nassau cruise port bars

The Best Bars in Nassau: Top 10 Picks for Cruisers

Nassau is a vibrant and lively city that offers plenty of nightlife options for those looking to have a good time. From dance clubs to beach bars, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for the best bars in Nassau, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we will list 10 of our favorite bars in the area.

Whether you’re looking for a place to watch a game or dance your troubles away, we’ve got you covered.

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Best Bars in Nassau Near the Cruise Port

If you are stopping in Nassau for a cruise , you may want to stay within walking distance of the cruise port. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t have a great time.

Be sure you know the laws regarding drinking in the Bahamas before you go!

There are plenty of options near the cruise port if you are looking to unwind and sip on a pretty tropical drink.

These are our top picks for the Best Bars in Nassau:

1. The Bearded Clam Sports Bar

What people say:.

The Bearded Clam Sports Bar is a favorite among travelers who stop in Nassau for a cruise.

The bar has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, and the staff is known for being very friendly. Plus, the drinks are yummy!

Many travelers sign the wall before they leave, and many say that it’s one of the best bars they’ve ever been to.

How to Get To Bearded Clam Sports Bar from the Cruise Port:

The address to the Bearded Clam Sports Bar is International Bazaar, BayStreet.

It is a 3-minute walk from the cruise port.

Head west on Woodes Rodgers Walk toward Parliament St Turn left onto Charlotte St

What to Drink and Eat:

The Bearded Clam is the perfect place to watch a game or grab a bite to eat while in Nassau. They have a wide selection of beers on tap and some great food options, traveler favorites like fish and chips, and conch fritters.

Cruise Passengers’ favorite drinks are the 4 shots for $10 deal as well as Bahama Mama ( Fruit punch, Coconut Rum, Gold Rum) and Wet Lizard (Coconut Rum, Pineapple Juice, Blue Curaçao)

2. Señor Frogs

What people say :.

Cruise passengers love Señor Frogs!

They say that it has a lively and fun atmosphere, and the drinks are great.

They also recommend dancing and participating in conga lines, as well as the party games like musical chairs.

You should also know that some people feel the portions are small and the prices are a bit high, but others say that the experience is worth it.

As for me, this is not my favorite atmosphere. I prefer smaller, more laid-back vibes.

How to Get To Señor Frogs from the Cruise Port:

Señor Frogs is located at Woodes Rodgers Walk, it is about a 5-minute walk.

What to Drink and Eat :

Go for the Fresh, table-made conch salad and margaritas!

3. Tiki Bikini Hut

Cruise travelers say that Tiki Bikini Hut is a great place to go for drinks and food. The customer service is good. There is a lively atmosphere, and you can sit on the beach.

However, the food can take a long time to come out and is pretty expensive.

How to Get There from the Cruise Port:

The walk to Tiki Bikini Hut is about 13 minutes.

Head west on Woodes Rodgers Walk toward Parliament St Woodes Rodgers Walk turns left and becomes Navy Lion Road Continue onto Marlborough St Turn right onto W Bay St

Travelers like lobster burgers, jerk chicken, and pizza. The local beer and mojitos are crowd favorites.

4. Seagulls Beach Bar

Most people who visit Nassau, especially those looking for a good time and some great food, end up at Seagulls Beach Bar.

It’s one of the most popular places to eat in all of Nassau, and for good reason – the food is amazing and the drinks are cheap.

But that’s not all people love about it… they also love the great beach atmosphere and the friendly staff. If you’re looking for a good time, Seagulls Beach Bar is definitely the place to be!

How to Get To Seagulls Beach Bar from the Cruise Port :

The address to Seagulls Beach Bar is 2 Bay St and is located on Junkanoo Beach. The walk from the cruise port is about 13 minutes.

Cruisers love the wings, conch fritters, 8-inch hotdogs, and grouper.

Customers love the drink specials, with local beers and strong mixed drinks, and freshly made daiquiris.

5. Pirate Republic Brewing

Cruisers love the laid-back atmosphere and cheap drinks at Pirate Republic Brewing.

The bar is decorated with pirate decor, and it feels like you’re right in the middle of a pirate movie.

They have a wide selection of beers on tap, wine, and liquor.

People love that they have an air conditioner, are friendly, and have clean bathrooms.

How to Get to Pirate Republic Brewing from the Cruise Port:

It is just a 2-minute walk! Head right down Woodes Rodgers Walk.

Cruisers recommend cracked conch sliders and nachos. Order a flight of their beers, to see which you like the best!

6. Nirvana Beach Bar

What people say:.

The people who have visited Nirvana Beach Bar say that it is a must-see while in Nassau. It has a great beach atmosphere, and outdoor seating and the staff is incredibly friendly.

You can snorkel from the beach, and the food and drinks are both great.

You should know that they do charge a cover charge to enter. It is currently $5 per person.

How to Get to Nirvana Beach Club from the Cruise Port :

This bar is a bit further away than the others. You can take a cab to get there, but the cheapest option is the local bus. Take the #10 bus. It will cost about $2 each way.

Fresh conch salad and burgers. The most loved drink is the mango daiquiri

7. The Daiquiri Shack

The Daiquiri Shack is a bar in Nassau that is known for its great drinks.

People love the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly staff. The drinks are strong and affordable.

The only downside is that it can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours.

But if you’re looking for a good time, the Daiquiri Shack is definitely the place to be!

How to Get to the Daiquiri Shack from the Cruise Port:

The address is 3HFX+8GG, W Bay St. Daiquiri Shack is located on Cable Beach, one of the best beaches in Nassau .

It’s a good distance from the cruise port, so you will want to catch a cab, or take the bus. It’s about 20 minutes each way in a cab.

You won’t find food here, but what you will find are the best daiquiris ever! You can choose your flavor (even mix a few), and your drink will be made with fresh fruit right in front of you.

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8. Sharkeez Tiki Bar

If you’re looking for a good time while you enjoy delicious drinks, Sharkeez Tiki Bar is definitely the place to be! They have a wide selection of drinks, from fruity cocktails to beer and wine.

The atmosphere is fun and laid-back, and the staff is friendly.

You’ll be able to see the beautiful blue Bahamas water and your cruise ship.

You can also watch sports on their giant TVs.

How to Get To Sharkeez Tiki Bar from the Cruise Port :

A one-minute walk will get you to Sharkeez! It’s located right outside the cruise port entrance.

Try the conch chowder and homemade mac and cheese. Get a fishbowl to drink, and share it with someone, it’s super big! A lot of people do not love the conch fritters here, stating they don’t have a lot of meat in them.

9. The Love Shack

The Love Shack is one of the most popular bars in downtown Nassau, and for good reason! This small little beach hut has a fun and lively atmosphere, with great drinks and music.

The staff is friendly and welcoming, making it feel like a safe place to let loose and have some fun.

How to Get To The Love Shack from the Cruise Port :

You can walk down to Junkanoo Beach to the Love Shack, it’s about a 7-minute walk

Be sure and try the ginger switcher and the Rum Cay Punch

10. The Green Parrot – Harbour Front

People who have eaten at the Green Parrot say that the food is great. The portions are generous, and the prices are very fair.

You can choose from a wide variety of delicious food including seafood, chicken, pasta, and more.

The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and the service is friendly and attentive.

How to Get to Green Parrott from the Cruise Port:

The Green Parrott is located on Paradise Island . It’s about a 20-minute walk, so you may consider a taxi here. If you choose to walk, these are the directions:

Head east on Woodes Rodgers Walk toward East St Woodes Rodgers Walk turns right and becomes East St Turn left onto Bay St

Fan favorites are the Ahi Tuna Nachos, ribs, and jerk wings. Try a Miami Vice to drink (half strawberry daiquiri, half pina colada), or try out the Ghost Tequilla Grapefruit Margarita.

Recap of the Best Bars in Nassau

So, if you’re looking for a great time and some delicious drinks, be sure to check out one of these bars in Nassau! They all have their unique vibe and offer something different.

No matter what vibe you’re looking for on your Bahamas vacation, there’s a bar waiting for you in Nassau. Grab a few friends, have fun, and drink responsibly!

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Best Nassau Bars for a Cruise Stopover

Confession: I was going to write a post on the best way to spend a cruise stopover day in Nassau, but you can see where my priorities lie as half the post was about all the different cocktails I had ! Being on an island famous for Rum, Nassau is home to a lot of colorful and beachy cocktails , most famously the “Bahama Mama” (a rum, coconut rum, grenadine, orange juice, pineapple juice, sometimes butterscotch concoction!).

My top two places to drink/eat/party on Nassau are the Bahama Rock Cafe and Fat Tuesday . Keep in mind these are the best Nassau bars for a cruise stopover tourist (only on the island for one day), so my main factors are cheap prices and accessible locations, for which I give both bars 10/10.

Bahama Rock Cafe: Lunch & Drinks

Head to Bahama Rock Cafe first, in the afternoon. It has indoor seating as well as a colorful patio with a tiki bar and umbrellas. Best, the Bahama Rock Cafe location is ideal for a break between sightseeing , as it is located at the top of the Queen’s Stairs and right next to Fort Fincastle, the highest point on the island. Also, because it is remote from the main street of Nassau, this cafe/bar is a well kept secret ! It won’t be too crowded or commercial and will be full of plenty of locals.

Fat Tuesday: Drink Deals & Night Life

The Deals…

Every customer gets a free sample card when they arrive at Nassau’s Fat Tuesday or enter Junkanoo Beach (there’s a reason their website claims “SOON TO BE FAMOUS”). The sample comes in the form of a small shooter of any of their massive daiquiri flavor options (and remember the drinking age here is “18”!).

We also would recommend the Bahama Mama drink, obviously super popular in the Bahamas and very tasty and generally not ridiculously strong (UNLIKE the daiquiris).

There is also a buy one get one free daiquiri special on Tuesday nights and I believe there are other deals (such as women get one free etc) other days of the week, but they aren’t posted on the website, only at the actual location.

If you’re in the mood for something stronger, or even looking for some Bahamas night life , this is the place to go. We went back to dinner on our cruise ship as it was fancy and included, and then ventured into Nassau afterwards (around 8-9pm). Nassau is deserted of tourists at night. The Bahamas aren’t entirely safe for tourists so this was a little creepy, but luckily we ran into a fun couple from our cruise also on their way out for the night so we joined forces. Whatever you do, travel in a group .

We headed to Fat Tuesdays for their buy one get one free daiquiri special ( We recommend the Octane, their strongest and most popular, as well as the Hurricane, Mojito, and Bellini ). At night, the place is filled with locals drinking and dancing and hanging out and it is truly a much more authentic experience than the tourist stops you can do during the day. If you want a nightlife experience during your cruise stopover in Nassau that is safe, cheap, and good enough to be where the locals go, then try Fat Tuesday!

There ya have it people! I knew the 11am drinking would pay off somehow 😉

I hope these suggestions are helpful – stay tuned for my next post on how to spend a day in Nassau without buying any cruise excursions – and no, the suggestions will not all be cocktail bars (only a few…)

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35+ Best Things to Do in Nassau Cruise Port, Bahamas (2024)

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If you’re visiting Nassau on a cruise, you’re in luck! Nassau gets some mixed reviews. However, it is a beautiful and fun cruise port of call with many great things to do.

Nassau is the largest city and the capital of the Bahamas. In fact, Nassau is one of the most popular cruise ports, attracting over 3.7 million cruise passengers annually.

Nassau, Bahamas, is home to beautiful beaches, rich historical sites, and, of course, the Atlantis resort.

Cruise ships dock in Prince George Wharf, which is conveniently located near the downtown district and Bay Street. Cruisers can do a lot of sightseeing by foot, which is why Nassau is such a popular destination.

There are so many great things to do when you are visiting Nassau, from beautiful beaches near the cruise port to island tours and all-inclusive resorts. Recently we visited Nassau by cruise and had an amazing day!

In this post, I share everything you need to know about Nassau, Bahamas, and the best things to do in Nassau cruise port.

Nassau Cruise Port

Cruise ships arriving in Nassau, Bahamas, will dock at the Prince George Wharf. The cruise port is conveniently close to Bay Street and the downtown district. There are many shops, restaurants, and activities within walking distance of the cruise port.

Passengers who have booked shore excursions through the cruise line will find their tour operators stationed near the dock. Those who have booked their shore excursions privately must meet their guides further down the dock.

The Nassau cruise port can feel quite hectic, as up to 6 cruise ships can dock at a time. It is a good idea to plan something to do in advance, as it will be jam-packed when you leave the cruise port.

To be safe, cruise travelers are best off staying within the busier tourist areas or taking a reputable tour.

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Nassau Cruise Port

The official currency for the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar. However, the Bahamian dollar is equivalent to the U.S. dollar, and both are widely accepted.

In Nassau, most businesses and restaurants accept U.S. cash or credit cards. You can also use US money when shopping for souvenirs or with local vendors.

If you want to exchange money, you can onboard your cruise ship. However, the exchange rate from a local bank or ATM will be better.

There are several banks and ATMs located near the cruise port on Parliament Street or in the downtown area.

In the Bahamas, the official language is English. However, some locals may speak Creole or Bahamianese. Overall, nearly everyone speaks and understands English in Nassau.

In the Bahamas, they operate on Eastern Standard Time. Furthermore, the cruise ship time will typically be the same as the time on land.

Nassau, Bahamas, has a tropical climate and experiences sunny and warm temperatures year-round. Nassau can experience higher humidity and tropical storms during the summer months, which is why Winter is typically the best time to visit Nassau, Bahamas.

Getting Around Nassau

The best way to get around Nassau is on foot. The downtown area, Bay Street retail district, and many of Nassau’s historic sites are within walking distance of the cruise ship pier.

One of the great things about going to Nassau is that you can easily visit historical sites, eat at a restaurant, and go shopping on foot. The downtown area is easy to navigate, and it’s quite safe.

If you like to explore cruise ports by foot, then you will enjoy visiting Nassau.

Taxi operators are located around the Prince George Wharf area. In Nassau, the taxis are not metered, so it’s a good idea to negotiate the ride fare before entering the car.

Nassau’s public buses, also known as jitneys, are an economical and convenient alternative to taxis and car rentals. The bus runs from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM, costing $1.50 per person for a one-way ride.

There is a bus stop conveniently located near the cruise port, and it stops at popular locations like downtown Nassau and Cable Beach.

Car and Scooter Rental:

For those interested in exploring Nassau on their own, you can do so by renting a car or scooter. There are car and scooter rentals available through Trip Advisor.

However, this is a potential cruise port mistake . If you’ve never driven in the Bahamas, be aware that the rules of the road can differ from the United States.

Most cruise travelers choose to take a taxi or walk in Nassau to avoid the risk of an accident.

Best Things to Do in Nassau Cruise Port

Nassau offers a variety of exciting attractions, activities, and historical sites for visitors. Here are the best things to do while you’re in Nassau:

Best Public Beaches in Nassau

There are some free public beaches in Nassau. If you’re trying to save money on excursions during your cruise , these free beaches are the most popular and recommended.

1. Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is the closest public beach to the cruise ship port. This free Nassau beach is a good option for cruisers who want to stay within walking distance of the cruise ship.

The local beach is a about a 15-20 minute walk from the cruise port, or you can take a taxi.

At Junkanoo Beach, you can access restrooms, showers, and changing facilities. There are also local vendors who offer chair rentals.

If you get hungry or thirsty, there are various restaurants and bars nearby.

2. Cable Beach

Cable Beach is often called “Nassau’s best beach”, as it is 2.5 miles long and has white sand and crystal clear waters. This beach is lined with famous resorts, including Baha Mar and Sandals Royal Bahamian.

It can take 25-30 minutes to get to Cable Beach by taxi. A cheaper alternative is taking the No. 10 bus, which costs $1.50 per person.

At Cable Beach, you can do watersports, snorkel, and relax under the sun!

3. Cabbage Beach

Cabbage Beach is a public beach which is located on the north side of Paradise Island. You can get to Cabbage Beach by taking a short water taxi ride to Paradise Island ($10 round-trip) or walking for around 20 minutes.

At Cabbage Beach, you will find crystal-clear water and soft sand. Local vendors offer on-site chair and umbrella rentals.

At times, the water can get quite rough at Cabbage Beach. However, you will be right next to Atlantis, which makes for some amazing photos!

4. Saunders Beach

Saunder Beach is a 10-15 minute taxi ride from the cruise part. It is known to be one of the quieter beaches in Nassau, making it the ideal choice for families. At Saunders Beach, you can access restroom facilities and a playground.

Be sure to bring towels, as there are no vendors at Saunders Beach.

5. Love Beach

If you’re looking for a free beach with stunning water, check out Love Beach. Love Beach is located a bit further than Cable Beach, and many people say it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas.

At Love Beach, there will be chair rentals and the Nirvana Beach Bar, a fan favorite among cruisers!

6. Jaws Beach

Jaws Beach is the furthest beach from the cruise port. However, it was the filming location for the movie Jaws III!

Whether you’re a movie fan or you enjoy snorkeling, this beach is definitely worth checking out. There are Hollywood memorabilia and sculptures located underwater, which is super fun.

If you get tired of the beach, you can walk to Clifton Heritage Park and enjoy a picnic lunch there.

Best Island Beach Escapes in Nassau

These island beach escapes are excursions that can typically be purchased through the cruise line. This makes for a hassle-free experience as you won’t have to worry about transportation and planning.

In most cases, you will meet your shore excursion guide at a designated sport before being guided to a bus or boat. From there, you can enjoy your day before returning to the cruise port.

7. Pearl Island

Pearl Island allows guests to relax on the beach, explore the island’s walking trails, explore a lighthouse, and enjoy a traditional Bahamian lunch. Pearl Island is on the pricey side. However, there is a lot included in the price.

Through Carnival Cruise Line, Pearl Island costs $95 for adults and $75 for children. This includes transportation, a lounge chair, a signature cocktail, lunch, and watersports like kayaks, paddleboards, water trampolines, and water mats.

The boat ride to Pearl Island takes roughly 30 minutes, and the excursion lasts approximately 5 hours. At Pearl Island, you will have access to bathroom facilities, changing rooms, and showers.

If you’re interested, VIP cabanas are available at an additional cost.

8. Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon is a small island located off the coast of Nassau. Typically, a Blue Lagoon island excursion combines the beach with other activities like sea lion encounters, dolphin encounters, or segway tours. If you want to spend the day at the beach, you can also do that.

Depending on the shore excursion and what cruise line you are sailing with, day passes range from $90 to $200 per adult.

Related: Why Our Family Had the Best Day at Blue Lagoon, Bahamas

9. Balmoral Island

If you’re looking for a great way to spend your day in Nassau, check out Balmoral Island. Unlike the other islands, Balmoral Island has two freshwater pools available to guests who want a break from the ocean.

The downside to going to Balmoral Island is that your food, drinks, and water sports are not included. If you enjoy doing water sports, it may be a better value for you to try one of the other excursions!

10. Royal Beach Club

Royal Caribbean cruise line is opening the Royal Beach Club in 2025. This beach club be available exclusively to guests onboard Royal Caribbean cruises.

This 17-acre resort is located on Paradise Island, a short water taxi away from the cruise port. At the Royal Beach Club, there will be four pristine beaches for guests to enjoy (Tranquility Beach, Sapphire Beach, Hideaway Beach, and Harbor Beach).

There will also be various restaurants, bars, and pools at the Royal Beach Club. Once the beach is open, it will be the ultimate beach escape for families.

Best Resorts in Nassau (Day Passes)

Resort day passes give cruise ship passengers access to hotel and resort amenities. Depending on the resort, you may find all-inclusive passes.

The resorts typically feature access to the beach, private pools, restaurants, and bars. These day passes can be purchased individually through the hotel or resort.

11. Atlantis Paradise Island

Nassau is one of the main attractions in Nassau, Bahamas, but it is undoubtedly a pricey way to spend your day. A day pass to the Atlantis Aqua Adventure Water Park starts at $210 for adults and $150 for children if you purchase it through the Carnival Cruise Line.

A pass to Atlantis Adventure Water Park includes access to 141 acres of pools, water rides, Atlantis beaches, The Dig, Marina Village, and casino. Food and drinks may or may not be included depending on the conditions of your ticket.

Another option is to purchase the day pass directly through the Atlantis website. The admission price varies on what day you are going, and there is a good chance that you won’t save any money this way. Furthermore, you will be responsible for your transportation.

Atlantis offers additional activities that cruise passengers can do. However, they do cost extra.

Atlantis offers various dolphin experiences, sea lion experiences, stingray experiences, and more. These experiences range in price, but they generally cost $335 for adults and $285 for kids.

You can access certain areas of the Atlantis resort without paying any admission fee. The casino, indoor retail, specific dining venues, and Marina Village are available to the public.

Remember, if you are going to Atlantis without the cruise line, you are responsible for returning to the cruise ship on time. Keep an eye on your watch so you don’t get left behind in Nassau!

12. Margaritaville Resort & Waterpark

Margaritaville Resort & Water Park is a new resort that opened in 2021. This resort features two private beaches, two swimming pools, a lazy river, water slides, and a poolside bar.

The great thing about the Margaritaville Resort is that it’s only a 15-minute walk from the cruise port. Since Margaritaville is a short walk from the cruise port, you can spend the whole day there, and you won’t have to worry about finding a taxi back.

It costs $110 for adults and 55 for children to enter the Margaritaville Resort. This will give you access to all onsite activities, amenities, and Wi-Fi. At Margaritaville, you must pay for the food and beverages.

