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

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The territory of the Bahamas includes 700 islands and 2,000 rocks and cays spread across 100,000 square miles of the North Atlantic Ocean. Technically, it's not part of the Caribbean region . It is, however, a warm-weather destination on the edge of the Caribbean and shares many of its cultural traditions, cuisine and music.

When it comes to oceangoing vacations, the Bahamas can accurately be described as the industry's leading destination, with the capital city of Nassau being cruising's number one port of call. In 2019, the Bahamas hosted 5.43 million cruise visitors, more than any other global cruise port, and it greeted nearly 1 million more travelers than Cozumel, Mexico, the next most-visited port. Indeed, the modern cruise industry's first itineraries in the 1970s focused on three- and four-day Bahamas sailings from Miami .

The archipelago's spectacular natural environment features brilliant blue skies, warm temperatures and exceptionally clear waters. But Nassau, located on 112-mile-long New Providence island, is also a metropolitan center full of modern amenities and impressive African, Caribbean and colonial cultural and historic sites.

Paradise Island, positioned immediately to Nassau's north, has large hotels and all-inclusive resorts that offer day packages for cruise visitors, providing access to premium golf (at the Baha Mar resort ), casino gaming (at Atlantis) as well as restaurants, shops and nightlife.

Not surprisingly, Nassau is a staple port of call for a wide variety of operators. Carnival Cruise Line , Disney Cruise Line , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean all sail here, as does luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises, premium cruise operators Celebrity Cruises and Oceania Cruises and budget operator Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line. All of those lines will call at Nassau in 2021.

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3 things TPG loves about Nassau

• "Sun and fun" activities
• Historic and cultural attractions
• Distinctive cuisine

What we could do without

Nassau is on an island within a vast archipelago. Many products are necessarily imported and that means prices, including meals at restaurants, can be high. Nassau can also feel a bit "touristy" at times, as the Prince George Wharf cruise ship dock can host as many as five large cruise ships at once. On busy days, cruise travelers are ubiquitous around the downtown area.

Related: Which cruise brand is best for you?

Nassau basics

Nassau is extremely popular as a warm-weather getaway destination that's closer to the U.S. Atlantic Coast than most Caribbean basin countries. As a plus, while technically not located in the Caribbean, Nassau and the Bahamas offers the same splendid sunny skies, brilliant blue waters and amazing culture and traditions.

On the small island of New Providence, Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas archipelago. The port is normally a bustling affair, as disembarking guests walk from the pier to Bay Street, parallel to the water, and the downtown shopping area where you'll find tour guides and Jet Ski, beach and watersports excursion operators, taxis for hire, scooter rentals, craft and souvenir shops, and hair braiders.

Nassau's nearby Paradise Island district offers beaches, restaurants and shops as well as the Atlantis megaresort, which is among several properties offering day packages for cruisers in search of a daylong all-inclusive experience. The good news is that, with a little preparation, it will be easy to find the right Nassau activity to fit your personal vacation style.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

Arrival details

Cruise ships visiting Nassau dock at the Prince George Wharf within short walking distance of Bay Street and the downtown district. Passengers who are booked on excursions arranged by the cruise line will find providers staged in areas leading from the dock. Private operators, including those who booked tours with guests separate from the cruise line, will be found beyond the first group.

Time zone: The Bahamas operates on Eastern Standard Time.

Language: English is the official language.

Currency: The Bahamian dollar is equivalent to the U.S. dollar. Both are widely accepted, and generally, it's not necessary to exchange money. If you want to exchange money, you can do so aboard your ship, although you can usually obtain a better rate at a local bank or ATM. Several banks are located on Parliament Street, a short walk from the cruise terminal. Numerous ATMs are also found around downtown.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

How to get around

On foot: Many of Nassau's historic sites and the Bay Street retail district are within walking distance of the cruise ship pier and the downtown area. Bay Street is lined with shops, restaurants and bars, and cruisers so inclined can spend the day strolling the area. Just put on your sneakers, disembark your ship, take a few steps and start exploring. There are also ferries to nearby attractions and it's also possible to rent a car or motor scooter.

By taxi: Taxi operators are staged around the Prince George Wharf area. Taxis are not metered, so always negotiate the fare before entering the vehicle.

By bus: Nassau's public buses are known as jitneys and offer a thrifty and convenient alternative to car rentals or taxis. The jitneys cost around $1.25 per person and stop at popular spots, including Cable Beach (see below).

Related: Disney Cruise Line review — Sailing Disney Wonder

Top sights and shore excursions

Nassau is a surprisingly diverse port. Beach lovers and travelers who enjoy water sports, diving or snorkeling will find a wide variety of excursions and activities to suit their tastes. Nassau is also filled with historic sites and shopping opportunities. Yet visitors are missing out on genuine colonial-era history if they don't also spend time exploring the historic architecture and attractions located steps from the cruise pier. You can book excursions through your cruise line or independently. And, don't forget that the Chase travel portal offers excursions bookable with cash or Ultimate Rewards points.

Here are some favorite pastimes for cruisers visiting Nassau.

Historic sites

Nassau's history is closely tied to the Caribbean pirate era of the 17th and 18th centuries, when the town served as a pirate sanctuary until 1718 when British Governor Woodes Rogers expelled the buccaneers. Today's downtown district offers 20 square blocks featuring architecture and monuments dating to this compelling era, most within walking distance of the cruise pier.

As a result, visitors can take a DIY-approach to exploring Nassau with help from the Bahamas.com website. Or, book a cruise ship excursion highlighting historic forts, Bahamian cuisine, "land and sea" programs, private island experiences and even Junkanoo-style music and dancing.

Historic sites near Prince George Wharf include Parliament Square, which houses the Bahamas' House of Assembly, the Senate Building and Supreme Court in pink pastel colonial buildings. A statue of Queen Victoria erected in the early 1900s also stands at the site.

The Queen's Staircase or "66 Steps" are framed by lush gardens and link downtown Nassau with Fort Fincastle. Ascend to the top of the staircase to reach Fort Fincastle, constructed in the late 1700s atop Bennett's Hill. Sweeping views from the fort's bluffs encompass downtown Nassau, the harbor and the cruise ship dock.

Bahamian culture was also shaped by Africans who arrived in the territory as slaves from Sierra Leone and other West African nations. Other Black people traveled to the Bahamas directly from Africa, Bermuda and Haiti, some enslaved by ex-British loyalists from Georgia and South Carolina, and others as ex-soldiers who won their freedom fighting for the British during the American Revolutionary War.

Several historic sites around Nassau recognize this influence, including Adelaide, Fox Hill and Gambier. These three historic villages were settled by liberated Africans in the 1800s and still maintain their African heritage. Cultural and sightseeing tours to these villages can be arranged. Nassau's Pompey Museum features a permanent exhibit on the African experience in the Bahamas.

Related: 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

Sun and fun: Water sports

Nassau offers a multitude of activities focused around the archipelago's beautiful blue waters and magnificent natural environment. Just about every conceivable water sport is available to Nassau visitors via cruise ship excursion. This includes sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and encounters with sea lions, dolphins, stingrays and pigs (yes, swimming pigs ).

Other cruise ship tours feature glass-bottom and jet boat excursions, catamaran sailings paired with reef snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and exclusive beach days with private cabanas.

While the luxurious Baha Mar resort on Nassau's Cable Beach does not offer day passes, savvy and sybaritic cruisers will reserve a room for the day for access to the property's premium facilities and amenities, including a private beach and beach club, motorized and nonmotorized watersports, a series of pools with shaded lounge chairs, cabanas and waterfall features. You can use 20,000 World of Hyatt points to book a day at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar . Or, spend 10,000 points plus $140. You can start earning points for your next vacation with the World of Hyatt Credit Card.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on a cruise ship

The British Colonial Hilton Nassau is another Nassau resort where you can use points. Spend 50,000 Hilton Honors points for a night's stay (which you'd use as a day room). You can earn points with the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card or Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card. Both cards offer hefty welcome bonuses, 130,000 and 150,000 points, respectively, after you meet the required spend of $2,000 within the first three months of account opening for the Surpass and $4,000 in the first three months of account opening for the Aspire. The information for the Hilton Aspire Amex card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

You can also look for a resort offering day passes .

ResortPass is currently selling day passes to the SLS Baha Mar for $100 per adult and $50 per child or $400 per Bungalow Pool Cabana or Baha Bay Beach Club Cabana that accommodates up to four people. You can also book day passes at the British Colonial Hilton Nassau for $100 per adult and $50 per child or $325 for a beach cabana accommodating up to four people.

Nassau's nearby private islands offer a premium beach experience within a 15- to 20-minute ferry ride. Most cruise lines offer shore excursions to Blue Lagoon Island, but travelers can also book a visit through a travel advisor or on their own online. The excursion tends to be popular and does sell out, so be sure to reserve early in your voyage or before you leave home.

At Blue Lagoon, cruisers can swim in a calm lagoon, enjoy kayaking, water-biking or snorkeling tours, play with water toys like floats and inner tubes, or simply relax in a beach hammock under coconut palms. Blue Lagoon offers a gift shop, changing rooms, restrooms and shower facilities.

Balmoral Island, Pearl Island and Sandy Toes also offer private-island experiences near Nassau.

Cruise travelers whose ships arrive early in Nassau may want to take the approximately one-hour drive to Stuart's Cove, where they can experience snorkeling, diving and swimming with sharks.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

Best beaches in Nassau

There's no shortage of great beaches in and around Nassau. In addition to the nearby private-island beach experiences, there are several local beaches within walking or short driving distance.

Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is approximately a 15-minute walk from the cruise port, offering travelers an inexpensive and convenient way to enjoy some sun and fun. You can normally see your cruise ship from the nearby beach, and vendors selling buckets of ice-cold Kalik and Sands beer (the local favorites) can be found lining the beach. Don't forget to bring your towel; chairs are available for rent chairs from vendors. Some will package a bucket of beer with chairs and an umbrella.

Cabbage Beach

Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island is a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride away from Nassau just over the bridge that spans the islands. While beautiful. the beach's waters can be rough at times and the beach itself does not offer many amenities. However, locals parade up and down the beach offering chairs for rent and beverages sale. A long walk down the beach will bring visitors to Atlantis, where they can pose for their prerequisite Instagram shot.

Related: 7 tips for visiting Atlantis on a budget

Cable Beach

Cable Beach is about a 20-minute drive from Prince George's Wharf and is accessible via taxi. A cheaper alternative is the No. 10 bus, which charges around $1.25 per person. The 2.5-mile-long beach is often described as Nassau's best, but it's one of hundreds across the Bahamas distinguished by bleach-white sands and remarkably clear blue waters. Cable Beach is home to several top Nassau resorts and offers a full array of watersports activities.

Other top Nassau beaches

Montague Beach is situated east of the Paradise Island Bridge and is home to a historic fort constructed in the 18th century. The beach promenade is a popular hangout on weekends and public holidays, with local vendors offering delicious local food and drinks. The beach is also a preferred spot for wading and picnicking.

Delaporte Beach is west of Cable Beach near the former plantation village of Delaporte. East of Nassau lies Saunders Beach, also popular with visitors and locals, and known for its beautiful twilight views.

The beach at Goodman's Bay features recreational facilities for children and is popular among joggers and exercise enthusiasts. Sandyport Beach is connected by a small bridge to the Venice-like resort Sandyport development near Cable Beach.

Related: The TPG guide to travel insurance for cruises

Where to eat and drink

True to its Caribbean traditions, the Bahamas' indigenous cuisine combines flavorful spices with fresh tropical fruit and seafood. Whether found at a lively outdoor market or gourmet restaurant, Bahamian gastronomy is filled with island flavor.

Local favorites

Conch fritters: A Bahamian delicacy (and fortunately bountiful in local waters), the queen conch forms the basis of the territory's undisputed favorite dish. Conch fritters are bite-sized flakes of conch meat fried in batter seasoned with goat pepper, hot sauce and sea salt, plus common Bahamian vegetables.

Peas and rice: Referred to locally as "peas n' rice," this traditional Caribbean dish, prepared in local Bahamian fashion, features deep brown pigeon peas and white long-grain rice seasoned with tomatoes, onions, thyme, tomato paste, goat pepper and salted pork or bacon. The ingredients combine to provide the rice its signature brown coloring.

Johnny cake: Made of flour, milk, butter, sugar and baking powder, this breakfast food is more bread than cake, with a texture that combines dense bread with a slightly sweet cake. As with other staple dishes, Johnny cakes are found around the Caribbean, with the Bahamas version traditionally baked in a large round pan until lightly browned then sliced and served in wedges.

There are a handful of Nassau food experiences visitors should definitely target during their day in port, from the casual to the exclusive. They include:

Potter's Cay conch shacks

The Potter's Cay conch shacks can be found beneath the high-arching bridge that connects Nassau to Paradise Island. Adjacent to lively fruit markets, the brightly colored conch shacks feature nearly 40 chefs in different shacks cooking fresh conch dishes in myriad ways.

Besides being a great place to sample an authentic Bahamian lunch featuring the freshest conch fritters and local dishes, the Potter's Cay shacks are a great place to interact with locals, other visitors and the chefs themselves as they chat about the day's catch and argue over a game of dominoes.

Check first with a local or with a frequent Bahamas visitor (like a travel advisor) to determine which stall is the best for the day. With 25 years in the same location, McKenzie, a former conch fisherman turned restaurateur, is a local celebrity among Potter Cay purveyors, with a shack positioned as the first on the bridge's west end.

Graycliff Hotel and Restaurant

About a 15-minute walk or a brief taxi ride from the cruise port, Graycliff Hotel is in a historic mansion whose extensive grounds were once an 18th-century pirate's headquarters. A visitor can spend an entire day exploring the property, which features one of the world's largest private collections, chocolate-making and cigar-rolling facilities, art galleries and craft shops.

The highlight, however, may be the hotel's five-star restaurant, an elegant eatery with a menu combining continental and Bahamian traditions. The sumptuous restaurant features four air-conditioned dining rooms and a garden dining area, with each room decorated to reflect the Graycliff's origins as a private home.

In keeping with its atmosphere, the dress code is strictly enforced at Graycliff Restaurant with required lunch attire described as "elegant casual."

Related: Are drinks packages on cruise ships worth it? A line-by-line guide

Where to shop

When you're shopping in the Bahamas, look for souvenirs like:

• Original paintings, carvings and craftwork
• Handmade garments in bright tropical colors
• Wood carvings

Nassau's Bay Street retail district is steps of the cruise ship dock, but there are a few hidden shopping spots just a short taxi ride away.

