carnival cruise shore excursion atlantis

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Shore Excursion through Carnival Cruises - Aquaventure

• Caribbean    
• Bahamas    
• New Providence Island    
• Nassau    
• Nassau - Things to Do    
• Aquaventure

The most fabulous resort that I have ever been to. Walking to the Aquaventure park was some... read more

If you're a water person who loves riding fun rides or just laying out amongst the pools and nearby... read more

Shore Excursion through Carnival Cruises

We booked for our family of 4 (almost $500). By the time we got there it was 9:30am and we had to be back on the boat by 2:30pm which sometimes you have to wait 30 minutes for your bus (every half hour) so we left at 1:00pm just to make sure we would be OK. So 3 and a half hours for $500! The place is HUGE with thousands of chairs and tons of pools. The slides are fun but one of the workers told me in the summer you can wait 30-50 minutes to walk up the stairs to do a slide. Since there are only like 7-8 "rides" or slides, you don't get a lot to choose from. I wouldn't do it again. It was fun and I can say I was there but wouldn't pay that kind of money again for a few hours. The food was SO expensive. A candy bar was $2.50 and an ice cream bar was $3.25 so we didn't even order a pop since food on the ship is free. Fun but don't expect a lot.

must be able to climb steps or ride the whole lazy river in order to use slides many pools unable to get to due to steps

Water slides were fun. Park was clean and chairs were plentiful. Food is expensive (no surprise) and just ok. On one of the days we were there, the hot tubs were closed and the water rides, including the lazy river, were shut down for a while because of low water pressure. The park wasn't terribly busy, so no long waits in line.

Went to Atlantis as a shore excursion on the cruise ship we were on. 119 dollars a piece to see the big dig/aquarium, Beach, and aquaventure. My first (and only) water ride was the rapid river. I got on my tube, the guy pushed me-- hard, and went into the first rapid backward. Which of course tipped me over. It was in a tunnel on top of that. I hit my head on the concrete and was literally gasping for air because the current was so swift I couldn't make it up. Mind you this is waist deep water. I am an advid swimmer and not faint at heart. I actually thought this is where I was going to die. A life guard pulled me out, thankfully and walked me to an emergency exit. I was all cut up, I had no skin on my knees and had 16 total cuts/scrapes/wounds from being dragged on the bottom of the concrete river. I was trembling from the experience. The life guard gave me first aid. I hobbled back to hospitality center to get changed because this point I was done, I just wanted to go back to ship. But I kept bleeding, so we tried to go to the nurse, but she wasn't there of course. Eventually another life guard helped me with bandages. I wish the river had some kind of warning or something on it, I also found the push from the guy at the start was unnecessary. I read other reviews that there is some kind of conveyer belt that brings you to a waterside. I'm kinda glad I didn't get to that! While walking (limping and bleeding really) out multiple workers in golf carts asked me if I was ok, but not one offered me a ride to the front. And it was like a mile walk. It seems like Atlantis favors the hotel guests over the cruise ship visitors. If you venture on this ride please be careful and do NOT let your kids on it.

We booked a shore excursion through our cruise line Royal Caribbean to go on a tour of different places in Nassau. This was our final stop to check out the Atlantis Resort, you were not able to go inside unless you actually were staying at the resort so we wandered around the outside grounds and took photos. We ended up by the water were all the boats come in and out, I should say yacht's, they were amazing and so beautiful along with the crystal clear water. If you are wanting to go see this resort go on your own, don't book it through your cruise line as its a waste of money.

The Water Park was a blast for the kids and adults alike. This is the reason I did go back so often. My son must've went down the slide that goes through the shark tank 100 times while we were there. The kids played all day to their hearts content daily. Only once did my son venture away down to the beach, which was equally enjoyable in my opinion. The one thing that could've been better was service. In my past many visits, we used to get service for drinks much easier poolside. The last visit, however, I was disappointed as almost always I had to go stand in a long line to get a cocktail. Overall, the pools and waterpark are a very good experience for the kiddies and adults. Maybe next time I will BMOB. lol. But, I doubt there will be a next time, although the kids would want go back in a heart beat.