When we were in Nassau, we spent the day at Margaritaville, and it was awesome! The resort is clean, modern, and the staff is very friendly.

Whether you’re traveling as a family, as a couple, or with friends, you will have a good time at the Margaritaville resort.

13. Baha Mar

Baha Mar is a luxury resort that offers a limited number of day passes. When you visit Baha Mar, you will have access to a 15-acre water park, 24 water slides, a lazy river, an infinity pool, a wave pool, a kids pool, a FlowRide surf simulator, an outdoor casino, and the beach.

Right now, a day pass costs $160 for adults, $65 for guests under 48-inches, and free for guests under two.

14. Warwick Paradise Island

Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas is a resort for guests 16 and up. At Warwick, you will find a small beach and a massive pool with lounge chairs.

A day pass to Warwick Paradise Island costs $130 to $160, depending on if you want the standard or deluxe day package. When you’re a Warwick, your food and drinks are included, which is a huge bonus!

15. Riu Palace

RIU Palace is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort located on Paradise Island near Atlantis. When you’re at Riu Palace, you will have access to a swim-up bar, two swimming pools, and a dedicated beach area on Cabbage Beach.

A day pass for RIU Palace starts at $129 per person. This includes premium cocktails and a poolside “jerk” barbeque station.

When you spend the day at Riu Palace, you must pay for transportation from the cruise ship pier. You will also have to pay $10 for Wi-Fi if you want to stay connected, and there is an additional charge for spa treatments.

16. Breezes Resort & Spa

Breezes Resort & Spa is an all-inclusive that costs $125 for the day. This includes access to the beach, pools, swim-up bar, jacuzzi, land activities, water sports, and your meals and alcoholic beverages.

The resort is located on cable, which is a 15-20 minute drive from the cruise terminal.

Exploring Nassau Bahamas

17. the straw market.

The Straw Market is a large market with handmade Bahamian straw products like purses, bags, and hats. You can also find factory-made souvenirs like shirts, bracelets, and magnets. Before you make any purchases, be sure to negotiate on the price!

The good thing about the straw market is that it’s extremely close to the Prince George Wharf cruise port. If you want to get off the ship and shop for souvenirs, the Straw Market is only a 6-minute walk from the port.

18. The Queen’s Staircase

The Queens Staircase is named after the late Queen Victoria. This historic attraction is a 66-step staircase that was carved out of limestone in 1793.

This staircase provides a direct route from downtown Nassau to For Fincastle. Furthermore, there is no charge to go up the historic staircase.

19. Fort Fincastle

Fort Fincastle is a historic fort that was built back in 1793 to protect Nassau from pirates. At Fort Fincastle, you will gain access to some incredible views of the cruise port.

When you visit Fort Fincastle, you will be near the Queen’s Staircase and the Pirates of Nassau Museum. If you’re exploring Nassau on foot, checking out these three attractions is a great idea!

If you want to enter For Fincastle, the cost of admission is $1 for adults and free for kids under 12.

20. Parliament Square

Parliament Square houses the Bahamas House of Assembly, Supreme Court, and Senate Building. This is a great spot for pictures as the colonial buildings are in a pink pastel color, and they look very tropical.

You will also see a statue of Queen Victoria that was built in the early 1900s.

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If you’re looking to spend your afternoon in Downtown Nassau, and you want to visit museums then you’re in luck. Nassau has several museums that are within walking distance from the cruise port.

21. Pirates of Nassau Museum

If you’re traveling with kids, check out the Pirates of Nassau Museum. This is an interesting museum to learn about the history of Nassau and piracy between 1690 to 1720.

One of the cool features of the Pirates of Nassau Museum is that they have a replica pirate ship. This is a major hit among kids as they can walk on it.

Admission to the Pirates of Nassau Museum is $14 for adults and $7 for kids under 17.

22. Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation

The Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation is smaller. Here, you will learn about Pompey, a slave who led a rebellion in 1830 on the island of Exuma.

The museum is located at the Historic Vendue House. This building was built around 1769 and functioned as a marketplace until the late 1800’s. In 1992, it became a museum that was open to the public.

If you want to visit this museum, it is only a 7-minute walk from the cruise port. It’s also located right next to the Straw Market.

23. National Art Gallery of the Bahamas

The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is the perfect museum for art enthusiasts. This museum features art from the locals and highlights Bahamian history and culture.

It costs $10 for adults, and it is free for children to visit the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas. Furthermore, the art gallery is a 15-minute walk from the cruise port, and it is nearby several other attractions.

24. Heritage Museum of the Bahamas

The Heritage Museum of the Bahamas is a smaller museum with relics dating back to prehistoric times. At this museum, you will see tools used during slavery, items from a Bahamian grocery store in 1900, and a meteorite slice.

When you visit the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas, you will have the choice of doing a self-guided tour or purchasing an audio guide for around $20. The Heritage Museum is a 12-minute walk from the cruise port, and it is near the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas.

25. Educulture Junkanoo Museaum

Junkanoo is a street festival in the Bahamas that happens on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day every year. This cultural celebration includes dancing, spirituality, and listening to music.

The Educulture Junkanoo Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Junkanoo and to see the costumes that are worn during this festival. This museum is the brainchild of Arlene Nash Ferguson, who has been on the National Junkanoo Committee for over 24 years.

Nassau, Bahamas Shore Excursions

If you’re looking to have an exciting day in Nassau, then consider booking a shore excursion. Here are the top-rated shore excursions in Nassau:

26. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

When it comes to cruise ports, Nassau, Bahamas, is known for having some great snorkeling sports. You can book a snorkeling tour through the cruise line or a private vendor.

On a snorkeling tour in Nassau, you will see coral reefs and a lot of marine life. Furthermore, many shore excursions have a party-like atmosphere on the boat, and they may even have an open bar.

If you’re scuba certified, you can always book a scuba excursion. Scuba diving is a great way to move freely underwater and to feel like you’re a part of the marine life.

27. Bahamian Food Tour

If you’re a foodie, check out the Bites of Nassau Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour. For this tour, you will be in a small group and walk the streets of Nassau, learning about the history and trying different local foods. During this tour, you will get the chance to try classic conch fritter, local fish tacos, baked macaroni and cheese, rum cake, and more. You will also get to meet the chefs and small business owners.

This tour costs $79 for adults, $49 for kids between the ages of 4 and 12, and free for children under 4. This tour is highly recommended, and it is a great way to try local Bahamian foods.

28. Jeep and Beach Tour

The Jeep and Beach Tour is a popular shore excursion offered by most cruise lines. For this tour, you will drive a Jeep Wrangler through downtown Nassau and see some prominent landmarks.

Afterward, you will head over to the beach, and you can spend time relaxing by the water. You will then be served a Bahamian lunch before returning to the cruise port.

29. Rose Island Swim With Pigs

The Rose Island Swim With Pigs is one of the most popular excursions in Nassau. Many major cruise lines offer this excursion, which is an amazing experience.

You will begin this tour by taking a boat over to Rose Island. Once you arrive at Rose Island, you will be greeted by friendly pigs who are domesticated and love attention.

The guide will teach you how to feed the pigs and interact with them while swimming. Afterward, you head to a private beach to relax and enjoy light snacks.

30. Shark Encounters at Blue Lagoon

If you’ve ever wanted to swim with sharks, check out the Shark Encounter & Snorkel at Blue Lagoon. Here, you will be swimming with nurse sharks, who are slow-moving and mild-mannered.

The trainer will stand nearby so you can feed the sharks and cradle them in your arms. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it makes for an amazing story.

Afterward, you will get the chance to relax on the beach and enjoy some free time before heading back to your cruise ship.

Water Sports and Activities

Nassau is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear water. This is the perfect recipe for water sports. Here are some water sports and activities that you can do when you’re in Nassau!

31. Bahamas Jet Boat

The Bahamas Jet Boat is one of the newest attractions in Nassau. This excursion combines a scenic ride with a high-speed thrill ride.

The captain and crew provide a tour of the Nassau Harbor while sharing fun facts about the island. You will then go on an adrenaline-pumping ride that is fun for the whole family.

This tour is educational, exciting, and safe, making it one of the most popular tours in Nassau.

32. Glass-Bottom Boat

The glass-bottom boat is a popular attraction that many people will try when they are in Nassau. Many tour companies combine the glass-bottom boat with snorkeling and drinking afterward.

On the glass-bottom boat, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the water while looking for sea turtles, dolphins, and other marine life.

33. Jetski Rental

Nassau is one of the best places to jetski because of the beautiful water. If you enjoy jet skiing, then consider renting a jet ski.

There are various places to rent jet skis from. However, the Jet Ski Adventure at Cabbage Beach is highly recommended as they will pick you up at the cruise port and transport you to the beach.

Where to Eat and Drink in Nassau Cruise Port

If you’re into eating local foods, there are great options near the cruise port in Nassau. Here are some recommended sports to eat when visiting the Bahamas.

34. Potter’s Cay Conch Shacks

If you’re looking to try an authentic Bahamian Lunch, then check out Potter’s Cay conch shacks. Here, you will find bright-colored conch shacks that feature dishes from 40 different chefs who are cooking different dishes.

This is a great place to try Bahamian food, interact with locals, and immerse yourself in their culture. It is recommended to go to McKenzie’s shack as he has been in the same location for 25 years and is a former conch fisherman.

35. Pirate Republic Brewing Co.

If you’re looking to get off the cruise for a bit and grab a quick drink, then head over to Pirate Republic Brewing Co. Pirate Republic Brewing Co. is one of two breweries in Nassau, and it is located right next to the cruise port.

This place has a great vibe, and the drinks are amazing! Whether you want to grab a quick drink or if you’re stopping in before heading back to your cruise, Pirate Republic Brewing Co. is worth checking out.

Honourable Mentions:

Bahamian Cookin’ Restaurant
John Watling’s Distillery & Vell Monkey Foot
Blackbeard’s Rum Cakes

Where to Shop in Nassau

If you’re shopping for local souvenirs to bring back home, Nassau has many shops near the cruise port. Many cruise passengers will bring back wood carvings, craftwork, original paintings, and handmade garments as they make nice gifts and souvenirs.

Here is where to shop in Nassau:

36. Bay Street

Bay Street is known as Nassau’s retail district, so there will be many local businesses there if you are interested in shopping. On Bay Street, you will find jewelers, clothing stores, gift shops, and more.

37. Festival Place

Festival Place is an outdoor bazaar located next to the cruise port. Festival Place features over 45 vendors who sell crafts, food, and drinks.

When shopping at Festival Place, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings as it can get very busy and hectic. Vendors will approach you, and it will not be a relaxing shopping experience.

If you want a more enjoyable shopping experience, go to Bay Street. However, Festival Place is ideal for cruise passengers looking for a last-minute gift or those who want to stay near the cruise port.

38. Nassau’s Straw Market

Although it was mentioned earlier, Nassau’s Straw Market is a great place to buy local Bahamian crafts, souvenirs, and gifts. The Straw Market is on Bay Street, so you will be near many other retail stores.

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Final Thoughts On Best Things to Do in Nassau Cruise Port

Well, there it is, everything you need to know about the Nassau cruise port.

Whether you’re going on an excursion or walking around on foot, there is a lot to see in Nassau. The great thing about Nassau is that there is a mix of historical sites and beautiful beaches, so there is something for everyone!

In this post, I shared the best things to do in Nassau when you’re on a cruise.

Happy cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising since he was in preschool! As a frequent cruiser, Ethan now shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults. Ethan is a freelance writer and also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com .

Best Restaurants near the Cruise Port in Nassau

LAST UPDATED BY Shannon Morgan September 1, 2013

When you step off the cruise ship in Nassau, Bahamas, you don't have to walk far to find a bite eat. Grab breakfast at Via Caffe just around the corner from the dock or Aqua at the British Colonial Hilton.

Start your day with a hearty meal and an ocean view.

For lunch, flag down a taxi for the short drive to The Fish Fry, a collection of restaurants serving up fresh seafood and the best conch dishes in Nassau.

Or stay in town for an authentic Bahamian lunch at Bahamian Cookin'.

Don your best duds for dinner at Graycliff Restaurant , considered one of the best dining establishments in Nassau. Enjoy a fine combination of Continental and Bahamian cuisine paired with a bottle from Graycliff's impressive and award-winning wine collection. Come early in the day for a cigar rolling lesson, their chocolate factory tour or for their popular Wine Luncheon.

End your day with a Bahamas Mama at Senor Frogs, toast to your cruise vacation and celebrate dining your way around downtown Nassau.

There are a lot of restaurant options near the port serving a variety of cuisines from Bahamian to Italian to Greek to American fare. You're sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds.

Brussels Bistro

Brussels Bistro is a quaint establishment whose linen tablecloths, dark wood paneling and cozy bar evoke the old-world charm of an authentic bistro. Menu musts include rich onion soup with freshly baked French bread, chicken and mushroom puff pastry with cream sauce, and fresh steamed mussels in a wine broth, the bistro's specialty. Belgian beer, French wine and decadent desserts complete this unforgettable culinary experience. Brussels Bistro is open for lunch Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and dinner Tuesday-Saturday 5-10 p.m. In addition to the regular lunch and dinner menus, there are daily specials that feature an appetizer, two entrees and a dessert.

Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because : Brussels Bistro serves authentic Belgian food — and beer — with a side of old-world charm near Bay Street.

Shannon's expert tip : Lunch and dinner specials feature an appetizer, two entrees and a dessert at affordable prices.

Senor Frogs

A small chain with locations in Mexico and the Caribbean, Senor Frog's caters mostly to tourists, functioning as a festive family friendly restaurant by day and a lively nightclub by night. The menu is big, with enough choice to please everyone, even kids. The unique Mexican Shrimp Cocktail is fabulous, and south of the border salads are hearty and satisfying. In addition to specialties like Winter Sabana (a thin beef filet covered with refried beans, salsa verde and Monterey Jack, served with a side of tortillas), there are a few American favorites as well, such as steaks, burgers and ribs. Tuesday, Friday and Saturday nights Senor Frog's welcomes live bands, and other nights there's karaoke or a DJ, but whatever the entertainment, you can be sure the crowd will be dancing and partying til the wee hours.

Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because : Located on the water near the port, Senor Frogs is a fun place to hang out while you're docked in Nassau.

Shannon's expert tip : Keep an eye on the clock at this fun and festive restaurant so you don't miss your boat.

Aqua Restaurant

Breakfast at Aqua can be traditional or trendy. Opt to make your experience full service or join the buffet line. At the breakfast buffet bar choose from fruits, yogurt, bagels or have an omelet prepared your way. Sit down items range from steak and eggs to an egg sampler plate to the traditional boiled or stewed snapper. The Aqua Lobster Benedict, two poached eggs, lobster, sauted spinach in a hollandaise sauce, comes highly recommended. For the health conscious diner, breakfast can be steel cut oats or a fruit parfait with a choice of whole, skim or soy milk. You can get an early start at Aqua, breakfast is served from 6:30 a.m.

Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because : Aqua at the British Colonial Hilton is located near the Straw Market and is a good starting off point for your day in Nassau.

Shannon's expert tip : Order the Aqua Lobster Benedict for breakfast before spending your day at nearby Junkanoo Beach.

Café Matisse

Matisse the painter may have been thoroughly French, but Matisse the cafe is completely Italian. Set in an 1800s home, the restaurant has a charming courtyard and an abundance of colorful art prints on the walls. It's located behind Parliament Square just steps away from the country's legal and business center in downtown Nassau and is a popular lunch hangout for lawyers, politicians and local business persons. The menu changes every three months, taking advantage of the freshest available produce, but dishes are creative and wonderfully flavorful. You might enjoy an appetizer of thinly sliced veal with a tuna-caper sauce, or lobster salad with hearts of palm and orange-ginger vinaigrette. Pastas and gnocchi are homemade, and main dishes such as rack of lamb, baked snapper with braised fennel, and veal with prosciutto on a bed of spinach are all divine.

Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because : Centrally located, Café Matisse features an Italian menu that changes every three months.

Shannon's expert tip : Save room for dessert.

Graycliff Restaurant

Regarded as the best restaurant on New Providence, if not in the Caribbean, Graycliff also happens to have one of the world's top wine cellars. Offering some 250,000 bottles, from an 1865 Chateau Lafitte Rothschild Premier Grand Cru Classe to a 2001 Niebaum-Coppola merlot, the cellar has it all, in every price range. Graycliff is also known for its 90-some varieties of cigars, many of which are hand-rolled on the premises by Cuban ex-pats. The food is crafted with the finest ingredients: beluga caviar, foie gras, truffles, lobster, Certified Angus beef, milk-fed veal, imported Parma ham, and fresh seafood. Reservations are essential.

Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because : Graycliff is a five-star restaurant with an award-winning wine cellar.

Shannon's expert tip : Make your reservations for the wine luncheon. And don't miss the chocolate factory tour.

Read more about Graycliff Restaurant →

The Fish Fry

What began as a few ramshackle huts has grown into a Bahamian dining destination. Andros and Twin Brothers Seafood & Steakhouse are just two of the restaurants you'll find in this strip of restaurants and bars offering fresh seafood and homemade dishes to locals and visitors alike. The Fish Fry is a great place to try conch — you'll find conch salad, scorched conch, conch fritters, cracked conch and conch chowder, just to name a few of the most popular dishes. Several festivals and public events are held here each year, but the atmosphere is decidedly upbeat and festive every day.

Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because : The restaurants at the Fish Fry on Arawak Cay serve up fresh, authentically Bahamian seafood.

Shannon's expert tip : Order the conch salad. The chefs prepare it fresh and its more authentic than what you'll find at the hotels.

Van Breugel's Restaurant and Bistro

Van Breugel's is an European-style family bistro located near Rawson Square in downtown Nassau, Bahamas. The bistro serves up old world ambiance in a casual setting. The menu is moderately priced and features European-inspired Bahamian dishes. The chef specialties include beef stroganoff, Thai beef, Weinerschnitzel, shrimp Indienne, braised lamb shank, veal scallopinni, boillabaisse, spicy tomato soup and coconut curry conch chowder. There is also a grill menu, pasta menu, snack menu, bar tapas menu, cocktail menu and a small selection of desserts. Attire is smart casual. Reservations are recommended and can be requested on their web site. The restaurant is closed on Sundays.

Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because : This moderately-priced European-style bistro is a great place to grab lunch after a morning of shopping on Bay Street.

Shannon's expert tip : The Coconut Curry Conch Chowder is a must. Its the house specialty.

Read more about Van Breugel's Restaurant and Bistro →

Bahamian Cookin

Same great food, new name, Bahamian Kitchen is now Bahamian Cookin. A local favorite for nearly 30 years, this lunch and dinner spot is Nassau's best-kept secret dining spot that's gaining popularity with visitors looking for an authentic Bahamian dining experience. Everything is authentically Bahamian, from the food to the table settings. Known for seafood dishes like cracked conch, friend shrimp and broiled lobster, Bahamian Cookin also caters to the salad and sandwich crowd. Dine in the main dining room or in the sports lounge and enjoy the down-home family atmosphere and service. Friday happy hours include a complimentary treat. Casual attire. Cash only. Closed Sundays.

Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because : Bahamian Cookin (aka Bahamian Kitchen) offers authentic Bahamian food from its convenient, downtown location.

Shannon's expert tip : This establishment is cash only.

Athena Cafe

Set above Bay Street, at the corner of Bay and Charlotte Streets, Athena Cafe's upstairs restaurant overlooks Nassau's busy downtown shopping district. Open since 1996, Athena Cafe is a family-operated Greek restaurant that is a popular lunch spot for locals working in the financial district as well as visitors to Nassau. Sit outside on the balcony or inside the air-conditioned cafe. Athena Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving up authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with a smile. Takeout is also available. Travel tip: Say hi to Peter Mousis, aka Mr. Opa, and ask for his menu recommendations.

Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because : Athena Cafe serves affordable Greek food in a location that's convenient to the port and to downtown shopping.

Shannon's expert tip : Order the gryos; they're famous.

Explore Nassau

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10 Best Things To Do In Nassau Cruise Port + Port Guide

Me in one of the cruise destinatins - in Nassau cruise port

Welcome to Nassau cruise port!

Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is conveniently located on the northern coast of the tiny island of New Providence. Due to its proximity to the coast of Florida and a wide variety of attractions and things to offer, Nassau is one of the most visited and popular cruise ports in the Caribbean cruise itineraries. The Port of Nassau has been breaking records in passenger visits, averaging around 12,000 visitors daily in 2023. In this article, read about:

Nassau cruise port (Nassau cruise terminal info, getting around, helpful tips)
10 best things to do in Nassau port and best shore excursions

Visit also our cruise guides to Freeport , Grand Cayman , Perfect Day at CocoCay , St Maarten , St Thomas

Nassau Cruise Port

Nassau cruise ship terminal is located in Nassau downtown, within easy walking distance from its main historic landmarks, shops, restaurants, and bars.

Cruise ships dock at Prince George Wharf cruise terminal , which consists of three long piers with berthing spaces built to accommodate up to six cruise ships. Despite a large number of docks, the distance between them is short and you don’t need more than 5-10 minutes to exit the terminal, regardless of where your cruise ship docks.

Nassau has invested over $300 million into upgrading the old terminal into one of the greatest waterfronts in the Caribbean. The brand-new Arrival’s Terminal Building features an innovative design and is still under construction.