Virtually adjacent to the cruise port is Festival Place, an outdoor bazaar featuring 45 vendors selling crafts, food and drinks. It's ideal for folks seeking last-minute souvenirs and gifts just before they depart aboard their ship and for arriving passengers in search of shopping close to the port.

Once an open-air affair, Nassau's long-running Straw Market is located in the center of the retail action on Bay Street and also offers Bahamian gifts, crafts and souvenirs. Bay Street also features a proliferation of high-end, designer stores selling luxury goods including apparel, jewelry, cosmetics and fragrances.

It's also possible to take a taxi to reach Nassau's best-kept secrets when it comes to hand-crafted, original art and crafts, plus apparel and home goods:

Bahama Hand Prints

Established in 1966 by artists Helen Astarita and Berta Sands, Bahama Hand Prints (near the corner of Ernest Street and Okra Hill) offers "bold and brilliant" designs across a wide range of garments, accessories and home furnishings. Many of the colorful and contemporary objects still use the duo's original designs.

Alannah and David van Onselen, who purchased the company in 2018, have retained Helen and Berta's signature style and the shop's collection of vintage designs, while new print designs have been added to the catalog. All products are developed in-house, crafted by the shop's talented sewing team and visitors are encouraged to drop in at the factory, speak with the staff and watch the printers at work.

Craft Cottage Bahamas

Craft Cottage Bahamas is the premier showcase for locally made home décor, glassware, jewelry, soaps, clothing and artwork in Nassau. On the grounds of the Doongalik Studios & Art Gallery in Eastern Nassau, the charming shop and gallery features a diverse and eclectic array of Bahamian-inspired items and emphasizes traditional crafting techniques.

The facility is housed in a traditional Bahamian-style home that shares the grounds with a variety of local Bahamian artists who also use the property to work on their own art and products. The shop offers an extensive and impressive array of handcrafted jewelry, painted glass, straw bags and accessories including homemade soaps and bath products.

Related: 12 giant ships that are packed with fun features

Bottom line

While Nassau sometimes gets a bad rap as a "touristy" port of call and is often inundated by cruise travelers, the Bahamas' capital city is actually a diverse port with an impressive array of historic attractions, a variety of beach experiences, distinctive cuisine and extensive shopping opportunities. Nassau's Caribbean flavor, warm temperatures and beautiful natural environment have made the port a staple on cruise itineraries.

• Port Of Call »

Cruise Ports in the Bahamas

Discover the idyllic beauty of the Bahamas as you visit its enchanting cruise ports. From the pristine white sands of Nassau to the crystal-clear waters of Great Stirrup Cay, this tropical paradise offers relaxation, water sports, and a vibrant Bahamian culture.

Whenever you say the word “Bahamas,” it conjures visions of lush, tropical forests, pristine sand beaches, and turquoise waters. And all of those descriptions are true!

Ranked as one of the best vacation destinations in the world, the islands of the Bahamas (700 in total) have amazing weather and intriguing pirate history.

NASA astronaut Scott Kelly called the Bahamas “the most beautiful place from space.”

When you are firmly grounded in the Bahamas, be sure to visit Freeport for the lure of the sun and sand. Duty-free shopping also awaits in Freeport at the Port Lucaya Marketplace.

Several islands in the Bahamas are used exclusively by cruise lines such as Disney’s Castaway Cay and Royal Caribbeans’ Coco Cay. 

Carnival branded ships including Carnival, Holland America, and Princess visit  Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays .

Many of the various cruise lines stop in Nassau , the capital of the Bahamas, which is home to the very popular Cable Beach. You can also visit the huge aquarium in Nassau, with over 50,000 fish and various marine life. Shopping arcades, water parks, and the largest casino in the Caribbean are also located in Nassau, so you will not run out of things to do.

Before you leave, make sure to partake of the sweet tropical cocktail called the Bahama Mama, consisting of coconut rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, grenadine, and dark rum!

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Nassau, Bahamas: Cruise Port and Terminal Guide

Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, boasts one of the most vibrant cruise ports in the Caribbean. Nestled on the island of New Providence, it is the heart and soul of the Bahamas. The port is conveniently located near downtown Nassau, making it easy for visitors to explore the city and its surrounding areas.

Today, it’s a bustling hub that welcomes over 4 million cruise ship passengers each year, providing them with a glimpse into the rich Bahamian culture. From its historic structures like Fort Fincastle and Queen’s Staircase to its vibrant Straw Market selling traditional Bahamian crafts, Nassau’s cruise port offers an amalgamation of history and culture that is sure to captivate any visitor.

Transportation options within the port

Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and throughout the city, offering a convenient and flexible way to get around. The fares are fixed with tips around 15%. 

For a more scenic commute, the Nassau Water Taxi is an excellent alternative. It operates from the cruise port to Paradise Island and offers picturesque views of the harbor.

Furthermore, for those who prefer a more independent and exciting mode of transport, bikes and motor scooter rentals are widely available. They provide an adventurous way to navigate the city’s charming streets and coastal roads. However, remember to adhere to local traffic rules while enjoying your ride.

Main attractions and points of interest

One of the must-visit spots is Bay Street, the heart of Nassau’s shopping scene. With a variety of luxury boutiques, high-end retailers, and local artisan stores, it’s a paradise for those who love to shop.

Another iconic shopping experience is the Straw Market, where you can find an array of handcrafted straw goods and other Bahamian souvenirs.

Moving away from shopping, the historic Parliament Square, with its pink Bahamian stone buildings and rich history, offers a glimpse into the country’s colonial past.

Lastly, Fort Charlotte, located near West Bay Street, provides a panoramic view of Nassau and Paradise Island. This 18th-century British colonial era fort is a treasure trove of secret tunnels and dungeons, making it an intriguing stop for history buffs.

Popular activities and excursions

Atlantis Resort, a lavish ocean-themed resort teeming with activities. Here, you can marvel at the aquatic wonders in the world’s largest open-air marine habitat or experience the thrill of the resort’s water park and its iconic Mayan Temple’s Leap of Faith slide.

Another must-do excursion is an Island Tour, where you can immerse yourself in the island’s rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes. You can explore the colonial architecture, local markets, and historic sites of Nassau, experiencing the unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.

Finally, for those seeking a serene getaway, the tranquil Blue Lagoon Long Island Beach offers crystal-clear waters and pristine sands. This peaceful oasis is perfect for lounging, swimming, and soaking up the Bahamian sun.

Nearby beaches

Junkanoo Beach: Just a ten-minute walk from the cruise port, Junkanoo Beach is a popular choice for those who want to soak up the sun without straying too far. Named after the famous Bahamian festival, this beach is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, thanks to its crystal-clear waters. It’s also lined with food and drink vendors, so you won’t have to go far for refreshments.

Cabbage Beach: Located on Paradise Island, Cabbage Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand and turquoise waters that’s perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Although slightly further away, it’s worth the short taxi or ferry ride for its postcard-worthy views. Be aware that the currents can be strong here, so it might not be ideal for weak swimmers.

Cable Beach: Just a few miles west of downtown Nassau, Cable Beach is known for its golden sands and calm, clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming and paddleboarding and is lined with resorts, restaurants, and bars. There are also plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent.

Saunders Beach: A local favorite, Saunders Beach is a quieter, less crowded option compared to some of the other beaches near the cruise port. It’s great for picnics and family outings thanks to its ample shade. Plus, the shallow, calm waters make it ideal for kids.

Love Beach: A bit further out from the cruise port, Love Beach is part of the New Providence Island’s National Park. This secluded beach is a snorkeling paradise thanks to its offshore coral reef teeming with marine life. It’s a bit further away from the cruise port, but its natural beauty makes it worth the trip.

Local cuisine specialties

Conch: This is a popular seafood dish in the Bahamas. It’s a type of mollusk that can be prepared in various ways, such as raw in salads, in soups, stews, or deep-fried as fritters.

Bahamian Stew Fish: A flavorful stew made with fish (typically grouper), celery, onions, tomatoes, and various spices. The fish is first lightly fried before being simmered in a richly seasoned broth.

Rock Lobsters: Also known as spiny lobsters, these are a delicious local delicacy. They’re typically grilled or broiled and served with drawn butter.

Johnnycakes: These are dense, slightly sweet cornbread cakes that are often served as a side dish. They’re perfect for mopping up the delicious sauces of Bahamian dishes.

Peas n’ Rice: A staple in Bahamian cuisine, this dish consists of pigeon peas, rice, tomatoes, celery, and thyme. It’s often served as a side dish with fish or meat.

Guava Duff: This is a dessert that’s not to be missed. It’s a fluffy dough filled with sweet guava paste, then boiled or steamed and served with a rum sauce.

The local currency in Nassau, Bahamas is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD). It’s pegged to the US dollar on a one-to-one basis, which means that 1 BSD equals 1 USD. This makes it simple for visitors to understand the value of items and services in the country.

As for the acceptance of US Dollars, they are widely accepted throughout Nassau and the rest of the Bahamas. You can use USD for everything from restaurants and shops to taxis and tours. So, if you’re traveling from the United States, you won’t need to exchange your money before or during your visit.

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Q: What is Nassau, Bahamas?

A: Nassau is the capital city of the Bahamas and one of the most popular cruise destinations in the Caribbean. It is located on the island of New Providence and offers a mix of beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant culture.

Q: What is a cruise port?

A: A cruise port is a designated area where cruise ships dock to allow passengers to disembark and explore the surrounding area. In Nassau, the cruise port is located at Prince George Wharf.

Q: How far is Nassau cruise port from the city center?

A: The Nassau cruise port is conveniently located within walking distance of the city center. It takes about 10-15 minutes to walk from the port to downtown Nassau.

Q: What are some popular things to do in Nassau?

A: Some popular things to do in Nassau include visiting the stunning beaches, exploring historical sites like the Pirates of Nassau Museum, enjoying water sports activities, and indulging in shopping and dining experiences.

Q: Can I spend the day in Nassau if I’m on a cruise?

A: Yes, many cruise lines include Nassau as a port of call and offer shore excursions and activities for cruise passengers to enjoy during their day in Nassau.

Q: Are there any beaches in Nassau?

A: Yes, Nassau is known for its beautiful beaches. Some popular beaches in Nassau include Cable Beach, Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island, and Junkanoo Beach.

Q: What is a cruise terminal?

A: A cruise terminal is a facility within a cruise port that serves as the arrival and departure point for cruise passengers. It typically includes customs and immigration services, luggage handling, and passenger amenities.

Q: Is there a cruise terminal in Nassau?

A: Yes, Nassau has a cruise terminal located at Prince George Wharf. It is equipped to handle a large number of cruise passengers and provides various services and facilities.

Q: Can I use a day pass to access amenities in Nassau?

A: Yes, many resorts and beach clubs in Nassau offer day passes that allow cruise passengers to access their amenities, including pools, beaches, and restaurants. The Royal Beach Club and Margaritaville Beach Resort are popular options.

Q: Which cruise lines visit Nassau?

A: Nassau is a popular port of call for various cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and many others. It is a frequent stop on Caribbean cruise itineraries.

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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 visiting each year. So if you have an upcoming stop in Nassau, then know you aren’t alone.

To help you make the most of your time in port, we’ve put together tons of information on what to expect, the lay of the land, and more to ensure you have a great stay in this tropical stop.

Getting to Know Nassau

Sitting just 180 miles from Miami, Nassau is a city sitting on the eastern half of a larger island called New Providence. This island is roughly 18 miles wide by 7 miles, and home to about 300,000 residents. That figure can grow by 20,000 or more people when ships call on the island.

Across a narrow channel from New Providence sits Paradise Island, which is easily recognizable by the large Atlantis resort. This spot is also where the well-heeled have houses, including a number of famous celebrities.

Cruise ships dock in downtown Nassau. When in port — especially when multiple ships are docked — it’s a busy and bustling area with a lot of activity. So while The Bahamas is known for its laid-back vibe and atmosphere, don’t be surprised if it seems anything but that when you arrive.

In this part of the world, it stays pleasantly warm year-round, even compared to spots like Miami or Fort Lauderdale, which can get cooler in the winter. Winter highs average around 80 degrees while summer temperatures regularly reach the low 90s. As you might guess, humidity gets heavy, especially in the summers when it can rain considerably with passing afternoon showers. Winter is noticeably drier.

As you might guess with so many visitors, Nassau has built a major industry around tourism with everything from small shops selling souvenirs to large mega-resorts like Atlantis and Baha Mar that cater to the well-to-do.

Port Area for Passengers

Recently Nassau completely renovated the port area to the tune of several hundreds of millions of dollars. Not only are the piers and walkways completely renovated, but there was also a large welcome area constructed.

Now, anything a cruise passenger might want to start their day is here. There are small shops selling everything from souvenirs to snacks to shore excursions. There is also a museum of Bahamian culture, a taxi stand, restrooms, and an amphitheater.

Outside the port gates are a number of spots that cater to cruisers, all within a short walk from the ships. Cross Woodes Rodgers Walk (the street running alongside the port) and you’ll find souvenirs, restaurants, all sorts of shops selling everything from jewelry to cigars to restaurants, and much more. This includes the famous Straw Market, a spot with lots of vendors selling anything you can imagine with “Bahamas” written on it.

To be sure, the port area is definitely touristy. If shops and bars interest you, then by all means take it all in. If not, then head away from the ships on your own or on an excursion and you’ll see things calm down quickly.

Getting Around Nassau From the Port

What’s the best way to get around Nassau? If you have an excursion booked, then you don’t have to worry about transportation — it will be taken care of with the tour.

If not, then you have a few options. First, Nassau is walkable assuming you are in decent shape . It definitely does not have the even surfaces and accessible sidewalks you might be used to back home. If you have mobility issues, it’s better to take a taxi. Still, if you want to simply take a walking tour, there are a number things to see and do around the city within walking distance.

Taxis are also readily available . In fact, you’ll find a taxi stand in the port area that can get you set up. Cabs can take you anywhere you want to go, including the popular Paradise Island. If you decide to travel to a place that’s a bit out of the way, keep in mind that it might be harder to find a taxi back.

Want a real adventure? If you’re headed across the channel to Paradise Island or Atlantis, then there is a ferry you can ride for $7 each way . It’s rustic and open-air, with a guide that will point out some sights along the way. The ride takes about 10-15 minutes but will also give you some great views of the ship.

Finally, one option is to rent a vehicle . Leave the port and you’ll find a number of vendors offering scooters or golf carts for rent. To be honest, we can’t share many details about this option as riding through an unfamiliar place in traffic never appealed to us. If you do rent, be sure to remember that they drive on the left side of the street in The Bahamas.

