Nassaus nearby Paradise Island district offers beaches, restaurants and shops as well as the Atlantis megaresort, which is among several properties offering day packages for cruisers in search of a daylong all-inclusive experience. View Excursion. Caribbean. 11:45 AM, Start Times: You won't leave hungry on this food-oriented Nassau walking tour. The cabana also has a fully stocked cooler, complimentary towels, a power outlet, and ceiling fan. Guests will be greeted with the strong smell of fresh cake (and rum). Guests interested in seeing marine life can book excursions such as the Dolphin Encounter and Beach Day or Sea Lion Encounter and Beach Day. Sat Nassau Depart 9:00, We wanted to participate in the first sailing, shame on us for assuming it would be special. Experience the best of Nassau on this interesting and exciting tour of the island including a stop at the world famous Atlantis Resort. CRUISE HIVE LTD 2008-2023. Whether found at a lively outdoor market or gourmet restaurant, Bahamian gastronomy is filled with island flavor. Bahamas, has long been a favorite Caribbean vacation destination for travelers. This Nassau shore excursion tour is the easiest way to get to know the Bahamas' capital city in just a few hours, without having to worry about planning transport. Music only played a few hours a day. When you first arrive, friendly staff members will provide you with a quick orientation about the dolphin encounter and help you fill out any necessary paperwork. There's no shortage of great beaches in and around Nassau. A line-by-line guide, 12 giant ships that are packed with fun features, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Original paintings, carvings and craftwork, Handmade garments in bright tropical colors. You know who you are, so prepare for your dreams to come true and learn how to make your own chocolates under the tutelage of a master chocolatier and indulge in tasting delicious gourmet chocolates. We'll send you a weekly newsletter to your inbox. Our driver is also a guide and our vehicle handles those with mobility issues. Your easy-to-ride beach cruiser is the perfect mode of transport for exploring Nassau. However, exploring them on a Bahamas shore excursion is the best way to experience these paradise islands. Nassau Cruise Port, the most visited port in The Bahamas, set a passenger record today when 28,554 passengers visited from cruise ships in one day. Your choice of fishing: deep sea, light tackle, or shark. General admission to Baha Bay is currently $160, while junior admission (guests under 48) is $65. Also, just a few minutes away from Paradise Island is Blue Lagoon Island, a private local-family owned island famous for its secluded beaches and animal encounter programs. 9:00 AM When youre shopping in the Bahamas, look for souvenirs like: Nassaus Bay Street retail district is steps of the cruise ship dock, but there are a few hidden shopping spots just a short taxi ride away. The jitneys cost around $1.25 per person and stop at popular spots, including Cable Beach (see below). Beachbumps. We were the 6th time out, and the staff told us that several things that weren't allowed were starting to be added back, such as the dance party on pool deck in, My wife and I are regular cruisers on Royal Caribbean, so while I am not normally the type to write reviews, it would seem helpful to add insight to the relatively new experience of post-Covid cruising out of the Bahamas by writing about our July 2021 cruise. An unknown error has occurred. This assumption could not be more incorrect! This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). As a result, visitors can take a DIY-approach to exploring Nassau with help from the Bahamas.com website. Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Reviewed January 18, 2013. 7:15 AM, Start Times: Paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkel gear are available to rent, and the island also offers nature tours with dolphins and stingrays. ShoreTrips.com may be temporarily down for maintainence. A line-by-line guide. Unlike some ports, Nassau is a port day you want to prepare for before arriving. Sweeping views from the forts bluffs encompass downtown Nassau, the harbor and the cruise ship dock. For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter. Museum tours. Indeed, the modern cruise industrys first itineraries in the 1970s focused on three- and four-day Bahamas sailings from Miami. Its ideal for folks seeking last-minute souvenirs and gifts just before they depart aboard their ship and for arriving passengers in search of shopping close to the port. There were a lot of elderly people on this cruise. For those looking into more active pursuits, the most popular tours invite the cruise traveler to explore the Aquaventure Water Park. You can also visit Marina Village, an outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment space located around the Atlantis Marina, at no extra cost. Here are some of the most popular and recommended beaches in Nassau: The beaches of Nassau offer varied amenities, so be sure to check what is offered or located nearby at each beach. Nassau Shore Excursion: Island Highlights Sightseeing Tour 903 Tour Nassau's landmarks and highlights, including a visit to the Atlantis Resort aboard a comfortable minivan. Other Black people traveled to the Bahamas directly from Africa, Bermuda and Haiti, some enslaved