The whole terminal area is designed to cater to cruise passengers’ needs, with facilities such as a welcome center, a Junkanoo museum, event and entertainment spaces, an Amphitheater, tour booths, shops and cafes.

Make sure to grab a fresh pineapple before exploring the city, check out the Hair Braider Pavillion, or browse unique souvenirs at the Marketplace.

Arrival's Terminal Building Nassau cruise port

Nassau offers so many things to do, from the downtown area located just outside the terminal to exotic islands and resorts such as the world-famous Atlantis. If you have booked a shore excursion through your cruise line, make sure to carefully follow the instructions on your ticket.

You will find zones in front of your cruise ship, which represent meeting places for tours. You will either be meeting your group at one of the zones or onboard, so be sure to double-check your tour ticket for details.

Inside the cruise terminal, you will find independent tour operators offering water taxi transfers to Paradise Island and the iconic Atlantis, and other tours and services.

Port of Nassau - Shore excursion meeting place

Getting Around Port of Nassau

The port area is flat and suitable for wheelchair users/people with walking difficulties.
Outside the terminal, you’ll find an array of shops, souvenir stores, eateries, and internationally recognized brands such as Harley Davidson (opposite the Festival Place), Starbucks, Burger King, Hard Rock café, Senor Frogs, and many others. Get ready to be harassed as well, as you’ll come across countless local vendors offering car/scooter/off-road vehicle rentals, excursions, walking tours, day passes to famous local attractions, and ferry, boat, or taxi rides.
Taxis are available outside of the terminal.
Upon coming back to the terminal, you may be required to show a physical photo ID , so make sure you bring it.
Junkanoo Beach is the nearest beach to Nassau cruise port (a 15-minute walk).
The currency in the Bahamas is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD) . 1 USD equals 1 BSD. US dollars and credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are available in town.
The high season in Nassau lasts from mid-December to mid-April, with warm, dry weather and pleasant temperatures. Nassau lies within the hurricane belt, so hurricanes and heavy rains may occur from June to November.
Lynden Pindling International Airport is the main international Nassau Airport and is located 16 km/10 miles southwest of Nassau cruise port.
Major cruise lines sailing to Nassau Include Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises and Oceania Cruises.
Explore Nassau tours and activities
Search the best Caribbean cruise deals

Watch my YouTube video about Nassau cruise port and the best things to do in Nassau!

10 Best Things to Do in Nassau Cruise Port

1. nassau downtown and beaches.

If you decide to skip an excursion and stay in Nassau’s vibrant capital, there are numerous things you can do and see. Here is the list of the top-rated attractions:

1.1. Woodes Rodgers Walk

This is the street parallel to the harbor, and you’ll spot it upon exiting the terminal. It is filled with cafes, bars, restaurants, souvenir shops, and numerous local vendors. On the waterfront boardwalk, you’ll come across the ferry terminal where you can catch a ferry to Paradise Island.

1.2. Bay Street

This is the main street in Nassau where you will find the majority of shops, restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions. It is located parallel to the Woodes Rodgers Walk, a 5-minute walk from the pier. The street is home to several historic landmarks, including Pompey Museum, Rawson Square, and Parliament Square.

1.3. Queen’s Staircase and Fort Fincastle

Carved out of limestone by hundreds of slaves in 1793 as an escape route from Fort Fincastle, Queen’s Staircase represents one of the major landmarks in Nassau. The staircase was constructed as a shortcut to Fort Fincastle, a defense fort built in the 18 th century to protect Nassau from pirates.

Both landmarks are located within a 15-minute walk from the Nassau cruise terminal and are well worth visiting if you want to soak up some local history. A staircase consists of 65 steps that will lead you to the fort from where you can admire beautiful panoramic views of the harbor and city.

1.4. Pompey Museum

Located only a 10-minute walk from the port, on Bay Street, Pompey Museum is a museum of slavery built on the site of the 18th-century slave auctions. Housed in an old, brightly colored pink building, it is a simple and small museum with an impressive story where you can learn about this dark period of Bahamian history.

1.5. Pirates of Nassau

At a stone’s throw from Pompey Museum, the fascinating Pirates Museum reveals the 18th-century history of the city when Nassau served as a pirate base. You’ll see fantastic artifacts, a replica of a pirate ship, and exhibits that will throw you back to the era of pirates.

1.6. Nassau Straw Market

Situated alongside Woodes Rodgers Walk, the Straw Market is a bustling market where you can buy traditional Bahamian handicrafts, authentic gifts and souvenirs, clothes, wooden toys, and much more. Bring cash and don’t forget to bargain, as you can get some amazing deals and quality stuff here.

1.7. Christ Church Anglican Cathedral

Right between the Pirates of Nassau and Pompey Museum, in King Street, the impressive Anglican church dates from the 19 th century and was built in an exceptional Gothic style. It is the oldest and largest church in Nassau with astonishing stained-glass windows and wonderful acoustics.

1.8. Government House

Only a 10-minute walk from the cruise dock, you’ll come across a 19th-century residence of the British Governor-General housed in a well-preserved pink and white colonial mansion. It sits on a hill overlooking the harbor and boasts beautiful gardens ideal for a leisurely stroll.

1.9. Junkanoo Beach

When it comes to the Nassau beaches, the nearest one to the cruise terminal is Junkanoo Beach, located within a 20-minute walking distance from the port. It is a nice beach to spend your day at if you want to keep a low budget and still have a fun day.

Of course, you’ll find the best beaches on the private islands and Paradise Island, but Junkanoo Beach is a great alternative as it’s free and offers a variety of facilities to enjoy your day. It is a sandy beach with clear water and great swimming opportunities.

Right next to it is Western Esplanade Beach , where you can find bar restaurants and sometimes there are live performances. These are the public beaches and expect a lot of crowds and noise.

1.10. Saunders Beach

You can reach this beautiful beach within less than a 10-minute drive from the port of Nassau. It is a quiet stretch of white sand with crystal clear water where you can snorkel right off the beach. It’s not crowded and you can spend some enjoyable time with your family and friends away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

If you get hungry or thirsty, you’ll find several food chains and shops across the street. Restrooms and changing rooms are available too.

1.11. Cable Beach

This beach is located near Saunders Beach, a 15-minute drive from Nassau cruise port. It is a small piece of heaven lined with hotel resorts, boasting crystal clear turquoise waters and white sands where you can swim, snorkel or simply sunbathe under the palm trees. Bars, restaurants and watersports are available. It is considered one of the best beaches in Nassau.

1.12. Paradise Island

Within and outside the cruise terminal, you will find vendors selling ferry tickets to Paradise Island where the famous Atlantis resort is located. The Paradise Island ferry terminal is located under the two bridges connecting Nassau and Paradise Island, and from there you can walk to Atlantis Resort.

Keep in mind that it can be very crowded on the way back (as most of the cruise ship passengers go to the island by ferry), so always save at least 1 hour for the transfer back to the ship. An alternative option is to take a taxi to Paradise Island.

Besides the Atlantis Resort, Paradise Island has stunning beaches, such as Paradise Beach, Cabbage Beach, Cove Beach, Smugglers Beach, Arawak Beach, and others. The beaches are public, so you can freely come and enjoy the Caribbean vibes on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Explore Nassau sightseeing tours and activities

2. Pearl Island

This gorgeous tiny island is definitely my favorite when it comes to the Bahamas. It is nestled around 8 miles off the coast of New Providence and a 15-minute boat ride from Nassau. If you seek peace, sugar-white beaches, snorkeling, and delicious Bahamian cuisine far from the bustling city and tourist resorts, you are in the right spot!

The island is private and therefore it’s not crowded. You can take a dip in the crystal clear blue waters, enjoy frozen cocktails at the bar, relax in the loungers or climb the white lighthouse (the symbol of Pearl Island) for spectacular 360-degree views of the island. Island personnel is friendly and helpful, and will do their best to make your stay pleasant and enjoyable!

Explore Pearl Island tours

3. Blue Lagoon Island

I’ve been to Blue Lagoon island twice and both times I had a fantastic time. Blue Lagoon is located a 20-minute scenic boat ride from Nassau and is larger than Pearl Island. You’ll recognize it by the concrete tower that guards the entrance to the hidden lagoon and the incredible turquoise water surrounding the island.

On the island, you can meet dolphins and sea lions in their natural habitat, join eco-walking tours and segway rides around the island, indulge in grilled Bahamian specialties, kayak, snorkel, or swim in a secluded sugar-white beach known as Salt Cay. VIP packages are also offered.

Insider tip : Guests often don’t know the difference between Pearl Island and Blue Lagoon, and are wondering which island is more suitable for them. Pearl Island is very small and is a better choice for those who look for peace. Snorkeling and kayaking are the only activities offered. Blue Lagoon is larger and more crowded. It’s more suitable for families with kids because of the animal programs, an aqua park, and more family-friendly activities.

Explore Blue Lagoon excursions

4. Balmoral Island

Another gorgeous island awaits you just off the northern coast of Nassau. Besides powdery sands and aquamarine water, Balmoral Island offers animal interaction programs (dolphin and stingray encounters), great snorkeling, delicious food, and a stunning beach where you can relax in the cabanas or sunbathe under the hot Caribbean sun.

Ferries run regularly between Nassau downtown and Balmoral Island, so you can come here on your own too.

5. Atlantis Resort

The world’s largest open-air marine habitat, breathtaking beaches, oceanfront golf course, Aquaventure water park, Atlantis casino, and hotel resort facilities await you on this incredible adventure to one of the most famous resorts in the world! The resort boasts numerous facilities and offers a wide range of activities and unique experiences such as:

5.1. Dolphin Cay

One of the largest marine-mammal habitats in the world where you can swim and snorkel in a deep-water lagoon alongside sleek bottlenose dolphins, play with sea lions, or kayak and paddleboard while adorable mammals swim alongside.

You can also sign up for one of the dolphin educational programs, or relax at the private beach while the dolphins cheerfully jump and play a few feet away.

5.2. Aquaventure Water Park

A unique, 141-acre water park, home to thrilling water slides (The Abyss, Leap of Faith, The Falls, Jungle Slide, The Surge….), a mile-long river with through tunnels, rapids, and waves, a magnificent water-play fort, eleven stunning swimming pools, and twenty swimming areas.

Set in a lush tropical environment, this water park is a spectacular attraction equally enjoyable for both kids and adults.

5.3. Marine Habitat

You can explore 14 lagoons with over 50,000 sea animals representing over 250 marine species.

The spectacular Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas

Snorkeling, snuba, scuba diving, swimming with sharks, golf and tennis courts, a spa, the largest casino in the Bahamas and extraordinary shopping are only some of the things you can experience in Atlantis… the list is endless!

Atlantis also offers access to five miles of gorgeous white sandy beaches to top off your day: Cove Beach , Atlantis Beach , and Paradise Beach .

This place is incredible and should be on everyone’s Nassau bucket list! There are different day passes and packages, so based on your preferences and wishes, you can choose the one that suits you the best.

Cruise lines offer shore excursions to Atlantis, but you can also book on your own. Check the prices on Atlantis Resort’s official website

Explore Atlantis Resort tours and activities

6. Nassau Off-Road Adventure

If you want to explore Nassau in a thrilling and adrenaline-packed way, go for an off-road tour around the city and the island of New Providence.

You’ll stop at famous attractions and landmarks such as the Bahamas Rum Cake Factory (you’ll taste them and see the rum cakes-making process), Fort Fincastle and Queen’s Staircase, Fort Charlotte, Clifton Heritage National Park, plantations, historical villages, rum distillery, and many more.

Get ready to get dusty and dirty as you drive through Nassau’s rugged terrain and explore the hidden gems of New Providence island. Make sure you bring a driver’s license if you are a driver (but before that, check the tour operator’s age requirements!)

See the list of Nassau ATV tours
Explore Nassau jeep/buggy tours

7. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

If you are a fan of underwater activities, you should know that the Bahamas offers some spectacular snorkeling and scuba diving sites. You can opt to snorkel from the beach on your own (Cable Beach and Cabbage Beach are great choices), and in that case, make sure you bring your gear.

However, if you want to explore the depths of Bahamian waters, you should book a boat trip to Nassau’s beautiful coral reefs hiding an abundance of incredible aquatic life. The tours will usually take you to the Rose Island Reef , located only three miles east of Paradise Island, an exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving location.

Besides beautiful marine life, you’ll also find two shipwrecks that make this place even more attractive to snorkelers and divers.

Goulding Cay Reef is another fascinating reef located at the western end of New Providence that is said to be one of the best shallow-water snorkeling sites in the world. It attracts both experienced snorkelers and beginners and is suitable for people of all ages.

However, if you prefer to stay dry and would like to observe the aquatic wildlife from a safe distance, you can go for a glass-bottom boat trip , Seaworld Explorer (semi-submersible), or simply stay on board a luxury catamaran while the rest of the group snorkels.

Check out Nassau snorkeling and boat tours

8. Swimming Pigs

Swimming Pigs is one of the major attractions in the Bahamas! It’s a fun and unique experience where you get to meet these friendly guys living the Bahamian dream!

There are several locations where you can swim and play with pigs, the two most popular ones being Rose Island (Sandy Toes) and Exumas Island (Pig Beach) , both located up to 1-hour boat ride from Nassau cruise port.

Not only will you have the chance to swim and interact with sociable pigs, but you will also get the opportunity to enjoy the sapphire-blue waters, secluded beaches, deserted cays, snorkeling with sharks, and an array of fun activities.

Explore Swimming with Pigs tours and activities

Swimming with Pigs in Rose Island, Nassau

9. Nassau Food Tasting and Cultural Experiences

Besides awe-inspiring beaches and fancy resorts, Nassau boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage that you can explore on one of the historic or cultural tours and experiences.

While there, make sure to taste the Bahamas’ handcrafted rum cocktails, delicious seafood, traditional mac ’n’ cheese, and a variety of authentic specialties, which are an important part of Bahamian culture.

You can book one of the food and cultural tours, or explore on your own. Some of the must-see places are the Bahamas Rum Cake Factory, Graycliff Chocolate Factory and John Watling’s Distillery.

Explore Nassau food and cultural tours and activities

10. Book a Private Charter

As Nassau has so many attractions and activities to offer, sometimes it’s difficult to decide on how to spend a day in the Nassau cruise port. Booking a private charter in Nassau allows you to design your itinerary and enjoy an exclusive sailing experience along the vibrant coast of New Providence and Paradise Islands.

Away from crowded touristy places, you can spend your day deep-sea or near-shore fishing, snorkeling, relaxing at a secluded beach, or sunbathing on your private yacht! Enjoy a fully private tour and let your captain show you the best of Nassau on a customized half-day or full-day yacht trip along the mesmerizing Bahamian islands.

Book a private charter in Nassau

Visit also our cruise port guides to Aruba , Bonaire , Curacao , Falmouth Cozumel , Costa Maya , Perfect Day at CocoCay , St Maarten , St Thomas , San Juan , Tortola , St Lucia , Puerto Plata , Punta Cana , Barbados , Antigua , Grand Turk

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

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The Best Things to Do in Nassau (Bahamas) on a Cruise Day in Port

April 2, 2024
Cruise Ports

What to Do in Nassau on a Cruise Day in Port

Does your Caribbean cruise include a day in port at Nassau, the Bahamas? Are you unsure how to make the most of your time during a cruise day in Nassau Port? This guide reviews the top activities and shore excursions for spending a day in the port. I’ll share top tips and recommendations so you can create unforgettable memories during your day in Nassau.

Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and a popular port of call on Caribbean cruise itineraries . Located on the island of New Providence, Nassau has just under 300,000 inhabitants. It’s a popular cruise port due to its rich history, beautiful beaches , stunning coral reefs, and a wide range of excursion opportunities.

What is the best way to maximize your time during your cruise day in Nassau? Please read on to discover all that Nassau has to offer cruise passengers.

Where is the Cruise Port of Nassau?

Nassau Cruise Port is located in the northwestern part of New Providence Island, one of the 30 islands that constitute the Bahamas. The cruise port is part of the Prince George Wharf and is also called Festival Place. Its proximity to downtown Nassau makes exploring the city and its attractions on foot or by taxi easy.

Up to seven cruise ships can dock at the Nassau cruise port, which makes the city busy in the high season. However, catching a ferry to one of the stunning islands close to northern New Providence is easy. It also only takes 35 minutes by taxi to get to the island’s western side to escape the masses of tourists.

Map of New Providence Island and Nassau

Arriving at Nassau Port on a Cruise

When disembarking from your cruise ship, you will see the iconic Arrivals Terminal Building, with its modern, awe-inspiring design. You can find authentic Bahamian food outlets in the terminal, an organized transportation hub, an amphitheater, entertainment venues, an art gallery, and green spaces to relax.

Arriving at the port of Nassau in the Bahamas on a cruise can be a hectic experience, especially if several cruise ships are in port. So, planning a tour, private guide, or shore excursion in advance is ideal. This way, you spend less time standing in line and more time exploring Nassau.

If this is your first time on a cruise in Nassau, then it’s probably best to arrange a ship-operated shore excursion. This is one of the safest and most reliable ways to spend an unforgettable day in the Bahamas. However, it’s good to note that they may be pricey and less personalized than booking a local tour.

For experienced cruisers, booking an independent, local guide or tour can give you the most authentic Bahamas experience. You can often arrange for a local guide to show you the historical downtown locations, drive to the best beaches, or spend a day on Paradise Island.

Related: How much does a cruise to the Bahamas cost ?

Discovering Nassau Port, Bahamas

When leaving the port area, you will be on Bay Street, next to Nassau’s downtown. Many of Nassau’s historical sites are within walking distance of the port. These attractions include various fortifications, Parliament Square, the Queen’s Staircase, the National Art Gallery, museums, and the Nassau Straw Market.

You may get pestered by street vendors outside the terminal. However, this is typical for most port cities in the Caribbean. The vendors are only a mild nuisance near the terminal but usually stop pestering you when you walk downtown. Overall, the tourist areas in Nassau are safe for cruise passengers.

Exploring Nassau on a Cruise Day

As one of the most popular Caribbean cruise destinations , the capital of The Bahamas, Nassau, has plenty of things to do for visitors.

The coastline of New Providence has some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean. There are ample opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and glass-bottomed boat tours. For a luxurious experience, you could choose an all-inclusive beach club for your cruise day. Paradise Island is also a fun place to spend the day.

Is it Worth Getting off the Ship in Nassau?

It is worth disembarking at the cruise port in Nassau to experience authentic Bahamian culture. A new cruise ship terminal opened in Nassau in 2023, significantly improving the passenger experience. In the past, Nassau Port had a reputation for aggressive vendors trying to sell their wares. But now, certified vendors sell unique, locally produced crafts and products.

Getting Around Nassau From the Cruise Port

The major historical tourist attractions and beaches in Nassau are mostly accessible on foot. However, to get to other destinations, you can travel by taxi, pre-arranged shuttle bus, or local public transport. Here are more details about transport options for getting around Nassau.

Outside the port, you’ll find plenty of taxis available for hire. According to the Nassau Cruise Port website , the taxis are metered. However, not all local cab drivers use the meters, so it’s best to confirm the fare before your journey. You may have to pay a surcharge if there are more than two passengers or if you have additional luggage. And don’t be surprised if the taxi driver wants the fare upfront.

Public bus transportation is cheap and efficient. Known as “jitneys,” a bus stop is outside the port area. Prices start at $1.50 per person for a one-way trip. It’s essential to note that exact change is required to pay the fare, and you will pay when you exit the bus.

Shuttle bus

For a stress-free experience, you can book a private transfer shuttle bus. Pre-booking means the bus awaits your arrival, and you don’t have to wait in line. The buses are generally air-conditioned and have English-speaking drivers. They operate services to major resorts and Paradise Island.

Pedicab tour of historical sites in Nassau

One of the best ways to explore the historical sites of Nassau on a cruise day in the port is by taking a pedicab tour. You sit back and relax while a knowledgeable guide takes you on a ride, highlighting the rich history and culture of this vibrant city. Pedicab tours of Nassau last around two hours.

Historic Sites to Visit in Nassau on a Cruise Day

Nassau has a rich and colorful history, reflected in its architecture and historic buildings. After being established by the British in the 17th century, it was ruled by the Spanish and French before returning to British hands.

Parliament Square

Parliament Square is the closest historical site to the cruise pier in Nassau. The historic buildings showcase the island’s rich colonial past. The pink-painted buildings with white columns stand out against the backdrop of palm trees and clear blue skies. Government buildings include the House of Assembly, the Senate, and the Supreme Court.

After getting off the cruise ship in Nassau, you may want to take a leisurely stroll around Parliament Square. This is a great location to admire the colonial architecture, take photos, and soak up the Bahamian atmosphere. There is also a statue of Queen Victoria dating back to the 1900s.

After admiring the pink colonial buildings in Parliament Square, you could head west toward other popular historical attractions of downtown Nassau.

Explore historical fortifications in Nassau

Nassau is home to ancient fortifications that protected the harbor area. Most of these attractions are a short walk from the cruise port terminal building. The forts housed large cannons to keep pirates and other invaders at bay. Many historic attractions in downtown Nassau are free for entry or for a minimal charge.

Fort Fincastle

Fort Fincastle is a historic fort built on Society and Bennet’s Hills in 1793 to protect Nassau from pirates. Just a 15-minute walk from the terminal, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past. The unique building is built in the shape of a paddle-wheel steamer.

