celebrity cruise excursions nassau

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Nassau, Bahamas Shore Excursions

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Scuba Diving and Relaxation: Famous Nassau Shore Excursions

Pastel buildings, rum cake, and turquoise waters await you on Nassau shore excursions. Experience the capital city of the Bahamas in style, whether you relax on its many beaches or take a more active approach and explore the island on foot or underwater.

Start with a guided tour of all the major city sites, like Rawson Square, the historic Parliament Buildings, and the National Art Gallery. Check out the local fish market, Potters Cay, and sample local rum at John Watling's Rum Distillery. On a cruise to the Bahamas , there’s always time for a piña colada.

There are endless opportunities for scuba diving and snorkeling on Nassau cruise excursions. You can take a beginner’s scuba tour to learn the basic how-tos, or experienced divers can gear up and head to the island’s famous Rainbow Reef. It’s only a 45-minute boat ride from Nassau Harbor, and this tropical oasis is home to some of the most beautiful coral structures in the world. You can snorkel, scuba dive, or simply swim the crystal waters while visiting from your cruise to Nassau . 

Animal lovers will find Nassau shore excursions are perfect for wildlife adventures. Swim with dolphins and meet sea lions at Blue Lagoon Island. It’s an ideal excursion to combine animal experiences with the tropical beauty of the Bahamas. If you want to take things down a notch, let Blue Lagoon Island be your haven. Lounge in a hammock beachside and swim in Caribbean waters without interruption. Families will also enjoy Aquaventure in Nassau, where all ages can enjoy the water park at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort for water slides, tubing, and lazy river floating.

Foodies can choose an intimate culinary option of the Nassau shore excursions available, where you’ll learn how chefs source their fresh seafood, prepare signature dishes, and explore the local markets. Complete your day with a delicious meal of Bahamian classics like deep-fried conch fritters, Johnny cake, and, of course, rum cake for dessert .

Learn More About Shore Excursions

Best shore excursions for Bahamas cruises

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

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

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

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

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

Best Nassau, Bahamas shore excursions

Island food and culinary tour

3-3.5 hours, easy, $$.

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

Blue Lagoon beach break

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

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

Scuba diving with sharks

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

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

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

Paradise Island and Aquaventure Oasis Waterpark

All day, moderate, $$$$.

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

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

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

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

Best shore excursions in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island

Freeport island tour, beach and shopping

4 hours, easy, $.

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

Pirate's Cove beach, zipline and waterpark

4 hours, moderate, $$$.

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

Glass bottom boat shark experience

3 hours, easy, $$$.

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

Blue hole snorkeling

5 hours, moderate, $$$.

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

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

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

Swim with the pigs

1.5 hours, easy, $$$.

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

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

Best Bahamas shore excursions from cruise line private islands

Snorkeling from shore or by boat

Varies, moderate, $-$$.

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

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

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

Stingray City Bahamas

1.5 hours, easy, $$.

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

Horseback riding by land and sea

1.25 hours, moderate, $$$.

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

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

Bottom line

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

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Nassau, Bahamas

The Bahamas' capital city offers travelers the chance to swim with dolphins, dive among Caribbean reef sharks and cruise the coastline on a speedboat excursion. Living up to its name, Paradise Island is home to the world-famous Atlantis resort, a tropical utopia that boasts 5 miles of beaches, a 141-acre waterpark, snorkeling adventures off a catamaran, an expansive casino and much more. Reggae lovers can relax during a daytrip to the Marley Resort and Spa, while foodies can indulge on conch fritters, chocolate bon bons and handcrafted rum cocktails on a tasting tour of local eateries. Visit the 1793 Fort Fincastle, take a photo atop the Queen's Staircase and bargain with vendors at the Straw Market on Bay Street. Ships dock just steps from downtown, making it easy to explore the area on foot.

Nassau Cruise Reviews

1 - 10 of 5,662 nassau cruise reviews.