How to Make the Most of a Port Stop

When you only have a limited amount of time in a port like Nassau during your cruise, the big question is how do you make the most of it. Having visited several times, our advice is to do one of the following during your day:

Book a Shore Excursion: We think Nassau is one of the best ports to book a shore excursion during your visit. The port can be a bit hectic and frankly, there isn’t a lot to do right at the port unless you like souvenir shopping and touristy shops/bars.

With excursions you can get out of the city a little bit, and it’s much easier than planning yourself. Much of what you can do revolves around hitting the beaches in the area, usually with a boat ride over to the spot and lunch. There are beach days, snorkeling tours, swimming with pigs, and more.

You can also opt for more or less adventure if you want. Cruise lines offer excursions on jet boats and scuba diving, along with cooking classes and walking tours.

Check with your cruise line for the specific excursions available. But with limited time in port and the fact that many of the more “beachy” sites are some distance from the port, these tours make a lot of sense.

Explore Downtown: Don’t want to spend the money for an excursion? There are still things to do and see on your own. Since the cruise port is at the foot of downtown, you can walk off the ship and reach some neat spots to explore all within walking distance.

We have a full list of free or inexpensive things to see here and almost all of them are within a short walk from the ship. A few of the highlights include:

Junkanoo Beach: The closest beach to the cruise port is Junkanoo Beach , sitting just west of where the ships dock. One half is fairly busy with beach bars and loungers while the other half is more relaxed with just a few shady trees. You also have a great view of the ships from here.

Queen’s Staircase: A famous landmark in Nassau, this staircase was carved out of rock in the 1700s by slave labor. Today, it’s a popular (and free) tourist spot to visit. The carve-out created essentially a canyon in the middle of Nassau with a canopy of trees growing over the top.

National Art Gallery of The Bahamas: Open Tuesday through Sunday, the National Art Gallery is a spot that many tourists don’t know about but is worth a stop. Housed in an 1860s restored home, the manicured grounds feature outside sculptures with galleries indoors. Every turn in this spot uncovers something neat to see.

Paradise Island: One of the most visited areas has to be Paradise Island. This is the small island across the channel from Nassau and home to the Atlantis mega resort. You can get there by taxi or a ferry ride. ( For details on where to catch the ferry, see our article here .)

Once on the island, you can head to Atlantis. It’s a resort/hotel with a waterpark, casino, restaurants, shops, and more. Consider it like a Las Vegas hotel in the middle of The Bahamas. Many people visit just to see the sights or play a little in the casino. Just know that some areas are for guests only. As well, if you want to visit the waterpark, it comes with a hefty price tag (tickets can be booked directly before you arrive or often through your cruise line’s shore excursion desk).

On Paradise Island you can also head to Cabbage Beach, which is arguably the best beach in the area (and one of the busiest). We have directions on visiting Cabbage Beach here .

Looking for something else to do during your port stop? We have a list of 30 things to do in Nassau here .

Tips/Things to Know About Visiting on a Cruise

We’ve mentioned a number of these tips and things you should know but to make them clear, here are a few things to keep in mind during your day in Nassau.

The Closest Beach is Junkanoo Beach If you want a beach (and don’t want to book an excursion) then the closest one is Junkanoo Beach, just about a half-mile away. To get there, just hang a right outside the cruise port and keep walking around a couple of mega hotels. It sits on the other side of the Margaritaville resort.

Excursions Are Ideal in Nassau Yes, you can definitely head out on your own and have fun, but Nassau is one spot where we’d recommend an excursion. The reason is that many of the most attractive things to do involve getting out of the port area and often to more hidden away spots that otherwise aren’t easily accessible for tourists. An excursion makes it simple to leave the ship, have fun you couldn’t do otherwise, and then get back to the ship.

The Nicest Beach Is Cabbage Beach If you’re headed out on an excursion to a beach, you can rest assured you’ll visit somewhere nice. If you’re trying to plan a beach day on your own, then we’d suggest Cabbage Beach. It’s a wide spot that stretches for more than a mile, has golden sand and crystal clear water. It can get crowded with lots of tourists and vendors, but if you want fewer people, then just walk down the beach some to find your own spot.

Be Careful With Shady Jet Ski Rentals If you hit Cabbage Beach, you might be asked about jet ski rentals from young men walking up and down the sand. We’d suggest being careful and avoiding these as they aren’t always regulated. We’ve personally been on the beach when a woman who rented a ride accused the vendor of sexual assault. If you want to ride a jet ski, then look for a tour through the cruise line shore excursion desk. These companies have been vetted.

You Can Walk, But Be Prepared for a Harder Time Want to take a walking tour of Nassau? Absolutely you can, and there are a number of things to see close by. Just be prepared that it won’t be like back home. Sidewalks aren’t always smooth (if they exist at all), nor are walk signals at most intersections. As well, keep in mind that cars drive on the left here, so it will come from the opposite side when you cross streets.

Take the Ferry to Paradise Island If you want fast, then take a cab to Paradise Island. There is a taxi stand in the port area where you can get one. But it’s more fun (and rustic) to pay the $7 per person and grab a spot on the open-air ferry that takes you from the cruise dock. It’s a 10-15 minute ride over on the water. It will drop you off a ways from Cabbage Beach and Atlantis, so there will be a walk versus being dropped off at your destination with a cab.

You Won’t Be Alone in Port We’ve mentioned that Nassau is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. There can be up to six ships a day docking, meaning literally tens of thousands of cruise passengers in port. In other words, no matter when you visit, you should expect to have other ships visiting with you and decent crowds in the port area.

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Your Trip to the Bahamas: The Complete Guide

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Nassau: Cruise Ship Port of Call in the Bahamas

Tropical Bahamas are only a short distance from Florida

Vincenzo Grande / EyeEm/Getty Images

Nassau is a city on New Providence Island in the Bahamas archipelago. The Bahamas are often the introductory destination that many vacation travelers experience on their first cruise. Three- or four-day cruises leave from Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, or Port Canaveral and sail the short distance to Nassau or to Freeport in the Bahamas, giving first-time passengers a taste of cruising.

Cruise ships also sail from Charleston to Nassau. Freeport, Nassau, and private islands of the Bahamas like Half Moon Cay or Castaway Cay are the most popular cruise ship destinations. Although the Bahamas have over 700 islands, less than fifty are inhabited.

The Bahamas are only fifty miles from the United States. The 700 islands stretch over 100,000 square miles of sea from the eastern coast of Florida to the northern coast of Cuba and Haiti. The Bahamas derive their name from the Spanish phrase ​ baja mar , which means shallows.

Exploring Nassau

Thousands of cruisers are in Nassau every weekend. Nassau is a perfect combination of British heritage and colonialism along with modern resorts and picturesque beaches . Nassau is located on the island of New Providence, which is about 21 miles long and 7 miles wide. The city is compact and can be explored easily on foot in a few hours. Cruise ships dock at piers on the north side of the island, a 10-minute walk from the center of the city. The modern pier, known as Prince George Wharf, is only one block from famous Bay Street, the main shopping street of Nassau. When your cruise ship docks, you will find plenty of taxis waiting to take you around the island.

When you are in Nassau for the day, you can either take a shore excursion sponsored by the cruise ship, book an excursion on your own, or use the time to explore the city, the island or a beach. Because of the tropical location, many tours are water-related. Boat trips, a tour of Nassau or the island, snorkeling or diving, golf, swimming with dolphins, or exploring on a submarine are all popular tours. Don't forget the food on Arawak Cay . Many cruise passengers buy a day pass to the huge Atlantis Resort on nearby Paradise Island . There is certainly something for everyone.

If you decide to not take an organized shore excursion, stop off at the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism near Rawson Square. They can help give you a really good sense of what to see and do in Nassau. You can't miss it — you will see it when you exit the cruise ship pier. They can provide maps, directions, and other information. If you are exploring the city on foot, it certainly helps to know what you are looking at.

History of Nassau and the Bahamas

Recorded Bahamian history starts with a date familiar to many of us — October 12, 1492. Christopher Columbus made landfall in the New World on an island in the Bahamas that he named San Salvador. Neither Columbus nor the explorers who followed him ever found gold or riches in the islands. European settlers first came to the Bahamas in 1648, but the late 17th century found the Bahamas full of pirates such as Edward Teach (Blackbeard) and Henry Morgan. The British managed to bring the islands under control by hanging many of the pirates, and the Bahamas became a colony of Great Britain in 1728.

The islands are still part of the British Commonwealth of Nations, and British culture and traditions are seen in Nassau. There is a statue of Queen Victoria in front of the Bahamian Parliament, and the Queen's Staircase was built to honor Queen Victoria's 65-year reign. Edward, the Duke of Windsor, who abdicated the throne of England for the woman he loved, was governor of the Bahamas from 1940 to 1945.

Since the Bahamas are so close to the United States, they have played an interesting role in the history of this country. In fact, the Americans captured Nassau and held it for two weeks during the Revolutionary War. The Bahamas also were involved with the United States during two storied eras of our past — gun-running during the Civil War and rum-running during Prohibition.

The relationship between the Bahamas and the United States may not be quite as exciting anymore, but Americans invade the islands each week via cruise ship or airplane bringing welcome tourism dollars into the Bahamian economy.

What to Love About Nassau

Many tourists believe that Nassau is the best of both worlds. It is modern enough to have the tourism infrastructure work well, the economic conditions are better than much of the rest of the Caribbean, and nothing in the city is so "unfamiliar" to make less well-traveled tourists uncomfortable. At the same time, Nassau has just enough of the exotic side to make you realize you're not at home anymore. When you step off the ship and see the police, dressed in their "bobbie" uniforms and directing traffic that is driving on the left, you will immediately realize you've left home. The old colonial sites, the lilt of the British language influence, and the West Indian people and festivals help make Nassau a fascinating destination.

Nassau is stretched along the northern coast of New Providence. The city is compact and easy to leisurely explore on foot. As you stroll the city, absorb the colonial history and allow time to look for bargains in the shops and straw markets. Cruise ships usually offer a shore excursion of Nassau and the famous Ardastra Gardens. This tour usually includes a walk down Bay Street to the Queen's Staircase and a visit to Fort Fincastle and Fort Charlotte before concluding at the Ardastra Gardens.

Outside of Nassau on New Providence Island

New Providence Island is only 21 miles long and 7 miles wide, so it is easy to see in a few hours via bus, car, or moped. Shore excursion tours often combine a tour of Nassau, some sightseeing, and time at the beach. Or pay a visit to the famous Atlantis Resort. If you have spent time in Nassau before, you might want to take an excursion outside the city, which can be booked on your cruise ship or in Nassau.

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All Cruise Ports in the Bahamas

The Bahamas cruise ports are the most active in the Caribbean region because they receive more than 3 million visitors a year.

The Bahamas geographically are in the Atlantic Ocean and not the Caribbean Sea. But eastern Caribbean cruises make the Bahamas a common stop because they are so close to Florida embarkation ports such as Miami.

The islands also attract cruises just to the Bahamas from ports all along the U.S. Atlantic coast that last as briefly as three or four days.

Anyone planning to visit the Bahamas via cruise has plenty of options from which to choose. The Bahamas have more private ports than any other destination in or near the Caribbean—seven in total.

Nassau on New Providence island is the dominant port in the Bahamas. It is followed by Freeport on Grand Bahama island. Cruise lines also visit these private islands:

Quick Travel Tips

Following are brief profiles of the Bahamas cruise ports.

Nassau Cruise Port

Nassau on New Providence island is the capital of the Bahamas .

Cruise visitors will walk right off their ships, through the cruise terminal and into one of the largest tourism districts for tourists in the entire Caribbean region. We could easily spend the entire afternoon there on our visits.

Major hotels and resorts are mostly concentrated at Cable Beach and the more expensive Paradise Island. Paridise is a second small island of 685 acres that is connected to New Providence by two bridges.

Attractions. Besides the tourism district and Cable Beach, major attractions include Blue Lagoon Island, which is 20 minutes away by sailboat and has beaches, snorkeling, diving and swimming with the dolphins.

Nassau golf courses include Cable Beach Resorts Golf Club and South Ocean Golf and Beach Resort. The Nassau Botanical Gardens and Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre will appeal to nature lovers.

Local historical attractions include Fort Charlotte, which is the largest on the islands, and the smaller forts Montagu or Fincastle. The Queen’s Staircase of Sixtysix Steps, right by Fort Fincastle, is a popular tourist attraction that was hand carved out of solid rock. Fincastle and Queen’s Staircase are a 15-minute walk from the tourism district.

Beaches. Cruise visitors will arrive at the Nassau port on the northeastern side of the island near Atlantis. If the cruise line offers any beach excursion, it is likely a visit to the five-mile long Atlantis beach.

The Atlantis towers are visible from the docks. Note the bridge to the east that crosses from New Providence Island to Paradise Island.

Junkanoo Beach, also known as the Western Esplanade, is within walking distance of the cruise docks. This area joins the beaches at Arawak Cay and Long Wharf. Take a right as you walk out of the cruise terminal.

The beaches here are popular with both tourists and locals. It has benches for sitting and viewing the ships that arrive or leave the harbor. Horseback and pony rides also are available.

Shopping and Restaurants. Nassau has plenty of duty-free shopping. Popular shopping destinations include the Straw Markets, which showcase local arts and crafts. They are located a few blocks from the cruise terminals. Visitors just need to turn right outside of the terminal and walk only a few minutes to reach them.

Paradise Island has shops concentrated at Marina Village, Crystal Court (inside Atlantis Royal Towers) and The Craft Centre, which features local artisans.

Bay Street is the dominant shopping area and is lined with many shops, cafes and restaurants. It is easily accessible from the cruise docks and runs parallel to the waterfront. Festival Place shopping is located right by the docks, and Straw Market is nearby on Bay Street.

The Freeport cruise port is on Grand Bahama Island. It is the second most popular cruise destination in the Bahamas after Nassau and Paradise Island.

It is one of the northernmost islands of The Bahamas, the closest to Florida and is known for two areas in particular – the resort center at Freeport and the suburb of Lucaya.

Freeport is the dominant city on Grand Bahama with both its own cruise terminal and the Grand Bahama Island International Airport. Lucaya also has a cruise terminal and is a major hub for cruise ships, shopping, restaurants, hotels and entertainment.

Attractions. Attractions include Lucayan National Park, which has one of the world’s largest underwater cave systems, and Peterson Cay National Park, a protected area a mile offshore with coral reefs and opportunities for picnicking, snorkeling and scuba diving.