You generally get to Fort Fincastle by walking up the Queen’s Staircase. Once at the top, you get stunning views of the entire island and harbor area. Guided tours are available daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on a donation basis.

Fort Charlotte

Fort Charlotte is a historic British colonial fort located on a hill overlooking the harbor. The imposing fortification is situated a 30-minute walk west of Nassau Cruise Port. It’s the largest fort in New Providence and has spectacular views of Nassau, Paradise Island, and the harbor.

Tour guides provide fascinating information on the fort’s history. Check ahead before including this attraction on a tour of Nassau to ensure it’s open. Also, a living historical exhibit is held twice a week, showcasing 18th-century Nassau life. Here, you can imagine what life was like during colonial times. If you are there at noon, you’ll experience cannon firing.

Fort Montagu

Fort Montagu is one of three historic forts in Nassau dating back to the 18th century. It’s a 10-minute taxi ride east from Festival Place. The well-preserved limestone fort was crucial in protecting Nassau from invading Spanish forces. It had provisions for holding 23 cannons and 95 barrels of gunpowder. Now, only four cannons remain.

Fort Montagu, at the east end of the harbor, is the oldest standing fort on New Providence Island. A guided tour of the fort gives you insight into fighting during colonial times in the Bahamas. Tours are available daily.

Climb up the Queen’s Staircase

Climbing the sixty-six steps of the Queen’s Staircase is a must-do activity in Nassau. Next to Fort Fincastle, the steps provide a direct route from the historic fort to Nassau City. It’s worth climbing the staircase to enjoy the incredible views of Nassau and the harbor from the top.

A highlight of the Queen’s Staircase is the welcome shade it offers from the scorching Caribbean sun. Lush tropical plants and palms line the staircase, giving you a break from the sunshine. At this attraction, you are close to Fort Fincastle, several museums, and the Nassau Straw Market.

Pompey Square

Pompey Square is a vibrant and historic square, only a short walk from the cruise ship terminal. It is named after Pompey, a slave who led a revolt against British colonial rule in the early 1800s. The slave auction in Nassau was located in this square.

Pompey Square on Bay Street is also home to the Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation. However, you’ll also find several restaurants, shops, and water features if you want to cool off in the hot Caribbean sunshine. During some months, you can buy Bahamian art at the open-air market.

Visit museums in Nassau to learn about its history

For history buffs, downtown Nassau has several fascinating museums. These give unique insights into Nassau’s troubled past regarding slavery, pirate attacks, and Spanish invasions.

Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation

A visit to the Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation provides a thought-provoking and educational experience during your cruise day in Nassau. Here, you can learn about the history of slavery in The Bahamas and the struggle for emancipation. The museum is in Pompey Square, which was once a marketplace where enslaved Africans were bought and sold.

Exhibits include artifacts, documents, and interactive displays that tell the story of slavery in The Bahamas and the fight for freedom. You’ll learn about Pompey, the enslaved person who led a rebellion on the island of Exuma. This key event influenced the passing of the Emancipation Act in 1834.

Pirates Of Nassau Museum

Visiting the Pirates of Nassau Museum in downtown Nassau offers an interactive experience into the world of piracy. Nassau was once a hotbed for pirates, and the shallow waters around the coast meant large warships couldn’t get close. The museum takes you back to the golden age of piracy in the Caribbean.

You are immediately transported to the 18th century as you enter the museum. You’ll learn about infamous pirates like Edward Teach “Blackbeard,” who once pillaged ships in the Caribbean. Interactive exhibits, weapons, treasure, and other pirate-related artifacts and displays are on display. To add to the interest, a replica pirate ship brings the stories of notorious pirates to life.

The museum also offers guided tours.

The Heritage Museum of the Bahamas

The Heritage Museum of the Bahamas provides insights into the ancient history and culture of the Bahamas before colonial rule.

Just a 10-minute walk from the Nassau cruise terminal, the Heritage Museum provides insights into the indigenous Lucayan people, a branch of the Tainos. Highlights of the museum include artifacts from the Lucayan and Arawak tribes and exhibits on slavery, piracy, and the struggle for independence.

Visiting the Bahamas’s Heritage Museum is ideal for a walking tour on a cruise day in Nassau. It is close to other historical buildings and the free Junkanoo Beach.

National Art Gallery of the Bahamas

The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is located in the Villa Doyle, a 10-minute walk from the cruise port. The museum is in a yellow colonial mansion with white pillars and balconies. While touring the art gallery, you can admire its diverse collections and exhibitions of vibrant art. You can also explore the lush gardens.

Graycliff Hotel

The Graycliff Hotel is in a historic mansion built by an 18th-century pirate, Captain John Howard Graysmith. Now, it’s a five-star restaurant, ideal for a luxurious lunch on your cruise day.

Beyond its reputation as a premier dining destination, Graycliff offers more than meets the eye. Guests can witness the art of cigar rolling firsthand, adding a touch of old-world craftsmanship to their visit. Additionally, the Graycliff Chocolatier offers an interactive experience where guests can learn how to make their own chocolates, blending creativity with the indulgence of fine chocolate.

Blackbeard’s Tower

Blackbeard’s Tower is a historic landmark located 15 minutes by taxi east of the cruise port. It’s said that the famous pirate “Blackbeard” built a fort here, and the crumbling tower is all that remains. Unfortunately, the attraction is in a state of disrepair and not worth taking a special trip to see.

If you have limited time in port on a cruise day and want to take in historical landmarks, I’d recommend sticking to exploring the well-preserved forts in downtown Nassau.

Other Shore Excursions for a Cruise Day in Nassau

The historic capital of the Bahamas, Nassau, has plenty more to offer than historical buildings. Here are other excursions you can arrange during your cruise day in port.

Rum tasting at John Watling’s Distillery

No visit to The Bahamas would be complete without tasting locally-made rum. The John Watling’s Distillery is a short walk from the cruise ship terminal in the lush two-acre Buena Vista Estate. The distillery produces small batches of rum and is housed in a historic building dating back to the 1780s.

The distillery offers free tours so you can experience the rum production process. You can also try signature Bahamian cuisine in the Red Turtle Tavern. You can sit on the deck outside and enjoy the lush gardens and Caribbean sun.

Some food and rum-tasting tours also include John Watling’s distillery. In addition to enjoying various rum samples, the tour may consist of tasting chicken wings, boozy candies, and Bahamian wine. Before booking, it’s a good idea to check what’s included on the rum-tasting tour.

Cloisters and Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island

Cloisters and Versailles Gardens on Paradise Island offer peace and relaxation on a cruise day in Nassau Port. Just a short taxi ride from the terminal, these beautiful gardens provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the cruise ship crowds. The Medieval ruins feature lush landscapes, tropical flowers, white marble cloisters, and terraced gardens.

The Cloisters were initially built in France in the 14th century and later dismantled and brought to the Bahamas in the 1960s. The gardens offer picturesque surroundings, excellent photo opportunities, and stunning views of Paradise Island. Opening times vary, so check ahead if you want to include the gardens in your cruise day itinerary.

Shop at the Nassau Straw Market

Shopping at the Nassau Straw Market is a popular activity for a cruise day in port. Just a 6-minute walk from the terminal, you’ll find a bustling marketplace selling a range of goods. You can also find purses, hats, bracelets, shirts, and magnets.

Cruise passengers love shopping at the Straw Market in Nassau due to its proximity to the port. Additionally, you’ll find that the vendors are friendly and willing to bargain. So don’t be afraid to haggle to get their best price.

The market is ideal for picking up souvenirs on your way back to the ship after a walking tour in downtown Nassau.

Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center

The Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center is a unique attraction in the Bahamas. It is a small bird sanctuary, wildlife rehabilitation center, and zoo. This hidden gem is located near Fort Charlotte, just a short drive from the port, and offers you a great chance to get up close and personal with various exotic animals.

One of the highlights of the Ardastra Gardens is the opportunity to see the world-famous marching Caribbean flamingos. You can also feed playful parrots, observe boa constrictors, and interact with native wildlife.

In addition, the gardens have stunning tropical flowers, including orchids, bromeliads, bougainvillea, hibiscus shrubs, and tropical vines. The Ardastra Center provides a fun and educational day out for the family.

The Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center is located in the heart of Nassau, just an 8-minute taxi ride from the cruise port. However, the gardens are not always open, so check their opening times beforehand.

Bahamas National Trust’s Retreat Garden

You can escape the commotion of the cruise ship crowds by spending some of your day in the Retreat Garden. This stunning park is an 11-acre tropical garden featuring over 90 palm tree species. You can walk through paths lined with lush foliage and vegetation, oblivious to the fact that you’re in a busy cruise port.

This peaceful oasis is located a 10-minute taxi ride from the terminal building. Here, you leave the hustle and bustle of downtown Nassau, making it the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. You can observe exotic birds in their natural habitat and admire the tropical shrubs, trees, and plants.

You can arrange a guided tour to learn more at the Retreat Garden. The park is only open three days a week, so it’s wise to check beforehand if it’s open when you’re in port.

Food Tour in Port at Nassau

Food tours in Nassau are popular with cruise passengers who want to experience genuine Bahamian cuisine. Here is a brief overview of some of the options available:

Food walking and rum tasting tour in downtown Nassau: Get to sample local rums, enjoy time in a pirate-themed pub, and try conch fritters.

Lunch adventure on Rose Island: Some operators offer travel by luxury powerboat to Rose Island to enjoy authentic Caribbean cuisine, swim with pigs, and go snorkeling.

Walking food tours take you to pre-approved eateries, where you can try Bahamian mac’ n’ cheese, conch fritters, truffles, and specialty cocktails.

Some guided walking tours include a traditional Sunday lunch, rum cocktails, and local wines, and tell about the city’s rich history.

Arawak Cay (Fish Fry)

For cruise travelers seeking an authentic taste of Bahamian culture and cuisine, a visit to Arawak Cay, famously known as the Fish Fry, is a must when in Nassau. Located just a short drive from the cruise port, this vibrant area offers a culinary adventure that encapsulates the spirit of The Bahamas.

Arawak Cay is a lively strip dotted with colorful shacks and eateries, each serving up an array of Bahamian delicacies. As a cruiser, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to indulge in fresh seafood dishes like conch salad, grilled snapper, and lobster, all seasoned with local spices and flavors. The atmosphere at the Fish Fry is electric, with friendly locals and the rhythms of Bahamian music creating an immersive dining experience.

Aside from the mouthwatering food, Arawak Cay offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of Nassau residents, away from the tourist-centric areas. You can interact with local vendors, learn about the island’s culinary traditions, and maybe even pick up a recipe or two. It’s a perfect way to spend a few hours off the ship, allowing you to soak up the culture and cuisine of The Bahamas in a relaxed and festive environment.

Getting to Arawak Cay from the cruise port is easy, with taxis readily available to take you there in minutes. It’s advisable to visit during the early afternoon or evening, when the area is most lively. Remember to bring cash, as some smaller vendors may not accept credit cards.

Day Excursion to Atlantis Paradise Island

One of the best ways to enjoy a range of activities on your cruise day is to book a day pass at Atlantis on Paradise Island. The resort is a short taxi ride from the cruise port. The day pass gives you access to the following:

Aquaventure water parks
Dolphin Cay
Dig aquarium tour
Al fresco dining
The Atlantis Lagoon
Various marine habitats and exhibits
Over five miles of white sand beaches

Atlantis is one of the best places for snorkeling and diving if you don’t want to travel too far from Nassau while in port. You can see coral, reefs, sea turtles, manatees, and sharks up close.

Fun Water Activities For Your Cruise Day in Nassau

Shore excursions in Nassau include various fun water activities, such as boat trips, snorkeling, scuba diving, and even swimming with pigs. Let’s look in detail at some ideas for spending a day in port in Nassau.

Fun day excursion aboard a Catamaran

A catamaran excursion while in Nassau lets you marvel at the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Several tour operators have kiosks in the terminal building. The catamarans typically have spacious decks and comfortable seating, providing a smooth sailing experience in warm ocean breezes.

Depending on the catamaran tour, you could be offered the following activities:

Snorkeling in coral reefs and observing tropical marine life and sea turtles
Swimming with pigs at Rose Island
Lunch onboard

Some catamaran excursions also offer the opportunity to visit secluded beaches or nearby islands. These tours provide a more private and relaxing experience away from the throngs of crowds in Nassau on cruise day.

Marvel at marine life snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea

The Bahamas is a paradise for snorkelers, boasting crystal clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, colorful tropical fish, and even shipwrecks. Plenty of snorkeling excursions are available. Your cruise line or third-party vendor may offer combo tours with snorkeling and other activities.

One of the best snorkeling locations in Nassau is Stuarts Cove, located in the south of the island. Shore excursions include transport, which takes 30 minutes. Here, you can explore Nassau’s famous coral reefs and shipwrecks and marvel at colorful tropical fish. You can also swim with peaceful, calm sharks.

Snorkeling day excursions take between 2.5 and 5 hours, depending on the location and activities on offer.

Scuba diving with sharks at Stuart Cove’s

Swimming with sharks is a thrilling experience on offer at Stuart Cove’s. If you are a certified diver and want to feed sharks, this excursion is for you.

The shark diving trip includes swimming with sharks in their natural habitat on the first dive. On the second dive, you get the unforgettable experience of kneeling on the sand bottom and feeding sharks. The sharks get up close but are never threatening.

Spend the day in paradise at Blue Lagoon Island

The idyllic Blue Lagoon Island, also called Salt Cay, is located north of Paradise Island. This stunning private island is home to Dolphin Encounters, where you can swim with these playful marine creatures. Other ways to spend your day at the Blue Lagoon include a Segway safari tour, snorkeling among sharks and stingrays, and lunch.

Many day excursions to Blue Lagoon Island include shaded hammocks, inflatable tubes, a beach grill, paddleboards, kayaks, and games. However, checking with the tour operator about what’s included is best.

Swim with pigs at Rose Island

Swimming with pigs is one of the most unusual activities for a cruise day in Nassau. The 20 or so pigs reside on Rose Island and love the warm Caribbean waters as much as tourists do. After a 30-minute boat ride to the island, you get to interact with the friendly and adorable pigs.

After feeding the pigs and swimming with them, you can grab a drink and some snacks, chill out in a hammock, or take a dip in the warm Caribbean waters. This excursion typically lasts around four hours and includes a boat ride to and from Rose Island.

Aquaventure Water Park

The Aquaventure Water Park offers a thrilling and fun-filled way to spend your cruise day in port in Nassau. Located on Paradise Island in the Atlantis Resort, Aquaventure has everything you could hope for from a water park. It has many exhilarating water slides and attractions.

Here are some of the attractions on offer while spending your day at Aquaventure:

Swimming pools
Floating down a lazy river
Private cabanas
Eight thrilling water slides
Tube rides
Private beaches and stunning azure waters
Variety of dining experiences

To enjoy Aquaventure Water Park, you must purchase a day pass to the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island.

Glass-bottom boat tour

Several tour operators offer glass-bottom boat tours to experience the stunning sea gardens around Nassau. Some boats have an underwater observatory with 360° views where you can observe tropical reefs and coral fish. Depending on the tour, complimentary snacks and drinks may be available. It’s also possible to find boat tours that include snorkeling.

Pearl Island

On your day in port at Nassau, you can quickly escape to Pearl Island, a serene getaway just a short, roughly 20-minute boat ride away, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. This private island has pristine beaches for sunbathing and swimming, vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling tours, and an iconic lighthouse offering breathtaking views.

With the VIP Beach Escape package, you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink, enjoy guided snorkeling to explore the underwater world, and savor a delicious Bahamian lunch. For those seeking an added touch of luxury, private cabana rentals are also available.

Pearl Island ensures your visit is comfortable with comprehensive amenities, including clean facilities and beachside bars. It’s an ideal shore excursion for experiencing the beauty of the Bahamas efficiently and luxuriously, making the most of your limited time in Nassau.

The Best Beaches in Nassau

Relaxing on white sand beaches and swimming in the crystal clear blue waters of the Caribbean are among the top activities to consider during your cruise day in Nassau. The beaches in the Bahamas offer beautiful views and calm waters. Many also offer water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides.

Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is a public beach within walking distance of the Nassau Bahamas Cruise Terminal. It is a 10-minute walk along Woodes Rodgers Walk. Junkanoo Beach offers pristine white sand and clear turquoise waters. There are also beach bars, restrooms, and water sports rentals.

Its proximity to the port makes it popular with cruise passengers. The beach features a lively Caribbean atmosphere with music, food, and local vendors. It’s also close to the Straw Market and several museums in downtown Nassau. However, the beach can get crowded on cruise days.

Cabbage Beach

Situated 6 miles (9.6 km) from the Nassau cruise terminal, Cabbage Beach is a stunning Caribbean beach. It’s known for its soft sands and calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach also offers uninterrupted views of the Caribbean Sea. Amenities include beach chairs, umbrellas, showers, and restrooms.

Additionally, jet skis, banana boats, and kayaks are available for rent. Because it’s close to beach resorts on Paradise Island, it can get busy during the height of the cruise season from November through May.

Cable Beach

Situated 5 miles (8 km) from the Nassau cruise terminal, Cable Beach stretches over 2 miles with powdery white sands and calm waters. You can enjoy its stunning azure waters, beachside bars, and ocean views. Facilities at the beach include loungers, umbrellas, and water sports rentals. This beach tends to be quieter than beaches closer to the cruise terminal.

Cave Beach is located on Paradise Island and offers a secluded setting away from the crowds of cruise passengers. It features natural caves and limestone formations that are easy to explore. Limited facilities are available, so bringing your own supplies is recommended. Cave Beach is perfect if you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path beach experience in the Caribbean.

Many visitors say that the coral reefs at Cave Beach are some of the most stunning and underrated in the Caribbean.

Love Beach is a hidden gem 25 minutes by taxi from the Nassau cruise terminal. In addition to its soft sands and crystal-clear azure waters, the beach is home to 40 acres of stunning protected coral reefs. During cruise days, you’ll find it’s less crowded than other popular beaches in Nassau.

Facilities are limited, but you can rent a beach chair and umbrella. Some resorts are nearby and offer all-inclusive day passes.

Saunders Beach

Saunders Beach is a popular public beach in Nassau, and it is less crowded than Junkanoo when cruise ships are in port. Located 2 miles from the Nassau cruise terminal, Saunders Beach offers a beautiful stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. It has artificial coves for safe swimming, a playground, showers, and restrooms.

You can spend your cruise day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the calm waters, or snorkeling along the nearby reef. A shopping plaza is nearby if you need to pick up snacks and drinks. You can also reach the beach by catching the number 10 bus from downtown.

The Best Beach Resorts in Nassau

One of the best ways to spend a luxurious day on the beach in Nassau is by booking a day pass at one of the beach resorts. Here are some of the best options for an all-inclusive beach day:

Margaritaville Resort Hotel

The Margaritaville Beach Resort is one of the closest hotels to the cruise port terminal. It’s a 10-minute walk away. A day pass gives you access to several pools, a private beach, turquoise waters, a waterpark, and a lazy river. It’s important to note that you must purchase food and drink separately.

To help you relax, you can upgrade the pass to include various types of massages and all-day spa access.

RIU Palace Beach Resort

RIU Palace Beach Resort is a luxurious all-inclusive hotel on Paradise Island. The resort’s day pass gives you access to unlimited lunch, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, a fitness center, swim-up bars, swimming pools, and poolside lounge chairs. There is also a grill station serving authentic Caribbean jerk food.

One of the most luxurious beach resorts in Nassau is the Baha Mar Beach Club. With the day pass, you can access lounge seating, a private cabana, free Wi-Fi, food, and drinks from the restaurant. You can also enter a private beach and infinity pools in the crystal blue sea.

Next to Baha Mar is the fun-filled Baha Mar Waterpark. However, you must purchase a day pass to the waterpark separately. This spectacular park has slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, raft rides, a surf simulator, and the only water coaster in the Caribbean.

Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas

Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas Resort is an adult-only, all-inclusive resort offering day passes for cruise passengers. The deluxe day pass gives you access to a private lagoon, swimming pool, open bar, complimentary food, free Wi-Fi, lounge chairs, and a fitness center.

Visiting Nassau on Cruise Day: FAQs

Here are answers to questions many tourists ask before visiting Nassau on a Caribbean cruise for the first time.

What language do Bahamians speak?

English is the official language of the Bahamas. So, English is widely spoken throughout the islands, making it easy for you to communicate. Additionally, you may hear Bahamian Creole—a dialect incorporating African, Spanish, and English elements.

What’s the best time to visit Nassau in the Bahamas?

The best time to book a Caribbean cruise to the Bahamas is from December to April. Known as the dry season, Nassau has warm, sunny weather with minimal rainfall at this time. Also, gentle sea breezes mean it never feels too hot. This climate is perfect for outdoor activities and beach excursions.

What currency is accepted in Nassau, and should I exchange money before arriving?

The Bahamian dollar (BSD or B$) is the official currency in Nassau, but U.S. dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas. Generally, there is no need to exchange money before arriving at the port.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Nassau, or should I carry cash?

Most tourist establishments in Nassau accept credit cards. However, carrying some cash for small purchases is a good idea, especially in case some places don’t accept cards. Cash is also helpful for tipping, especially as some museum and fort tours are free, and the guides depend on tips.