by ex-British loyalists from Georgia and South Carolina, and others as ex-soldiers who won their freedom fighting for the British during the American Revolutionary War. The Heritage Museum of the Bahamas takes visitors on a journey from pre-historic times in the Bahamas to today. Nassau is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, receiving around 3 million cruise passengers per year. Thats thousands of visitors exploring downtown Nassau, learning about our island and culture through our restaurants, taxis and tours, and making wonderful memories of The Bahamas that will surely drive them to return, said Maura. You can book excursions through your cruise line or independently. Nassau is also filled with historic sites and shopping opportunities. A free activity to do in port is walk around downtown Nassau. Jet Skis Lining a White Sandy Beach, Nassau, Bahamas Pedal your way through Nassau with this unique tour that takes you along beautiful beaches, to Fort Charlotte and to the Conch Salad show. Do you know about when you'd like to sail? Have our travel agency partner get you a free quote for a Royal Caribbean cruise. Wave Pool 6. Our opinions are our own, and have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by our advertising partners. The excursion tends to be popular and does sell out, so be sure to reserve early in your voyage or before you leave home. Short on time? In the mood for some smooth spirits? Cruise Travelers can book this shore excursion directly. 10:00 AM. Nassau Straw Market. A private island getaway to your own private, exclusive ocean-view cabana is waiting for you on beautiful Pearl Island. Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid. The huge number is largely due to expanded berths at the newly renovated port, as well as the fact that the visiting vessels included the worlds largest ship as well as larger vessels from three major cruise lines and other massive ships enjoying a day at the tropical destination. See Fort Montagu, the Potter's Cay Dock and more! We're here to help you embark on a truly memorable getaway. At Shore Excursions Group, we offer an incredible variety of Bahamian sightseeing island tours sure to impress. the beachs waters can be rough at times and the beach itself does not offer many amenities. Located on the resort is the 15-acre Baha Bay waterpark which offers a limited number of day passes. Zip Line 7. Your Nassau excursionstarts when you meet your guide/driver at the pier and get into your air-conditioned vehicle. Baha Bay includes 24 waterslides, a lazy river, FlowRider, infinity pool, wave pool, kids-only pool and slide area, and an outdoor casino. Stuart Cove is the main diving provider on New Providence Island. The benefit of booking with a tour as opposed to snorkeling on your own is that you do not have to pack snorkeling gear with you for the cruise. Start Times: Check first with a local or with a frequent Bahamas visitor (like a travel advisor) to determine which stall is the best for the day. Enjoy a unique pirate adventure while sailing the beautiful Bahamian waters. The factory is a short walk from the cruise port. With 25 years in the same location, McKenzie, a former conch fisherman turned restaurateur, is a local celebrity among Potter Cay purveyors, with a shack positioned as the first on the bridges west end. However, if you want something more exclusive you should go on a tour to the Blue Lagoon, the Pearl Island, the Balmoral Island or the pool of the Graycliff hotel. If that's not enough, we've also got tons of SCUBA tours, dolphin swims, and trips to the Blue Lagoon. Free expert cruise tips and news from Cruise Hive! Both cards offer hefty welcome bonuses, 130,000 and 150,000 points, respectively, after you meet the required spend of $2,000 within the first three months of account opening for the Surpass and $4,000 in the first three months of account opening for the Aspire. Not surprisingly, Nassau is a staple port of call for a wide variety of operators. Those looking for a VIP experience can choose to book the VIP Blue Lagoon Island Beach Day. Reaffirm your love for one another on an incomparable Bahamian beach. The highlight, however, may be the hotels five-star restaurant, an elegant eatery with a menu combining continental and Bahamian traditions. Independent Quest: Maps and Guides for Travelers . per adult. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. Or relax in front of the iconic lighthouse while enjoying a frozen drink and freshly made conch salad. Help yourself by helping an animal friend in need. This makes Nassau Cruise Port especially convenient for short itineraries of just 3-4 nights, and it is also easy to add to longer itineraries as an additional port of call. The best and the most popular shore excursions for passengers on a cruise to Nassau port: Reviews of Atlantis, Blue Lagoon, Scuba, Seaworld Explorer, Glass Bottom Boat, and more . By: Editor-in-Chief Update: January 6, 2023. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. View the current offers here. Nassau, Bahamas Thu 06 Mar 2025. . The main fish fry in Nassau is conveniently located near the cruise port at Arawak Cay. The boats crew are dressed as pirates who tell pirate tales, share history, and provide an immersive experience for guests onboard. Visit the private island of Balmoral where you'll get to see the famous Bahamian swimming pigs, or join one of our dolphin encounters for an up-close and personal experience with dolphins and sea lions. This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. You can also book day passes at the British Colonial Hilton Nassau for $100 per adult and $50 per child or $325 for a beach cabana accommodating up to four people. We offer a variety of unforgettable Bahamian experiences for every kind of traveler. Answers to Your Cruise Questions. Prices for the cabana usually run around $240/per adult, and online reservations are for a maximum of two guests, although larger parties may be accommodated. The tour makes stops at Tasty Teas, the World Famous Fish Fry, Potters Cay Dock, and John Watlings Distillery. Around one million travelers board Caribbean cruise ships that travel to Nassau every year! Most beaches are free and open to the public, and some are located just a short walk from the cruise terminal. Bay Street also features a proliferation of high-end, designer stores selling luxury goods including apparel, jewelry, cosmetics and fragrances. Browse more of our Nassau shore excursions and tours below to find your perfect getaway. Started in 2010, Royal Caribbean Blog offers daily coverage of news and information related to the Royal Caribbean cruise line along with other relevant topics of cruising, such as entertainment, news, photo updates and more. That was huge. Review for .css-nczv9q{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:inherit;font-weight:500;}.css-nczv9q:hover,.css-nczv9q[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-nczv9q:focus-visible,.css-nczv9q[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}Adventure of the Seas to Bahamas, Review for Adventure of the Seas to Bahamas, .css-1v3efdk{font-style:normal;font-weight:400;}.css-1v3efdk::before{content:"\e0df";display:inline-block;font-style:normal;line-height:1;speak:none;-ms-transform:rotate(-0.001deg);-webkit-font-smoothing:antialiased;-moz-osx-font-smoothing:grayscale;} Traveled with children, Review for Adventure of the Seas to Caribbean - All, Review for Oasis of the Seas to Caribbean - Eastern, Cabin Type: Superior Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony, Review for Quantum of the Seas to Bahamas. Ever dreamed about a private island getaway? Nassau, the capital city of The Bahamas and one of the most popular ports of call for Caribbean cruises, has set a passenger record with an astonishing 28,554 guests visiting from cruise ships in a single day on Monday, February 27, 2023. Cruise lines make a . Several historic sites around Nassau recognize this influence, including Adelaide, Fox Hill and Gambier. Thanks to its island charm, state-of-the-art resorts, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters, Nassau has a relaxing feel rarely present anywhere else. Spend the day on water trampolines, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. The beach promenade is a popular hangout on weekends and public holidays, with local vendors offering delicious local food and drinks. No matter your style, there are plenty of activities for you to see and do on this lovely island. An island tour with history and adventure. 12:00 PM, Start Times: Day pass holders also have beach access. On this popular Nassau dolphin excursion, you'll be whisked away to a private island where you'll get to spend the day freely exploring a tropical paradise. Free samples are available as well, so you can taste several flavors before choosing your favorite. A kid-friendly boat tour is Blackbeards Pirate Revenge, which takes guests around Nassau in an 18th century pirate ship replica. Escape to a beautiful hotel for a traditional British afternoon tea and celebrate the finer things in life with a Bahamian twist. Guests looking for a more exclusive experience at Pearl Island can reserve a VIP Cabana. In any of the famous beaches close to Nassau, the cruise traveler will be able to snorkel but the best places are the coral reefs offshore. The 2.5-mile-long beach is often described as Nassaus best, but it's one of hundreds across the Bahamas distinguished by bleach-white sands and remarkably clear blue waters. Guests can also access the islands lighthouse at no extra cost. Like most, we were a bit reserved about cruising during the pandemic. Splash. This is a quick stop with most guests in and out in fifteen minutes. It's truly one of my family's favorite places in the world. 9:45 AM However, if your itinerary visits several islands where you want to snorkel, it might be worth it to bring your own gear as opposed to booking excursions or gear rentals. The entrance fee is $10 for guests and free for children under 12. Take 4 hours out of your vacation to give something back to the people of the Caribbean. If you want to get a taste of city life, take a walking tour of downtown and nearby sightseeing destinations. The expanded berths are certainly delivering on the sizeable investment that we have made in them, creating the additional capacity required to achieve this extraordinary new record today.. We're pleased to provide comfortable, accessible transportation and knowledgeable, local independent experts to help you maximize your time onshore. Six ships from four different cruise lines visited Nassau Cruise Port on Monday, February 27, 2023, setting a one-day guest record for the port with an amazing 28,554 passengers. The museum has relics and artifacts