Sail Date: March 2024

Review for a Bahamas Cruise on MSC Meraviglia

Nothing more than a tourist trap complete with rows of souvenir shops. Nothing much to do here. ... Read More

Review for a Caribbean - All Cruise on Carnival Magic

Stop going to this port. It’s seedy, dirty and rundown ... Read More

We walked to and up Queen's Staircase and then visited the main shopping street. The new port area was nice and had wifi that worked before we got back on the ship. ... Read More

Review for a Bahamas Cruise on MSC Seashore

Very busy, expensive shopping, ultra crowded beach (the one nearest to the port). For a nice beach you need to take a taxi. A lot of the products in the Straw Market is cheaply made and not worth the money. They wanted to charge me $50 for a small pirate skull. An I mean the size of an apple. Negotiated down to $25 but I feel it's worth maybe $10. Same with many other products. We did enjoy ... Read More

Review for a Caribbean - Western Cruise on Symphony of the Seas

Love the renovation. Nice, covered walkway to get to the main area. Cute shops at the port and within walking distance from the ship. ... Read More

Review for a Bahamas Cruise on Liberty of the Seas

If you are going to this port, you should book afternoon tea at the Graycliff. It is a short walk from the port and the experience was exceptional. ... Read More

Sail Date: February 2024

I drove my wife around Bahamas to different beaches. I don’t recommend if you’re not confident, do something suited to you. Then we shopped for souvenirs, got henna tattoos and smoked cigars right off the port. We rented the ATVs right off of the boat so it was really convenient. ... Read More

Review for a Bahamas Cruise on Allure of the Seas

Margaritaville water park day pass. Easy 15 minute walk from the port; just have to walk past all the folks trying to sell you excursions, taxis, etc. We arrived about 10 and all the prime seats were already taken. I would suggest arriving earlier in the morning to get better seats in the sun. Lazy river was our favorite activity. There are also a couple of small water slides, beach access, and a ... Read More

Review for a Bahamas Cruise on Carnival Legend

Nassau has a lot to offer. I’ve been several times and decided to try one of the resort day passes, I picked the one at Margaritaville. A nice spot for the kids but we weren’t traveling with kids this time. I found their beach area small with not enough seating. I didn’t think it was worth the price. Wi-Fi was included, along with access to lounge chairs & an umbrella (if you found one available), ... Read More

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Extraordinary Shore Excursions

Ignite your sense of wonder, inspiration, and adventure

Shore Excursions with Celebrity Cruises

Connect to the world in ways you never imagined and embark on an excursion perfectly tailored to your interests. Whether you're looking for a private, customizable experience, a carefully curated guided tour with a small group, or an unforgettable trip to iconic local landmarks, we have the right option to discover any destination, granting in-depth knowledge, expertise, and a truly extraordinary experience.

More Than 280 Breathtaking Destinations. Three Perfect Ways to Explore.

CREATED BY YOU

Create personalized tours and explore a range of exclusive offerings. Get insights from expert local guides who will drive you to the region's most memorable places.

DESIGNED FOR A FEW

Explore the best in every port with a select group of like-minded adventurers. Spend more one-on-one time with your guide, and develop a deeper appreciation of each destination you visit.

LOVED BY ALL

Experience each city's must-see landmarks and iconic sites through shore excursions that ensure you check the most important items off your bucket list.

TOUR WITH PEACE OF MIND *

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Already booked on a cruise? Book shore excursions in Cruise Planner.

Tours tailored to your interests.

Experience city highlights, iconic ruins, natural wonders or beautiful beaches on excursions customized for your specific needs.

SUSTAINABLE

Help preserve the destination and support the local community on tours that emphasize local history, culture and environment.

Enjoy more time discovering each destination’s extraordinary treasures, during extended tours with overnight stays.

Nourish your mind, body and spirit with tours that include a range of authentic experiences—indigenous healing practices, detoxes with local muds and minerals, destination-specific fitness, and more.

Savor authentic flavors or sip on the most popular drinks of each destination, during unique tasting experiences.

Immerse yourself in the culture and history of each destination on your exciting itinerary, while connecting with the locals.

Add some excitement to your cruise with thrilling zip line rides, white water rafting, hiking in the mountains, and more.

Spend the day on the water, sailing in a catamaran, snorkeling or scuba diving near majestic coral reefs, and reeling in some fish.

Relax on pristine white sands, stroll down the coast and observe local wildlife, or work on your tan as you sip a tropical cocktail.

SIGHTSEEING

Explore the destination's most iconic places and take exceptional selfies as you check famous local landmarks off your bucket list.

Join other animal lovers in your group for up-close looks at your favorite land-dwelling and aquatic creatures in their natural habitats.