Is it customary to tip in Nassau, and if so, what is the recommended amount?

Tipping is customary in Nassau, similar to other Caribbean destinations. Many restaurants add a gratuity of 15% as standard. So, it’s up to your discretion to leave more for outstanding service. You can give a 10-15% tip for other services like taxis and tour guides.

Is it safe to explore Nassau on foot, or should I opt for organized tours?

Nassau is safe for tourists, and pushy, sometimes aggressive vendors no longer plague the terminal area. However, stick to the prominent tourist locations in downtown Nassau. You can book an organized shore excursion or hire a local guide to show you around for extra safety.

Are there any local customs or etiquette I should be aware of to respect the culture of Nassau?

Respecting local customs and etiquette is essential in Nassau. Bahamians are friendly and rely on tourism. But they are also more laid-back. So try not to get frustrated or anxious if service is slower than expected. Also, remember that vehicles drive on the left. So, always check both ways before crossing the street.

What should I do in case of an emergency?

In case of an emergency in Nassau, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Bahamas also has a tourist police force specifically trained to assist visitors. Be sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, and keep important documents and emergency contacts easily accessible.

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Adam Stewart

Adam Stewart is the founder of Cruise Galore. He is a passionate traveler who loves cruising. Adam's goal is to enhance your cruising adventures with practical tips and insightful advice, making each of your journeys unforgettable.

The Ultimate Nassau Cruise Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Nancy Schretter

May 7, 2021

Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and one of the cruise industry’s most-visited ports of call. In 2023, Nassau welcomed more than 4.49 million cruise passengers, a number that is expected to increase this year.

Located on New Providence Island, one of the more than 700 islands and islets in the Bahamas archipelago, Nassau is a metropolitan city featuring amenity-rich hotels, white sand beaches, numerous attractions, and historic sites.

Nearby Paradise Island, connected to New Providence Island by two bridges crossing Nassau Harbour, is filled with resorts and is easily accessible from Nassau as well.

Nassau, Bahamas Facts

What cruise lines sail to nassau, bahamas.

Dozens of cruise ships sail to Nassau. The port is a common stop on cruises departing from ports in Florida and the southeastern United States, and it’s featured on itineraries from major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

These cruises often include visits to other Caribbean destinations or private islands owned by the cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay or Disney’s Castaway Cay. Nassau’s strategic location is a key stop for short and extended Caribbean cruises.

Nassau, Bahamas Cruise Port Area

Nassau, Bahamas, cruises dock at Prince George Wharf, within walking distance of Bay Street and downtown Nassau. Port facilities include the newly remodeled cruise port facilities with shops, bars, restaurants, exhibits, shopping, and a taxi stand.

Private tour operators and vendors tend to congregate near the Nassau, Bahamas cruise port. Taxis, inexpensive local buses, and other types of transportation are also available in this area.

The water taxi pier, where cruise guests can access water taxis to Atlantis Paradise Island, is also located near the cruise terminal.

Bay Street in downtown Nassau has plenty of shops and restaurants, museums, and the Straw Market are nearby as well. Cruise guests can walk to free beaches like Junkanoo Beach or taxi to the free, but slightly further, Cable Beach.

Where To Eat and Drink in Nassau, Bahamas

Travelers have a wide selection of places to eat and drink while staying in Nassau, Bahamas, or nearby Paradise Island. Cuisines at restaurants in Nassau, Bahamas, range from local Bahamian fare and authentic Greek dishes to seafood and gourmet specialties from internationally acclaimed chefs.

In addition to Nassau’s ever-popular Señor Frog’s, there are several other great places for drinks as well. Given the current situation, it’s wise to contact restaurants and other spots directly to check on capacity constraints, current offerings, and hours of operation before heading out.

Here are some restaurants, bars, and dining locations to consider while visiting Nassau and Paradise Island:

Arawak Cay, The Fish Fry: Located within walking distance of the cruise port, Arawak Cay has many small stands and restaurants serving authentic local Bahamian cuisine, including conch fritters, fried chicken, snapper, shrimp, conch salad, and more. Some popular dining choices include Curly’s Restaurant, Goldie’s Conch House, Oh Andros, Twin Brothers, and Frankie Gone Bananas.

Athena Café: This popular restaurant serves authentic Greek fare and is within easy walking distance of Nassau’s cruise port. Menu items include gyros, grilled octopus, fried calamari, Athenian-style seafood, roast lamb, chicken souvlaki, and delicious Greek desserts.

Bahamian Cookin’ Restaurant & Bar: Owned and operated by three generations of Bahamian women, this downtown Nassau’s Trinity Place restaurant specializes in authentic Bahamian cuisine. The menu includes traditional foods such as conch fritters, fried or stewed chicken, fresh seafood, baked macaroni and cheese, peas and rice, plantains, and more.

Café Matisse: Located in downtown Nassau, within walking distance of the cruise port, this restaurant has a lovely garden patio and outdoor courtyard area perfect for dining and relaxing. The menu is primarily oriented towards Italian dishes and includes various pasta, meats, seafood, and pizza options. Takeout items are also available.

Crabs and Ting: Set on Nassau’s Junkanoo Beach, this little beach stand is an excellent place for beachgoers to get drinks and enjoy Bahamian food like conch fritters, conch salad, fried snapper, shrimp, and crab when in season.

Daiquiri Shack: This spot is within walking distance of Nassau’s resorts and gets rave reviews for its daiquiris, made to order with fresh fruits.

Dune: Located at the Ocean Club on Paradise Island, this acclaimed restaurant by international Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten offers a selection of French-Asian dishes accompanied by spectacular ocean views. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch.

Graycliff Restaurant: This iconic AAA Four-Diamond restaurant at Nassau’s historic Graycliff Hotel has been a sought-after elegant dining experience for decades.

Graycliff Restaurant features a Bahamian-influenced continental menu and an award-winning wine cellar with over 250,000 bottles from over 5,000 vintners. The restaurant’s casual piazza area features the Humidor Churrascaria Brazilian Steakhouse and Giotto Pizzeria.

Graycliff Restaurant’s wine luncheons with a prix fixe menu are also popular. Graycliff’s dress code is strictly enforced, and reservations for lunch and dinner should be made far in advance.

Nobu: Those craving the specialties of internationally acclaimed chef Nobu Matsuhisa can head to Nobu at Atlantis Paradise Island for sushi, sashimi, and outstanding gourmet Japanese dishes.

Pirate Republic Brewing: Pirate Republic has been rated as one of the top microbreweries in the Caribbean. Learn about pirates in The Bahamas while sampling flights and drafts from Pirate Republic’s selection of beers as well as bar bites and sandwiches. Pirate Republic Brewing has a location opposite the Nassau, Bahamas cruise port and at Atlantis Paradise Island as well.

Ristorante Luciano’s of Chicago: Set in an elegant waterside Nassau mansion that was the former home of The Bahamas’ first Prime Minister, Luciano’s serves traditional Italian dishes, roasted chicken, steaks, seafood, and delectable Italian desserts. Entrees on the lunch menu are similar to those at dinner but at lower prices.

Sapodilla: Enjoy a drink in the champagne lounge or the garden of this upscale restaurant set at Nassau’s spectacular Sapodilla Estate, then head on to savor a delicious meal of local fresh fish, steaks, or lobster. Save room for the decadent desserts. Private dining options are also available.

Sip Sip at the Cove : Sip Sip’s original location is on lovely Harbour Island in The Bahamas, but you can sample their starters, sandwiches, salads, and signature drinks at the Cove at Atlantis while staying in Nassau or on Paradise Island. Sip Sip Sky Juice is a favorite.

The Poop Deck: This is a great spot in Nassau to enjoy lovely harbor views, drinks, and fresh-caught seafood such as snapper, hogfish, grouper, and Bahamian spiny lobster. Other favorites include cracked conch, chicken, pasta, and grilled meats. The Poop Deck has a location in Sandyport as well.

Best Beaches in Nassau

Vacationers can choose from a wide variety of Nassau, Bahamas beaches . The Bahamas are known for stunning white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters.

These free public beaches in Nassau and on Paradise Island are perfect spots for relaxing and having fun in the sun. Cabbage Beach, Cable Beach, and Junkanoo Beach are home to several hotels and major resort complexes as well:

Cabbage Beach

Located on Paradise Island, Cabbage Beach has been rated as one of the best beaches in the world. Several major resorts on Paradise Island are set on Cabbage Beach, including Atlantis Paradise Island, Riu Palace Paradise Island, and The Ocean Club.

The magnificent white sand beach features clear turquoise waters and various watersports activities. Public access to Cabbage Beach can be found via Casino Drive next to the Riu Palace Paradise Island and on wooden stairways on Ocean Drive. No public restrooms or changing facilities are available.

Cable Beach

Named for the telegraph cable to the U.S. that was buried here in the late 1800s and known for its white sand and generally calm waters, Nassau’s famous Cable Beach is home to several large resorts, including Breezes Resort & Spa and the hotels in the Baha Mar resort development.

Cable Beach is often considered to be one of the nicest beaches in the Bahamas. Many vacationers spend their days on Cable Beach, so it can be crowded at times.

Vendors at Cable Beach rent chairs, umbrellas, and water sports equipment, but bring your towels when you come to the beach.

Be aware that access to resort beaches at Cable Beach, such as those at Baha Mar, can often be restricted to hotel guests — but Cable Beach itself is public. Make sure to enter at public access points.

Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is located near the British Colonial Hilton and the Courtyard Nassau Downtown Junkanoo Beach in downtown Nassau, about a 15-minute from the Nassau, Bahamas cruise port. Small stands sell food and drinks on the beach, and vendors sell buckets of beer as well.

Bring your towels when you come to the beach. Vendors offer chairs and umbrellas for rent, while others offer hair braiding and watersports equipment. Junkanoo Beach is a public beach with bathrooms and changing facilities.

Montagu Beach

Nassau’s Montagu Beach is set next to historic Fort Montagu, built in 1741 and the oldest fort in Nassau, Bahamas. The beach offers beautiful views of Nassau Harbour and Paradise Island. There is a little children’s playground here, and restrooms are available. Bring your own towels with you when you come to the beach.

Saunders Beach: Nassau’s Saunders Beach can be a good choice for families, as the water is generally quite calm and the beach is less crowded. Water sports rentals are unavailable on this beach, which can be a good thing with little ones. Make sure to bring your own towels, as no vendors offer chair and umbrella rentals since Saunders Beach tends to attract more locals than tourists. There’s a children’s playground here, restrooms, and changing facilities. Bring along some water shoes if you’re planning to go for a swim.

Popular Things To Do In Nassau, Bahamas

There’s a wide variety of things to do in Nassau, Bahamas. Those wondering what to do in Nassau for the day will surely find activities and adventures that match their interests.

Popular excursions in Nassau, Bahamas, include waterparks, food tours, visits to action-packed islands, walking tours of historic sites, water sports, shopping, and much more. Vacationers of all ages and interests will find the best tours in Nassau that fit their needs.

Here are some of the best places to go in Nassau and on Paradise Island:

Atlantis Paradise Island: Guests staying at Atlantis Paradise Island and Comfort Suites Paradise Island have access to the 141-acre Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark and other Atlantis attractions, but vacationers staying elsewhere may want to purchase an Atlantis Day Pass to experience all that Atlantis has to offer.

Aquaventure is the major draw here, although Atlantis Paradise Island has one of the world’s largest marine habitats as well. Day passes can be purchased on the Atlantis Paradise Island website or through third-party vendors like DayPasses.com .

Additional Atlantis experiences, such as marine animal interactions, are available for a fee. Make reservations as far in advance as possible for the best availability.

Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre: Established in 1937, this Nassau center is best known for its gorgeous pink flamingos and daily flamingo parade.

Visitors can also see more than 130 wildlife species and stroll through four acres of lush tropical gardens. Families will enjoy Ardastra Gardens’ petting zoo, opportunities to hand-feed the lorikeets, and other attractions.

Bahamas Food Tours: Travelers can learn about the history, culture, and cuisine of the Bahamian islands on a multi-hour food and drink tour in Nassau with Tru Bahamian Food Tours and other companies. Several tour options, cooking classes, walking tours of Nassau Bahamas eateries, and private group tours are available.

Blue Lagoon Island: Salt Cay, otherwise known as Blue Lagoon Island, is a lovely private island located just three miles from Nassau, Bahamas.

The tropical island offers beautiful white sand beaches, a calm lagoon, and a wide variety of watersports, marine animal encounters at the island’s marine mammal facility, Segway and walking tours, and other activities. Transportation to Blue Lagoon Island is included and lunch and drinks are served.

READ: Nassau Rum and Food Tour Review

Clifton Heritage National Park: This 108-acre national park is located at the western end of New Providence Island and highlights the cultural and historic legacy of three key groups in The Bahamas — the Lucayans, the Loyalists, and the Africans.

The park contains beautiful landscapes, hiking and walking trails, and historic buildings and structures. There’s also an underwater snorkel trail and coral reef sculpture garden perfect for exploring. Generally deserted Jaws Beach, a filming site used for scenes in the “Jaws: The Revenge” movie, is also located here.

Exploring Nassau’s Historic Sites: History buffs have plenty to see while visiting Nassau, which was once a pirate sanctuary until the early 1700’s.

The Queen’s Staircase, also known as “66 Steps” is one of the most popular sites. The steep staircase leads to Fort Fincastle, offering panoramic views of the harbor, cruise port area, and downtown Nassau.

Fort Charlotte, Parliament Square, Christ Church Cathedral, and Government House are other interesting historic spots. The traditional Changing of the Guard Ceremony occurs every other Friday from 11:00-11:30 a.m. at Government House. Those interested in historic sites can take a walking tour of Nassau, Bahamas on their trip.

John Watling’s Distillery: Visit the historic Buena Vista Estate in downtown Nassau for a free production and museum-type tour of Buena Vista Estate and the opportunity to sample Bahamian cocktails made with handcrafted John Watling’s rum. Visitors can also purchase John Watling’s small-batch rums here as well.

Nassau Museums: Nassau offers an appealing array of museums including the popular Pirates of Nassau Museum, which contains a replica of the pirate ship Revenge , historic displays, and interactive exhibits.

The National Art Gallery of the Bahamas is set in the beautifully restored Villa Doyle and features a collection of paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, and other art from Bahamian artists. Other excellent museums include The Pompey Museum of Slavery & Emancipation and The Bahamas Historical Society Museum.

Resort Day Passes: Vacationers in Nassau for pre- or post-cruise stays will have their accommodations, but those staying in short-term rentals may not have access to resort-style amenities. Day passes to select resorts, including Atlantis Paradise Island, Breezes Resort & Spa, British Colonial Hilton, and Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas, can be obtained directly from the resort properties or through sites like DayPasses.com.

Shopping: Nassau has been known for its local handicrafts, particularly those made from woven fibers. The Nassau Straw Market is home to stalls selling woven items such as hats and straw baskets, as well as wood carvings, textiles, t-shirts and jewelry of all types.

Haggling is expected at the Straw Market, and savvy know the marked price is merely a starting point. Nassau’s downtown area and stores along Bay Street offer duty-free shopping and various goods including jewelry, apparel, cosmetics, fragrances, and more.

The shops at Sandyport, the Bahama Craft Centre, and the Marina Village at Atlantis are also good places to check out.

Visiting The Bahamas’ Swimming Pigs: Taking an excursion to visit The Bahamas’ famous wild swimming pigs is often a sought-after tour choice for vacationers coming to Nassau and Paradise Island.

Tour operators such as Harbour Safaris, Exuma Escapes, and Powerboat Adventures offer full-day excursions to the Exumas, home of the Bahamas’ wild swimming pigs.

Water Sports Excursions: Nassau and Paradise Island offer a wealth of water sports for vacationers to enjoy, including snorkeling, sailing, scuba diving, SNUBA, deep-sea fishing, and glass-bottom boat excursions.

Some excursions take guests to The Out Islands of The Bahamas, and private boat charters are available.

READ MORE: Best Family-Friendly Things To Do In Nassau, Bahamas

Hidden Gems

The Versailles Gardens: These spectacular European-style Versailles Gardens adjoin The Ocean Club on Paradise Island. Filled with 12 th -century stone statues and a lovely cloister, the multi-terraced gardens are a beautiful setting for taking pictures and enjoying the views.

The Versailles Gardens are rarely crowded, and the entrance to this public park is free.

New Providence Island’s More Remote Beaches: While Nassau and Paradise Island offer several beautiful beaches, it’s often fun to explore more deserted and less-touristy strands on New Providence Island.

Located some distance from Nassau, these secluded spots include Love Beach, Coral Harbour Beach, Caves Beach, Yamacraw Hill Beach, and Adelaide Beach.

People-to-People Program: The Bahamas offers a variety of opportunities to connect with locals through their People-to-People program.

The program allows travelers to meet like-minded locals for customized immersive experiences like culinary tours, guided history tours, shopping tours, and family-friendly activities with a local ambassador. Virtual experiences are available as well. Information on the People-to-People experiences can be found here .

First Time Travel Tips

Here are a few tips for first-time visitors to Nassau, Bahamas:

Bahamians drive on the left-hand side of the road. It’s important to remember this and watch for cars when crossing the street.
Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert for your safety while walking in Nassau and Paradise Island, particularly at night. Like everywhere else, it’s important to keep valuables hidden and keep an eye on possessions while at the beach or elsewhere. Marijuana is illegal here, so beware of individuals on the street offering to hook you up with a “smoke.”
When visiting Nassau and Paradise Island, only using officially licensed taxis is wise. Taxis are not metered, so make sure to discuss the price of your trip before getting into the cab.
Inexpensive local buses, called “jitneys,” operate in Nassau and New Providence Island. They can be a good option for affordable transportation.
Thinking twice about renting scooters in Nassau and Paradise Island would be best. Traffic can be challenging to negotiate, and numerous accidents involving vacationers have resulted. Taxis and local buses are safer choices.
If you’re shopping in Nassau, particularly at the Straw Market or even for tours from local vendors, make sure to negotiate.
Bottled water and snacks can be costly at resorts such as Atlantis and Baha Mar. Grocery stores are a much better bet for lower prices.

The 5 Closest Beaches to the Nassau Cruise Port (Free to Visit)

Picture a cruise to The Bahamas and one of the first images that will come to mind is a white sand beach with electric blue water. But if you’re visiting Nassau , which is one of the most visited cruise ports in the world, you might be surprised that you don’t see any beaches at all from the pier.

That’s because cruise ships dock in a spot that’s heavily developed with a waterfront that’s been built for commerce instead of a beach day.

Nevertheless, Nassau does sit on an island, and if you’re visiting on a cruise, then there are some beaches relatively close by. Just know that they can involve walking, a taxi ride, or a ferry to access. Still, if you want to visit a beach, these are your closest options…

Junkanoo Beach (0.6 Miles)

About two-thirds of a mile from the cruise ship (roughly a 15-minute walk) sits the closest beach to the cruise ports — Junkanoo. All you have to do to get there is hang a right outside of the port area and follow Bay Street until you pass the Margaritaville Report.

We consider Junkanoo Beach to be two parts . The first part you reach will be much more crowded with restaurants, bars, loungers, and chairs that you can rent. If you want to have some beers and have a good time, this is the spot for you.

Walk farther down the beach and you’ll notice that all that goes away and it’s largely an empty beach (except for other cruise passengers), some shady trees and a much calmer vibe.

One cool feature is that from here you can look back and see the cruise ships, and they make a great backdrop for a photo.

Esplanade Beach (1 Miles)

Walk about five more minutes down the path from Junkanoo and you’re at Esplanade Beach. This stretch of sand curves around, almost facing directly back at the cruise ships. During our visits here we’ve noticed it to be quieter, larger, and with hardly many people at all.

Note that there aren’t public facilities here like restrooms. There are some spots to eat and grab a drink, but they are far fewer than what’s found at nearby Junkanoo Beach.

As well, there are some spots with loungers and/or umbrellas that are available to rent. So if you’re wanting a beach that has some simple offerings but far fewer people… all while being within a healthy walk of the cruise ship, this may be ideal.

We will say that this beach is right near the Nassau Container Port, which means it doesn’t have the most beautiful view, although you can see the cruise ships in the distance.

Cabbage Beach (1.5 Miles)

If you want the most popular beach (when it comes to the amount of cruise passengers who visit), then head to Cabbage Beach. The beach is golden sand with gorgeous blue water, and lots of activity with everything from tourists to vendors.

You’ll find Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island. This is perhaps better known as the island where the bustling Atlantis Resort sits. To get there you can either grab a taxi at the stand in the cruise port area (the easy way) or take a $7 ferry across the channel and then walk over to the beach (the more fun way, though not the easiest).

Once you arrive you’ll find a busy beach that stretches for seemingly forever. Anything you could want to rent is available here as well. Want smaller crowds? Walk down the beach and you’ll find a spot that’s all your own.

Saunders Beach (2.5 Miles)

If you want a local’s beach that’s likely to have only a few visitors to relax and spend the day, Saunders Beach will fit the bill.

At about two miles from the cruise port, we think this would be too far of a distance to walk for most people. Instead, you’ll want to catch a cab at the cruise port for a quick ride over to the spot.

Saunders Beach features a number of coves stretching over a half-mile distance so there will always be plenty of space. There aren’t a lot of bars/restaurants here but there is a kid’s playground, public restrooms at the west end of the beach, and a convenience store across the road where you can grab something to drink or a snack.