Another favorite attraction is Pinder’s Point Lighthouse, the birds and nature trails at Rand Nature Center or the Garden of the Groves, which has more than 10,000 species of plants and animals. Visitors can swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Experience Lagoon.

Shopping. Shoppers will find plenty to browse and buy at the 12-acre Port Lucaya Marketplace or at the International Bazaar, one of the oldest shopping areas in Freeport. It’s a common shore excursion about a 20-minute drive from the cruise terminal.

We spent the afternoon there on a rainy day and found plenty to do, although it isn’t as large as the Nassau district. It also has regular entertainment and can fill several hours of time during a shore excursion visit.

Golfers will be able to use two courses – The Lucayan Golf Course or The Reef Golf Course.

Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay is Disney’s private port and provides activities such as snorkeling, boating, swimming and sunbathing. Amenities include:

Coco Cay Coco Cay, just south of Freeport, is a private island owned by Royal Caribbean. Amenities include: Hiking, parasailing and kayaking Waverunners, the most popular activity Caylana’s Aqua Park, a floating playground Seaside barbecues Snorkeling among sunken wrecks This private island doesn’t have any restaurants or shops, but the private beach offers mixed and frozen drinks. Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian Cruise Line owns Great Stirrup Cay, which is north of Nassau. Amenities include:

Half Moon Cay

Half Moon Cay is farthest south and east of any Bahamas cruise port. Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Lines use it more than other cruise lines. Amenities include:

Princess Cays

Princess Cays is a 40-acre resort owned by Princess Cruises on the island of Eleuthera. The island is 100 miles long and only two miles wide. Amenities include:

Freeport Bahamas Cruise Port Guide

Nassau Bahamas Cruise Port Tips

8 Best Nassau Tourist Attractions

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• Cruise Ports

Freeport Cruise Port (Bahamas) | 10 Best Things To Do In Freeport

Welcome to Freeport cruise port, the Bahamas!

Freeport is the capital of Grand Bahama Island and the second-largest Bahamian port of call after Nassau (New Providence Island). Due to its proximity to the coast of Florida and the port of Miami which lies 110 miles to the west (2.5 hours by boat), Freeport is a popular stop in the Caribbean cruise itineraries. In this article, read about:

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

Visit also our cruise guides to Nassau , San Juan , Falmouth , Key West , Grand Cayman , Perfect Day at CocoCay

Freeport Cruise Port

Cruise ships dock at Freeport Harbour (also referred to as Harbour Village and Lucayan Harbour), a medium-sized cruise port that can accommodate up to 3 cruise vessels at a time.

The Freeport cruise ship terminal is well-developed and safe, with amenities such as a tourist information kiosk, car rental/tour booth, restrooms, souvenir and duty-free shops, restaurants and bars (Señor Frog’s, Fat Tuesday’s, Bucks Sports Bar, etc.).

It is a beautiful area to walk around, filled with multicolored houses, palm trees, food and drink stands, arts and crafts stores, and places to sit and relax. The taxi rank and bus parking (which is usually a shore excursion meeting place unless indicated differently on your tour ticket) are located within the port complex, a short walking distance from your ship.

Besides the well-developed cruise terminal area, there’s not much to see and do around the port itself. Freeport is primarily an industrial area and there is no actual “downtown”.

The hub of tourist activities in Freeport is centered around Port Lucaya Marina and Port Lucaya Marketplace , both located around 16 km/10 miles (a 20-minute drive) from the cruise terminal. Unless you are taking an organized shore excursion, you’ll probably want to spend your day here.

There are plenty of taxis waiting to take you to Port Lucaya and Lucaya Beach , one of the best beaches on Grand Bahama Island, located in Port Lucaya.

The port of Freeport is also famous for its Grand Bahama Shipyard, often used by Bahamas-flagged cruise vessels for ship repairs, maintenance and drydock refurbishment works. You’ll be able to spot the shipyard from your cruise terminal.

Getting Around Freeport Bahamas

• The port area is flat and easy to navigate for people with walking difficulties/wheelchair users.
• Cruise lines DO NOT provide shuttle buses from Freeport Harbour to Port Lucaya. In addition, there is NO official public transportation in Freeport cruise port, so your only option is to either take a taxi or book a shore excursion to one of the nearby attractions.
• Taxis in Freeport are metered and a ride to Port Lucaya can cost you from $5-10 per person each way, depending on the number of people you share a taxi with (taxis are either regular or minivan-style). A taxi ride takes about 20 minutes and the drop-off point is usually Port Lucaya Marketplace. It is advisable to agree on the price with the taxi driver in advance.
• Alternatively, you can rent a car if you feel comfortable exploring on your own. Keep in mind that driving is on the left. Check out Freeport Bahamas rent-a-car deals and prices
• The official language in the Bahamas is English.
• Since Freeport Harbour is in an industrial area, there are no beaches within walking distance of the ship. The nearest beaches and beach resorts are located in Port Lucaya, including Lucaya Beach and Taino Beach .
• There are two most popular shopping areas in Freeport cruise port: Port Lucaya Marketplace (a 20-minute drive from the port), and Freeport cruise terminal area (Delsol, Cariloha, arts and crafts, jewelry, souvenirs…). In some port reviews, you may read about the International Bazaar which is located in downtown Freeport, a 15-minute drive from the cruise terminal. However, this bazaar has been abandoned and is not in use anymore.
• Note: As mentioned above, the major tourist activities are centered in Port Lucaya, so there’s not much to do in the official downtown area. The downtown area is located around 7 km/4.3 miles away from Port Lucaya and its beaches.
• The majority of restaurants in Freeport and generally the Bahamas will automatically add a 15% service charge to your bill. Tipping is at your discretion.
• The official 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 Port Lucaya.
• The high season in Freeport lasts from mid-December to mid-April, with warm and dry weather. The Bahamas lies within the hurricane belt, so hurricanes and heavy rains may occur from June to November.
• Grand Bahama Airport is the only international airport on Grand Bahama Island and is located 9 km/5.6 miles (less than a 15-minute drive) northeast of Freeport cruise port.
• Explore Freeport tours and activities
• Search the best Caribbean cruise deals

10 Best Things to Do in Freeport Cruise Port

1. port lucaya marketplace & marina.

Port Lucaya lies on Grand Bahama Island’s southern coast, a 20-minute drive southeast of Freeport Harbour. Port Lucaya Marketplace is a large, 9.5-acre open-air shopping facility that consists of dozens of colorful little buildings and tents housing clothing, jewelry, liquor, souvenirs, and other types of shops.

Visit a straw market and shop for authentic Bahamian products including arts and crafts, before tasting local specialties in one of the numerous eateries and bars in the area.

Within walking distance, you can visit the Bahamas Maritime Museum and stroll around Port Lucaya Marina dotted with colorful buildings, boats and yachts. Count Basie Square is where you can enjoy some live music and performances. This bustling place is a shopping paradise and one of the highlights of Freeport.

Right across the road from the entrance to the marketplace, you’ll see several large hotel resorts including Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan Resort where you can enjoy a beach day pass with an all-inclusive service.

In case you don’t need an all-day pass which normally includes unlimited food and drinks, you can still enjoy the hotel’s outdoor pool, hot tub, bar and sunbed/umbrellas for a regular charge. The resort overlooks a long, sandy Lucaya Beach , and I enjoyed it so much that I highly recommend it to everyone looking to spend a relaxing beach day.

Check out Port Lucaya tours and activities

2. Freeport Beaches and Resorts

There are no beaches in the industrial area of Freeport Harbour and the nearest beaches are located in Port Lucaya. The beaches boast crystal clear, warm turquoise waters and are mostly nestled on the Grand Bahama’s southern coast. There are also a few beach resorts offering all-inclusive beach day passes. Below is a selection of the main beaches and resorts in Freeport.

Lucaya Beach – A 4-mile long sandy beach runs parallel to the main road in Port Lucaya and is located a 5-minute walk from Port Lucaya Marketplace. This beautiful beach lines waterfront hotel resorts and offers a variety of watersports including paddleboards and jet skis. Make sure you check out the legendary Billy Joe’s Beach Restaurant & Bar, a hotspot for both locals and tourists popular for its delicious conch, beer, and sweeping sea views.

Taino Beach – This popular beach is located a few miles away from Lucaya Beach and ranks among the top-rated beaches in Freeport. It is located a 25-minute drive from Freeport Harbour and features watersports, beach resorts and entertainment parks (Pirate’s Cove Zipline and Water Park, Taino Beach Resort and Clubs, Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience, The Stoned Crab Restaurant, Bernie’s TikiHut, and others).

Fortune Beach – For those of you who seek to escape the hustle and bustle of crowded places, Fortune Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere. Sunbathe and soak up the Caribbean before tasting delicious conch fritters and cocktails in the nearby Banana Bay restaurant. Fortune Beach is located a 30-minute drive from the Freeport Harbour cruise terminal.

Xanadu Beach – It is the closest beach to Freeport Harbour (only a 15-minute drive). The beach is a popular spot for families due to its warm, shallow waters and relaxed vibe.

Barbary Beach – The undeveloped, secluded beach is located a 35-minute drive from the cruise port and is popular for kayaking.

Smith’s Point Beach – Located next to Taino Beach, this beautiful sandy beach features great fish & seafood beach bars and restaurants such as Terry’s Conch Salad Stand, Gullywash Beach Bar & Grill, and Smith’s Point Fish Fry Home.

Mather Beach – Nestled between Smith’s Point Beach and Fortune Beach, this sandy beach has several local spots including Margarita Villa Sand Bar and The Sand Bar. The driving distance from the cruise terminal is 30 minutes.

Paradise Cove Beach – Located a 25-minute drive northwest of Freeport cruise port, Paradise Cove Beach is a gateway to Deadman’s Reef where you can explore the colorful marine world of the Bahamas. Snorkeling, scuba diving and glass bottom boat rides (for those of you who prefer to stay dry) are the popular activities.

Other popular beaches and beach resorts are Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan Resort, Paradise Cove Beach Resort and Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach.

Check out Freeport beach tours and activities

3. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Port Lucaya is a great place for snorkeling and scuba diving , yet the best snorkeling is in the open sea. Hop aboard one of the boats or catamarans, and go for a half-day snorkeling/diving tour that will take you to the best snorkeling and scuba diving locations including Peterson Cay National Park, Paradise Cove, and a few others. S

norkel past beautiful coral reefs and look out for Green Sea Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, and other impressive aquatic wildlife. The best way is to book an organized tour but you can also snorkel on your own from the beach (I did it from Lucaya Beach).

Alternatively, if you don’t want to get wet, you can book one of the boat, catamaran, or glass bottom boat tours that will take you to the open sea where you will be able to spot dolphins, giant sea turtles, stingrays and other wildlife.

In addition, fishing and deep-sea fishing rank among the top-rated attractions. The best place for that activity is the deep North-West Providence Channel where you can catch local fish such as snappers, barracudas, groupers, tunas, and more.

Explore snorkeling, scuba diving and boat tours

4. Unexso Marine Sanctuary

UNEXSO Marine Sanctuary offers the ultimate fun for the entire family! Swim with bottle-nosed dolphins in a 9-acre Dolphin Experience Lagoon , dive with sharks, or shop ’til you drop in their retail store Sun & Sea Outfitters in Port Lucaya Marina. UNEXSO headquarters is located in Port Lucaya Marina, from where the boat trips are organized by the tour operator. Check out more information at https://unexso.com/

5. Rand Nature Center

Rand Nature Center is a must-see for nature enthusiasts and those interested in exploring Grand Bahama Island’s flora and fauna. Set on nearly 100 acres (40 hectares), the nature preserve is home to hundreds of bird species and features a network of trails through the native pine forests.

A visitor center, gift shop and restrooms are available within the complex. Rand Nature Center is located around 12 km/7.5 miles (a 15-minute drive) northeast of Freeport Harbour. Admission is free.

Explore Rand Nature Center tours and activities

6. Garden of the Groves

A beautiful botanical garden is located around 24 km/15 miles (a 30-minute drive) east of the port and was named after Wallace Groves who contributed to the development of Freeport in the second half of the 20th century.

Set on 12 acres (5 hectares), the garden features trails through lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls and sparkling fountains. Its main features are a Labyrinth and a picturesque hilltop chapel offering panoramic views of the coast. Garden Cafe & Bar, children’s playground and shops are available on-site.

Check out Garden of the Groves tours and activities

7. Swim with Pigs

Swimming with pigs is definitely one of the funniest and most unusual things you can do at Freeport cruise port. Head to Crystal Beach in West End village located a 25-30-minute drive northwest of the cruise terminal, and swim with wild pigs that actually live there!

Explore Freeport swimming with pigs tours and activities

8. Lucayan National Park

Nestled on Grand Bahama’s southern coast, approximately 40 km/25 miles (a 35-minute drive) northeast of Freeport Harbour, the 40-acre (16-hectare) Lucayan National Park is home to the largest underwater cave systems in the world with over 6 miles of tunnels.

The park features numerous walking trails through the lush mangrove, pine and palm forests, and is famous for its breathtaking beaches such as a gorgeous Gold Rock Beach .

Check out Lucayan National Park tours and activities

9. Island Sightseeing and Cultural Experiences

If you want to learn about the island’s history, delight in Bahamian specialties and learn local traditions, you can opt for one of the sightseeing, culinary, or cultural tours.

Several other places of interest include the Bahamian Brewery (only a 5-minute drive from the cruise port) where you can learn about the beer-making process and taste local craft beers, and Perfume Factory (less than a 15-minute drive, in downtown Freeport).

You can go for a regular bus tour, or you get your adrenaline pumped up on an ATV, jeep, or horseback ride. You can book the tours via cruise line if offered, online, or with local vendors that you will find in Freeport Harbour and Port Lucaya.

Check out Freeport sightseeing tours and activities

Freeport boasts beautiful golf courses and golf is generally popular in the Bahamas. The most popular golf courses include Fortune Hills Golf & Country Club (a 25-minute drive from the port), Lucayan Golf Course & Country Club (a 20-minute drive), Reef Course & Country Club (a 20-minute drive), and Ruby Golf Course (a 10-minute drive).

Wrapping Up

Whether you decide to explore Port Lucaya, soak up the Bahamian sun at the beach, or go for some adventure activities, make sure you plan your day ahead to maximize your stay in port!

Visit also our cruise port guides to  Cozumel , Costa Maya , 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

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see my  disclaimer  here.