on display, such as an extensive sample of items in a Bahamian grocery shop in 1900 to an exhibit of tools used during slavery. For those looking into more active pursuits, the most popular tours invite the cruise traveler to explore the Aquaventure Water Park. This could quite possibly be the most exciting two dives you will ever do, as you swim with and witness Caribbean Reef Sharks as they are fed. However, we are both vaccinated and healthy. Just a short boat ride from Nassau. Nassaus Pompey Museum features a permanent exhibit on the African experience in the Bahamas. Second, if you take advantage of the all-inclusive food and drinks, plus the pool and beach access, day passes can be a good deal. Some day passes are all-inclusive, whereas others give guests a monetary voucher for food and drinks. Blue Lagoon Island is another small island north of downtown Nassau. Experience the best of Nassau on this interesting and exciting tour of the island including a stop at the world famous Atlantis Resort. Cabanas include sun chairs, an all-inclusive drink package, butler service, and lunch. ShoreTrips' many shore excursions in Nassau reveal its Caribbean elegance. The first day of the cruise was a port in Nassau. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. This is a popular spot to taste traditional Bahamian rum cake and buy a delicious souvenir for friends and family. For those that are Certified Divers, Nassau has a few very interesting sites to explore. One common issue faced by those visiting public beaches is the lack of restroom facilities. This excursion is offered by most cruise lines and offered with many different combos. Went to the Bahamas and rode ATV's in the jungle of, The restaurants were not worth the extra cost. The same excursion can be booked through Royal Caribbean for cruisers stopping at that line's private island, CocoCay. Numerous ATMs are also found around downtown. The archipelagos spectacular natural environment features brilliant blue skies, warm temperatures and exceptionally clear waters. Private Charter for up to 12 passengers on a 38ft Private Boat with Triple 300HP Engines. A 66-step major landmark in Nassau, it was carved out of solid limestone rock between 1793 and 1794. The facility is housed in a traditional Bahamian-style home that shares the grounds with a variety of local Bahamian artists who also use the property to work on their own art and products. Johnny cake: Made of flour, milk, butter, sugar and baking powder, this breakfast food is more bread than cake, with a texture that combines dense bread with a slightly sweet cake. As a plus, while technically not located in the Caribbean, Nassau and the Bahamas offers the same splendid sunny skies, brilliant blue waters and amazing culture and traditions. We are extremely pleased to report another record-setting passenger day here at Nassau Cruise Port, said Mike Maura Jr., CEO of Nassau Cruise Port. A must-do for any wine connoisseur or even novice, become a wine maker for the day and learn to blend your own wine on one of the most unique experiences in the Bahamas. Saunders Beach: Spend free time on one of Nassau's most inviting beaches; also a popular swimming spot for the locals. Start Times: Please refresh the page and sign in if necessary. All rights reserved. Paradise Island is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters. NO LINES! 1:00 PM. . here. Afterward, the fun of your . Besides being a great place to sample an authentic Bahamian lunch featuring the freshest conch fritters and local dishes, the Potters Cay shacks are a great place to interact with locals, other visitors and the chefs themselves as they chat about the days catch and argue over a game of dominoes. This excursion is one of the most exciting and fun activities when cruising to Nassau. 2:15 PM. Docked side-by-side, the vessels made an impressive sight at the port, showcasing the value of the newly expanded dock facilities in Nassau. Itinerary Overview. Also, we picked this cruise line for the luxury and I actually thought Carnival is better. come at an additional cost. 8:15 AM. Nassau is on an island within a vast archipelago. We also offer plenty of snorkeling and scuba diving excursions for those who want to experience the Bahamas' exquisite marine life. Embarkation 11:45 AM. The translucent, crystal clear waters of The Bahamas are an invitation for snorkeling. In summary, the experience is 90% still there and a, This was Royal Caribbeans grand return to cruising on the first voyage of the Adventure of the Seas from Nassau, Bahamas. All cruise lines offer Scuba Diving shore excursions to different sites, options and combos - the James Bond wreck and the Jaws Cessna are two top film set-dives not to be missed. Start Times: The expansion will permit the port to welcome as many as three Oasis-class vessels simultaneously, further increasing its guest capacity. While Nassau sometimes gets a bad rap as a touristy port of call and is often inundated by cruise travelers, the Bahamas capital city is actually a diverse port with an impressive array of historic attractions, a variety of beach experiences, distinctive cuisine and extensive shopping opportunities. Nassau Caves: Quick photo stop at the caves of New Providence, home to the Arawak or Lucayan Indians, who were the original inhabitants of the Bahamas. It's our favorite Royal Caribbean cruise excursion. Related: 7 tips for visiting Atlantis on a budget. Things to Do at Perfect Day at CocoCay Bahamas for a Fee 3. Paradise Island, positioned immediately to Nassaus north, has large hotels and all-inclusive resorts that offer day packages for cruise visitors, providing access to premium golf (at the Baha Mar resort), casino gaming (at Atlantis) as well as restaurants, shops and nightlife. Port of Nassau is currently expanding its docking facilities and upgrading other port features, a $300 million project that began in 2019 and will be finished in just a few more weeks, in May 2023. The Christmas decor was a nice touch. All of those lines will call at Nassau in 2021. Just put on your sneakers, disembark your ship, take a few steps and start exploring. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. Craft Cottage Bahamas is the premier showcase for locally made home dcor, glassware, jewelry, soaps, clothing and artwork in Nassau. Many products are necessarily imported and that means prices, including meals at restaurants, can be high. ShoreTrips' many shore excursions in Nassau reveal its Caribbean elegance. Nassau welcomed a record number of passengers in a single day this week, and by the end of May, will be welcoming even more. The food was delicious and the selection was outstanding day and night. Daredevil's Peak Waterslide 9. Stops include a favorite family owned "down home" eatery serving soul-warming Bahamian classics, locally sourced jams, salts, and island bush teas from a specialty spice merchant, and Nassau's best Euro-Caribbean fusion and an organic, fair trade Chocolatier featuring hand-made truffles by an award winning pastry chef will guarantee you experience a taste of Nassau. Started in 2010, Royal Caribbean Blog offers daily coverage of news and information related to the Royal Caribbean cruise line along with other relevant topics of cruising, such as . What a way to spend your day! Best Nassau, Bahamas shore . 2023 INDEPENDENT QUEST LLC Florida - USA. The most basic shore excusion is titled Discover Atlantis Tour, which can be combined with a day at the beach and many othe different activities. On the small island of New Providence, Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas archipelago. Obviously, all cruise lines also offer a basic beach day package to relax on a double hammock, participate in water activities or sip umbrella drinks. True to its Caribbean traditions, the Bahamas indigenous cuisine combines flavorful spices with fresh tropical fruit and seafood. For some rest and relaxation, our Blue Lagoon Island Beach Day is a great opportunity to recharge. Also in port was Carnival Cruise Lines Excel-class Mardi Gras (14th largest cruise ship in the world); Celebrity Cruise Lines Solstice-class Celebrity Reflection and Edge-class Celebrity Beyond (50th largest); and MSC Cruises Meraviglia-class MSC Meraviglia (17th largest). The staff was friendly and helpful. Nassau. All products are developed in-house, crafted by the shops talented sewing team and visitors are encouraged to drop in at the factory, speak with the staff and watch the printers at work. 1:00 PM, Vendor claims they meet CDC Compliant Guidelines. . is a cruise expert with a focus on the Caribbean and Latin America. You can also look for a resort offering day passes. These three historic villages were settled by liberated Africans in the 1800s and still maintain their African heritage. This shore excursion includes a harbor cruise of Nassau on the way to Pearl Island, a welcome Cocktail (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), shaded decks, beach chairs & umbrellas (based on availability), a Bahamian served buffet lunch with soft drink, restroom facilities with fresh-water showers and Wi-Fi Internet service. Experience an unforgettable day on Pearl Island, a unique private island minutes from Nassau. 10:20 AM The beach is also a preferred spot for wading and picnicking. Several hotels and resorts in Nassau offer day passes, which allow cruise ship guests to access the resorts amenities for the day. Start Times: Shorex Combos. Those looking to experience the rest of the resort can purchase day passes. Pearl Island - Highlights. Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island is a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride away from Nassau just over the bridge that spans the islands. A small fee is required to enter the museum and optional guided tours are available. Enjoy a combination of a wall dive, along with a visit to a shallow reef or a shipwreck. We are a young (60) year old couple that enjoy life to its fullest and were celebrating our (40) year wedding anniversary. Rose Island, Spanish Wells Pigs, Exuma Pigs, Allens Cay Iguanas and more Options. Guests will travel to Pearl Island via boat from the cruise port and spend the day relaxing on the islands beaches, enjoying a traditional Bahamian lunch, walking around the islands paths, and participating in water activities. Peas and rice: Referred to locally as peas n rice, this traditional Caribbean dish, prepared in local Bahamian fashion, features deep brown pigeon peas and white long-grain rice seasoned with tomatoes, onions, thyme, tomato paste, goat pepper and salted pork or bacon. In 2016/2017, the last time frame for which full data is available, Nassau was the fifth busiest passenger cruise port in the world with 3.5 million annual visitors.