The new Price of Paradise | EP121 HD 1080P

The Bahamas have always felt like paradise to us — endless turquoise water, quiet anchorages, and unforgettable moments as a family. But as we continue island hopping through the Bahamian chain, a big question keeps coming up: With rising cruising and permit fees… is the Bahamas still worth it? In this episode, our family of seven living full-time aboard our sailboat sails from Chub Cay to Shroud Cay, one of our absolute favorite stops in the Exumas. Along the way, we talk honestly about the increased costs of visiting the Bahamas, what cruisers are paying now, and whether the experience still justifies the price for families, budget cruisers, and long-term liveaboards. Once anchored in Shroud Cay, we soak in everything that makes this place so special — drifting through the famous lazy mangrove river, hiking to breathtaking overlooks, and capturing some of the most epic drone footage we’ve ever filmed. The contrast between untouched natural beauty and the realities of cruising costs makes this stop especially thought-provoking. As we spend our last day in Shroud Cay, we begin preparing the boat, the kids, and ourselves for the next leg of our journey as we continue working our way back toward the Windward Passage. Weather planning, route decisions, and saying goodbye to another unforgettable anchorage are all part of life at sea. This episode is a mix of raw cruising reality and jaw-dropping scenery — the kind that reminds us why we keep choosing this life, even when the costs rise. If you enjoy family sailing, real cruising conversations, drone footage, and island-hopping adventures, make sure to like, subscribe, and sail along with us to the next island.