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Nassau Bahamas Cruise Terminal

• Nassau, Bahamas
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Nassau Cruise Terminal In Bahamas & Nassau Cruise Port

Nassau’s impressive harbor offers interesting nautical wonders. Located on the north coast of New Providence Island in the Bahamas, near the capital, the dock extends northward and ships dock very close to Paradise Island.

Cruise Terminal

Three long piers run parallel to the shore and can accommodate up to 8 cruise ships (depending on size). Even the farthest stops are close to downtown Nassau, as the map below shows. However, if cruise passengers have any difficulty walking, the port offers a shuttle service to take them to the terminal, also known as Festival Place.

Schedule by Month

Schedule January, 2023 Nassau Bahamas Cruise Terminal

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Nassau is the largest seaport in the Bahamas and the country’s capital. It is located east of Florida in the United States. It is located in the Bahamas’ capital of Nassau. The city has a population of around 275,000 and an area of around 80 mi2 (207 km2).

Nassau is home to the majority of the cruise ships registered in The Bahamas, this is because The Bahamas is the preferred country for cruise companies that want to register vessels.

Just off the coast (opposite Port Nassau) is the famous Atlantis Paradise Island (a privately-owned resort and residential property). Approximately 40 miles (65 km) to the northwest of Nassau is Berry Islands’ largest island – Great Harbour Cay, and the nearby-located cruise line private islands Coco Cay (RCI-Royal Caribbean, formerly known as Little Stirrup Cay) and Great Stirrup Cay (NCL-Norwegian). Approximately 5 miles (8 km) to the east is Rose Island.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Port Of Nassau

Where do cruise ships port in nassau bahamas.

Located in the center of Nassau is one of the most popular cruise ship destinations in the world, many of the world’s cruise ships call at Prince George Dock. This harbor was dredged between 1966 and 1969 and again in 2009. Before 1966, large ships would anchor outside the harbor’s entrance and transport their passengers to the dock. In December of 2009, it hosted the largest vessel in the world. A remarkable sight and photo opportunity from the Woodes Rogers Walk as the ships approach the Prince George Dock.

How many cruise ports are in Nassau?

Currently operating 6 cruise ports in nassau bahamas

What port does Carnival use in Nassau Bahamas?

all ports present in nassau host carnival cruise ships

The port is responsible for hosting 4 million cruise visitors annually. The Bahamas is the third wealthiest country in the Americas by GDP (USD 9792 billion / USD 26,000 per capita in 2018) its primary industry is tourism. The Bahamas is a British Commonwealth territory that is ruled by the Queen as its head of state. Nassau City is named after William III of England (aka William of Orange, 1650-1702), from the House of Orange-Nassau (European aristocratic dynasty).

Following a two-year hiatus in cruise ship travel, in 2022 Nassau is expected to host over 1100 ships. For 2023, the cruise port had reserved 1260 berths for ships.

The city is composed of modern resorts and colonial heritage, there are numerous historical sites and beautiful beaches, the most popular of which are Junkanoo Beach, Cabbage Beach, and Cable Beach. Nearby are also Saunders Beach, Love Beach, and Jaws Beach.

The most popular boat tours from Nassau to Pearl Island (~8 mi / 13 km), Blue Lagoon Island (7 mi / 11 km) and Balmoral Island (6 mi / 10 km) are day excursions that include transportation, lunch, a segway/walking tour, watersport activities (30-min guided snorkeling tour, seakayaks, paddleboards, trampolines, hammocks, beach chairs, umbrellas, water mats, showers, restrooms), and a boat ride.

Near the cruise terminal are several hotels and resorts , the largest of which are Margaritaville Beach Resort & Waterpark , Warwick Paradise Island Nassau , Breezes Resort & Spa (on Cable Beach, 3 pools), RIU Palace Paradise Island , and Baha Mar Resort & Waterpark.

The largest celebration is Junkanoo – a colorful parade of people dressed in festive costumes that dance to the beat of drums, whistles and cowbells. The holiday is celebrated on January 1st, July 10th and December 26th, beginning early in the morning (1 AM) and ending around 10 AM.

Ferry passengers have regular transportation to and from Nassau, primarily to Paradise Island. Nassau’s primary port is Prince George Wharf, this also serves cruise ships. The Family Islands’ transportation and shipping is primarily by mailboats that are homeported at Potters Cay. The Arawak Port Department is responsible for cargo shipping. A direct ferry to Exuma, Harbour Island and Spanish Wells is available every day.

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Freeport (Grand Bahama) Cruise Port Guide: Review (2023)

Ultimate guide for cruise passengers to Freeport cruise port: where ships dock, top things to do, highlights, shore excursions, and how to explore on your own.

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

The Grand Bahama port in Freeport is known for not having attractions nearby the cruise terminal where cruise ships dock. The cruise terminal has many amenities and excellent services, which many cruise passengers passionately enjoy. But the top things to do and the best attractions in the port of Freeport are between 20 and 40 minutes away.

• Where is Freeport

Where do cruise ships dock

• Cruise terminal

Shuttle bus

• To do and see on a cruise
• Top highlights
• Beaches and day-passes
• Shops and shopping
• Shore excursions (Shorex)
• Explore on your own
• How to get around

Must-know: tourist info, language and currency

• Safety, emergencies, and basics

Freeport is a regularly visited cruise port of call in the Caribbean during the Fall-Winter season, with as many as 400,000 passengers and over 150 cruise ships visits in 2019.

The cruise port terminal has a delightful ambiance, the area is very clean and immaculately kept. On the whole, Freeport is safe but it is advisable to use caution in crowded areas considering that there have been reports of tourists having purses snatched.

The local population is good-natured, polite, helpful, and speak English extremely well. After all, English is the country's official language. For those cruising with families, there is a lot to do. Cruise passengers with disabilities or with walking difficulties will find it relatively simple to wander around in Freeport on their own.

Where is Freeport and the cruise port

Freeport, a major port city with a population of around 26,900, is located in The Bahamas northwest region. The port is on the southwest coast of Grand Bahama Island, 80 miles (129 km) east of the Florida coast, directly across Boyton Beach.

How far is Freeport from highlights

Although the cruise terminal in Freeport has a number of attractions, namely restaurants-grills and shops, the city itself, most highlights and things to do are between 3 and 11 miles from where cruise ships dock.

Ships dock on a medium-sized mixed (ferry and cruise port) with quays for up to 3 cruise ships to moor. The Freeport cruise terminal is on Lucaya Harbor and many times confused with the Port Lucaya Marketplace and with the Port Lucaya Marina (both in downtown Freeport).

Freeport cruise terminal services and amenities

There is nothing to do or see right outside the exit gates of the cruise port. And the city of Freeport is not within walking distance. The cruise terminal is on a large open area with different buildings where cruise travelers will find the following services and amenities:

• Tourist info kiosk
• Beach tours
• Duty-free shopping
• Souvenirs shops
• Drug Stores
• Arts and crafts stores
• Señor Frogs
• Fat Tuesday
• Caribbean Barrel restaurant and bar
• Tropical juices and drinks bars
• Seafood shaks

Although you may read outdated reviews stating that cruise lines provide a shuttle bus to downtown Freeport city, for more than a decade that shuttle buses are not in operation.

Things to do and see in Freeport cruise port

Freeport may not be the best cruise port for passengers that enjoy exploring on foot sites close by where ships dock. But it is a marvelous cruise port if you appreciate botanical gardens, nature parks, and scenic sights.

Freeport is also a very nice cruise port for those that enjoy diving, snorkel, fishing or look forward to just relax on a beach, where there are always many things to do. Cruisers who appreciate sightseeing tours, outdoors and thrilling activities will find quite a few in Freeport. Here are the most interesting things to do in Freeport:

• Swim with pigs. One of the most unusual and unique experiences only available on cruises to Freeport. How: on a shore excursion.
• Dolphin adventures. Shows, encounters, and swimming with Dolphins in Sanctuary Bay, a natural 9-acre lagoon and home to fourteen Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins. How: on a shore excursion.
• Visit National Parks and Botanical Garden. The 3 national parks (Lucayan National Park, Peterson Cay National Park, and Rand Nature Center) are a must-visit in Grande Bahama as is the Garden of the Groves.. How: on a shore excursion.
• Shopping and lunch at the Port Lucaya Marketplace. Ideal for those that enjoy an open-air mall with lots of stores and restaurants. Lucaya Beach is a 5-minute walk away. How: on a shore excursion or on your own.
• Enjoy a day at a pristine beach. There are 8 beaches to choose from (read more below) and a couple of places with beach-day-passes available. How: on a shore excursion or on your own.
• Sightseing tours. For those that like sightseeing, there are tours available on a glass-bottom boat, a semi-submarine, on Segway, and sailing on a catamaran. How: on a shore excursion
• Enjoy adrenaline pumbing activities. For the more adventurous you will find thrilling activities like horseback riding, biking, jeep safaris, and ATV tours. How: on a shore excursion.
• Water sports and activities: Cruise passengers looking forward to watersports can enjoy Kayaking, Jet Ski, Parasailing, and Windsurfing. How: on a shore excursion only. | on a shore excursion or on your own.
• Diving, snorkle and fishing. The crystal clear waters of the Grand Bahama Island are a delight for both certified divers and those that enjoy snorkel. Fishing is another top attraction in Freeport. How: on a shore excursion or on your own.

Top highlights in Freeport cruise port

The following are all the attractions and sites in Grand Bahama for cruise passengers.

• Lucayan National Park. Established in 1982, this 42-acres national park is home to a profuseness of native flora and fauna; and an underwater cave system with over 6 miles of tunnels. Distance from port: around 10 miles (16 km), 40-minute drive. Visiting time: half day. Getting there: on shore excursion. Website: Bahamas National Trust
• Rand Nature Center. Near the heart of downtown Freeport, this 100-acres Nature Center is a well-known birding spot, with numerous foot trails through the native pine forest leading to an arboretum and a freshwater pond. Distance from port: around 8 miles (12 km), 16-minute drive. Visiting time: 2 to 3 hours. Getting there: on shore excursion. Website: Bahamas National Trust
• Peterson Cay National Park. National park occupying a small 1.5 acres island surrounded by coral reefs and sea life. Great site for diving, snorkeling, and relaxing on a secluded beach. Distance from port: around 20 miles (32 km), 40-minute drive. Visiting time: hald-day. Getting there: on shore excursion. Website: Bahamas National Trust
• Garden of the Groves. Botanical garden featuring the flora and fauna of The Bahamas. On a 12-acre site with lush tropical flowers and trees, colorful birds, 4 waterfalls and cascades, and the replica of an 18th-century chapel on a hilltop. Distance from port: around 15 miles (24 km), 30-minute drive. Visiting time: half day. Getting there: on shore excursion. Website: thegardenofthegroves.com
• Port Lucaya Marketplace. Outdoor 12-acre complex with over 60 retail shops, a dozen restaurants, straw vendors, and local artisans. Distance from port: around 10 mile (16 km), 20 minutes drive. Visiting time: 2 to 3 hours. Getting there: on your own by taxi ($15) or shore excursion. Website: portlucaya.com
• Bahamian Brewery. For those that enjoy beer and want to know more about it, the brewery of the local Sands beer houses a tour facility, a retail store, a gift store, and a beer garden. Distance from port: around 3 miles (4.6 km), 10-minutes drive. Visiting time: 2 to 3 hours. Open 9 am to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday. Getting there: on your own by taxi or shore excursion. Admission: US$8 per person Website: bahamianbrewery.com
• Perfume Factory. At the rear of the International Bazaar, a free visit takes you behind the scenes of fragrance production. You will also have the opportunity to mix your own fragrance, bottle it, and name it. Distance from port: around 3 miles (4.6 km), 10-minutes drive. Visiting time: 1 to 2 hours. Open 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm. Getting there: on your own by taxi or shore excursion. Website: perfumefactory.com

Best beaches in Freeport and Grand Bahama Island

The Grand Bahama Island is know for its pristine beaches with crystal clear waters, mostly located on the south coast. Naturally, cruise lines offer excursions to some of these beaches.

Cruise passengers looking to spend time on a free beach on their own will have to get there by taxi, car, or scooter rental as you will not find beaches within walking distance of the cruise port. Here is a list of the best beaches in Freeport ordered by closeness to the cruise port terminal:

• Lucaya Beach. The most famous, popular, and one of the best beaches in Freeport city, it is a 5-minute walk south of the Port Lucaya Marketplace. Distance from port: 10 miles (16 km), 20-minute drive. Features: all major watersports and restaurants.
• William’s Town Beach. Seclude off-track beach. Distance from port: 10 miles (16 km), 20-minute drive. Features: Manta Ray Beach Club. Banana boats, jet skis, and snorkeling.
• Taino Beach. The other famous beach and considered by many cruise passengers ad the best beach in Freeport. It has lots of attractions. Distance from port: 12 miles (19 km), 25-minute drive. Features: Pirate's Cove Zipline and Water Park, restaurants such as The Stoned Crab and Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience.
• Smith’s Point Beach Next to Taino beach. Distance from port: 12 miles (19 km), 25-minute drive. Features: text.
• Paradise Cove beach (Deadman's Reef). Secluded beach west of the port. Distance from port: 14 miles (21 km), 25-minute drive. Features: snorkeling, kayaking, beach bars. Website: deadmansreef.com
• Mather Town Beach. Known for its restaurants and beach bars. Distance from port: 14 miles (21 km), 25-minute drive. Features: Cleveland’s Beach Club restaurant and Margaritavilla Sand Bar.
• Fortune Beach. Quiet and secluded beach. Distance from port: 15.2 miles (24.5 km), 30-minute drive. Features: Banana Bay restaurant.
• Gold Rock Beach. This large beach with many shallow areas belongs to the Lucayan National Park. Be aware that it is at least a 10-minute walk from the parking lot to the beach. Distance from port: 27 miles (43 km), 40-minute drive. Features: picnic tables and benches.

Beach day-passes

Unlike other cruise ports, such as Nassau or Cozumel, where cruise passengers have a great choice of beach day-passes, in Freeport, there are only 3 places offering beach day-passes.

• Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan beach day-pass
• Paradise Cove Beach Club day-pass
• Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach day-pass

These day-passe are offered by the following online services: resortforaday.com , bahamasdaypass.com , resortpass.com and shoreexcursioneer.com . IQCruising is not affiliated with any of these.

Shops and shopping in Freeport

Cruise passengers looking for souvenirs and duty-free shops will find 2 main shopping areas in Freeport.

