all levels and even shark observation dives! This isn’t your typical cage dive that you might’ve seen on TV. On shark observation dives, you will be chartered to known shark spotting areas and coached through your dive by the experts. Dive Abaco also offers underwater photography so you can document your bravest moment.
If hanging out on a beach is more your speed, then you definitely need to visit Tahiti Beach at the tip of Elbow Cay. You are guaranteed to find a spot to call your own at this secluded beach that’s only accessible by foot or boat. It’s the perfect place to lie down and just listen to the palm fronds swaying in the breeze. Tahiti Beach is great for beachcombing, and visitors can find a wide variety of beautiful sea shells. You might even see a few starfish or one of five different kinds of turtles that are native to the islands.
The fishing scene is huge in the Abacos and ranges from no-skills-required fishing off the dock to deep sea excursions. Fishing charters are available right out of Treasure Cay, Marsh Harbour, and Green Turtle Cay. These areas are home to blue marlin, bonefish, snapper, grouper, sailfish, tuna, mahi-mahi, and the list could go on! And if you’re really serious about fishing, the Abacos also has multiple fishing tournaments throughout the year.
The Air Unlimited team is always ready to offer advice or recommendations for your next scheduled island flight to the Abacos. Conveniently book your flight online at flyairunlimited.com or give us a call with your travel questions at 407-585-4300.
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The Best Family Friendly Activities in the Abacos
With its calm waters, warm breezes and stunning panoramic views, the Abacos are an ideal location for the perfect family vacation. Whether you are craving cowabunga-style water sports or have your sights set on a uniquely serene experience with your loved ones, the Abaco Islands offer activities that quench the thirst of each and every guest.
If you’re taking one of Air Unlimited’s daily private flights to Marsh Harbor or Treasure Cay, you’ll be elated with the wide range of family-friendly activities that are available. Here are a few of our favorites:
Rent a Boat and Enjoy Some Island Hopping
A unique group of islands and cays that forms a 120-mile-long chain, the Abacos stretch over 650 square miles. With bay-scalloped coastlines, dream-worthy coves and picture perfect harbors, it’s no surprise that island hopping by boat is one of our favorite family activities in the area. If you’ve already enjoyed a private flight to the location, we suggest continuing the private vacation by renting a boat that will broaden your Abacos horizons.
Each island and cay has something different to offer, and traveling by boat is the best way to explore nature with your family in an exciting way. This fun mode of transportation allows you to discover new locations like Tahiti Beach on Elbow Cay, which is known to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Many boaters anchor for the day around the shallow waters and sand bars near Tahiti Beach while enjoying snorkeling in the calm waters.
There are a number of gorgeous beaches and sand bars to dock your rented boat at for the day, or you can enjoy the wind in your hair just riding around the islands if that’s more your style. Renting a boat gives you and your family the freedom to explore the area on your own schedule.
Pigs, Rays and Sharks OH MY!
Private flights to the Abacos are always met with incredibly unique experiences that families rarely have the chance to experience elsewhere. There are very few tropical locations throughout the world that offer the opportunity to swim with friendly pigs on an otherwise uninhabited island. That is exactly the experience you will find while visiting No Name Cay, just south of Green Turtle Cay in the Abacos. You’ll find a friendly group of pigs that just want a little bit of love and affection – perfect for the kids! No Name Cay is a favorite spot for picnicking and adventuring with your new found piglet pals.
A short ride from Green Turtle Cay brings you to the gorgeous Manjack Cay, a completely unspoiled beach that is a stellar location for swimming and shelling with the kids. Additionally, there is a small cove right off the cay that is home to a group of extremely friendly stingrays and harmless sharks. Give the family the opportunity to explore nature right in its natural habitat, as you enjoy a rare experience with these majestic ocean creatures.
Nature Tours
The beauty and intrigue of the Abaco’s natural surroundings stretches well beyond the beach. While there are a number of private areas inhabited by private residents across the island chain, visitors will still find a plethora of gorgeous nature trails, mysterious blue holes and a wide range of plant and bird species ready to be explored around the coast and the inland areas.
Whether you chose to travel by golf cart, bicycle or on foot, the whole family will enjoy discovering secret trails and blue holes, which are water-filled caves and cavities filled with fascinating fish and curious creatures. Families are welcome to explore these areas even further by kayak or canoe.
Pack a picnic basket, grab your loved ones and enjoy some family time in paradise!
Air Unlimited offers daily, affordable scheduled service flights to the Abaco Islands in the Bahamas. If you’re looking for additional recommendations on local restaurants to try, our team would be more than glad to help you put your itinerary together. Give us a call at (407) 585-4300.
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