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Soar above glorious forests, frozen lakes, magnificent glaciers and active volcanoes for panoramic views of nature's beauty.

CAPTAIN-CURATED SHORE EXCURSIONS

Enjoy these unique excursions that are recommended by our captains to ensure you experience the destination the best way you can.

Testimonials

These are some of the great things our guests are saying about booking their shore excursions with Celebrity

"Booking your shore excursion through the ship is by far the best way to go. Each one is well thought out and has a special attention to detail that create lasting memories of a lifetime"

By Jennifer M.

"Try the shore excursions. At Cozumel, we chose Chaak Tun and it was exceptional. This was a ferry ride to the mainland and a visit to the cenote. James our guide was very knowledgeable, entertaining and helpful. The excursion included swimming the underground water, going through caves and caverns, meeting with a medicine woman (this was fantastic), a wonderful lunch and a final tequila tasting. Do not miss this excursion. It was the highlight of our trip"

By Barbara R.

*Shore Excursions can be cancelled or modified up to 24 hours prior to scheduled tour departure for a full refund. Excludes tours involving flights, trains, special events, overnight stays, hotel stays, Celebrity Exclusives, Multi-day Adventures and Private Journeys. These must be cancelled 30 days prior to sailing to avoid cancellation penalties. Celebrity reserves the right to cancel/honor the tour operator’s cancellations and provide a full refund to the guest folio. Cancellations will be refunded in the original form of payment: onboard credits will be applied to your account, and credit card, debit card, or other form of cash equivalent payments will be credited back to the original form of payment within 30 days. Shore excursion specific restrictions apply. Celebrity Cruises reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions and to change or update fares, fees and surcharges at any time without prior notice. The excursions, transfers and excursion packages are operated by independent contractors and Celebrity Cruises Inc. shall not be responsible for any damage, loss, injury or death arising out of any services provided by such independent contractors. Celebrity Cruises Inc. responsibility does not extend beyond the vessel and all arrangements made for or by the passenger for shore side excursions, transportation or activities are at the passenger’s risk. ©2021 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador. In addition to the purchase terms and conditions, you are required to accept a health acknowledgment prior to participating in all approved shore excursions.

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• Celebrity Cruises introduces short Caribbean voyages for 2025...

Celebrity Cruises introduces short Caribbean voyages for 2025-2026 season

Celebrity Cruises has unveiled its newly announced 2025-2026 cruise season, catering to guests seeking short Caribbean getaways on Celebrity Reflection and Celebrity Summit .

The season features calls to destinations such as Bimini , Cozumel , Key West , Nassau , and the renowned private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay . For the first time, Celebrity Cruises is introducing 3- and 4-night Caribbean voyages this summer, extending the appeal to guests seeking convenient escapes.

Operating year-round from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale , Celebrity Reflection will offer 100+ sailings of 3- or 4-night trips, providing guests with flexible options that fit into their busy schedules. Whether enjoying outdoor activities at The Lawn Club, dining at Tuscan Grille, or relaxing poolside, Celebrity Reflection promises an unparalleled getaway experience.

Celebrity Summit, also departing from Port Everglades, will offer 4- and 5-night itineraries, inviting guests to explore destinations like Key West and Tulum or indulge in onboard relaxation at The Spa. Following a revitalization , Celebrity Summit boasts refreshed interiors and staterooms, along with access to The Retreat, where personalized service and exclusive spaces await.

With midweek and weekend cruise options, Celebrity's 2025-2026 Caribbean season provides ample opportunities for unwinding and exploring unique destinations. Additionally, longer immersive vacations, including 7- to-10-night sailings aboard Celebrity Beyond , will be available for guests seeking extended escapes.

Best Bahamas Cruises

C ruises to the Bahamas are filled with sun, soft sands, and the opportunity to dip your toes in a warm and seductive crystal blue sea. The 700-island archipelago is the kind of oasis you dream of when, in my case at least, you're indoors on a cold and dark day in Cleveland. Exploring the islands is tricky by air, but much easier via ship. Bahamas cruises to take right now include quick jaunts from easy-to-get-to Florida ports as well as one-week and longer cruises that explore more deeply. You can sail there in less than a day from Florida (cruises tend to embark in the early evening and hang out at sea until the next morning ashore), which makes it both an easy escape for a quick getaway or somewhere to linger for even more rest and relaxation.

What to expect on a Bahamas cruise

The main places cruise ships visit in the Bahamas are Nassau, the capital city, and some of the islands and beaches that are affiliated with cruise lines, such as Disney's private family wonderland Castaway Cay, off Great Abaco Island. There are small ships that explore further, including to the southern reaches of the archipelago.

Cruise passengers will find opportunities to hike in national parks, enjoy nearly deserted beaches, and explore many small churches-the Bahamas boasts more churches per capita than anywhere else in the world.

In the Bahamian capital of Nassau on New Providence Island, visitors can get a better understanding of the nation's British colonial and West African slave history as well as of the Junkanoo culture and festivals at wonderful museums. Most day visitors, though, are typically focused on water attractions: heading off on diving or snorkeling excursions, boarding party boats with free-flowing rum punch, experiencing the beaches, swimming pools, and waterslides at the Atlantis Bahamas resort on Paradise Island, or trying to catch the big one on fishing charters.

On small ship itineraries, you may stop at San Salvador Island, where Christopher Columbus may or may not have made his first landing in the New World. (Historians quibble on the exact landing spot.) A white cross memorializes the supposed landing spot. Long Island, which stretches some 80 miles, has both rugged and sandy coasts and the natural attraction of Dean's Blue Hole, one of the deepest sinkholes in the world at 663 feet, a place where divers and snorkelers can mingle with turtles and tarpons. The small island of Bimini is known for its clean beaches and rich marine life-hanging out at beach clubs, seeking quiet escapes in the land, and watching for dolphins and other sea creatures are prime activities.

Other cruise destinations include Eleuthera, with its inviting pink sands and protected park areas. In addition to beaches, the 365-island chain known as the Exumas are famous for swimming pigs (though they also live elsewhere in the Bahamas).

Best Bahamas cruises

Celebrity cruises' "nassau & bimini" itinerary.

• Best for: Upscale big ship experience
• To book: 4-nights round-trip from Miami , from $473 per person for a veranda stateroom; from $801 per person for AquaClass; and from $2,245 per person for the Retreat
• Islands: Nassau (New Providence), Bimini, plus Key West

Celebrity Cruises sails to Nassau and Bimini in style, and if time or money is tight, you don't have to invest too much in your Bahamas getaway. You can book, for instance, an easy, breezy four-night trip on the 2,158-passenger Celebrity Summit from under $500 per person. That said, if you splurge on a suite in the Retreat, you'll have your own sundeck with hot tub, enjoy private lounge access, and dine at the exclusive restaurant Luminae, where signature dishes by Celebrity's culinary ambassador, Daniel Boulud, are featured on the rotating menu-such as creamy carrot and ginger velouté and Moroccan chicken tagine with saffron couscous. Spa lovers might want to book the AquaClass staterooms, with complimentary access to a Persian Garden with infrared sauna and sensory showers and exclusive dining at health focused Blu, where the wine list features sustainable and biodynamic wines. While in Bimini, you might try your hand at sport-fishing, a year-round pastime from the island.

Disney Cruise Line's Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

• Best for: Families and Disney fans of all ages
• To book: 5-night Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale on the 2,700-passenger Disney Magic , from $6,299 for four guests
• Islands: Castaway Cay, Nassau (New Providence), Eleuthera

Disney Cruise Line has ships in the Bahamas year-round, starting with quick three- and four-night sailings from Florida ports. Ever since it first opened 1998, the highlight of any Disney cruise in the Bahamas has been Castaway Cay, a picture-perfect white-sand island paradise, complete with pirate attractions and Disney character appearances. What has Disney fans all atwitter is the opening in summer 2024 of a second exclusive for Disney Bahamas destination, Lighthouse Point, on the island of Eleuthera. There, Disney promises a celebration of Bahamian culture, including Junkanoo parades, characters from Bahamas folklore, and performances by local artists. An accompanying commitment to conservation at Lighthouse Point includes a solar installation that will provide at least 90 percent of the destination's required electricity (Castaway Cay also has a solar installation). Family-friendly attractions abound but grown-ups can also drop the kids off in a supervised activity program and head to the adults-only beach to sip cocktails while lounging in private cabanas.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's round-trip sailing from Fort Lauderdale

• Best for: Top-of-the-line luxury experience
• To book: 7-night cruise from Fort Lauderdale on the 298-passenger Evrima , from $6,100 per person
• Islands: Nassau (New Providence), Bimini, San Salvador, Long Island, plus Key West

