What to Do in the Bahamas on a Cruise: A Complete Guide

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

The Bahamas: A Cruise Destination Like No Other

The Bahamas are a popular cruise destination for good reason. With their crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and lush vegetation, the islands offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, you’ll find it in the Bahamas.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best things to do in the Bahamas on a cruise. We’ll cover everything from swimming and snorkeling in the world-famous Blue Hole to exploring the historic city of Nassau. So if you’re planning a cruise to the Bahamas, read on for some inspiration!

Activity Description Cost
Snorkeling Explore the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas and see a variety of marine life, including fish, turtles, and coral reefs. $30-$50 per person
Scuba diving Go deeper underwater and explore the Bahamas’ shipwrecks and coral reefs. $50-$100 per person
Fishing Cast a line and catch your own dinner. $20-$40 per person
Cruise excursions Take a day trip to one of the Bahamas’ many islands and explore its beaches, shops, and restaurants. $50-$100 per person
Shopping Find souvenirs and other items to take home from your trip to the Bahamas. $10-$20 per person
Dining Sample the delicious cuisine of the Bahamas, including fresh seafood, conch chowder, and Bahamian bread. $20-$40 per person

The Bahamas is a popular cruise destination due to its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and friendly people. There are many things to do in the Bahamas, from exploring the capital city of Nassau to swimming with dolphins. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, you’re sure to find something to do in the Bahamas.

Things to Do in Nassau

Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas and is located on the island of New Providence. It’s a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Nassau:

  • Visit the Atlantis Resort. The Atlantis Resort is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Bahamas. It features a massive water park, a casino, and a variety of restaurants and shops.
  • Take a swim with the dolphins. The Atlantis Resort offers dolphin swim experiences where you can interact with these amazing creatures.
  • Explore the Queen’s Staircase. The Queen’s Staircase is a series of 66 steps carved into the side of a cliff. It’s a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.
  • Visit the Fort Montagu National Historic Site. Fort Montagu is a historic fort that was built in the 18th century to protect Nassau from pirates. It’s now a museum that’s open to the public.
  • Go shopping at the Straw Market. The Straw Market is a popular shopping destination where you can find a variety of souvenirs, including straw hats, bags, and jewelry.

Things to Do in Freeport

Freeport is the second-largest city in the Bahamas and is located on the island of Grand Bahama. It’s a popular cruise destination due to its beautiful beaches, casinos, and golf courses. Here are some of the top things to do in Freeport:

  • Take a boat trip to the Exuma Cays. The Exuma Cays are a chain of islands located just off the coast of Grand Bahama. They’re known for their white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life.
  • Visit the Lucayan National Park. The Lucayan National Park is a protected area that features a variety of ecosystems, including mangrove forests, coral reefs, and pine forests. It’s home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and reptiles.
  • Go snorkeling at the Thunderball Grotto. The Thunderball Grotto is a natural cave that’s located on the island of Grand Bahama. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving due to its clear waters and abundance of marine life.
  • Visit the Pirates of Nassau Museum. The Pirates of Nassau Museum is a museum that tells the story of pirates in the Bahamas. It features exhibits on Blackbeard, Anne Bonny, and other famous pirates.
  • Play golf at the Grand Bahama Golf Club. The Grand Bahama Golf Club is a championship golf course that’s located on the island of Grand Bahama. It’s a challenging course that offers stunning views of the ocean.

The Bahamas is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, you’re sure to find something to do in the Bahamas.

3. Things to Do in Other Bahamian Islands

In addition to the many things to do in Nassau and Freeport, there are also a number of other islands in the Bahamas that offer visitors a variety of attractions and activities. Here are a few of the most popular:

  • Eleuthera is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and boating. There are also a number of historical sites and attractions to explore, including the Glass Window Bridge, the Preacher’s Cave, and the Fort Charlotte National Historic Site.
  • Harbour Island is a small, secluded island known for its pink sand beaches and charming cottages. Visitors can relax on the beach, go swimming, snorkeling, or fishing. There are also a number of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore.
  • Great Exuma is the largest island in the Bahamas and is home to the famous swimming pigs. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and boating. There are also a number of historical sites and attractions to explore, including the Old Bahama Bay Hotel and the Big Major Cay Lighthouse.
  • Bimini is a small island located just 50 miles off the coast of Florida. It is known for its deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and boating. There are also a number of casinos and resorts to enjoy.
  • Andros is the largest island in the Bahamas and is known for its vast wilderness areas. Visitors can go hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and birdwatching. There are also a number of historical sites and attractions to explore, including the Andros Barrier Reef and the Blue Holes National Park.

4. Tips for Planning Your Cruise to the Bahamas

Planning a cruise to the Bahamas can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to make the most of your trip.

  • Choose the right cruise line and itinerary for your interests. There are a number of different cruise lines that offer cruises to the Bahamas, each with its own unique offerings. Some lines offer more family-friendly activities, while others cater to adults only. And some itineraries focus on exploring the islands, while others offer more time at sea. Do some research to find a cruise line and itinerary that fits your needs and interests.
  • Book your cruise well in advance. The best deals on cruises to the Bahamas are usually available several months in advance. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can often find great deals on last-minute cruises.
  • Pack light and bring comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking on your cruise, so it’s important to pack light and bring comfortable shoes. You’ll also want to pack some swimsuits, cover-ups, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
  • Get a travel insurance policy. A travel insurance policy can help protect you in the event of a medical emergency, lost luggage, or other unexpected expenses. It’s a good idea to purchase a policy that covers all of your trip costs, including airfare, cruise fare, and hotel accommodations.
  • Learn some basic Bahamian Creole phrases. Bahamian Creole is a blend of English, African, and Caribbean languages. Learning a few basic phrases will help you communicate with locals and make the most of your trip.

The Bahamas is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting adventure, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in the Bahamas. With its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and friendly locals, the Bahamas is the perfect place to escape from the everyday grind.

What are the best things to do in the Bahamas on a cruise?

  • Snorkel and scuba dive in the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas. The Bahamas is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, and there are plenty of opportunities to see marine life like fish, turtles, and dolphins.
  • Visit the world-famous swimming pigs of Big Major Cay. These friendly pigs love to swim and play with visitors, and they’re always up for a snack.
  • Explore the historic city of Nassau. Nassau is the capital of the Bahamas, and it’s home to a variety of attractions, including Fort Montagu, the Queen’s Staircase, and the Straw Market.
  • Relax on one of the many white-sand beaches in the Bahamas. The Bahamas has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and they’re the perfect place to soak up the sun, swim, and snorkel.
  • Go on a fishing or boating excursion. The Bahamas is a great place to go fishing for marlin, tuna, and wahoo. You can also charter a boat to explore the islands or go on a sunset cruise.

What is the best time of year to go on a cruise to the Bahamas?

The best time to go on a cruise to the Bahamas is between November and April. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is calm and clear.

What is the dress code on a cruise to the Bahamas?

The dress code on a cruise to the Bahamas is casual. You’ll want to pack comfortable clothes that you can move around in easily. You’ll also want to pack a swimsuit, as you’ll likely spend a lot of time on the beach or in the pool.

What are the best ports of call in the Bahamas?

Some of the best ports of call in the Bahamas include:

  • Nassau: The capital of the Bahamas, Nassau is home to a variety of attractions, including Fort Montagu, the Queen’s Staircase, and the Straw Market.
  • Freeport: Freeport is the second-largest city in the Bahamas, and it’s a popular cruise ship destination. Freeport has a beautiful beach, a casino, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
  • George Town: George Town is the capital of Grand Bahama Island, and it’s a charming town with a relaxed atmosphere. George Town has a beautiful beach, a marina, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
  • Cockburn Town: Cockburn Town is the capital of San Salvador Island, and it’s a small town with a laid-back vibe. Cockburn Town has a beautiful beach, a historic fort, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

How much does a cruise to the Bahamas cost?

The cost of a cruise to the Bahamas depends on a variety of factors, including the time of year, the length of the cruise, and the type of cabin you choose. A typical 7-day cruise to the Bahamas starts at around $500 per person.

What are the best cruise lines for a cruise to the Bahamas?

Some of the best cruise lines for a cruise to the Bahamas include:

  • Royal Caribbean: Royal Caribbean is one of the largest cruise lines in the world, and it offers a variety of cruises to the Bahamas. Royal Caribbean’s ships are known for their large size, their extensive amenities, and their family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line is another popular option for cruises to the Bahamas. Carnival Cruise Line’s ships are known for their fun and lively atmosphere, their affordable prices, and their variety of activities.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of cruises to the Bahamas, including its popular “Freestyle Cruising” option. Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships are known for their spacious cabins, their variety of dining options, and their extensive activities.

What are some tips for planning a cruise to the Bahamas?

Here are a few tips for planning a cruise to the Bahamas:

  • Start planning your trip early. The best deals on cruises to the Bahamas are available months in advance.
  • Consider the time of year. The best time to go on a cruise to the Bahamas is between November and April.
  • Choose the right cruise line. There are a variety of cruise lines that offer cruises to the Bahamas, so it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you.
  • Book your cabin early. The best cabins on cruise ships to

The Bahamas is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an exciting adventure, or a cultural experience, you’ll find it in the Bahamas.

When planning your cruise to the Bahamas, be sure to do your research and choose a cruise line and itinerary that fits your interests and budget. And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and camera!

With its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and friendly people, the Bahamas is the perfect place to create lifelong memories. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your cruise today!

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.