• Freeport cruise terminal Next to the gangway of your cruise ship, you will find souvenir shops, arts and crafts stores, duty-free liquor, Delsol, Cariloha, and a shop featuring Anto gold and silver designs.
• Port Lucaya Marketplace The best and most recent mall for shopping in Freeport city with famous brands and stores like John Bull, Colombian Emeralds, Harley-Davidson, Nautica, Pandora, Silver Traditions, and House of Rum.
• International Bazar and Straw Market Don't be fooled by outdated port reviews. Once the place for shopping in Freeport city, the International Bazar has been run down and abandoned since at least 2015.

Shore excursions and tours

Obviously, all cruise lines offer many and diverse shore excursions in Freeport, which include the most exciting activities and highlights of Grand Bahama Island. Carnival lists 21 shore excursions . Norwegian Cruise Line has available 15 shore excursions , and Royal Caribbean has 16 excursions available.

There are also excursions offered by the following reputable private online services and local tour operators:

• Shore Trips
• Shore Excursions Group
• Tours by Locals
• Venture Ashore
• Shore Excursioneer
• Bahamas Cruise Excursions

IQCruising does not endorse nor get paid to mention any of these services. IQCruising is just providing the information and you should be aware that you are solely responsible for booking excursions online with these third-party services.

Local tour operators

The following are well-rated local operators in the Grand Bahama Island offering tours for cruise passengers, which can be booked online:

• westendecologytours.com
• westendwatersports.com

How to explore Freeport on your own

As mentioned before, the main things to do in Freeport are not close to the cruise port terminal. But that doesn't mean that you should stay onboard your cruise ship.

What's within walking distance

Cruise passengers that like to explore ports on foot will be disappointed to know that besides the shops, restaurants-grills, and bars in the Freeport cruise terminal, there is absolutely nothing else to see or do within walking distance of the Lucayan Harbor.

How to get around in Freeport

If planning to get around on your own in Freeport, be it to enjoy a free beach or to explore other attractions like the Port Lucaya Marketplace, cruise passengers must-know that there are only 3 available options: travel by taxi, rent a car, or a rent a scooter.

Taxis in the cruise terminal

There is always a good number of taxis available at the cruise terminal and, generally speaking, are reasonably priced. Although most taxis are metered with government official rates, it is always advisable to agree on a price before entering a cab. A taxi ride to Port Lucaya Marketplace should cost around US$30.

Car and scooter rental in the cruise terminal

Renting a car or a scooter might be the best way for those wanting to be independent and travel to more off-track attractions. You can rent a car online with Avis , or walk to the kiosk of Island Jeep and Car Rental in the cruise terminal on arrival day. Celebrity Eco tours also has a shop in the cruise terminal where you can rent a car or a scooter.

Public bus in the cruise terminal

You may have read that there are public buses in the cruise terminal costing US$5 for visitors. Obviously, the locals that work at the terminal use these public buses but cruise travelers should be aware that this public service is not geared for tourists and schedules are not designed for visitors.

Tourist Info

There is a Tourist Information kiosk in the Freeport cruise terminal.

English is the official and widely spoken language in The Bahamas. Many people speak what as been designated as Bahamian English, a specific dialect blending British accent with African influences

The legal tender in The Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar (B$). However, US$ dollars are widely accepted, and generally speaking, you will receive change in US currency. Even so, it is always advisable to double-check when receiving change for any purchase.

Safety, US travel advisory and basics

For comprehensive and updated information about traveling to Grand Bahama see the U.S. Department of State website page evolving advisory.

Covid-19 advise for cruises to Freeport (Grand Bahama)

For updated coronavirus (Covid-19) information and travel advice to Freeport and Grand Bahama visit the website of the U.S. Embassy in The Bahamas . For more Traveler's Health advice to The Bahamas see the CDC Website information page for travelers to The Bahamas .

Freeport basic info at a glance

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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, tour or excursion of Freeport Cruise Port. 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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Freeport (Bahamas, Grand Bahama Island)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-04-29 14:34

Port Freeport cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Freeport, Bahamas, Grand Bahama Island. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Freeport cruise port (Port Lucaya) is located on Grand Bahama Island (Bahamas), approx 50 mi (80 km) from USA Florida's coast (direction East). The nearest US seaport is PortMiami FL . Freeport is the second biggest Bahamian cruise port - after country's capital city Nassau (New Providence Island) .

The city has population around 270,000. It is served by Grand Bahama International Airport and also by domestic ferries with regularly scheduled itineraries to other Bahamian islands. Regular fast ferries connect to USA ( Fort Lauderdale FL ) operated by the Spanish shipping company  Balearia Eurolinias Marítimas SA .

Tourism is The Bahamas' largest industry and main source of income, with around 1 million international visitors annually. Several medium- and large-sized cruise liners call at Freeport weekly. Most hotels on Grand Bahama Island are along the southern coast. The primary tourist shopping area is the International Bazaar located near downtown Freeport. The other major shopping area is Port Lucaya Market Place.

Freeport is a major seaport since the early-1960s. It is also a free trade zone featuring numerous hotels, casinos, restaurants, Port Lucaya‘s beaches, numerous shopping and shore excursion possibilities.

Port Freeport Bahamas

Port Freeport Bahamas is operated via joint venture between Hutchison Ports FHC (Chinese privately owned company) and The Port Group (Grand Bahama's Port Authority).

FHC is one of the world's largest artificial harbours, and also the Caribbean's deepest harbour waterway. Port's entrance channel and turning basin (swinging basin) were dredged to allow vessel draft of 16 m (52 ft).

Businesses at the FHS harbor include daily scheduled ferry and cruise ship visits, roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro ship) facilities (handling containerized and LTL / "less than truckload shipping" cargos), also facilities serving car transhipment, wetdocking (two 900-ft / 274-m berths) and ship repairs.

Port's facilities can accommodate simultaneously 3 cruise vessels and 5 Ro-Ro ships (cargo-passenger ferries). Vessels with max draft 9 m (30 ft) are berthed alongside. Tugboat support and pilot services are also available.

Grand Port is a Carnival Corporation -sponsored cruise terminal in Freeport. The new (exclusive) Carnival Cruise Port project was officially started in May 2022 (origanly the start was planed for 2019) and generated ~1000 construction jobs for building a modern building and a large (2-ship) berth. Labor agreement had ratio 80-20 / Bahamian-foreign workers.

Via joint ventures, Hutchison Port Holdings Ltd/aka Hutchison Ports (a Hong Kong China-based multinational) owns Freeport Container Port (51%) and Grand Bahama Airport (51%), together with Grand Bahama Port Authority.

(Royal Caribbean) Grand Lucayan Resort Bahamas

In March 2019, the joint venture company Holistica Ltd ( RCG-Royal Caribbean Group  and ITM Group / Mumbai India ) signed a letter of intent with The Bahamas government for the purchase of Grand Lucayan Resort (an all-inclusive resort complex) and redevelopment of the cruise port Freeport Harbor. The 2-year, USD 195 million project includes Grand Lucayan Resort's purchase (USD 65 million) plus USD 135 million for development works. The new (RCL-exclusive) cruise port is expected to bring to annually an additional 2 million cruisers to Grand Bahama island. The project includes the construction of a theme park and a new 5-star hotel. Grand Lucayan Resort suffered significant damages during Hurricane Matthew (October 2016) and was forced to close 2/3 of its property.

On June 24, 2019, RCCL and ITM Group established the Miami -headquartered joint venture company "Holistica" specializing in cruise port development projects worldwide. Holistica's first project was the USD 275 million Grand Lucayan Resort in Freeport Bahamas. Developments by Holistica were also planned for Costa Maya (Mexico), Roatan Island (Honduras) and Kumamoto (Kyushu Island, Japan).

On March 2, 2020, Holistica Destinations officially announced the USD 300 million private cruise resort project "Lucaya Property". The investment includes redeveloping and expanding Freeport Cruise Terminal (to be renamed to "Harbour Village") and building a leisure complex with a large hotel (526 rooms), wellness facilities, shopping village, convention center (sized 40,000 ft2 / 3720 m2), theme park (with water slides, outdoor playgrounds, zip-lines).

In late-December 2021, RCG announced that the sale agreement for the resort is canceled but plans to participate in a new bidding process. The Bahamian government is still planning to sell the property but its development is to be independent of the cruise port.

Lucaya Property is approx 9 mi (15 km) west of Harbour Village (Freeport Cruise Terminal). At Harbour Village for tourists will be introduced new shopping and dining venues (bars, restaurants), live entertainment and nightlife programming, beach zones, new shore excursions, new transport infrastructure (serving ferries, buses, passenger vehicles). The Lucaya Property project is planned for completion in 2022-Q4.

Currently, Grand Lucayan is split into two resorts (Grand Lucayan, Lighthouse Pointe), of which only Lighthouse Pointe (as of 2021) is open. The all-inclusive day pass costs US$75 (adults) and US$65 (children) and includes food and beverages (at all restaurants), house wines (served by the glass), local draft beers, bottled beers, some liquors, chairs and umbrellas. To the expenses, tourists must add taxis (US$35 one way) between the cruise port and the resort.

Grand Lucayan's two most popular features are its large infinity pool, the beach, smaller lap pool, Jacuzzi, pool bar (complimentary beverages and food / burgers, wings, seafood, salads, desserts).

(new cruise port) Carnival Grand Bahama

On May 12, 2022, was held the groundbreaking ceremony for Carnival Corporation 's new cruise port destination on Grand Bahama Island. The special event was attended by Christine Duffy (CCL's President), Arnold Donald (Carnival Corporation's CEO), Philip Davis (Bahamas Prime Minister), Chester Cooper (Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister and Tourism Minister), Ginger Moxey (Grand Bahama's Minister), Sarah St. George (Grand Bahama Port Authority's Acting Chairman).

The new "Carnival Grand Bahama" cruise port (planned for opening in 2024-Q4) is being developed on the island's southern coast (121+ hectares / 300+ acres of land at Sharp Rock).

The development project includes the construction of a dedicated Cruise Pier (with capacity to berth two large EXEL-class ships simultaneously), a large white-sand beach, an Excursions Dock (embarkation point for land tours and excursions via buses), a Nature Reserve area, a leisure complex with an interior swimming pool, Bahamian-operated food and beverage venues, retail shops.

Dredging works (for deepening the waterway) were scheduled to start in 2022 (September-October) and to be completed in January 2023.

Grand Bahama Shipyard (Port Lucaya, Freeport)

Freeport Bahamas is also famous with its ship-repair yard often used by Bahamas- flagged cruise vessels for regularly scheduled repairs, maintenance and drydock refurbishment  works. 

Among the shipyard's regular customers are the cruise companies CCL-Carnival , RCI-Royal Caribbean , Princess , NCL-Norwegian , Walt Disney ,   MSC , Oceania , RSSC-Regent .

The drydock facility is owned by the GBSL company (Grand Bahama Shipyard Ltd). Since 2017, Royal Caribbean has joint ownership of Freeport Shipyard (40%) together with Carnival Corporation (60%). The shipyard has three floating dry docks, as well as mechanical and steel workshops (updated in 2016 with new equipment).

• Drydock 1 has LOA length 268 m (880 ft), width 33,5 m (115 ft), max vessel draft 8 m (26 ft), lifting capacity 27,000 tons. Floating dock 1 is served by 2 cranes.
• Drydock 2 has LOA length 300 m (985 ft), width 58,5 m (192 ft), max vessel draft 9 m (30 ft), lifting capacity 82,500 tons. Floating dock 2 is served by 4 cranes.
• Drydock 3 has LOA length 310 m (1017 ft), width 54,5 m (179 ft), max vessel draft 8,5 m (27 ft), lifting capacity 50,000 tons. Floating dock 3 is served by 3 cranes.
• Finger Pier has LOA length 300 m (985 ft), max vessel draft 14 m (42 ft), max water depth 16 m (48 ft) and is served by 1 crane.
• North Beach Wharf has LOA length 300 m (985 ft), max vessel draft 14 m (42 ft), max water depth 20 m (60 ft) and is served by 3 mobile cranes.
• The on-site workshops provide the following services - steel and pipe fabrication, mechanical services (machinery and equipment overhauls), woodworking, electrical services, Clean Rooms (pumps-, valves- and thruster overhauls), separate (dedicated) repair area for cruise ship's lifeboats and tender boats.

In March 207, RCCL-Royal Caribbean signed an agreement with The Bahamas Government to increase its employment of Bahamian citizens. By this agreement, Royal Caribbean also has joint ownership of the Freeport shipyard where major drydock refurbishments and ship maintenance works on many RCCL ships take place.

For 2018, the shipyard reported a record year with a total of 29 cruise vessels scheduled for drydocks (over 2017's 23 ships). Generally, refit works include propulsion system (thrusters, azipods, stabilizers) and technical overhauls, hull treatments and repainting (hull blasting, silicone coatings), staterooms and public areas upgrades. More complex refit projects include adding new onboard facilities (like waterparks, cabin balconies), steel replacement (in areas below waterline), pipe replacements, adding new diesel generator sets, installing cyclo-converters.

The Bahamas' 2021-2022 budget included ~USD 350 million (~EUR 295M) planned investments into Grand Bahama Shipyard. The project included replacing the two damaged drydocks with larger facilities that can handle the world's largest passenger ships. After its completion, Grand Bahama will become the world's largest cruiseship-repair yard.

In October 2023 was announced a USD 600 million expansion project aiming to make the facility the world's largest cruise ship repair yard. The project includes two new floating drydocks which will enable servicing both operational and under-construction cruisers as well as other types of marine vessels. The project includes investments from the world's largest cruise shipowners - Carnival Corporation, and Royal Caribbean Group/RCG. Both China-made floating docks are currently under construction by Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding Heavy Industry Co Ltd/BSIC (a subsidiary of CSSC/China State Shipbuilding Corporation) and are scheduled for deliveries in 2025 and 2026.

In December 2023, it was rumored that RCG was negotiating to purchase the Xanadu Beach Hotel (in Freeport Harbour) with land area of 40-50 acres (16-20  hectares/0,16-0,2 km2). The Xanadu Beach Hotel (1968-built, capacity 215 rooms) in 1972 was purchased by Howard Robard Hughes Jr (1905-1976) and also includes an 80-berth yacht marina.

Freeport cruise terminal

Freeport Bahamas cruise terminal is in Lucaya Harbour - approx 10-min drive distance from downtonw. Port's tourist centre (Port Lucaya Marketplace) is at approx 25-min walking distance from the terminal.

