We all start out the New Year with the best of intentions. We will be more spiritual, eat healthier, be better organized and, oh yes, this year we are going to plan all of our family vacations well in advance.

Then, without warning, Spring Break is upon us and with it the harried family discussions of skiing versus surfing, Europe versus The National Parks, hotels versus villas.

Meanwhile, just 45 miles off the coast of Miami, warm, frangipani-scented breezes gently rustle palm fronds while crystal-clear waters lap on deserted sugar sand beaches.

Beneath the water’s surface, a tropical-colored world swims, sways and dances to a quiet orchestra where one can mingle, virtually unnoticed, among giant manta rays and dazzling schools of fish for hours on end.

On shore, smiling locals offer brightly painted wares, steaming conch chowder and fresh baked Bimini bread during the day and celebrate every sunset in Junkanoo style.

It is one of the world’s best-kept secrets, this world just off Miami’s coast — a secret best explored aboard a private charter yacht that can accommodate your extended family or two families for a weekend, week or more. Fleet Miami’s charter yachts range in size and style, and both our 87ft sport yacht Andiamo and our flagship motor yacht, the 154ft Usher are available to take you on your Bahamian escape.

The Bahamas’ proximity to the U.S. mainland makes this island chain the ideal destination for a spring break charter with children of every age. The Abacos offers a touch of true Bahamian culture, with a flair that harkens back to British Colonial roots while high-end restaurants and pulsing nightlife are the attraction of the Middle Bahamas and the Berry Islands.

But for an idyllic retreat that ticks all of the boxes of tropical paradise, culture, adventure, exploration and relaxation, look no further than the Exumas, a small island chain that beckons you and your family to discover its secrets.

The Exumas offers myriad deserted cays, hidden anchorages and tiny islands rife with tales of exploration and adventure. Protected reefs and underwater caves make the snorkeling and diving second to none. Bone and flats fishing will delight fishermen of all ages and the unique natural splendor and wildlife that define this exquisitely beautiful region of the world will be etched in memories for years to come.

Getting to the Bahamas is easy from any major U.S. city and it is just a short flight from the Miami International Airport to Nassau on Paradise Island. The crew of your Fleet Miami charter yacht will greet you at the airport and whisk you to your awaiting home-away-from-home where you’ll embark for the Exumas and your magical Spring Break Charter begins.

Free from the crowds at hotels or fixed location of a private villa, a yacht charter provides five-star accommodations, superb amenities, water toys galore, and a professional crew — including a private chef — dedicated to ensuring that your experience is top notch.

Every detail, from the daily menu that accommodates all tastes, favorites and dietary restrictions to a custom itinerary that can be planned to the minute or left open to every heart’s desire, will be addressed by your captain and Fleet Miami concierge prior to the charter.

Imagine catching the sunrise while sipping cappuccino from the deck of your private yacht while the children greet the day with a dive into the warm, turquoise waters of your secluded anchorage.

Imagine feeding rare iguanas, swimming with pigs, petting sharks or snorkeling through the wreckage of a drug-smuggling plane.

Imagine your child’s awe as they explore a sparkling underwater cave or catch their first bonefish. Imagine their excitement as they follow the clues of a scavenger hunt in search of buried treasure in an old pirate’s lair.

Imagine rekindling as you nibble canapés and sip a cocktail on the sun deck. Imagine being the first person to catch the green flash. Imagine the laughter; imagine the memories.

Spring Break is just around the corner. Make this year’s family vacation one for the books. Contact your Fleet Miami concierge to book your Bahamian yacht charter today.