Goodman’s Bay (3.5 Miles)

Ok, if you’re thinking of a classic Bahamian beach, this might be what you have in mind. It’s a sweeping and wide beach that circles the bay for more than a mile. In fact, some of the biggest and nicest hotels on the island (including the massive Baha Mar resort) call this spot home.

In between these hotels is Goodman’s Bay Park, offering easy public access to the beach and the water. And while the beach might get more crowded in front of the resorts, this spot should have relatively fewer people.

Note that unless staying at a resort, there aren’t many facilities for you here for things like chairs or umbrellas. There are some trees at the edge of the beach if you want a little shade. As well, it will take about a 15-minute taxi ride to get here from the cruise port.

Map of Beaches Near the Nassau Port

12+ Fun Cheap (or FREE) Things to Do in Nassau

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Private Port of Nassau Cocktail Crawl

Tour details.

Hour Glass Duration: 2.5 hours
Map Marker Starts: Rawson Square
Calendar Availability: 7 days per week (request a special start time)
Food Cocktails & Bites: 4 tropical drinks, including signature Sky Juice & 2 delicious local bites
Users Group Size: Private parties between 8-16 guests (larger capacity by request)

Groups of 8+ per person

*prices include gratuity & tax, explore the best bars in nassau.

Maximize your time on the island with a Bahamas pub crawl. Sip on drinks like the Bahama Mama as you’re lead to Nassau’s best bars, including the only craft brewery on the island, a quirky hole-in-the-wall and scenic waterfront spots. Skip from one lively bar to the next and admire the picturesque scenery that The Bahamas is known for. Savor an authentic experience with historical tidbits about Nassau during the Golden Age of Piracy and Prohibition Era rum-running. Your fun-loving local guide will even provide recommendations for finding the best happy hours and souvenirs at the famous Nassau Straw Market.

• • • • • • • • • •

What to Expect:

Bar hop along downtown’s picturesque waterfront with views of Nassau Harbor & Paradise Island
Sip on island flavors: handcrafted rum cocktails, frozen fruit drinks & tropical mixes like gin & coconut water
Learn how Bahamians make craft beer at downtown Nassau’s only micro-brewery & tap room
Enjoy small bites including classic Bahamian conch fritters & more for seafood lovers & foodies!
Become fast-friends with your friendly local tour guide who is filled with facts & recommendations

Tasting Menu:

Bahama Mama Rum Cocktail
Pink Guava Daiquiri
Local Craft Beer
Signature Sky Juice
Bahamian Conch Fritters
Plantain Chips

As all tastings are seasonally available, we may occasionally replace food or drinks with items not listed above, but please rest assured that an authentic Bahamian experience will be maintained- for your ultimate satisfaction.

Hungry to learn more?

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Why Nassau Paradise Island Tourism Is Booming — And What’s Next for the Destination

Tourism in Nassau Paradise Island is, in a word, booming. Whether it’s world-class large resorts like Atlantis Paradise Island and Baha Mar, boutique hotels such as Graycliff or family-friendly options like the Margaritaville Beach Resort and Comfort Suites Paradise Island (along with the reimagined British Colonial downtown), it’s a complete, multi-faceted destination that’s cemented its place as a tourism powerhouse in the wider region.

This year has been a banner one for Nassau Paradise Island, with travelers arriving in droves and the numbers well ahead of what was already a strong 2023.

But we wanted to learn more. That meant catching up with Joy Jibrilu, CEO of the Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board, who revealed what’s new in Nassau Paradise Island, talked about the destination’s deep cultural offering and, in a wide-ranging interview, told Caribbean Journal what’s next.

Here’s what Jibrilu had to say.

It seems like things are just getting better in Nassau Paradise Island right now.

It seems that way to me, it just seems like it keeps getting better and better. We are having a great year. We talk about numbers a lot in The Bahamas generally, and there is a difference between stopover visitors and cruise passengers. So with the opening of the new cruise port ( which debuted last year ), that has obviously caused exponential growth. But notwithstanding the hotel sector on Nassau and Paradise Island, they’re seeing such great occupancies and average daily rates that they’re having a phenomenal year. And so their fingers crossed that this continues and everyone, how do I say, we’re cautiously optimistic that it’s another good year for us.

What has been driving Nassau Paradise Island’s success?

I think we came out of the gate early, we were ready post-pandemic, and our partners, our hotel partners, have continued to evolve and to make the experiences of their properties new and exciting. Particularly with Nassau and Paradise Island, if we just look at Baha Mar, I mean they have expanded completely into the art space . And I don’t know any other resort anywhere that can boast of dedicated art space like The Echo Art Gallery, at 11,000 square feet. The Current is about 8,000 square feet and all the experiences centered around art, the infusion of Bahamian art, local art throughout their property. And that is being so well received by visitors who want to travel for vacation — but want something else as well.

We recently had our International Travel Partners conference a few weeks ago, and our guests from Europe and the UK, this is what caught them the most. They just said, we had no appreciation or understanding for how much art there was on Nassau Paradise Island. And this was just such a wonderful experience for them.

And it’s been across the destination.

The British Colonial for example, they’ve done an extraordinary job. People go there and they’re so amazed that this historical hotel has been reopened, at the respect that’s being paid to its history whilst updating it and bringing it into the 21st century. And people absolutely are enjoying that experience. So we continue to evolve. I think we continue to grow all the things to do and see. So in addition to the hotel offering, it’s the value added, it’s the upgrades to the Queen’s Staircase ( more here on the project ) placing that of the heart of places that people need to go and visit when they’re here. And we will continue to do more of this to make Nassau Paradise Island is the place where people say, “oh, I was there five years ago. What’s new to see? And then come back and are absolutely amazed.”

You mentioned the Queen’s Staircase. It’s part of what we’ve seen as a dramatic renaissance in downtown Nassau in particular: it’s a place with history, with culture, with walkability. Can you talk about that?

We do know that the opening of the Nassau Cruise port has been a catalyst, and it was intended, it was hoped that that would indeed chart a course for the renaissance and the reemergence of downtown. I think what is good about our cruise port is the fact that all the offerings available in that space, in including the entertainment that takes place there every weekend is all local to The Bahamas and Nassau and Paradise Island. So the retail options are all local, and I don’t anywhere else in the world where that holds and certainly not in the Caribbean. And add to that, the local food that’s available there, and as I mentioned, the entertainment on the weekend. And so I think with people seeing that you are absolutely right when you talk about the walkability then, so you walk through there, it’s an easy walk then to British colonial to Margaritaville.

And Margaritaville has lots to offer people, as does British colonial. And then it’s the natural walk to Junkanoo Beach or Arawak Key or the Fish Fry. And so this is what was always intended. I think we’re just seeing the beginning of the plans, the proposed plans for the redevelopment. I know that there’s more even in the pipeline, and I look forward to being able to announce those projects to you, but we truly will see for the rebirth of that whole area. And when you talk about the walkability from just the cruise Port to Margaritaville to the British Colonial, it’s a 10 minute walk on one side to the Hillside House Art Gallery going up to Government House and all that Graycliff has done with the revitalization of where their property is. But then just on the other side of the cruise port, it’s just a few minutes walk to our National Museum of The Bahamas, and that’s only three minutes away from the Queen’s Staircase. That’s just been a phenomenal success in the sense that it’s this serene oasis in the midst of the heart of downtown, and it’s so walkable to get to.

One of the other things that seems to have been driving growth of Nassau Paradise Island has been the expansion of airlift, whether it’s new markets like Los Angeles or the expansion of existing markets. Can you talk about that and perhaps some other markets you’re looking at?

This has truly been an exciting time for the destination as it relates to growth and airlift growth. Obviously opening up the West Coast has been a game changer for us, and while we were looking forward to maybe one or two flights a week, we’re just thrilled when both Alaska Airlines and JetBlue came into the marketplace. Now, it must be said, the JetBlue, they’re repositioning their aircraft. So from September of this year, they’re going to move their LA flight for the moment, and we’ll look for next year. But Alaska will continue to fly. And I think it just allows us the opportunity to continue to grow that market and to just reach out to the West Coast in particular, to talk about how accessible The Bahamas is for them. And Nassau and Paradise Island in particular, just that five hour flight, which has taken so many people on the West Coast by surprise, certainly the East coast, we’ve done phenomenally well.

What about markets beyond the US?

We are just so happy that it’s now two to three years in, but we’ve expanded airlift from the United Kingdom so that we have daily flights. In the past, we had three flights a week. So that allows for great growth and great opportunity, not just from the United Kingdom, but from continental USA. And of course, we must recognize Latin and South America in 2023. We had exponential growth from Latin America. In fact, they grew more post pandemic than any other region. Brazil grew exponentially. And so we’re watching that closely. We’re in discussions with airlines. We see great opportunities for Latin America.

What would you say are your biggest priorities right now?

We do see the need for inventory growth. That will facilitate growth for stopover visitors in the industry across the board. So that’s on the wishlist, but just for sustained airlift, airlift from our key markets, even our targeted markets that we’re growing. South America is the opportunity. So we’re aggressively pursuing that at this time, Europe as well, to continue to focus on that. Because if you look at the pattern of travelers, for example, US school holidays versus the United Kingdom. So if you can extend the summer period by capitalizing on the different markets, that would be a win-win, our hotel partners been phenomenal partners and that they continue to bring new and exciting experiences to their property. The Barbie phenomenon is a huge one. And what does Atlantis do?

They have a Barbie takeover and Barbie cabanas. I mean, what an incredible activation and partnership with Mattel to have Barbie come to Atlantas. And so these are the things that will drive people. So we want to continue to innovate and be creative. And so our wishlist, our hope is that our partners continue to do activations like this. We at the Nassau Paradise Island Promotion board working also in tandem with our partners to bring on some events that will make Nassau and Paradise Island a draw. And so these are exciting times for us.

Next year Nassau will be hosting the Routes Americas aviation conference. What does that mean for the destination?

I’m just so pleased to say that when Roots America’s 2025 went on sale for Booth Space, we were the fastest selling destination in their history. So within a matter of a couple of days, I think they’d sold 99% of the floor space and were looking to add, and they said they’ve never had that response. So people are excited. Our airline partners and destination partners are excited to come to The Bahamas.

What else has been a highlight this year?

One of the great things that we’ve been able to do through connected television, we actually had an ad running during the Paris Olympics, Nassau Paradise Island television ad on NBC. So we know that that put a lot of eyes. The is hope that somebody feels inspired to say, “oh my goodness, the colors of that water, it is so beautiful. It’s a place that I’d like to explore.” We’ve seen tremendous growth. In fact, I have to say that I can share the stats: from a social media standpoint, Nassau and Paradise Island outperformed everyone else in the region in May and June. Incredible, unheard of visits to our website. And that’s across social media, TikTok, Instagram, all the media that is accounted for.

What would you say is your outlook for the rest of this year and beyond?

“We are optimistic that 2024 will also be a really good year for tourism for Nassau and Paradise Island specifically. And we are forward looking bookings for fall into winter are on the right track. We are trending upwards. And so we really genuinely are praying that we can ride out the summer months and go into winter, have a strong winter, and then 2025 continue to build on that momentum. We are continuing to evolve so that Nassau and Paradise Island becomes a place that people say, “I want to go to experience the experience.” So that it will drive the visitors, not just for our resorts, but for the destination as well.

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The Top Activities in Nassau Cruise Port Review (2023)

Photo by IQCruising of Photo of boat in Cabbage Beach close to Nassau cruise port

Active pursuits to enjoy on a cruise to the port of Nassau: reviews of British Colonial Hotel, Graycliff Hotel, Fishing Trips, and Junkanoo Beach.

By: Editor-in-Chief Update: May 26, 2023

The cruise port in Nassau offers lots of different activities. In Nassau, the cruise passenger will always find something fun, exciting, adrenaline-pumping, or just plainly relaxing to do.

Top activities to enjoy in Nassau

For those looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach, the British Colonial Hotel and the Junkanoo Beach with its bars/grills are places to go within walking distance of the cruise port in Nassau.

If looking for something more active, diving, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing trips, catamaran sails, and dolphin encounters are available.

British Colonial Hotel Beach Break

This famous hotel is frequently listed and reviewed both as a hotel and a landmark of Nassau. But the British Colonial Hotel is also one of the best places to enjoy a relaxing day on a private beach.

Photo of the British Colonial Hotel in Nassau.

British Colonial Hotel - Nassau

Although the British Colonial has closed its doors, it is still possible to book a beach day pass. You will only have access to the Serenity Beach lounge chairs, umbrella, and towels (based on availability). Be aware that you can only book this day pass online. And that for $25.00 per person is one of the most affordable beach day passes on a cruise to Nassau.

Graycliff Hotel, Chocolates and Cigars

A classic institution in Nassau, the Graycliff is much more than just an excellent hotel in Nassau. Its restaurant is one of the best in the Caribbean, offering Wine and Cheese Tastings and Wine Luncheons to cruise ship travelers. It also features two attractions that cruise travelers may enjoy on a discovery tour: the Cigar and Chocolate factories.

Photo of Graycliff Hotel Chocolate Shop in Nassau.

Graycliff Hotel - Nassau

Although some cruise lines offer tours of the Graycliff, the hotel is within walking distance from the terminal and will be easy to do it on your own. The hotel also offers day-passes if you wish to enjoy a day by the pool.

Fishing Trips Charters

Considering that The Bahamas has one of the best waters for sport-fishing in the Caribbean, cruise passengers should consider a deep sea fishing expedition. There are a number of charters available that you can book online.

Deep sea fishing charter in Nassau

Here you have 3 of the best fishing charters in Nassau:

Chubasco Fishing Charters
Born Free Charters
Hunter Charters

Segway Tours

Nassau was one of the ports where cruise passengers could enjoy a Segway tour. It used to be a scenic roll to Junkanoo Beach and then to Arawak Cay. But since 2019 that this tour has ceased to exist.

Segway - Nassau

Be aware that you may find the Nassau Segway Beach and Waterfront Tour on Tripadvisor. However, if you read reviews you will find that the tour opeartor CST Bahamas Tours doesn't exist anymore. If you are really interested in a Segway tour, Island Routes is offering this tour but we do not have any feedback.

Surrey Tours Horse Drawn Carriage

Like the Segway Tour, the horse-drawn carriage tour has ceased to operate in port for some time. There is news that Surrey Tours (the local operator) will come back once the new terminal is finished. But for the near future be careful in booking this tour online.

Photo of Horse Drawn Carriage in Nassau.

Horse Drawn Carriage - Nassau

Fat Tuesday Beach Club and Self-Drive Boats

Unlike the previous two activities, which may come back once the new cruise terminal is finished, the Fat Tuesday Beach Club next to the British Colonial Hotel is forever gone. Instead, you will now find the Baha Bay Waterpark. With Fat Tuesday gone, so are the Self-Drive Boats.

Junkanoo Beach

As a few places have closed doors in Nassau, others are flourishing like never before. Junkanoo Beach is now very popular, and beach bars/grills like Tiki Bikini Hut have expanded.

Entrance of the Tiki Bikini Hut on Junkanoo Beach, Nassau

Share This Nassau Port Review

The information on this page was accurate when last updated and published but changes may have occurred without notice. It is advisable to confirm details with local tourist information before planning your cruise, excursions and tours of Nassau. If any inaccuracies are found or if there are any suggestions to improve the content of this page please let us know.

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Carnival Cruise shares important port news for all passengers

Many of the cruise ports in the Caribbean follow a simple blueprint.

Whether you are in Nassau, Cozumel, Costa Maya, Falmouth, or a handful of others, as you get off the ship you are presented with a selection of shops and restaurants. There will be duty-free shops selling liquor, cigarettes, perfume, and various beauty supplies.

You can also expect restaurants and bars, You might get local establishments and there are almost always chains like Senor Frogs and Margaritaville. There will also be shops selling local specialties.

Related: Carnival Cruise Line shares news on mandatory tips

That could mean vanilla extract and dark chocolate in Mexican ports. There will often be a local rum or other liquor and sometimes coffee beans native to wherever you happen to be visiting.

Some ports have spas with massage services while others will have those pools of fish that will eat the dead skin off your feet. In the nicest ports you get access to pools, maybe a beach, and in Costa Maya, a lazy river, all at no extra charge.

In some cases, the port shops include a pharmacy where you can buy many medicines that are not over-the-counter in the United States. That's a tempting proposition for many cruisers looking to both save money and get access to drugs their doctors have not prescribed.

That comes with its own set of dangers, of course, but buying from these pharmacies is very popular.

Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald was asked about one of these pharmacies on his Facebook page, and he shared more than the expected warning about being careful purchasing medicine outside of the US.

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Carnival clears up a port misconception

Heald, who is recovering from Covid according to his own post, took time from not feeling well on his couch to share a recent message he received.

I purchased Furosemide (4ml) in Cozumel in 2019. I will be on the Liberty cruise that stops in Cozumel on 8/30. I just became a platinum cruiser with you guys and want to buy some more from the port pharmacy. I need to know about the current prices. Any idea how much that should currently cost? Do you have a list of pharmacy prices? Do we need to worry about contamination? Does Carnival still consider this place in their port to be a reputable pharmacy?

Furosemide, for what it's worth, is a diuretic used to treat high blood pressure and certain kidney-related problems,

Heald was quick to correct one misconception about not just the pharmacy, but all the shops in the various ports the cruise line calls on.

"Well then, I have no idea why this lady would think that I would know drug prices at this shop," he wrote. "However, perhaps that is because she and perhaps others think that we, Carnival Corporation, 'own' the pier at Puerto Maya and therefore own all the stores. We do not. So we cannot give any kind of recommendation for what is sold from this pharmacy and I do not have a price list."

Heald also stopped short of issuing a warning to the person who messaged him.

"I know the pharmacy she is referring to, and it has been there for many years. I remember there used to be huge signs that would state that you can buy just about anything over the counter," he added.

Carnival passengers share their pharmacy thoughts

Heald asked his followers to weigh in on the pharmacy question.

"Anyway, to help this lady and perhaps others please let them know if you have purchased anything from there and your thoughts on doing so," he shared.

Many passengers ignored that request and simply wished Heald well.

"Good morning, John. I’m so sorry you’re so under the weather today. Get plenty of rest this weekend. I hope you’re feeling better soon. As far as buying meds in port, I have never gone there so I can’t say one way or the other. My prayers go out to you," shared Judy Bernard Hitchcock.

Other posters, however, did offer their experiences buying prescription medicine over the counter in various ports.

"I have purchased meds from the pharmacy she’s referring to. I haven’t had a problem. Prescription-free zone is the reason. It seems expensive these days," Steph Steph shared.

It is not uncommon for Americans to go to Mexico or Canada to buy prescription drugs in an effort to save money.

ALSO READ: Top travel agents share how to get the best price on your cruise

Andrea Hazelwood, who identified herself as a registered nurse, did share a bit of a warning. She noted that Furosemide was an older drug that's already cheap in the US.

"I would be less concerned with the quality of meds at a foreign pharmacy and more concerned that this person is going to cause themselves kidney and/or cardiac issues taking a med their doctor didn’t prescribe them. In general, I’m actually not opposed to buying meds at a foreign pharmacy to get past the outrageous prescription prices in the US as long as it’s a drug a person’s doctor has already prescribed for them," she wrote.

Are you taking a cruise or thinking about taking one? Visit our Come Cruise With Me website to have all your questions answered.

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Princess Cruises Sails to All Regions of the Caribbean for the  First Time Ever in Summer 2026

More than 90 voyages conveniently embark from ft. lauderdale and port canaveral aboard regal princess and caribbean princess.

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. (August 23, 2024) – Princess Cruises today announced its biggest summer Caribbean cruise season ever for 2026, with two ships—Regal Princess and Caribbean Princess—departing from Ft. Lauderdale/Port Everglades and Port Canaveral respectively.

Now available for booking, guests seeking the ultimate summer getaway can choose from over 90 voyages sailing to every region of the Caribbean from two of Florida's most convenient cruise ports.

“Princess continues to expand access to our world-class premium experience now operating from eight North America homeports. With ships now departing from both Central Florida and South Florida, it’s easier and more convenient than ever to set sail aboard the iconic Love Boat,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president.