Port Lucaya passenger terminal as facilities offers sheltered waiting areas (for passenger pick-up / drop-off), retail shops, craft market (including locally made merchandise), redesigned / optimized landscaping. The taxi rate to Freeport City from the terminal is around USD 15. Rates for group vans to Port Lucaya’s Bazaar is USD 5 per person.

The official language in The Bahamas is British English. Be aware to look to your left as the driving is on the road left side due to country's British heritage. The currency is Bahamian dollar, but US dollars are also accepted. ATMs can be found at all banks. Currently, around the cruise terminal, there are only a few bungalows and a gazebo where you can listen live music performances by local bands.

(NEW-2022) Royal Caribbean Lucaya Resort

In March 2019, the joint venture company Holistica Ltd ( RCCL-Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd  and ITM Group /  Mumbai India ) signed a letter of intent with The Bahamas government for the purchase of Grand Lucayan Resort (an all-inclusive resort complex) and redevelopment of the cruise port Freeport Harbor. The 2-year, USD 195 million project includes Grand Lucayan Resort's purchase (USD 65 million) plus USD 135 million for development works.

The new (RCCL-exclusive) cruise port is expected to bring an additional 2 million cruisers to Grand Bahama island annually. The project includes the construction of a theme park and a new 5-star hotel. Grand Lucayan Resort suffered significant damages during Hurricane Matthew (October 2016) and was forced to close 2/3 of its property.

On June 24, 2019, RCCL and ITM Group established the  Miami -headquartered joint venture company "Holistica" that specializes in cruise port development projects worldwide. Holistica's first project was the USD 275 million Grand Lucayan Resort in Freeport Bahamas. Developments by Holistica were also planned for Costa Maya (Mexico), Roatan Island (Honduras) and Kumamoto (Kyushu Island, Japan).

On March 2, 2020, Holistica Destinations officially announced the USD 300 million private cruise resort project "Lucaya Property". The investment includes redeveloping and expanding Freeport Cruise Terminal (to be renamed to "Harbour Village") and building a leisure complex with a large hotel (526 rooms), wellness facilities, shopping village, convention centre (sized 40,000 ft2 / 3720 m2), theme park (with water slides, outdoor playgrounds, zip-lines).

Port Lucaya: the top attraction is the Port Lucaya Marketplace. It is a m”must-see” for all shopaholics. Another popular place to visit is the Count Basie’s Square. There you can enjoy live music while drinking local cocktail or party with the locals.

Rand Nature Center: it is located on the East Settler’s Way in Freeport. The nature center is impressive and here is the headquarter of the Bahamas National Trust. The area spreads over 100 acres and it is a pineland sanctuary. The site is crisscrossed with nature trails and houses native flora and many tropical birds. You can visit the Rand Nature Centre /educational centre/. You can join guided tour on Tuesday or Thursday at half past ten. It takes around an hour to see the major centre sights.

Garden of the Groves: located on Midshipman Road in Freeport. The amazing botanical garden spreads over 12 acres. You can see stunning waterfalls, beautiful fountains and a lot of (over ten tousands) native plants species. There is a petting zoo, cafe and arts village. You can walk alone or join one of the guided garden walks.

Snorkeling and scuba diving: Port Lucaya offers great possibilities for snorkeling and scuba diving. The excursions take not more than three hours and visit famous sites for diving including Theo’s Wreck, the East End Paradise coral gardens, the Caves, Treasure Reef and the Wall.

Boat trips: join one of the glass-bottom boat tours and spend amazing ninety minutes discovering the beauty of the reefs.

Fishing and deep-sea fishing: the best place is the North-West Providence Channel, which is extremely deep. There are a lot of snappers and barracudas.

Next are listed the most popular Carnival Cruise Lines tours in Freeport, with USD prices per adult:

• catamaran and snorkeling ($60)
• kayaking ($60)
• jeep tour ($60)
• parasailing ($90)
• historical tours ($45)
• scuba diving tour ($130)

Freeport tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Freeport - user reviews and comments

Bimini Cruise Port Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Bimini is a new port in the Bahamas that should quickly become a favorite of cruisers for its easy access to beaches and activities. There are however a few tricks to getting the most for your money in Bimini.

Arrival at the Pier in Bimini Bahamas

Your ship will dock at the pier and you’ll be able to walk right into the port. It is a flat and wide pier, with plenty of room for all passengers.

At the end of the pier you’ll come to a parking lot that acts as a pickup station for the island tram, which is run by Resorts World. The tram is free and will take you to most of the Resorts World properties and activities. You should plan on riding the tram.

You could also walk across the bridge into town for direct access to Kayak Beach, Fisherman’s Village, golf cart rentals, and taxis, but the tram also stops at Kayak Beach and Fisherman’s village. Unless you really just like walking in the heat, take the tram to one of those stops if you are wanting to go there.

Many people were making that walk, likely because it looks like the tram is only for passengers on shore excursions, but we confirmed with staff that it is free for everyone.

Kayak Beach Bimini

The first stop on the tram is Kayak Beach. The water here is not as good as the upcoming beaches, and there is no reason to get off here unless you just want to get to the beach as quickly as possible. You could also pick up a taxi at this stop. As noted by the lack of people in the picture, there are better beaches to come!

Fisherman’s Village

The 2nd tram stop is Fisherman’s Village, which is mostly shopping. If you’d like to get a few gifts from the Bimini Cruise Port, this is the place to do it.

Resorts World Bimini Beach

The third stop for the tram is Resorts World Bimini Beach. We booked a shore excursion, which is basically a day pass to the resort for $39 on our cruise ship. Included in that price was a welcome drink, but no lunch. Many people will get off at this stop as it is the same stop as Beach 360.

Resorts World is amazing, with crystal clear water and resort style pools, food and restrooms. It is everything you could ask for in a day at the beach. Deck chairs and umbrellas were provided by the pool at no cost and there was no trouble finding an open spot as the resort is large.

If you are looking for the best beach and want access to facilities, this is the place you should go.

There was an option on our cruise to book the resort with lunch included for an extra $25. The price seemed high and this was confirmed by looking at the menu once we got there. All meals were $15, so it was a $10 markup by the cruise ship on lunch. Skip the included lunch and just buy what you would like when you get there.

Resorts World Bimini Beach has two resort style pools, one for adults only and one for families. We found neither to be crowded and there were great places to sit all around.

Another option you might be tempted by is the pool cabana. These seemed like they were really overpriced at $399, we didn’t see anyone in them the entire time we were there.

Your excursion will include a welcome drink, and you do need to pick it up on arrival, but don’t get too excited about it. The voucher is not good for any drink you want at the bar.

Bimini Cruise Port Best Free Beach

The best free option is Paradise Beach, which is located directly next to the Resorts World Beach. In fact while at Resorts World Bimini Beach we walked up to Paradise Beach because it was much less crowded.

To reach Paradise Beach, get off at the stop after Resorts World. You’ll have access to a free beautiful beach, and food trucks, but no resort amenities. The main downfall to this beach is there is nowhere to wash off the saltwater after going in the water, but an excursion here would be completely free.

Our cruise was offering an excursion to Paradise Beach with a snorkel for $75 per person. The beach and tram are free though, so you are basically renting a snorkel for $75!

Where you go on Bimini will come down to if you want restrooms and a resort freshwater pool, and if you are willing to pay $39 for that. If you want that, go to Resorts World Bimini Beach, if not, go to Paradise Beach for free.

Resorts World Casino

On the way back to the ship the tram will stop at Resorts World Casino (and Fisherman’s Village again). Get off here if you’d like to play in a casino during your Bimini Cruise Port stop.

Robert Marmion

• Cruise Advice , Destinations

Bimini Cruise Port: Everything You Need To Know

Doug Parker

• July 26, 2021

A new port joins Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas, giving cruisers more of a selection when choosing a Bahamian itinerary.

In July 2021, Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port welcomed its first cruise ship when  Crystal Serenity  docked with cruise passengers. Four days later, Carnival Cruise Line made its first call there with Carnival Horizon.

Located 55 nautical miles off the coast of Miami, the Bimini Islands is primarily a beach destination with some added history tours sprinkled in. With a total population of under 2,000 people living there, it’s practically untouched, with the exception of a few resorts.

Bimini is actually made up of two islands, North and South Bimini. The cruise port is on North Bimini, and the airport is on South Bimini. You can take a quick ride between the two islands with the local ferry service at $8 per person each way.

The island is 62 miles south of Grand Bahama Island, 127 miles northwest of Nassau, 77 miles from West Palm Beach, and 58 miles from Port Everglades.

This island was called Virgin Voyages’ private resort destination . However, Virgin is only utilizing a beach and beach club on Bimini, which is open to other cruise passengers when a Virgin ship is not there.

Pier Location

The Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port is a new cruise port that can now hold the largest cruise ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class vessels (225,000 gross tons).

The ship docks in East Bimini. The pier was originally built for the now-defunct Bimini Superfast but was recently expanded to accommodate the world’s largest cruise vessels.

There’s a charm to the pier because it’s so new to major cruise lines, and it hasn’t been developed or overrun by Caribbean staple shops like Diamonds International.

Aside from cruise ships, high-speed ferry service from Balearia Caribbean also makes stops there, running routes from Fort Lauderdale to North Bimini Island.

Being right off the coast of South Florida, there isn’t much difference in the weather. You can expect the same weather as you would in Miami, Florida (so pack shorts!).

The temperatures range from around 60 degrees in the winter to 90 degrees in the dead of summer. Even with the humidity, the breeze off the ocean tends to make it feel a bit cooler.

The water temperatures average between 77 degrees in the winter and 87 degrees in the summer.

Legal tender is the Bahamian dollar ($BSD), but US currency is accepted and usually given as change in the Bahamas. If paying in cash, make sure to confirm you’re getting a change in US currency.

There are ATM machines around the resorts, but expect to pay a steep service fee to access them. Credit cards and digital payments are also accepted at most locations on the island, especially at the large resorts.

READ MORE:  16 Photos of Half Moon Cay, Bahamas [2021]

Getting Around

Even though the island is only seven miles long, you may want to find a way to get around.

A Resorts Worlds tram service makes select stops around the island and operates every 30 minutes. These trams have marked pick-up locations and will take you to different Resorts World properties from the cruise ship. (Note: they only operate between Resorts World properties.)

Anyone can use the Resorts World tram. Just keep in mind it will take you to one of their properties where you can go to a casino, beach, or eat.

Taxi rates will vary by where you want to go, but the common fare was $5 per person to most locations. The cruise pier is at the midway point of the island, so it’s equal distance to both the northern and southern areas.

By Golf Cart

A couple of golf cart rental companies on the island charge around $90 per day for a four-seater and $120 per day for a six-seater. With little traffic on the island, it’s an easy and stress-free way to explore on your own timetable.

If you’re sticking close to the pier, you can obviously walk to your destination. The Resorts World Hilton is about a 10-minute walk from the ship.

To explore beyond that, however, you’ll want to find a form of transportation — if only because of the heat!

As I mentioned earlier, one charm of Bimini is that it hasn’t been overdeveloped, especially when it comes to the area around the pier. As it becomes more popular in the coming years, that’s likely to change, but for now, it’s one of the things that makes this port so appealing.

A small market with a few shops is just south of the cruise pier. Otherwise, you’re limited to shopping at one of the Resorts World properties if you’re looking to pick up a souvenir.

While shopping for basic necessities, keep in mind that you are on an island with limited resources, so items in the resort gift shops tend to be on the pricey side as they all have to be imported from the mainland.

What To Do in Bimini

Bimini is primarily a beach destination that focuses on water activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming with sharks, and jet skiing.

If you want to explore on your own, you can rent a golf cart or set out with food (and plenty of water to stay hydrated) and explore the island.

Cruise lines offer around a dozen shore excursions in Bimini, but if you’re looking for something a little different, we’ve listed some things to do in the area. If this is your first time visiting Bimini, here are some suggestions.

Local Beaches

Some of the quietest and best beaches in Bimini run together on the southwestern side of the island in Alice Town: Radio Beach, Blister Beach, and Spook Hill.

There is also a string of beaches north of the resort area’s cruise port. Keep in mind that you’ll be required to pay a fee if you’d like to use a sun chair, resort facilities, pool, or a lounger.

Beach Club 360

Typically sold by the cruise line, this new private beach package is good if you’re looking to spend a day at the beach. Located right next to Resorts World Bimini Beach, the stretch of beach has some of the clearest turquoise waters in the Bahamas.

The club has options to rent cabanas, umbrellas, and beach chairs. The price of varies depending on your cruise line and which add-ons you’d like. This premium beachfront complex has two lagoon pools, swim-up bars, DJs playing music, and plenty of beachfront property.

Explore a Shipwreck

You can set up a trip out to the SS Sapona wreck through one of the resorts. The World War I ship ran aground during a hurricane in 1926 and has remained ever since. The artificial reef is filled with sea life. This can be booked at Resorts World or in advance.

Historic Attractions

Bimini’s rich history is seen throughout the island, like the SS Sapona wreck we mentioned. You can explore some of the local histories at Bimini Museum, where you’ll learn about some of the famous folks who’ve made the island their home over the years (including former resident Ernest Hemingway).

There is no charge to enter the museum, but they do take donations.

Also relatively close to the pier is Dolphin House Museum, a three-story home made entirely out of recycled materials, including many items that washed up on the shore.

If you’re a shark or marine life lover, you’ll love Bimini. Since the waters of the Bahamas are so warm, the Bimini Biological Field Station has a shark lab set up.

Visitors can sign up for a tour of the station and even participate in research or adopt a shark. And in case you’re concerned, the area is filled with lemon sharks, which aren’t aggressive and have zero recorded fatalities against humans.

(Note: The Shark Lab is currently closed because of the pandemic, but you can sign up for expeditions.)

You will be required to take a one-mile ferry ride to South Bimini to explore the Shark Lab.

Local Food and Drink Favorites

The local food favorite is the conch. You can order it prepared in a variety of ways, the most popular being fried conch fritters or ceviche. Conch can be ordered from almost any restaurant that serves seafood, and even a couple of roadside stands serve up this marine mollusk.

In speaking with the locals, there are two popular drinks that Bimini serves, Goombay Smash (four different types of rum, pineapple juice, and orange juice) and Rum Runners (assorted fruit juices, banana liquor, rum, and grenadine), which were made famous by the illegal smuggling of rum between Miami and Bimini.

Final Thoughts

Except for Carnival Corporation’s Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Bimini has the clearest and cleanest waters of any place where cruise ships stop in the region.

We did the Beach Club package ($64.99 per person through the cruise line) during our recent visit, spending the day going back and forth between the lagoon swimming pools and the beach.