On the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's 298-passenger Evrima , you can head to the secluded dipping pool and pretend you are on your own private yacht, luxuriate in your resort-like suite, or join an intimate dance party on the Marina Terrace, located just above the sea. A seven-night itinerary in December 2023 gets you from Fort Lauderdale to Nassau, Bimini, San Salvador, and Long Island, Bahamas, with the bonus of some additional time built in to enjoy the Hemingway House & Museum and other attractions in Key West, Florida. Optional small group shore excursions in the Bahamas include an "Eco-Marine Safari" on Long Island, that combines small boat exploration of a mangrove channel and sandbars with a visit to see swimming pigs in a quiet cay. With both the cruise line and the Royal at Atlantis on Paradise Island affiliated with Marriott International , there's also a hotel tie-in-you can book a daybed at the resort's chic adults-only pool area, the Cove .

Scenic's "Island Odyssey: Bahamas to the Grenadines" cruise

• Best for: Underwater and air exploration
• To book: 12-night sailing in fall 2024 from $9,963 per person
• Islands: Compass Cay, Great Exuma Island, San Salvador Island, Long Island, Great Inagua Island in the Bahamas. Also, Virgin Gorda, St. Bart's, Monserrat, Iles des Saintes (Guadeloupe), Tobago Cays (St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

The luxurious 228-passenger Scenic Eclipse features some of the best exploration toys in the industry. An expedition team runs excursions including with two helicopters and a submarine, which will enhance your Bahamas views from both over and under the sea. Or borrow paddleboards and kayaks from the ship's marina for your own solo exploration. A 12-night sailing from Nassau to Bridgetown, Barbados, starts with six days in the Bahamas, before following the yachting crowd south. Stops include Compass Cay in the Exuma Cays, where in the clear water you might see nurse sharks even from the ship. Bird lovers will enjoy a rare visit to the southernmost island in the Bahamas, Great Inagua Island, with its resident population of some 80,000 flamingos. Whiskey lovers will want to check out the ship's collection of more than 110 varieties.

SeaDream Yacht Club's "Bountiful Bahamas" cruise

Best for: Low-key luxury

To book: 7-night cruise in April 2025 , from $4,399 per person

Islands: Nassau (New Providence), Staniel Cay, Great Exuma, San Salvador, Salt Cay

You'll have to wait until 2025, but small-ship line SeaDream has an intriguing pair of upcoming round-trip cruises to the Bahamas from tony Palm Beach, Florida, on the 112-passenger SeaDream II . The "Bountiful Bahamas" itinerary lingers in the Exumas and around Long Island, with the opportunity to explore pristine beaches, hang out at beach shack bars, and snorkel in the clear sea. There's also an unusual visit to the uninhabited Bahamas island Salt Cay (also known as Cay Sal), only accessible by boat and some 50 miles from Marathon, Florida. In between kayaking quiet bays, try the yacht's newest attraction, an inflatable slide running from the pool deck into the water. SeaDream prides itself on cuisine and was the first cruise line with a full vegan raw food menu in addition to such indulgences as a signature l'oeuf poule au caviar (egg with caviar), grilled lobster, and filet mignon.

Virgin Voyages' "Fire & Sunset Soirées" cruise

• Best for: Fun-seeking adults
• To book: 4-night "Fire & Sunset Soirées" on the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady or Valiant Lady from $1,920 for two in a Sea Terrace cabin
• Islands: Bimini, plus Key West

For pure adult fun you can't beat Virgin Voyages , which is limited to those age 18 and up. During a beach day at the Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini, private to Virgin guests when their ships visit, enjoy cocktails at the pool or a beach bonfire. Or book an activity such as a watercolor painting class, a "Views-n-Blues Mid-Afternoon Cruise" on a pontoon, an open-air tram tour of the island, or scuba dive with hammerheads. On the ship, partake in dance parties, take advantage of complimentary yoga, meditation sessions, and intense cardio HIIT classes, peruse vinyl selections on sale at the record shop, and get a tattoo or piercing when not indulging in treats at the "Lick Me Till  . . .  Ice Cream" shop. There are also six restaurants onboard, including a highly creative "Test Kitchen" where dishes smoke and sizzle, and a super-fun Korean baarbecue experience, Gunbae, complete with drinking games.

• Celebrity Cruises

By Mkripke , August 25, 2021 in Celebrity Cruises

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I see now only Celebrity excursions are allowed, but what about going off to do some shopping, can you still do that?

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Unlikely.  I believe their is a tour that includes shopping  but just getting off the ship and wandering on your own is no longer a option . 

Celebrity considers getting off the ship to go shopping on your own to be an "an on your own tour" and it's not permitted in Nassau:

Eastern Caribbean On your own tours are permitted in St. Croix and St. Thomas. Excursions provided by Celebrity Cruises are required in St. Maarten*, Nassau and Tortola.

Gatordad1967

25 minutes ago, Fouremco said: Celebrity considers getting off the ship to go shopping on your own to be an "an on your own tour" and it's not permitted in Nassau:   Eastern Caribbean On your own tours are permitted in St. Croix and St. Thomas. Excursions provided by Celebrity Cruises are required in St. Maarten*, Nassau and Tortola.  

what a waste.  I liked wandering around

8 minutes ago, Gatordad1967 said: what a waste.  I liked wandering around  

If you don't get off the ship at a port, do you get your port charges back? LOL

2 minutes ago, asctony said: If you don't get off the ship at a port, do you get your port charges back? LOL

I doubt it, but good question.

No argument from me. Unfortunately, Celebrity has no choice when the Bahamas toughens entry requirements.  😟

Is it bahamas, or CC?

13 minutes ago, asctony said: If you don't get off the ship at a port, do you get your port charges back? LOL

Of course not. You're still docked in the port, whether you get off the ship or not.

4 minutes ago, mom says said: Of course not. You're still docked in the port, whether you get off the ship or not.

OMG, I was joking. Didn't mean to get you excited. Happy Cruising

18 minutes ago, Gatordad1967 said: Is it bahamas, or CC?  

It's the Bahamas.

28 minutes ago, asctony said: If you don't get off the ship at a port, do you get your port charges back? LOL

Good one! 😁

Not a big loss for us.   We have the Bahamas as a stop on our upcoming November cruise on Summit.  Bahamas is one of two things these days for us...

• Stay on board and enjoy a quieter day
• Take a walk around Paradise Lake, where the mega yachts dock.   Some fun boats to see, and if the owners are not on board the crew can be quite chatty.

If it's Celebrity tours only, then is a stay on board day for us.

If Bahamas is a new stop. or a stop you want to do a tour at, we did like the detailed tour of Atlantis, including their Aquarium.    Not sure if that's available as a Celebrity tour, but that was a fun thing we did one of the first couple of times we stopped there.

6 minutes ago, zdad59 said: Not a big loss for us.   We have the Bahamas as a stop on our upcoming November cruise on Summit.  Bahamas is one of two things these days for us... Stay on board and enjoy a quieter day Take a walk around Paradise Lake, where the mega yachts dock.   Some fun boats to see, and if the owners are not on board the crew can be quite chatty. If it's Celebrity tours only, then is a stay on board day for us.   If Bahamas is a new stop. or a stop you want to do a tour at, we did like the detailed tour of Atlantis, including their Aquarium.    Not sure if that's available as a Celebrity tour, but that was a fun thing we did one of the first couple of times we stopped there.  

See you at the Sunset Bar. We are not getting off the ship at any of our 2 port stops.  🙂

Ken the cruiser

We have the Celebrity “Discover Nassau Harbor” tour booked again for the day after tomorrow. It’s 1.45 hours and we went on it last week and had such an enjoyable time, we booked it again! After all, if you want to get off the ship, even just for a short while but not go to the beach or go snorkeling, there aren’t really a lot of options.

1 hour ago, Straughn said: It's the Bahamas.

bummer.  Well their economy misses out on the revenue.

2 minutes ago, Gatordad1967 said: bummer.  Well their economy misses out on the revenue.    

Perhaps their biggest concern right now is the health of their citizens.

Bill Miller

"Nothing to see. Move along." Leslie Nielson as Frank Drubin, Naked Gun.

Stay on the ship and enjoy you day.

13 minutes ago, Turtles06 said:   Perhaps their biggest concern right now is the health of their citizens.

If that is the case, maybe they had better start vaccinating them.  If we all have to be vaccinated to get on the ship, the odds of someone bringing the virus to the island are very small.

1 hour ago, Ken the cruiser said: We have the Celebrity “Discover Nassau Harbor” tour booked again for the day after tomorrow. It’s 1.45 hours and we went on it last week and had such an enjoyable time, we booked it again! After all, if you want to get off the ship, even just for a short while but not go to the beach or go snorkeling, there aren’t really a lot of options.

Wish that was offered on our B2B.  All ports only have 4 excursions offered.

33 minutes ago, jelayne said: Wish that was offered on our B2B.  All ports only have 4 excursions offered.

Have you already sailed on your B2B or is it coming up in the near future?  

Just checked the X app for Nassau excursions on Friday and there were 8 different Blue Lagoon excursions, 3 different Pearl Beach excursions, a Best of Nassau (bus) tour, Essential Nassau (bus) tour, and a couple of other beach-related excursions along with our cheap $39 Nassau Harbor (boat) tour.

Nassau has been designated as a level 4 "avoid travel" by the CDC.

Be careful! Being on a Celebrity excursion doesn't negate Covid.

Someone today told me his parents flew to the Bahamas 2 wks ago  for a land based vacation.  Very strict testing rules pre and post flight,.  They  enjoyed their resort stay but did not go around very much.  Suggests Covid numbers may be high there.  Perhaps a good port to make an on board ship day!

1 hour ago, Ken the cruiser said: Have you already sailed on your B2B or is it coming up in the near future?   Just checked the X app for Nassau excursions on Friday and there were 8 different Blue Lagoon excursions, 3 different Pearl Beach excursions, a Best of Nassau (bus) tour, Essential Nassau (bus) tour, and a couple of other beach-related excursions along with our cheap $39 Nassau Harbor (boat) tour.    

Our B2B is in October on the Edge. All beach excursions, maybe they will add more later.

3 hours ago, Gatordad1967 said: If that is the case, maybe they had better start vaccinating them.    

The general poverty of many Caribbean nations makes it difficult for the governments to provide vaccinations to their people.  The cost of the vaccines is prohibitive; the cost of the infrastructure to give approx 300,000 [for the Bahamas] sets of shots [refrigeration/preservation of the vaccine; shipment to vaccination centers across hundreds of islands; medical personnel; record keeping; the cost of 600,000 needles/syringes; ...] is prohibitive.  

I have called on the various cruise lines and the US govt to work together to help -- for example, every cruise ship could give one hundred plus vaccinations every day in port using ship personnel and needles/syringes/vaccine provided by the US gov't, in port facilities provided by the local gov't - force the local gov't to grant waivers of liability for the medical personnel and the cruise line [for when the long-term adverse effects of these supposedly safe shots are discovered and when Bill Gates activates the nanochips that we have all welcomed into our bodies].

This would improve the health of the islanders, and would slowly allow the cruise passengers to get back to our touring as usual!  Completely selfish by the cruise ships, the cruise passengers and me!

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Taste of Nassau: Local Flavors Experience

Rum Cake Factory: You’re in for a tasty treat with a visit to a well-known rum cake factory. Loaded with top-secret ingredients and gently soaked in signature Bahamian Rum, these cakes have become not just a dessert, but also an important part of the local lifestyle. You’ll sample a variety of flavored rum cakes like Pina Colada, banana, chocolate, and plain pound cake. Tea Factory: Next, you’ll sample tea made in Nassau and learn about its benefits through an intriguing presentation. The Bahamas Tea Factory offers a variety of teas, all made with authentic organic Bahamian herbs, fruits, and spices. Conch Delicacies: Then, you will have an added treat to sample the Bahamian-style conch fritters and fried crack bites. Rum Distillery: Sip on local rums at John Watling’s Rum Distillery followed by a tour of the historic building. After the distillery tour, take advantage of the Red Tavern and purchase signature beverages. Bahamian Lunch: Continue to Bahama Grill and discover why it’s a local favorite. Indulge in an inclusive Bahamian lunch and soft drink. What’s Included:

• Rum cake samplings.
• Local tea tasting.
• Bahamian-style conch fritters and fried conch bites.
• Pina colada tasting at John Watling’s.
• Bahamian Lunch: BBQ chicken, pork ribs, Bahamian-style macaroni and cheese and vegetarian options.
• Lemonade or water.

What to Bring: Cash or credit/debit card for additional purchases.