Best shore excursions for Bahamas cruises

From lazy lounging on the beach to action-packed water adventures, cruise ship shore excursions in the Bahamas are packed with fun in the sun and sea.

Whether you're looking to get wet, get chill or get stuff, you'll find a way to do it on a shore excursion here. You can swim with pigs and dive with sharks. You can cruise the islands on ATVs or skim across the water on a wide array of vessels. Tours often include time to shop the straw markets, and many also include traditional Bahamian lunches, snacks and/or beverages.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter

The list of Bahamas tours and activities includes options to suit almost everyone. We sorted through the choices to find you the best Bahamas shore excursions. Ready? Let's dive in.

Prices for the same tours can vary across cruise lines and third-party sellers, so tours are listed below by price ranges, using the following shorthand (per adult):

$= $0-50. $$= $51-99. $$$= $100-199. $$$$=$200-499.

Best Nassau, Bahamas shore excursions

Island food and culinary tour

3-3.5 hours, easy, $$.

Bahamas food and beverage excursions are an ideal way to immerse yourself in the culture of the islands. You'll feast on island specialties and favorites such as conch fritters or salad, rock lobster, traditional cornbread-like Johnny cakes and tropical punches laced with rum. Most cruise lines offer food tours that stop at multiple local eateries. There may be walking involved, so be sure to read your cruise line's description.

Blue Lagoon beach break

Varies, easy to moderate, $$-$$$.

Some of the best excursions in Nassau are to Blue Lagoon Island, a privately owned island with a beach, food, water sports and other activities. You can choose the standard beach break option with lunch, beach games and use of water noodles and tubes. Or you can upgrade to a tour that includes snorkeling or swimming with stingrays, dolphins, sharks and even sea lions. Additional activities can be purchased upon arrival on the island.

Scuba diving with sharks

4.5 hours, moderate, $$$-$$$$.

If you are a certified scuba diver and have ever considered diving with sharks, this is your excursion. The shark dives involve one reef dive, followed by a second dive with everyone kneeling in the sand on the bottom as the shark feeder doles out his goodies. You've heard the term "sharknado?" It's a real thing and being in one is an adrenaline rush you'll never forget.

I should warn the shark-timid among you that because Caribbean reef sharks are plentiful in the waters surrounding Nassau and because dive shops have been doing baited shark dives here for years, you may encounter sharks on any dive in Nassau, though at a bit more distance than during the shark feeds. In fact, I've never not seen a shark while diving here.

Paradise Island and Aquaventure Oasis Waterpark

All day, moderate, $$$$.

Excursions that include access to Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas seem to no longer mention the name of the mega-resort that made Paradise Island famous. If you've always wanted to go, excursions labeled Aquaventure are your ticket.

The day pass includes access to miles of beaches, the on-site casino, and the Aquaventure water park featuring 141 acres of slides, swimming areas, river rides, and wave areas. The pass also allows you to dine in the resort's eateries, explore a myriad of shops or even add an aquatic animal experience like a dolphin swim.

You can purchase Atlantis day passes independently, but the advantage of booking your visit as an excursion is that transportation will be included.

Related: A day in Nassau, Bahamas: What to do while your cruise is in port

Best shore excursions in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island

Freeport island tour, beach and shopping

4 hours, easy, $.

Shore excursions that bundle a tour with a beach break and shopping are always a good choice in the Bahamas. You get to see a bit of the island, learn its history, shop for souvenirs and get in some coveted beach time, all with easy transportation. This kind of tour is especially useful if you've never been to Grand Bahama Island. For a small amount of money, you get to scope the place out for your adventures on your next Bahamas cruise.

Pirate's Cove beach, zipline and waterpark

4 hours, moderate, $$$.

If zip lining is your thing, this is a good place to get your fix. The beachside zip line has options for starting at 50 feet up or 30 feet, making it ideal for newbies wanting to try the experience. Since this excursion also includes time at the beach and floating water park, consider it a deal.

Glass bottom boat shark experience

3 hours, easy, $$$.

Want to see Caribbean reef sharks without putting your toes in the water? This excursion takes you on a glass-bottom boat ride to waters where Caribbean reef sharks have been fed. The boat has ample deck space for sunning when you aren't watching the action below the boat. It's a fun way to spend a day out on the water with an opportunity to see these predators and other colorful tropical fish without fear. Typical Bahamian refreshments round out the fun.

Blue hole snorkeling

5 hours, moderate, $$$.

My rule of thumb is to snorkel at every opportunity while in the Bahamas. It's a fun and easy way to take a peek beneath the waves at the colorful sea life found in these waters. When you book a snorkeling excursion in the Bahamas, gear is provided, including snorkeling vests to keep you afloat.

For the best Bahamas snorkeling, choose a blue hole snorkeling excursion. Blue holes are found throughout the Bahamas and are essentially open-topped caverns, so it's like swimming in a fishbowl. Some are landlocked, where they may be filled with either fresh or salt water, and inhabited by a wide range of aquatic life, including crabs, lobsters, octopus and fish. Others are offshore, below the surface of the ocean, creating a mini reef environment to explore.

This excursion involves a lengthy ride, but it's definitely worth it.

Swim with the pigs

1.5 hours, easy, $$$.

Swimming pigs are kind of a big deal in the Bahamas. Animal lovers can enjoy time in shallow water watching (and even feeding) these silly pigs. Most of the cruise line private islands also offer pig swims, but the one in Freeport does not involve a boat ride, which may make it more appealing to some. You'll also get time to hang out on Crystal Beach and buy lunch.

Related: Bahamas cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Best Bahamas shore excursions from cruise line private islands

Snorkeling from shore or by boat

Varies, moderate, $-$$.

Cruise ship private islands make snorkeling easy. Most of the islands will offer snorkeling gear for rent, and you can snorkel right from the beach. (If you, like me, never miss an opportunity to put your face in the water, consider buying your own snorkel gear for future sailings.) Optional boat excursions to primo snorkeling spots are also possible from some islands.

1-1.5 hours, moderate, $-$$.

Kayaking from the cruise line private islands gives you a new perspective of these fun playgrounds. Tours are led by experienced guides who can point out sea life in shallow water while leading you along the shore of the tropical paradise. Beginners are welcome and life jackets are provided.

Stingray City Bahamas

1.5 hours, easy, $$.

While the Stingray City experience has been popular in Grand Cayman for years, it's relatively new to the Bahamas. Stingray City Bahamas is located among the Berry Islands, home to Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay and Norwegian's Great Stirrup Cay. You'll be taken on a short speedboat ride to a shallow sandy spot in a location where stingrays congregate. Your guide will provide fish to feed the rays, which swoop in and suck the fish from your hand. It's a fun outing if you haven't done it before and it doesn't take away too much of your beach time on the island.

Horseback riding by land and sea

1.25 hours, moderate, $$$.

Carnival offers a horseback riding tour from Half Moon Cay that includes a brief venture into the sea with your horse. The minimum age is 10. As the mother of a horse-loving daughter, I can tell you that riding in the ocean was one of her favorite cruise memories ever. No riding experience is required, but you must be able to follow directions and pay attention to your guide for your own safety as well as that of the horses and other riders. One other thing to know: There will be poo, both on land and in the water.

Related: Visiting a cruise line's private island? Don't make these 11 mistakes

Bottom line

Bahamas shore excursions typically focus on activity in the water, but if shopping, food tours or sightseeing are more your thing, you'll find those options as well. The Bahamas is made up of a culturally rich collection of islands that have a reputation for welcoming visitors with arms wide open. From simple beach break excursions to full-day tours, you can easily find something that floats your boat in the Bahamas.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Have Fun. Be Safe

• Health Protocols and Requirements for Sailing

Travel Documentation and Online Check-in

• Travel Documents
• Online Check-In

Getting There

• Cruise Terminal Information and Parking
• Airport and Pier Transportation
• Air Information

Before You Board

• Embarkation Day Check-In

Youth and Family

• Youth Programs (Under 2 and 2-11 years old)
• Teen Programs (12-17 years old)
• Carnival's Seuss at Sea
• Age Policies

Things to Know

Onboard experiences.

• Shore - Excursions
• Spa and Fitness
• Outdoor Fun
• Entertainment and Activities
• For Your Convenience
• Onboard Guidelines and Policies
• Past Guest Recognition Programs

Onboard Celebrations

• The Fun Shops
• Special Occasions
• Wedding Cruises and Vow Renewals

Dining and Beverages

• Dining and Snacking Options
• Dining Rooms
• CHEERS! Beverage Program
• Liquor and Beverage Policy

Onboard Communication

• WI FI Service and Carnivals HUB App
• Staying Connected

Money and Gratuities

• Gratuities (Tips)
• Sail & Sign Onboard Account
• Forms of Payment
• Cruise Cash/Bar/Photo
• Financial Access

Shipboard Health and Safety

• Passenger Bill of Rights
• Guest Screening Policy
• Safety and Security
• Safety Briefing - Muster Station Drill
• General Health Information
• Privacy Notice
• What to Pack
• Cruise Ticket Contract
• Carnival Vacation Protection
• Guests with Disabilities
• Choosing Your Cruise
• Tech Support
• Early Saver Promotion
• Minors / Infants / Pregnancy
• Making changes to your booking
• Carnival EasyPay
• Financing Powered by Uplift
• US Department of State Travel Tips
• And more things to know....

Debarkation - After Your Cruise

• Preparing to Go Home
• Post Cruise Inquiries

Carnival's Shore Excursion Program

Was this answer helpful, answers others found helpful.

• Shore Excursion FAQs
• Shore Excursion ‘Pre-Sail’ Information
• Shore Excursion Best Price Guarantee
• Carnival’s ‘Behind the Fun' Tour
• Fun Aboard, Fun Ashore

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Discover Nassau Town and Atlantis

• Explore the world-renowned Atlantis Resort in Nassau
• Take Insta-worthy photos atop the Queen Victoria Staircase
• Shop Nassau's bustling Straw Market and Bay Street
• Visit the historic Governor's Mansion and iconic Gregory's Arch
• Bask in the beauty of Paradise Island

Paradise Island & Atlantis Shore Excursion

Experience the best of Nassau on this interesting and exciting tour of the island, highlighted by a visit to the world-famous Atlantis Resort.

Your Nassau excursion starts when you meet your guide/driver at the pier and get into your air-conditioned vehicle. One of your stops will be at the historic Fort Fincastle, a small fort shaped like a paddle-wheel steamer. The fort was built to protect Nassau from invaders; luckily it never saw warfare. At the fort, you'll have time to explore, climb the Queen Victoria Staircase, do some light shopping on your own, and take all the photos you want.

After marveling at Fincastle, travel along Bay Street, the heart of Nassau's shopping district, and home to the native Straw Market. Some highlights of this excursion include views of the Government House (official residence of the Governor-General of the Bahamas since 1801), the Governor's Mansion, and Gregory's Arch. This stone arch was named after Governor John Gregory, who served around 1850. When you pass through the arch on Market Street, you'll also cross the line that divides downtown Nassau from the rest of the country.

Following this, you will travel to Paradise Island, an island connected to New Providence by two bridges that cross Nassau Harbour. Hog Island Lighthouse, constructed in 1817, is located at the western tip of the island and can be seen from the cruise port.

The highlight of Paradise Island is without a doubt, the world-famous Atlantis, a magnificent resort with over 3,000 hotel rooms, 20 restaurants, a wide variety of stores, a 123-acre water park, beautiful beaches and the largest casino in the Bahamas. The total cost to construct Atlantis was over $2 billion. Your tour will make a short stop at Atlantis, where you'll have free time to explore the amazing lobby, casino, or the shops. After your free time, you will be taken back to your ship.

Guests wishing to end their tour at Atlantis will need to arrange a taxi back to the ship pier at their own expense. There are many taxis available at Atlantis and the approximate cost of the ride to the ship pier is $5 US/person. It is up to the guest to make sure they are back to their ship before sailing time.

• Ask a Cruise Question

Shore Excursion to Atlantis, not through Carnival?

By steelerfanky , March 4, 2013 in Ask a Cruise Question

Recommended Posts

steelerfanky

Hi everyone,

My girlfriend and I are taking our three teenage daughters on a 5 day Carnival Cruise on April 4. We were thinking of doing an excursion to the Atlantis for the day, but the price through the Carnival web site is crazy! I was wondering if there was a less expensive way to do this?

Also, maybe someone could even recommend a fun beach excursion we could do, not going through the Carnival web site. The prices are really high, and there has got to be a way we can do something fun for not such an exorbitant amount of money!

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

The price is indeed insane. You'll find a range of answers if you post this on the Nassau board in the ports section. Some people have rented rooms at Atlantis and used them for the day for changing and come out ahead of the game financially. You can certainly get there by water taxi.

If you want "cheap" cheap (like me) you'll take the bus to "the bridge" and walk across to Cabbage Beach. Same exact beach as Atlantis and you pay a $2 bus fare. You can then take a taxi back to the boat- the taxis wait right there at Cabbage Beach to take you home. If you want to pay a tiny bit more take a cab both ways and skip the walk. Best to have a plan, though, or you'll be walking around Nassau and going to the world's most oppressive straw market and heading back to the ship.

Thank you so much for your help and advice! I will definitely check out the Nassau board!

CheckersMidwest

We've stayed at the Atlantis twice on land vacations.

Option 1: Book a room at the Comfort Suites across the street. It is usually for 4 people but you can add one. It is the only other hotel that gives it's guests full access to Atlantis for free. You can check in & out at the same time (so you don't have to go back to do it later), they'll give you your wristbands or Comfort Suite ID (sometimes you have to pick up your wristbands at an Atlantis towel hut). Then just walk across the street.

Atlantis sells their own day passes. One includes ALL of Atlantis including the water park section & the other does not. No need for a tour, wander around on your own. Go directly to their website.

As far as a nice beach day, yes you can use the public portion of the beach.

We loved Blue Lagoon Island. Look at best on Bahamas dot com. It is the same as Dolphin Encounters. The price includes your ferry ride to/from the island & takes about 20 minutes. They have a private beach with chairs, hammocks, lunch, coconut bowling, etc. There is an inflatable area and rental snorkel gear. It is a protected area, so the water laps up on shore & very peaceful . Never feels crowded. The ferry stand is at the base of the left toll bridge....on the other side.

Something I always thought was fun, but haven't done yet, is the Segway Tour. It goes along the beach, along paths, around town, etc. Also available on the website above.

Your teens might like Hard Rock café downtown.

I walked across the toll bridge once. I would never do it again & I'm in good shape. The ferry across is cheap but takes awhile. It doesn't pull out until it is full & takes about 30 minutes. I recommend a taxi.

cruiseapril

There are many good ideas here and on the Bahamas Forum.

One year, we just took a taxi over to Atlantis and walked around the Marina Village, in the casino etc. to see what we could of Atlantis.

Then we took a van cab over to the Sheraton at Cable Beach which has nice pools and a good beach. The day pass is $25 pp. Cabbage Beach is very nice, but does not have the amenities that Atlantis and the Sheraton and other day pass hotels have.

• 2 weeks later...

Does anyone know the email address or telephone number of the Comfort Suites in Nassau, or the cost of the room there so that we can use the Atlantis amenities?

Also, what hotels offer day passes in Nassau?

The Sheraton sounds like a great deal and may be the best way for us to go. Any other suggestions?

Just look up Comfort Suites on Google, then choose the location. (Nassau). That's how we booked.

Comfort Suites is the only hotel that lets you use Atlantis.

Sheraton has day passes and has good reviews.

Thanks so much!

Make sure you research about what is included for a day stay or independently purchased tour. Animal encounters are not included in most of these packages nor do you get a discount on them by booking outside of Atlantis (Atlantis will allow you to pre-purchase these under day trips at their website). Now if it's the water slides you are looking forward to doing, going through the cruise cruise line or booking an affiliated room is the only guaranteed way to pre-book "tickets" to the water park. Otherwise you can take a chance that they will not sell out in advance and purchase tickets right in the resort lobby for about $135 per person over 12. Other activities like the daily beach pass or tickets to the aquarium are better purchases (again in the resort lobby) if you stay in port is short or if arriving later than 10 am.

Have you checked out Atlantis' website to make sure that everything that you will be paying for by booking a room or independent excursion there is what you want. That was the first thing we did for our son's (@ the time 11 yo) first cruise when all he could think of doing there was the water slides. After viewing what they had to offer our DS decided that the water slides an hour away from home were more impressive at a quarter of the price of what Atlantis was asking for their purchase in person price. After looking up other attractions and tours available around Nassau (the Bahamas Division of Tourism has a pretty good website and most major attractions there have their own as well) he decided that the animal swim at Blue Lagoon followed by snorkeling there would be more exciting. Wound up booking directly for about half the price of the cruise line and saved about 15% off what the "tour" companies would of charged for the same combination.

Well thank you maryred for all the valuable information! I think we are bagging the idea of the Atlantis and either doing the day pass at the Sheraton or just going to a beach for the day.

Again, thank you!

The Sheraton is on a very nice part of Cable Beach and has 2 big pools.

We went to some of the other beaches and found this one of the best.

As mentioned before- one can get a free taste of Atlantis by just taking a taxi over and going to the casino.

Another option is to pay at Atlantis to see the Digs- the neat aquarium.

Thanks April! Can't wait!!

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Friday at 06:20 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 07:00 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 05:35 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 11:50 AM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 02:48 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

• Enable Accessibility

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Shore Excursion Details

Atlantis aquaventure, nassau, bahamas.

Added to Favourites!

• 6 1/2 hrs Estimate Duration

Aquaventure, Atlantis Paradise Island’s Water Park, is a one-of-a-kind 141 acre waterscape. Aquaventure features over twenty million gallons of water, thrilling high-speed water slides like the Mayan Temple and the 7-story Power Tower, a mile long river ride with rolling rapids, a spectacular kids water-play fort, 20 swimming areas, refreshing pools, and access to the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean! Plus access to view the renowned Atlantis marine habitat, home to more than 50,000 fish representing 250 species and the Caribbean’s largest casino and stroll through Marina Village, a charming and vibrant marketplace featuring 20 retail shops, restaurants, and local entertainment for a distinctly Bahamian vacation experience.

Need to Know:

Note: Complementary lounge chairs and towels will be provided. Some slides and rides require a minimum height of 48 inches. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Participants 3 years of age or younger are free if accompanied by a participating paying parent or guardian at least 18 years of age. There is a considerable amount of walking on this tour, approximately 0.4 mile.

Bring a credit card for food and beverage purchases. The bus to Atlantis takes approximately 25 minutes each way. Guests are required to meet at the place and time stated on their Shore Excursion ticket, as tickets will not be honored directly at the resort.

Check Out the

Activity attributes, excursion type:.

Theme Parks

Activity level:.

• 3 Challenging

The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Behind The Fun Ultimate Tour

Tour happens on the last sea day of your voyage. See additional notes below.

Most Carnival guests are aware that behind the scenes of their cruise vacation there’s a bustle of activity to deliver fun memorable experiences, but few have gotten an up-close look at these inner workings. Experience an array of “back of house” areas that are vital to a ship’s daily operations on our Behind the Fun Ultimate Tour !

Explore beyond the public areas with visits to the ship’s bridge, engine control room, main galley, staff dining areas, storeroom, laundry, and other spaces for a rare insider’s view of many areas typically seen only by the ship’s crew.

The tour is extremely exclusive, offered only once during the cruise on a sea day and is limited to only 16 participants. Led by our onboard Learning & Development Manager accompanied by a member of our security team, you'll get to visit sensitive areas operated at elevated security levels. Tour participants will also be able to meet and interact with shipboard staff while visiting the different areas.

What’s Included:

• Limited edition Behind The Fun baseball cap, identifying guests as Honorary Team members.
• Complimentary commemorative photos.
• Carnival branded goodies.
• Light snacks and pastries.
• Tour happens on the last sea day of your voyage. If there is only one sea day on your voyage, your tour will take place on that day. Please stop by the Carnival Adventures desk to collect your tickets. 
• For security reasons, no cameras, recording devices of any kind or cell phones are permitted on the tour.
• The tour will be visiting a few areas that are accessible only by stairs. Some of the stairs are rather steep. Guests must wear comfortable closed toe shoes or sneakers, no sandals or flip flops.
• No bathing attire or skirts are permitted.
• Minimum age for tour is 8 years. Any guests under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
• The total tour, including check-in process, lasts approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.