The tram service was complimentary and took us directly from the beach to the cruise ship. The roads are bumpy, so hold tight when on the tram.

Overall, it was a memorable experience that I’d book again on another cruise to Bimini.

READ NEXT:  11 Tips For Navigating Nassau, Bahamas

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Carnival Is Building A New Cruise Port In The Bahamas, Why It’s So Important

• News and Tips
• Travel News

After several setbacks, the Bahamas is making a big comeback. Carnival Cruise Lines is breaking ground on a new ship terminal, positioning the island nation for a tourism comeback. 

Modern Port

The new cruise ship port is being built on the southern part of the island, about 20 miles east of Freeport. The 369-acre port will be able to hold two large cruise ships simultaneously and will house Bahamian-operated stores, as well as a nature reserve and indoor water feature. The name of the port has not yet been announced.

“Grand Bahamians have withstood life-changing challenges, particularly in recent years,” says vice chairman of the Grand Bahama Port Authority, Sarah St. George. She describes the project as “transformational in the true sense of the word.”

Continued Delays

Carnival Corporation — owners of Carnival Cruise Lines — first inked the new port deal with the Government of the Bahamas back in 2017, but almost immediately hit snags. In 2019, category five storm, Hurricane Dorian, hit the island and caused widespread damage. The next year, the cruise industry took a massive hit due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, however, plans are back on track.

“With the start of this Carnival project, Grand Bahama is now on the better side of reaching its true economic potential,” said the honorable Philip Davis, Prime Minister of The Bahamas. “This investment will provide much needed jobs but will also signal new hope for the island’s recovery.”

Carnival’s Bahamas Expansion

Carnival Cruise Lines is currently the top visitor to the Bahamas. Its ships make numerous stops in Nassau, and the cruise line operates the private islands of Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays. Partnering with the Bahamian government solidifies Carnival’s commitment to expansion on the island. Carnival plans to have its ships Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration make stops at the new cruise port, starting in late 2024. 

“Our guests already love the Bahamas,” said president of Carnival Cruise Line Christine Duffy, “and we are certain this new project will give them even more reasons to want to visit.”

Cruise Industry Bounces Back 

The COVID-19 pandemic hit the cruise industry hard, shutting it down completely. Carnival Cruise Lines was the first cruise line to restart its operations, sailing with a select number of ships at limited capacity beginning in July 2021. The final ship in the company’s fleet set sail from Seattle in May 2022. Other major cruise lines, including Norwegian, Celebrity, Disney, and Holland America, are sailing in some capacity and have plans for a full re-entry into the cruise industry.

Amy’s passion for traveling and writing started at a young age. She grew up traveling with her family -- visiting three continents by the time she was 16. She’s always looking for her next trip and isn't happy until she has at least one (or two) on the horizon. She is most fulfilled when she’s exploring new areas like a local and finding good deals on travel and activities.

Amy studied broadcast journalism at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She started her career as a TV news producer in Tulsa and Denver, winning 4 Emmy Awards for her work. She’s also worked in production for HGTV and as a spokeswoman for a small Colorado mountain town.

Amy is married with two young kids. Both kids got their passports before age one, as it’s her goal to instill the travel bug in them from a young age. If you can’t find Amy at an airport, you can find her trying out new restaurants, reading, or running.

Nassau, Bahamas

Port schedule.

Nassau, Bahamas cruise ship port calendar shows all scheduled arrival and departure dates in a timetable format. The cruise calendar displays the ship’s estimated time of arrival including related information such as how crowded is the port, as well as the ship’s next port-of-call.

The following timetable provides valuable information and keeps track of the future cruise ship arrivals from all major cruise lines. In order to find out more about the cruise ship itineraries such as ports, dates, and arrival/departure times just follow the ship’s link.

Nassau Cruise Port Guide Info

Located on the island of New Providence, Nassau is the capital and economic, administrative, and cultural center of The Bahamas.

• Carnival Sunshine 3.765 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 08:00
• Disney Wish 3.466 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 09:30
• Carnival Liberty 3.574 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 10:00
• Freedom Of The Seas 4.541 passengers 01 May 2024 - 08:00
• Carnival Elation 2.554 passengers 01 May 2024 - 08:00
• Carnival Conquest 3.581 passengers 02 May 2024 - 08:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 02 May 2024 - 08:00
• Symphony Of The Seas 6.370 passengers 03 May 2024 - 08:00
• Disney Dream 3.500 passengers 03 May 2024 - 08:30
• Carnival Glory 3.581 passengers 03 May 2024 - 10:00
• Carnival Freedom 3.581 passengers 04 May 2024 - 08:00
• Norwegian Sky 2.405 passengers 04 May 2024 - 08:00
• Voyager Of The Seas 3.938 passengers 04 May 2024 - 08:00
• Carnival Sunshine 3.765 passengers 04 May 2024 - 09:00
• Disney Wish 3.466 passengers 04 May 2024 - 09:30
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 05 May 2024 - 08:00
• Carnival Conquest 3.581 passengers 05 May 2024 - 08:00
• Freedom Of The Seas 4.541 passengers 05 May 2024 - 08:00
• Carnival Sunrise 3.730 passengers 05 May 2024 - 08:00
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 05 May 2024 - 11:00
• Carnival Sunshine 3.765 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 17:00
• Disney Wish 3.466 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 17:15
• Carnival Liberty 3.574 passengers 30 Apr 2024 - 18:00
• Freedom Of The Seas 4.541 passengers 01 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Elation 2.554 passengers 01 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Conquest 3.581 passengers 02 May 2024 - 16:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 02 May 2024 - 17:00
• Disney Dream 3.500 passengers 03 May 2024 - 16:45
• Symphony Of The Seas 6.370 passengers 03 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Glory 3.581 passengers 03 May 2024 - 18:00
• Carnival Freedom 3.581 passengers 04 May 2024 - 16:00
• Voyager Of The Seas 3.938 passengers 04 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Sunshine 3.765 passengers 04 May 2024 - 17:00
• Disney Wish 3.466 passengers 04 May 2024 - 17:15
• Norwegian Sky 2.405 passengers 04 May 2024 - 19:00
• Freedom Of The Seas 4.541 passengers 05 May 2024 - 17:00
• Celebrity Reflection 3.655 passengers 05 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Conquest 3.581 passengers 05 May 2024 - 17:00
• Carnival Sunrise 3.730 passengers 05 May 2024 - 17:00
• MSC Magnifica 3.017 passengers 05 May 2024 - 19:00

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Cruises Make Great Birthday Weekend Getaways

Throw your kid a party they won't forget.

By Heidi Sarna | Published on April 29, 2024

Birthdays are the best time of year to celebrate your loved ones, especially your children. As your child's birthday approaches this year, consider making a bigger splash than a routine visit to your local arcade or trampoline park. Go for the ultimate wow factor and get away with your family for a celebration on a cruise ship — your go-to for the best birthday weekend getaways.

Cruises make the best weekend trips for birthdays because they offer immersive fun for all ages. Trade planning birthday parties for seamless celebrations everyone in your crew can enjoy. And let the ship, which caters to the younger set with nonstop bow-to-stern fun, serve as their playground. I can't think of a more perfect setting for the best birthday trips.

As a mom who has delighted in celebrating my twin sons' birthdays on Royal Caribbean cruise ships, I'm thrilled to offer my top tips for planning the best birthday cruises, ensuring your kid's next birthday is one they'll never forget.

How To Choose The Right Ship And Itinerary

Every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is a potentially great choice for weekend birthday trips. The stage is set the minute you board, with the engaging crew on the gangway — your very own birthday weekend welcome wagon. The buzz is palpable, and a festive vibe permeates the air.

While the ship and its amenities provide the ultimate birthday backdrop, the destinations you visit will also be great opportunities to make memories. Which itineraries promise the best birthday weekend getaways? Well, that's easy, in my opinion. The best birthday cruises are Royal Caribbean's weekend cruises to The Bahamas.

Three-night cruises depart Fridays from three Florida ports — Orlando (Port Canaveral), Ft. Lauderdale and Miami . All of these sailings feature the best way to spend a birthday in paradise: a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay , Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas.

The Party Starts In Your Stateroom

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of birthday trip celebratory gifts that you can pre-order in advance (or once you're onboard — a win for my fellow procrastinators out there). Classic Royal Caribbean packages include a magnetic "Happy Birthday" sign for your door, while your stateroom is adorned with a birthday garland and festive decor.

Tap into your inner creativity and stash a few extra decorations from home in your suitcase (don't forget some magnets if you want to put more birthday decor on the cabin door). I've found that photos or cutouts of my kids' favorite film characters, superheroes or animals work great.

I packed a few rolls of colorful crepe streamers to celebrate my twin sons' eighth birthdays on a birthday weekend getaway, looping nautical-themed blue and white streamers around their cabin bunk beds as they slept so they'd wake up to festive vibes. I also went to the onboard shop and purchased cute inflatable ships to place around the stateroom and captain's hats for our family to wear. Signifying we were on a birthday trip brought many welcome cheers from the ship's excellent crew as well as guests.

No perfect birthday weekend getaway is complete without cake. Royal Caribbean can help by delivering your sweets , too. Choose a vanilla or chocolate birthday cake, a box of mini vanilla or red-velvet cupcakes or request chocolate-chunk brownies, which can arrive at your stateroom to kick off your celebrations. I fondly recall a birthday cruise with Grandpa and Grandma in tow. We started the all-day birthday celebrations for my boys nice and early with ice-cream sundaes at Ben & Jerry's® for breakfast!

The Best Birthday Activities Onboard

If you were celebrating on land, you might rent a party space or take the kids to an amusement park for their birthday. On a Royal Caribbean cruise, the stage is already set with countless included activities for all ages.

A day onboard quickly fills with fun for all ages, from mini golf to rock climbing, zip lines and water slides, not to mention my kids' favorite, the FlowRider® surf simulator. Much of the fun is included in your cruise fare, with a few options offered at an additional charge, like the RipCord® by iFLY® skydiving simulator on Quantum Class ships. It's totally worth it, by the way.

I can't forget to mention the fun for kids joining the Adventure Ocean® Youth Program. A highlight of my sons' weekend birthday cruise was making new friends, dabbling in some arts and crafts and participating in wacky science experiments in their age-appropriate grouping.

You can always put on your thinking cap (or birthday hat) and design a little treasure hunt for your wee ones. I did this once, drawing a simple treasure map for my sons' birthday that led them around the ship to find six special birthday surprises — a slice of pizza, an ice cream cone, the toy section of the gift shop, roller-skating tag with mom, etc. Royal Caribbean ships are ready-made for special event cruises, so make the most of it.

Perfect Port Days

The best birthday weekend getaways include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay. When it's time to take the party from the ship to the shore, Perfect Day at CocoCay is ready for you.

Almost all of Royal Caribbean's weekend cruises out of Florida call on the cruise line's private island. It's an island paradise that truly caters to the whole family, especially kids. Eat as many burgers, hot dogs and fries as you want at the island's five complimentary dining spots when you're not jumping for joy in the giant Oasis Lagoon®, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

Birthday kids can live it up splashing around Captain Jill's Galleon℠, a shipwreck complete with geysers, slides and drench buckets, and the Splashaway Bay℠ water park for the smallest swashbucklers with fountains, pools, mini waterslides and more.

When you need a break from the party pace, unwind on the powdery sands of Chill Island® and South Beach — family-friendly spots with beach chairs and umbrellas lined up and waiting.

And since you've got a birthday to celebrate, why not spring for Thrill Waterpark® ? With a floating trampoline, wave pool and 13 waterslides, it's a great place to let little ones have a blast and earn bragging rights. Did I mention one of the attractions is the tallest waterslide in North America at 135 feet?

Your kid's special day wouldn't be complete without a ride on Up, Up and Away, a helium balloon that takes guests soaring 450 feet up for out-of-this-world views from the highest vantage point in The Bahamas.

Customizing Birthday Cruises: Top Tips

Whenever you're sailing with Royal Caribbean, you'll see many groups celebrating. It's fun to see many families and groups kitted out in matching T-shirts, baseball caps and accessories designed with the birthday kid's name. Consider planning ahead with your own custom-designed clothing to make your weekend party cruise that much more fun.

Of course, in the dining room at any given time, you can hear the sound of "Happy Birthday" being sung by the servers and fellow guests eager to join in the revelry. Make sure you mention to your waiter that there's a birthday kid in your party.

Think outside of the birthday box and see how you can customize your weekend birthday cruise to suit your preferences and requirements. With some planning, sometimes private spaces onboard the ship can be reserved, and special food and music arranged — especially if you're traveling with the extended family or a group of friends. Contact the Royal Gifts department (or Groups Department , if you're traveling with a large group of friends and family) to see what can be put together.

Capturing The Birthday Fun

The ship's professional photographers will be happy to capture precious moments of your sailing, including a weekend birthday cruise bash. Get the family dressed in their finest — or maybe in the matching T-shirts you brought along or the captains' hats you bought in the gift shop — and make some seriously fun memories to cherish forever.

If you have special thoughts about where you want your photos taken, talk to the photography team. They're a friendly crew with lots of ideas. When your photo shoot is over, you can purchase your favorite pictures in digital form or as prints — it's up to you.

The icing on the birthday cake? Royal Caribbean's family- and birthday-friendly weekend cruises often include frequent offers for families like complimentary sailing for kids if they stay in the same stateroom as their parents. Now that's a birthday present for the adults, too!

Written By HEIDI SARNA

Heidi Sarna, a freelance writer who specializes in cruising, is a contributor to Frommer's, Travel Weekly, CNBC.com and The Points Guy, among others. Heidi has taken more than 125 cruises and has visited 78 countries and counting.

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Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise of the Port Canaveral-based ship for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the ship's next two cruises are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

Thousands of passengers with scheduled cruises will be affected by the canceled cruises during a busy spring break period for Carnival and other cruise lines.

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Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cay due to adverse weather.

Details of previous fire: Fire breaks out on Carnival Freedom while Port Canaveral-based ship was in Grand Turk

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

The Freedom sailed into the channel at Port Canaveral around 7:30 a.m. Monday, and docked at Cruise Terminal 6, letting off the passengers who were on the cruise. Carnival then awaited a Coast Guard inspection of the ship before it could be cleared to leave Port Canaveral for the Freeport shipyard for repairs. The ship left the port about 6:20 p.m.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The sailing had about 3,700 passengers onboard. And the two upcoming sailings that were canceled each likely would have had a similar passenger count, because this is a busy time for the cruise industry.

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022, a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire