What to Do in Nassau from a Cruise Ship: A Guide for First-Timers

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Nassau: A Cruise Ship Destination with Endless Possibilities

Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is a popular cruise ship destination for good reason. With its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone in Nassau. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the city, or go on an adventure, you’ll find plenty to do in Nassau.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best things to do in Nassau from a cruise ship. We’ll cover everything from the must-see attractions to the hidden gems, so you can make the most of your time in this beautiful Caribbean destination.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Nassau today!

Activity Description Cost
Snorkeling at Blue Lagoon Snorkel among the coral reefs and tropical fish in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. $35-$50
Visiting Atlantis Resort Explore the world-famous Atlantis Resort, which features a casino, water park, and aquarium. $30-$50
Taking a Conch Tour Train Take a narrated tour of Nassau by train, with stops at various landmarks and attractions. $20-$30
Shopping at Junkanoo Beach Browse the stalls of local vendors selling souvenirs, crafts, and clothing. $10-$20
Eating at a local restaurant Sample the delicious cuisine of the Bahamas at one of the many local restaurants. $15-$30

Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is a popular cruise ship destination. With its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant culture, there’s plenty to see and do in Nassau. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an exciting adventure, you’ll find it in Nassau.

Things to Do in Nassau

  • Visit the Atlantis Resort. The Atlantis Resort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nassau. The resort features a massive water park, a casino, and a number of restaurants and shops. You can spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the many attractions at the Atlantis Resort.
  • Take a Junkanoo tour. Junkanoo is a traditional Bahamian festival that takes place on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Junkanoo is a colorful and lively celebration that features music, dancing, and costumes. You can take a tour of Nassau that includes a Junkanoo performance.
  • Explore the Queen’s Staircase. The Queen’s Staircase is a set of 66 steps that lead from the top of Fort Fincastle to the bottom of the hill. The staircase was built in the 18th century by slaves, and it offers stunning views of Nassau Harbor.
  • Go snorkeling at Blue Lagoon Island. Blue Lagoon Island is a private island located just a short boat ride from Nassau. The island features a beautiful beach, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of snorkeling and diving sites. You can spend the day snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying the many amenities at Blue Lagoon Island.
  • Visit the Pirates of Nassau Museum. The Pirates of Nassau Museum is a great place to learn about the history of piracy in the Bahamas. The museum features exhibits on Blackbeard, Anne Bonny, and other famous pirates. You can also see a replica of a pirate ship and learn about the different types of weapons and tools that pirates used.
  • Take a sunset cruise. There are a number of companies that offer sunset cruises in Nassau. You can enjoy a relaxing evening on the water while watching the sun sink below the horizon. Many cruises also include a buffet dinner and live music.

Getting Around Nassau

There are a few different ways to get around Nassau. You can take a taxi, a bus, a ferry, or walk.

  • Taxis are a convenient way to get around Nassau. Taxis are metered, and the fare starts at $2.50.
  • Buses are a less expensive way to get around Nassau. Buses run regularly throughout the city, and the fare is $1.25.
  • Ferries are a great way to get to and from the different islands in the Bahamas. Ferries run regularly between Nassau and Paradise Island, and the fare is $1.25.
  • Walking is a great way to explore Nassau. The city is relatively small, and most of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Nassau is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an exciting adventure, you’ll find it in Nassau.

3. Where to Stay in Nassau

Nassau has a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and interests. Here are a few of the best places to stay in Nassau:

  • Atlantis Resort is one of the most popular resorts in the world, and for good reason. It offers a truly immersive experience, with everything you need for a luxurious vacation under one roof. The resort has over 2,000 rooms, a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops, a casino, a water park, and a golf course.
  • Comfort Suites is a more affordable option that is still close to all the action. The hotel has a free breakfast buffet, a fitness center, and a pool.
  • The British Colonial Hilton is a historic hotel that offers stunning views of the harbor. The hotel has a variety of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool.
  • The Abaco Club is a secluded resort that is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The resort has a private beach, a marina, and a golf course.
  • Graycliff Boutique Hotel is a luxurious hotel that is housed in a historic mansion. The hotel has a rooftop infinity pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves award-winning cuisine.

4. Eating in Nassau

Nassau has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from traditional Bahamian cuisine to international fare. Here are a few of the best places to eat in Nassau:

  • Bahamian Kitchen is a casual restaurant that serves classic Bahamian dishes, such as cracked conch, fish fry, and peas and rice.
  • Caf Matisse is a fine-dining restaurant that offers a modern take on Bahamian cuisine. The restaurant has a beautiful waterfront setting and offers stunning views of the harbor.
  • Graycliff Restaurant is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves classic French cuisine with a Bahamian twist. The restaurant is housed in a historic mansion and has a beautiful courtyard garden.
  • Lucayan Beach Club is a beachfront restaurant that serves casual fare, such as burgers, salads, and sandwiches. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and offers stunning views of the ocean.
  • The Fish Fry is a casual restaurant that serves fresh seafood, such as lobster, conch, and fish. The restaurant is located on the waterfront and offers live music and dancing.

Nassau is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort, a secluded beachfront getaway, or a vibrant city atmosphere, you’re sure to find it in Nassau.

What are the best things to do in Nassau from a cruise ship?

  • Explore the city center. Nassau’s city center is a charming mix of historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. You can wander around the streets, admire the architecture, and stop for a bite to eat or a drink. Some of the highlights include the Queen’s Staircase, the Parliament Building, and the Straw Market.
  • Visit Atlantis Paradise Island. Atlantis is a massive resort complex that offers a variety of activities, including water parks, casinos, and restaurants. It’s a great place to spend a day or two if you’re looking for a fun and exciting experience.
  • Take a day trip to Blue Lagoon Island. Blue Lagoon Island is a private island located just a short boat ride from Nassau. It’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. There are also a few restaurants and bars on the island.
  • Go scuba diving or snorkeling. The waters around Nassau are home to a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, fish, and turtles. There are a number of dive shops in Nassau that offer guided tours.
  • Visit the Pirates of Nassau Museum. The Pirates of Nassau Museum is a great place to learn about the history of piracy in the Bahamas. The museum is housed in a former prison, and it features exhibits on Blackbeard, Captain Kidd, and other famous pirates.

How long does it take to get from the cruise ship to Nassau?

The cruise ship terminal is located about 15 minutes from the city center. You can take a taxi, a bus, or a water taxi to get there.

What is the best way to get around Nassau?

The best way to get around Nassau is by taxi. There are also buses and water taxis available, but they are not as convenient.

What is the weather like in Nassau?

Nassau has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. The average temperature in January is 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average temperature in July is 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

What should I pack for a trip to Nassau?

You should pack light clothing for your trip to Nassau. The weather is warm year-round, so you’ll need shorts, skirts, dresses, and t-shirts. You should also pack a swimsuit, sunglasses, and a hat.

Where should I stay in Nassau?

There are a number of great hotels in Nassau, including the Atlantis Paradise Island, the Baha Mar Resort, and the Royal Caribbean Resort. You can also find a variety of smaller hotels and guesthouses in the city center.

What is the best time to visit Nassau?

The best time to visit Nassau is during the winter months, from December to April. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are fewer tourists.

Nassau is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers visitors a variety of things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, an exciting nightlife experience, or a cultural adventure, you’re sure to find it in Nassau.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

  • Nassau is a popular cruise ship destination, and there are many things to see and do within walking distance of the cruise port.
  • Some of the most popular attractions in Nassau include the Atlantis Resort, the Queen’s Staircase, and the Fort Montagu National Historic Site.
  • Nassau is also a great place to explore the local culture, with a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops to choose from.

If you’re planning a cruise to Nassau, be sure to set aside some time to explore this beautiful and exciting city. You won’t be disappointed!

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.