Highlights of the summer 2026 Caribbean season include:

Port Canaveral – Cruising roundtrip from Port Canaveral, an easy drive from Orlando, Caribbean Princess offers sailings to both the Eastern and Western Caribbean on 7-day cruises that can easily be combined to see both regions on 14-day Caribbean Adventurer sailings, including:

6-Day Eastern Caribbean with Turks & Caicos : Nassau, Amber Cover and Grand Turk – May 11, 2026
7-Day Eastern Caribbean with Turks & Caicos : Nassau, Princess Cays, Amber Cover and Grand Turk – May 17, June 7, 28, July 19, August 9, 30, September 20, October 11, 2026
7-day Western Caribbean with Mexico : Cozumel, Cosa May and Roatán (Mahogany Bay) – May 24, June 14, July 5, 26, August 16, September 6, 27, 2026
7-day Eastern Caribbean with Puerto Rico : San Juan, Amber Cove and Grand Turk – May 31, June 21, July 12, August 2, 23, September 13, October 4, 2026

Ft. Lauderdale – Offering sailings that visit all regions of the Caribbean in the summer including, Eastern, Southern and Western, Regal Princess sails 7-day Eastern or Western Caribbean itineraries, or an 8-day cruise Southern Caribbean. Guests who want a longer vacation to visit multiple regions can sail on a combination cruise for 14 days:

8-day Southern Caribbean with ABC Islands : Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao – April 3, 2026. Guests can take advantage of extended port stays with More Ashore in Aruba and Curaçao, offering more time to explore the islands.
7-day Eastern Caribbean with Bahamas : Princess Cays, Amber Cove, Grand Turk – April 11, May 9, June 6, July 4, August 1, 29, 2026
7-day Western Caribbean with Mexico : Cozumel, Belize City, Roatán (Mahogany Bay) – April 18, May 2, 16, 30, June 13, 27, July 11, 25, August 8, 22, 2026
7-day Eastern Caribbean with St. Thomas : Princess Cays, San Juan, St. Thomas – April 25, May 23, June 20, July 18, August 15, 2026

Princess also sails two Southern Caribbean Islander cruises at the start and end of the season, including:

Caribbean Princess 13-day Southern Caribbean Islander : From Ft. Lauderdale to Port Canaveral: Princess Cays, Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, San Juan, Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Nassau – April 28, 2026
Regal Princess 14-day Southern Caribbean Islander : From Ft. Lauderdale to New York: Curaçao, Aruba, Grenada, Barbados, Dominica, St. Maarten, San Juan – September 5, 2026

Onboard Spending Money for Captain’s Circle Members

Captain’s Circle members will receive up to $200 in onboard spending money if they book by October 31, 2024. Summer 2026 guests will receive $50/per person for voyages 7-10 days, and $100/per person for guests booking combined, 14-day Caribbean Adventurer voyages.

The Princess Experience

Caribbean Princess and Regal Princess offer well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities.

No matter the cruise, Princess delivers a premium vacation with the line’s award-winning, signature Princess MedallionClass experience which offers unparalleled service and personalization. Guests booking can take advantage of inclusive packages like Princess Plus and Princess Premier which add popular amenities like WiFi, beverages, desserts, fitness classes, crew appreciation and more at an even greater savings of up 65% when the inclusive package amenities are purchased separately.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com.

Media Contacts

Contact information for members of the media

Negin Kamali, +1 661-753-1539, [email protected]

Briana Latter, +1 661-753-1538, [email protected]

About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

Additional media information is available at princess.com/news

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Carnival Glory cruise ship review: What to expect on board

I embarked on a 14-night transatlantic cruise on Carnival Glory after securing a balcony cabin at an exceptional rate through a Carnival Players Club Fun Match deal. Although your cruise on Carnival Glory is likely to be much shorter, my extended cruise gave me plenty of time to get to know the ship and its amenities.

Carnival Glory had just come out of a 21-day dry dock in Cadiz, Spain, during which public areas were updated, a nonsmoking casino area was added, the sports bar was rebranded as the Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, Camp Ocean (the kids club) was redesigned with a new video wall for its Space Cruisers program and the video arcade was refreshed.

Although my cruise was a long Carnival Journeys voyage from Barcelona to Florida, Carnival Glory is now based in Port Canaveral and will be sailing three- and four-night Bahamas cruises through at least April 2026.

Here's what you need to know about cruising on this older yet recently refreshed ship.

Overview of Carnival Glory

Carnival Glory is a 110,000-ton Conquest Class cruise ship that entered service in 2003. It can accommodate 2,980 passengers at double occupancy and 1,150 crew members.

Self-proclaimed as a "fun ship," Carnival Glory is best suited for travelers who want to have a good time without spending too much cash and who prefer a modestly sized ship. Carnival Glory is best known for its two multistory waterslides, comedy club and large Amber Palace theater for shows.

Related: Carnival cruise ships by size: Here are the largest Carnival cruise ships, biggest to smallest, by tonnage

What I loved about Carnival Glory

Carnival is known as a budget-friendly cruise line, so I came into my cruise on Carnival Glory with modest expectations. Even still, I found a lot to love about the cruise ship.

Modest-size ship with helpful signage

Within 24 hours, I was acquainted with the ship and felt confident navigating its 14 decks. The signage on Carnival Glory is straightforward and helpful. The ship diagrams in the elevator lobbies and the clear signs designating the side of the ship with odd- and even-numbered cabins help a lot.

You'll find most self-serve and counter-service foods on decks 9 and 10 and most shopping on Deck 5. I loved that I rarely needed to take an elevator, as it was easy to walk up a few floors from my Deck 7 cabin to the Lido Deck (Deck 9) and down a few floors to the casino on Deck 5 and the main dining room on decks 3 and 4.

Related: Best Carnival cruise ships: Here's which ship you should sail, based on your travel style

Appealing counter-service restaurants

Two restaurants I found myself repeatedly visiting on Carnival Glory were Guy's Burgers and BlueIguana Cantina. BlueIguana serves decent-quality burritos and tacos for breakfast and lunch, while Guy's is open for lunch into early dinner with freshly made burgers and delicious fries.

I mostly avoided the buffet during my cruise. Instead, I went to BlueIguana for breakfast, Guy's for a late lunch and the main dining room for dinner most days. I skipped the main dining room a few nights to save time — as dinner often took longer than an hour in the dining room — and had my last meal of the day just before 6 p.m. at Guy's Burgers or later in the day at the Carnival Deli.

Related: 7 secret Carnival cruise breakfast spots that let you skip the buffet crowds

Wi-Fi could be essential or irrelevant to you, depending on how you plan to spend your time aboard Carnival Glory. As a remote worker who wanted to continue working throughout my cruise, having good Wi-Fi, even at sea, was a huge positive. The speed and quality were much better than expected; all Carnival ships now have faster Wi-Fi through Starlink .

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

Casual vibe

Some people like dressing up on vacation, especially for dinner. I'm not one of them. I appreciated that I could wear dress shorts and a blouse to dinner most nights. Even on the more formal nights and at the steakhouse, a black dress and ballet flats fit well within the stated dress code.

Carnival clearly states the minimum dress code requirements for dinner and the steakhouse. Overall, passengers met or exceeded the dress code requirements. I did notice a few passengers at dinner who clearly violated the dining room dress code, including a man in gym shorts one night, but weren't turned away.

What I didn't love about Carnival Glory

Carnival Glory is an older ship, so it won't be the best choice if you expect a modern design and amenities. I did face a few annoyances on board that weren't related to the ship's older design.

Morning announcements

Most mornings, I woke up to the cruise director making announcements over the speaker in the hallway outside our cabin. These announcements, which occurred between 7 and 9:30 a.m. each morning, usually didn't provide any information that wasn't already in the daily cruise bulletin and sometimes acted as a sales pitch for excursions or onboard shopping.

I can understand having these announcements on days in port, although I wish they would wait to start them in cabin areas until about 30 minutes before passengers can disembark. But on days at sea, it would be nice to let travelers who had been up late enjoying deck parties and the casino sleep in.

Long waits for sit-down dining

If you want a sit-down breakfast or lunch in the main dining room — or opted for Your Time dinner seating — you'll quickly learn you'll need to check in to dine in the Carnival Hub app. You can see estimated wait times before you check in and then your estimated remaining wait time once you check in. Be sure to turn on notifications or keep an eye on the dining screen of your app to ensure you don't miss your opportunity to be seated once you're assigned a table.

We learned to watch the estimated wait times — which ranged from less than 10 minutes to 120 minutes during our cruise — and check in well before when we wanted to eat if the wait times were already long. Especially at the cruise's start, some guests were shocked and frustrated by the long wait times for sit-down dining.

Uncomfortable bed

It might have just been my cabin, but I found the bed uncomfortable and the pillows lumpy.

I expected the awkwardness of combining two twin beds into one king bed, but the foot of our bed was noticeably higher than the head. Additionally, the head and foot of the topper between the mattress and sheets rose in a banana shape each time I got into bed.

I figured this was just how cruise ship bedding is, especially after several fellow passengers noted they bring their own mattress toppers and pillows on extended cruises. In hindsight, I should have inquired with our room attendant to see if he could make any adjustments to our bedding.

Related: 43 Carnival Cruise Line tips, tricks and hacks to enhance your vacation at sea

Carnival Glory cabins and suites

Like most cruise ships, Carnival Glory offers inside rooms, ocean-view rooms, balcony cabins and suites. If you want an inside cabin, know that while most are windowless, some offer small porthole windows or a walkway view. Some smaller inside rooms have one twin bed with an upper Pullman or sofa bed — perfect for a single traveler or a parent and child.

Ocean-view rooms have three primary types: obstructed view rooms, rooms with a picture window and rooms with a floor-to-ceiling window. You'll also find several types of balcony rooms, including those with standard or aft views, slightly larger rooms with premium balcony views and premium vista balconies for corner rooms where the balcony wraps around two sides of the ship.

Carnival Glory also offers four types of suites with extra perks like priority check-in and boarding, Main Dining Room time assignment and debarkation. Junior suites have more floor space, a bathtub and a standard-size balcony, while ocean and grand suites are even larger with bigger balconies. Finally, the captain's suite has a separate living room, multiple bathrooms and a large balcony.

Carnival Glory has 50 accessible cabins for guests with mobility limitations. Most are ambulatory-accessible cabins, designed for passengers who use a cane or similar device when walking long distances but who don't need a wheelchair or scooter. Carnival Glory only has four fully accessible cabins designed for passengers who use a wheelchair or scooter.

Balcony room on Carnival Glory

For my transatlantic cruise, I booked a 185-square-foot balcony room. I was impressed with how well designed the room was and how spacious it felt once I put all my belongings away.

On the left side of the cabin's entryway, you'll find three doors. Two are closets with 12 hangers each and shelves at the top and bottom. Meanwhile, the third closet offers four large shelves.

Across from the closets is the bathroom. The shower is large enough for one person. The water was contained between the curtain and the high-lipped shower pan even when I took a shower in rough seas. An extendable clothesline could be connected across the shower to provide drying space. Shampoo and body wash are provided, but not conditioner.

Due to the many shelves on both sides of the mirror, I had plenty of space in the bathroom for my belongings. Hand soap is provided, but nothing else (like lotion or a shower cap) is offered. Two hooks on the back of the bathroom door offer a good place to hang towels you plan to reuse.

Next to the closets is the desk area. Four drawers on one side of the desk offered more storage space, while the lap drawer was a good place to put old cruise bulletins and documents that would otherwise clutter the desk. You'll find a hair dryer in one of the desk drawers.

On the other side of the desk are a minifridge, a safe and a 21-inch TV. The TV offered rotating movies and TV channels, but my favorite channel was a rotating display of live camera views from the front of the ship and a map showing the ship's location.

Opposite the desk is a large couch. Ours was ripping at the seam on the top, but it was still comfortable to sit on. Next to the couch is a table you could adjust to different heights. This table was a good work desk, but I suspect many other cruisers would use it as a card table or for in-room dining. Under the couch were two large drawers.

The bed is close to the window and balcony, consisting of two 35-inch-wide twin beds pushed together. Nightstands with a light, power outlet, USB-A outlet and USB-C outlet were on both sides of the bed. I was glad I ordered magnetic hooks after reading TPG's list of must-have cruise items , as these were essential for keeping our curtain flush against the wall in the mornings and preventing the sun from shining in on both sides.

I loved sitting out on the balcony and spent a lot of time relaxing and working there. The two chairs were comfortable, and one even adjusted to different reclining levels. However, we got wet one evening when someone above us rudely decided to empty their ice chest over their railing.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Carnival Cruise Line ships

Carnival Glory restaurants and bars

Carnival Glory offers various restaurants ranging from the included buffet in the Red Sail Restaurant to the $49-per-person steakhouse. I only ate at the buffet a few times during my extended cruise, as the included counter-service restaurants and dining room options were significantly better and offered enough variety.

As for bars, you'll find an assortment of options on decks 3, 4, 5 and 9 that range from a poolside tequila bar to a piano bar.

Restaurants

During my 14-night cruise, I tried most of Carnival Glory's dining options. My three favorite included options were the main dining room on decks 3 and 4, the BlueIguana Cantina on Deck 9 and Guy's Burger Joint on Deck 9. If you're willing to pay extra, Sushi at Sea offers some surprisingly good, fresh sushi, and the Emerald Room steakhouse serves tender filet mignon.

The main dining room on decks 3 and 4 is open at specific meal times. On port days, you can opt for a quick 25-minute breakfast, while sea days often feature a brunch with seating until noon. The main dining room may also offer a sea-day lunch or tea service.

I tried dining room breakfast during a sea day but found the service slow. I was disappointed that my scrambled eggs were made from powder instead of freshly scrambled. My husband's breakfast of chicken and waffles wasn't better, as dozens of tiny bones made the chicken difficult to eat. Meanwhile, the skillet cake was delicious but likely contained about half the calories I should eat daily.

You'll be assigned a dining room for dinner based on whether you select set dining (where you have a specific dinner time, the same servers and the same tablemates each night) or Your Time open seating dining (where you check in via the app each evening, are given a wait time estimate and then are eventually assigned a table).

Although service quality and speed varied depending on the server and the busyness of the dining room, we were impressed by the food quality we got in the main dining room. You can try as many appetizers and desserts as you want and order up to two main dishes per night without an extra charge. (Starting with the third, you'll need to pay $5 each.)

I enjoyed the appetizers each night and appreciated that you could often order smaller portions of main dishes as appetizers. My favorite appetizer was the lettuce wraps filled with meat, but I never got an appetizer I didn't like.

Of the 11 nights we ate dinner in the main dining room, only a few dishes were disappointing. One night, I got an undercooked and tough roasted beef sirloin. That same night, my husband tried the Southern fried chicken but found it difficult to eat due to the many tiny bones it contained. My favorite main dishes were the salmon and salad offerings.

I appreciated that Carnival offered a no-sugar-added dessert each night in the main dining room. I opted for this option most evenings, as it was usually still plenty sweet.

If you enjoy getting food quickly from a buffet, you'll appreciate the included Red Sail Restaurant on decks 9 and 10. Within the Red Sail Restaurant, you'll find multiple buffet areas. While most of the food and seating is on Deck 9, Ol' Fashioned BBQ and more seating are available on Deck 10. Ol' Fashioned BBQ is an included buffet-style counter serving barbecue and standard fixings.

I tried a few things from the buffet during my 14-night cruise but mostly avoided it because the items I tried weren't flavorful or fresh. I did appreciate the whole fruit usually available on the buffet.

As mentioned above, I regularly returned to the included counter-service BlueIguana Cantina near the primary pool on Deck 9 for delicious, freshly made tacos, burritos and other Mexican-style dishes. I recommend the breakfast burritos (get hash browns added, and ask for guacamole sauce), chicken burritos and chicken tacos with toppings from the salsa bar. I quickly learned the opening hours of this counter-service restaurant, as it only serves breakfast and lunch.

Another included counter-service dining option I enjoyed on Deck 9 by the primary pool was Guy's Burger Joint . Burgers were prepared fresh to order, and fries were served with excellent seasoning. My go-to was the Pig Patty, a cheeseburger with a bacon patty on top. However, beware: Guy's Burger Joint is only open from noon to 6 p.m. most days. If you want burgers for dinner, plan on eating early.

An appealing late-night counter-service option (open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.) is the included Carnival Deli on Deck 9 within the seating area for the buffet-style Red Sail Restaurant. My husband liked the Reuben sandwich, while I preferred the hot dogs. The fries at Guy's Burger Joint are superior, but the condiments and hours at the Carnival Deli are better. Unfortunately, the lines can grow long (think: a 10-minute wait) when the Carnival Deli is the only included counter-service option besides Pizza Pirate still open.

Pizza Pirate is the included dining option with the longest hours. From 9 to 4 a.m. daily, you can get freshly baked pizza near the secondary pool on Deck 9 within five minutes of placing your order. I tried the Quattro Formaggi (the four-cheese pizza), which tasted good but was too oily.

One evening, I went to the a la carte Sushi at Sea counter within the Red Sail Restaurant on Deck 9. The cost per roll is reasonable, and I was pleased to see the fish cut and the rolls made in front of me while I waited. Plus, the rolls were more substantial and filling than I expected. I'd recommend visiting Sushi at Sea for a roll or two if you're craving sushi during your cruise or want something fresher than many other options on the Lido Deck.

Seafood Shack is an a la carte counter-service restaurant near the aft pool across from Pizza Pirate on Deck 9. I stopped by one evening to order a seafood basket but was informed only a few items were available that night. I ended up trying the shrimp bucket, which came with fries. The shrimp were breaded heavily but tasted like what you might get at a standard seafood restaurant. In short, I don't recommend spending your money at this a la carte restaurant unless you are craving its mostly fried seafood offerings.

You can have dinner at the Emerald Room Steakhouse on Deck 10 for a flat $49 per person cover charge. Keep an eye out for promotions that include wine if you book ahead of time or dine at the steakhouse on embarkation day.

I tried the steakhouse when a same-day reservation appeared on the second-to-last night of my cruise and was pleased with the quality of the tuna tartare and the filet mignon — which almost melted in my mouth, as expected.

The steakhouse offers a wine-pairing package with a half-glass of wine per course. However, when we tried to order this pairing package, the server advised us that ordering a bottle of wine would be more economical. We ordered one of the least expensive wines on the menu, a Sangre de Toro tempranillo, and found it paired well with our meals.

You'll find several self-serve ice cream stations on Deck 9. Grab a cone or cup and serve yourself chocolate, vanilla or a swirl of the two. I enjoyed a few bowls of vanilla ice cream on my cruise, as they were a nice treat after being in the heat.

The Red Sail Restaurant on Deck 9 offers complimentary self-serve coffee (including cream, milk and sugar). However, for specialty coffee, you must visit the JavaBlue Cafe on Deck 5, the Colors Bar on Deck 3 or the Coffee Bar on Deck 9 to buy a la carte coffee drinks. If you plan to purchase specialty coffee during your cruise, check whether a buy-six, get-one-free offer is available.

Finally, you can also order room service over the phone. Continental breakfast items are included from 6 to 10 a.m., but all other items are priced a la carte with an 18% service charge (although there's no additional delivery fee). I didn't try room service on my cruise, as I didn't want to wait around for it to be delivered and was always willing to walk a few decks up and get fresh food on the Lido Deck.

Related: Carnival cruise food: The ultimate guide to restaurants and dining on board

Cruisers gather around the Colors Bar in the lobby area on Deck 3 throughout the day, especially in the evenings. This bar is near the Your Time dining room and the Amber Palace theater, but it also hosts activities like trivia during the day and live music in the evenings. It's a good place to hang out inside, but it can be difficult to snag a spot at the bar in the evenings.

If you want to watch sports, head to the SkyBox Sports Bar in the Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge. However, this bar isn't always staffed late at night, and the game you want to watch might not be available. You'll find military-themed cocktails here, including the Hero's Tribute cocktail with five different types of alcohol. The bar also offers many standard cocktails and martinis with military-themed names.

The Alchemy Bar is a sophisticated cocktail bar on Deck 5 near the nightclub and a favorite among Carnival regulars. The bar was usually popular in the evenings, but groups used it as a meetup spot during the day. The light-up menu books are a neat touch, but I never stopped to order a drink here.

The RedFrog Rum Bar and the BlueIguana Tequila Bar are located near each other on Deck 9 by the primary pool. These bars can get busy in the early afternoon on sea days when most cruisers are lounging around the pool. Both bars offer a collection of themed drinks and a shaded sitting area. I ordered the signature drink from each bar — Red's Rum Treasure and Blue's Patron Margarita — and split them with my husband. I liked the tangy taste of the margarita but preferred the spicy fruitiness of Red's Rum Treasure.

The Azure Bar serves the secondary pool near the back of the ship. This bar has a calmer vibe than the bars near the primary pool; some cruisers might even call the Azure Bar boring. One evening, I tried a Sangria Swirl from this bar, finding it an interesting twist to a standard frozen margarita.

You'll find a special drink menu for comedy shows within the Punchliner Comedy Club in the Ebony Cabaret Lounge on Deck 5. There's a bar at the back of the club, but servers come around to take drink orders at the start of each show. During an evening show, I tried the signature cocktail — The Punchliner — and appreciated its significant strength, blue color and fruity yet not-too-sweet taste. I could have ordered my cocktail as a pitcher, but frankly, that would have been too much of a good thing. The bar also offers an assortment of martinis and shooters.

You'll also find a bar within the casino on Deck 5. Guests rarely sit at this bar, as it is mostly there to serve people playing in the casino. Staff occasionally come around to see if players want to order drinks. If you are playing and have Drinks on Us in the casino, show the staff member your player number on the machine you are playing to get up to one complimentary drink per five minutes (up to 15 drinks per day).

If piano music is more of your jam, head to the Cinn-A-Bar piano bar on Deck 5. Here, you can sit at the circular piano-themed bar around the piano or lounge away from the action in comfy seating. When I stopped by one evening after a comedy show, I was pleased to find a close-knit group of patrons sitting around a friendly pianist with an informal style.

Across from the piano bar is Bar Blue. This bar never seemed too lively, but its blue theming was attractive.

The Ivory Club bar on Deck 4 has a neat ambience and an attractive long bar. It's not the right vibe for everyone — it felt too dark and old-school for my tastes — so check out this bar early on to see if it's a space you'll want to frequent.

You can also buy beer by the ounce at the pour-your-own-beer station in the Red Sail Restaurant on Deck 9.

Carnival offers a Cheers drink package (you'll find discounts if you purchase ahead of time) that includes sodas, spirits (including cocktails), beer and wines by the glass that carry a $20 or lower menu price. Considering the length of my cruise and the fact that you can only purchase a package for both passengers in a cabin for the entire cruise, I figured we'd be better off buying drinks a la carte. You can also purchase a soda package for your entire cruise.

Carnival Glory activities

Carnival Glory has two pools, both on Deck 9. The primary pool midship is where activities happen, DJs play and movies are shown. Most guests relax around the primary pool on sea days.

Meanwhile, the secondary pool at the back of the ship has a quieter vibe and can be covered in poor weather. You'll find two hot tubs and dining options at each pool.

Above the primary pool are two waterslides that drop from Deck 14 to Deck 10. The slides are fun, but I found picking up much speed on either slide difficult. You'll also find some kid-friendly smaller slides on Deck 10. You do not have to pay to use the waterslides.

The included Serenity adults-only retreat is near the front of the ship on decks 12 and 14. This area has a small bar, two hot tubs, plenty of padded chairs and cabanas available on a first-come, first-served basis.

On decks 11 and 12, you'll find a sports deck with a basketball hoop, a pickleball court and a nine-hole miniature golf course. The sports court and its activities don't cost extra. However, the pickleball court was almost always in use, and the miniature golf course was difficult to enjoy at sea since the light foam balls would often move on their own due to the wind or the ship's movement. The area closes daily at 5:30 p.m., even when the sun sets hours later.

Surrounding the sports deck is a walking track on Deck 11. I was surprised by how many people walked or jogged on this track on calm days during my cruise. A free-to-use cornhole game and shuffleboard court are often set up next to the track during the day.

Many people on my cruise seemed to spend time in the casino on Deck 5. The casino offers slots, table games, poker and blackjack.

Nonsmokers will be happy to know that a decent part of the casino is now designated as nonsmoking. So, while some parts of the casino allow you to smoke when seated and actively playing, nonsmokers can avoid sitting directly next to smokers while they play. Although I could faintly smell smoke from the nonsmoking slots area, I wouldn't say the area was smoky, and my clothing didn't smell of cigarette smoke after I spent a few hours playing slots.

Groups could often be found chatting and playing card games along the Deck 5 indoor promenade that extends from the nightclub to the casino. I enjoyed looking at the large map of our cruising route in this area.

You can borrow books from the Deck 4 library during your sailing. Groups frequently use the room for informal meetups, so don't expect to use it as a quiet space.

Families and gamers might enjoy the pay-to-play video arcade on Deck 5. This area was refreshed recently, so the games are mostly modern and new.

You'll often find special activities such as dancing, karaoke and even a silent disco in the evenings. I loved going to the silent disco one evening in the nightclub as two DJs battled to see who could maintain the most listeners.

At the spa and salon on Deck 11, you can purchase a variety of massages, hair services and fitness classes. The spa sometimes offers promotions on port days and a progressive discount when you purchase multiple treatments.

Guests can use the fitness center, found within the spa area, free of charge. The fitness center offers a workout area and gender-segregated locker rooms with showers, saunas and steam rooms.

Related: Cloud 9 Spa, Carnival Cruise Line's spa and fitness facility: What you need to know

If you have children between 2 and 17, you'll likely be interested in the kids and teen activities on board. Kids 11 and under can use the Camp Ocean facilities, where they might be split into three groups based on age: Penguins for ages 2 to 5, Stingrays for ages 6 to 8 and Sharks for ages 9 to 11. The Camp Ocean area was recently refreshed with a new video wall for the Space Cruisers program. Most activities are included, but some carry costs, such as Night Owls late-night group babysitting from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Kids ages 12 to 14 can chill in Circle C, while 15- to 17-year-olds can hang out in Club O2. A staff member offers activities in these spaces, but they're mostly areas for teenagers to gather.

You'll find the schedule of daily activities — some paid and some included — in the Carnival Hub app or a printed newsletter. Standard activities include bingo games, trivia and art auctions.

Shopping opportunities on Deck 5 include stores selling candy, liquor, cigarettes, jewelry, sundries and Carnival logowear.

Carnival Glory shows

Carnival Glory offers a variety of live music, theater productions, stand-up comedy and poolside, big-screen movies. Most days, you'll have the opportunity to watch at least one movie from the primary pool or the nearby seating areas. On my cruise, movies like "Barbie," "The Hunger Games" and "Wonka" played on the big screen.

The Amber Palace Theater hosts most evening performances, a mix of theater productions and live music. I attended one stand-up comedy show in the theater and was happy I could hear and see perfectly fine from some of the farthest seats. I stuck my head into the theater a few times, but although the evening performances seemed popular with other guests, I opted to spend my evenings in other venues.

A version of "Deal or No Deal," which you can watch for free but carries an extra cost to play, is also held in the Amber Palace on most Carnival Glory cruises.

You can also watch short 30-minute stand-up comedy skits at the Punchliner Comedy Club in the Ebony Cabaret Lounge on Deck 5. The first show I watched flopped hard, with enough cruisers leaving partway through the show that the comedian started to joke about how she counted the few laughs she got. The subsequent shows I watched by other comedians were much better.

Finally, live music is available throughout the ship. DJs play in the nightclub and poolside, while musicians often play or sing in the Colors Lobby in the evenings.

Related: Carnival cruise packing list: What to pack for a cruise, Fun Ship style

Carnival Glory itineraries and pricing

After the one-way repositioning cruise I took from Barcelona to Port Canaveral, Carnival Glory will sail three- and four-night Bahamas itineraries from the Orlando-area port through at least April 2026.

The three-night cruises include one port of call, usually in a Bahamian destination like Nassau, Bimini or Celebration Key , Carnival's new private beach destination. Fares start at $338 per person for an inside cabin and $498 per person for a balcony room, based on double occupancy.

The four-night cruises usually stop in two ports and might visit Bimini, Nassau, Freeport, Princess Cays and Celebration Key, all in the Bahamas. Fares start at $355 per person for an inside cabin and $545 per person for a balcony room, based on double occupancy.

What to know before you go

Here's what you need to know before going on a Carnival Glory cruise.

Required documents

If you are a U.S. citizen, you'll need one of the following types of documentation to board your round-trip Carnival Glory cruise from Port Canaveral:

U.S. passport (book or card; valid for at least six months beyond the completion of travel)
State-issued enhanced driver's license
Certificate of U.S. Naturalization
Native American Indian Card
Birth certificate (issued by a government agency) accompanied by a physical government-issued photo ID (only acceptable for U.S.-born citizens)

Although many types of documentation are acceptable, having a passport book is best. If you aren't a U.S. citizen or are unsure whether your documentation is eligible, check out Carnival's full list of travel documents .

Your cruise ticket's first and last name should match those on your travel identification. If you change your name shortly before your cruise, you might want to book using the name on your ID instead of the name you're currently using.

Related: What documents do you need for a cruise? From passports to printouts, here's what to take

You can prepay gratuities of $16 per person, per day ($18 per person, per day if you book a suite) when you book or anytime before sailing.

If you don't prepay your gratuities, they'll be added to your account on the second-to-last day of the cruise. If you want to change nonprepaid gratuities, visit the Guest Services desk while on board. Children under age 2 don't need to pay gratuities.

You'll also see an automatic service charge of 18% on beverage purchases, spa services, a la carte dining and restaurants that charge a cover charge.

Related: Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities

You can choose from three Wi-Fi packages on Carnival Glory, with pricing as follows if you book before your sailing:

Social : $15.30 per person, per day; only provides access to select social media sites
Value : $19.55 per person, per day; doesn't support Wi-Fi calling, music streaming or video streaming
Premium : $21.25 per person, per day; supports video calling and is up to three times faster than the Value plan

These prices are for one device at a time. You'll pay up to 15% more than the listed prices if you buy a Wi-Fi package on board.

Unlike the drink packages, you can purchase Wi-Fi for just one passenger in your cabin. You can also log out of your Wi-Fi package on one device and log in on another.

I bought a Premium Wi-Fi package for my cruise and found the speeds were fast enough to do Zoom video calls for work without lag and upload photos. However, I recommend downloading videos and music before your cruise so you don't need Wi-Fi for entertainment.

Related: Do cruise ships have Wi-Fi? A line-by-line guide to internet access at sea

Carry-on drinks policy

On embarkation day and while in port, each passenger can bring up to 12 cans or cartons of nonalcoholic beverages of 12 ounces each or less on board with them in their carry-on luggage. Bottles are not permitted. Each passenger can also bring one 750-milliliter bottle of wine or Champagne in their carry-on luggage during embarkation day.

However, if you want to drink the wine or Champagne you brought on board in the main dining room, a specialty restaurant or a bar, you'll need to pay a $15 corkage fee per bottle.

Related: Can I bring alcohol on a cruise ship? A line-by-line guide

Smoking policy

You can only smoke in designated areas on Carnival Glory. These areas include parts of the casino when seated and actively playing and designated areas on the starboard sides of decks 3 and 10. You can smoke cigarettes, including electronic cigarettes and personal vaporizers, in all these areas, but cigar and tobacco pipes are only allowed in designated outdoor areas.

Smoking in other areas, including your cabin or balcony, isn't allowed.

Related: Is smoking allowed on cruise ships? A line-by-line guide

On Carnival Glory, you can do self-service laundry in laundromats located on cabin decks. Wash and dry cycles are about 30 minutes each and cost $3.50 each when charged to your Sail & Sign card. Interestingly, the laundromat closest to my cabin offered three washers and six dryers. So, while there was occasionally a wait for a washer, finding a dryer was never an issue.

Bring your own detergent and dryer sheets, or you can purchase packets of detergent and fabric softener from a vending machine in the laundromat for $2 per packet.

You can also use the cruise line's laundry service and pay per item. The price list is in your cabin. You might also be able to get an entire bag of laundry done for $15. Ask your cabin attendant to see if you're eligible.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

We found a variety of three-prong 110-volt North American grounded outlets and 220-volt European outlets throughout the ship. In our cabin, both of these outlets were available at the desk. The nightstands on each side of the bed were also powered, offering a three-prong North American outlet, a USB-A outlet and a USB-C outlet.

Carnival allows passengers to bring and use power strips, multiplug box outlets and extension cords, although surge protectors aren't allowed.

Related: Packing for a cruise? These items aren't allowed on board

The currency on board Carnival Glory is the dollar. The cruise ship mostly operates on a cashless basis, and you will use your cruise card to pay for purchases on board. Your final onboard bill will be charged to the credit card (or against the cash deposit) you gave when you checked in for your sailing.

Drinking age

The minimum drinking age on Carnival ships departing the U.S. is 21.

The ship does not have a daytime dress code, although you'll need to meet minimum dress code guidelines for some evening dining options. In particular, you'll usually need to follow one of these two dress codes to dine at the steakhouse or the main dining room:

Cruise causal : On cruise casual evenings, you should wear longer dress shorts, pants (including jeans), collared polo shirts, sundresses, skirts, blouses and capri pants. You should avoid sleeveless shirts (women can wear sleeveless blouses and dresses), cutoff jeans, T-shirts and gym shorts.
Cruise elegant : On cruise elegant evenings, you should wear suits, dress slacks, sports coats, dress shirts, cocktail dresses, pantsuits, elegant skirts and blouses.

Consider bringing comfortable clothing for the rest of the day, a swimsuit for the pool and a cover-up to wear indoors.

Related: What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

Bottom line

Carnival Glory isn't the newest or biggest ship, but I enjoyed the dining options, had fun at the comedy club, played on the waterslides, got in a few rounds of miniature golf and generally had an enjoyable time. Most guests who didn't spend much of their cruise working remotely like I did didn't seem bored, even on a 14-night sailing.

The upcoming itineraries on Carnival Glory are much shorter three- and four-night cruises, so you'll need to pick and choose which activities and restaurants are right for you. I highly recommend trying my favorite dining options — the main dining room, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina — early in your cruise, so you learn quickly whether you want to go back or try a new venue. Do a walk around the ship within the first 24 hours, focusing on decks 3, 4, 5, 9 and 10, to get the lay of the land and determine where you want to spend your limited time on board.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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The Best Bars in Nassau: Top 10 Picks for Cruisers
There are plenty of options near the cruise port if you are looking to unwind and sip on a pretty tropical drink. These are our top picks for the Best Bars in Nassau: 1. The Bearded Clam Sports Bar.
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It's also rated the #1 restaurant in Nassau according to TripAdvisor. Green Parrot. If you want the absolute closest restaurant to the cruise port, this is it. The Green Parrot has been around for years, serving bar food staples like burgers, wings, and quesadillas in a fun atmosphere near the water. Expect to pay a little more — burgers ...
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See my guide to the two best nassau bars for a cruise stopover, Bahama Rock Cafe and Fat Tuesday. Both have the best location and cheapest prices for a cruising tourist.
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Top Nassau Bars & Clubs: See reviews and photos of Bars & Clubs in Nassau, Bahamas on Tripadvisor.
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Nassau Cruise Port Cruise ships arriving in Nassau, Bahamas, will dock at the Prince George Wharf. The cruise port is conveniently close to Bay Street and the downtown district. There are many shops, restaurants, and activities within walking distance of the cruise port.
Best Restaurants for Cruisers to Nassau in 2023
Cruise port guide to top restaurants, cafes, grills and bars in Nassau to enjoy a quick bite or lunch in when on a cruise to the Caribbean, including local cuisine and flavors.
BAHAMIAN COOKIN' RESTAURANT & BAR, Nassau
Bahamian Cookin' Restaurant & Bar, Nassau: See 478 unbiased reviews of Bahamian Cookin' Restaurant & Bar, rated 4.5 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #22 of 337 restaurants in Nassau.
Restaurants near Cruise Port: Restaurants in Nassau
Recommended for Restaurants near Cruise Port because: Aqua at the British Colonial Hilton is located near the Straw Market and is a good starting off point for your day in Nassau. Shannon's expert tip: Order the Aqua Lobster Benedict for breakfast before spending your day at nearby Junkanoo Beach.
10 Best Things To Do In Nassau Cruise Port + Port Guide
Nassau Cruise Port Nassau cruise ship terminal is located in Nassau downtown, within easy walking distance from its main historic landmarks, shops, restaurants, and bars. Cruise ships dock at Prince George Wharf cruise terminal, which consists of three long piers with berthing spaces built to accommodate up to six cruise ships.
About
The Gallery and Wine Bar is an interactive gallery space, located at the Nassau Cruise Port, Bahamas, whose mission is to foster meaningful connections and cultivate a vibrant creative community while seamlessly merging the worlds of art, wine and spirits. GWB offers a diverse collection of artwork, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in ...
Nassau (Bahamas) Cruise Terminal Guide: Review (2023 ...
Everything cruise passengers must know about the cruise terminal in the port of Nassau: what's at the pier and the Festival Place terminal, how to get to town, map, all essential services, and amenities.
Nassau (Bahamas) Cruise Port Guide: Review (2023)
Ultimate guide to Nassau cruise port: where ships dock and the cruise terminal, top things to do, beach-day passes, highlights, activities, landmarks, shore excursions, shopping, dining, basics and more.
Nassau: How to Make the Most of 8 Hours in Port on a Cruise
If you're taking a cruise from anywhere to The Bahamas, there is a good chance that it will make a stop in Nassau. The capital of the country, Nassau has long been known as a destination for sun-seeking tourists, a historical hotspot, and a prominent player in many James Bond movies. These days, it's among the busiest cruise destinations on the planet with literally millions of passengers ...
Nassau cruise port: A guide to your day in the Bahamas
Does your cruise stop in Nassau, Bahamas? Here what you need to know about how to get around, the best attractions to see, and where to shop and dine.
10 Bars in Nassau Bahamas You Need To Visit
Best Bars in Nassau Near the Cruise Port If you are stopping in Nassau for a cruise, you may want to stay within walking distance of the cruise port.
The Best Things to Do in Nassau (Bahamas) on a Cruise Day in Port
This guide reviews the top activities and shore excursions for spending a day in Nassau cruise port.
The Ultimate Nassau Cruise Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Port facilities include the newly remodeled cruise port facilities with shops, bars, restaurants, exhibits, shopping, and a taxi stand. Nassau, Bahamas
My top Food, Bar, and Resort Recommendations in Downtown Nassau
Here is a list of my top restaurants, bars and the newly opened Margaritaville Resort in downtown Nassau, Bahamas and the Nassau Cruise Port!
What to do in Nassau, Bahamas cruise port
What to do in Nassau, Bahamas cruise port Nassau is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, receiving around 3 million cruise passengers per year. Plus, they record for most cruise guests in a single day continues to be broken. On February 27, 2023, for instance, Nassau set a new single-day record with 28,554 cruise ship passengers in port in a single day!
The 5 Closest Beaches to the Nassau Cruise Port (Free to Visit)
About two-thirds of a mile from the cruise ship (roughly a 15-minute walk) sits the closest beach to the cruise ports — Junkanoo. All you have to do to get there is hang a right outside of the port area and follow Bay Street until you pass the Margaritaville Report. We consider Junkanoo Beach to be two parts.
7 Best Beaches in Nassau for Cruisers
Finding the best beach in Nassau is a must when on a Bahamas cruise. Check out the 7 best beaches in Nassau that you should consider on your Bahamas cruise.
Private Port of Nassau Cocktail Crawl
Join us for a private tour of the Port of Nassau! Enjoy a walk around the Port and stop in to Nassau's best bars for delicious cocktail tastings. Book today!
Why Nassau Paradise Island Tourism Is Booming
And when you talk about the walkability from just the cruise Port to Margaritaville to the British Colonial, it's a 10 minute walk on one side to the Hillside House Art Gallery going up to ...
Top Activities on a cruise to Nassau
Top activities to enjoy in Nassau. For those looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach, the British Colonial Hotel and the Junkanoo Beach with its bars/grills are places to go within walking distance of the cruise port in Nassau. If looking for something more active, diving, snorkeling, deep-sea fishing trips, catamaran sails, and dolphin ...
Carnival Cruise Line Updates Onboard Theme Parties
Carnival Cruise Line's Brand Ambassador John Heald has shared the updated list of theme parties across the fleet, giving guests plenty to look forward to for their cruises over the next few months.
Carnival Cruise shares important port news for all passengers
Many of the cruise ports in the Caribbean follow a simple blueprint. Whether you are in Nassau, Cozumel, Costa Maya, Falmouth, or a handful of others, as you get off the ship you are presented ...
Princess Cruises Sails to All Regions of the Caribbean for the First
FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. (August 23, 2024) - Princess Cruises today announced its biggest summer Caribbean cruise season ever for 2026, with two ships—Regal Princess and Caribbean Princess—departing from Ft. Lauderdale/Port Everglades and Port Canaveral respectively. Now available for booking, guests seeking the ultimate summer getaway can choose from over 90 voyages sailing to every region ...
Carnival Glory cruise ship review: What to expect on board
The 2,980 passenger-Carnival Glory is an older yet recently refreshed cruise ship sailing to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Florida. Here's what we loved and what we didn't about this mass-market, fun-loving ship. ... 5 and 9 that range from a poolside tequila bar to a piano bar. Restaurants. During my 14-night cruise, I tried most of ...

The Best Bars in Nassau: Top 10 Picks for Cruisers

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Best Bars in Nassau Near the Cruise Port

1. The Bearded Clam Sports Bar

How to Get To Bearded Clam Sports Bar from the Cruise Port:

What to Drink and Eat:

2. Señor Frogs

How to Get To Señor Frogs from the Cruise Port:

What to Drink and Eat :

3. Tiki Bikini Hut

How to Get There from the Cruise Port:

4. Seagulls Beach Bar

How to Get To Seagulls Beach Bar from the Cruise Port :

5. Pirate Republic Brewing

How to Get to Pirate Republic Brewing from the Cruise Port:

6. Nirvana Beach Bar

How to Get to Nirvana Beach Club from the Cruise Port :

7. The Daiquiri Shack

How to Get to the Daiquiri Shack from the Cruise Port:

8. Sharkeez Tiki Bar

How to Get To Sharkeez Tiki Bar from the Cruise Port :

9. The Love Shack

How to Get To The Love Shack from the Cruise Port :

10. The Green Parrot – Harbour Front

How to Get to Green Parrott from the Cruise Port:

Recap of the Best Bars in Nassau

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Nassau Cruise Port

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Getting Around Nassau

Car and Scooter Rental:

Best Things to Do in Nassau Cruise Port

Best Public Beaches in Nassau

1. Junkanoo Beach

2. Cable Beach

3. Cabbage Beach

4. Saunders Beach

5. Love Beach

6. Jaws Beach

Best Island Beach Escapes in Nassau

7. Pearl Island

8. Blue Lagoon

9. Balmoral Island

10. Royal Beach Club

Best Resorts in Nassau (Day Passes)

11. Atlantis Paradise Island

12. Margaritaville Resort & Waterpark

13. Baha Mar

14. Warwick Paradise Island

15. Riu Palace

16. Breezes Resort & Spa

Exploring Nassau Bahamas

18. The Queen’s Staircase

19. Fort Fincastle

20. Parliament Square

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

21. Pirates of Nassau Museum

22. Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation

23. National Art Gallery of the Bahamas

24. Heritage Museum of the Bahamas

25. Educulture Junkanoo Museaum

Nassau, Bahamas Shore Excursions

26. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

27. Bahamian Food Tour

28. Jeep and Beach Tour

29. Rose Island Swim With Pigs