is a cruise to bahamas worth it

Which cruise should I take: Caribbean or Bahamas?

By Heidi Sarna

Cruiseline.com

Itineraries 

Because the Bahamas are so close to southern Florida, you’ll find a lot of short three- and four-night cruise options there. If your ship leaves at 5 or 6 pm from Miami or Fort Lauderdale, you’ll easily be in Nassau by morning. Most Caribbean cruises are weeklong, and the majority leave from Florida — but also from ports in Texas, as well as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and Barbados in the Caribbean itself.

Our Pick:  Draw

The Bahamas are great for quickie escapes, and the Caribbean offers lots of choices for 7- to 10-night cruises.

The Caribbean claims some of the world’s most beautiful beaches , with strands in St. John, St. Barts, Anguilla, St. Lucia, Jamaica, and Grenada topping the list. Adults love to sunbathe, while kids happily build sandcastles and run into the waves all day. But these shores are not the only ones with natural gold: In the Bahamas, the white-sand beaches of Half Moon Cay and Castaway Cay, Holland America Line’s and Disney Cruise Line’s private islands, respectfully, plus the northern part of Nassau give the Caribbean beaches a run for their money.

Our Pick:  Caribbean

The beaches of the Bahamas aren’t too shabby, but there are fewer options than in the Caribbean. Plus, the Bahamas can get chilly in winter months.

Watch cliff divers while sipping planter’s punch at the famous Rick’s in Negril, Jamaica, or soak up the Mexican flavor at the popular Carlos’n Charlie’s in Cozumel. The Caribbean is chockablock with places to grab a drink. Take your pick: From chic lounges and clubs in St. Barts, where celebrities hang, to the rustic beach bars, strays dogs, and yacht crews frequent in the British Virgin Islands and Grenadines, the Caribbean is a barfly’s dream. In the Bahamas, Nassau’s got places like the posh Dune Bar at the One & Only Ocean Club, and cruise line private islands have their basic watering holes, though they tend to lack character.

If you like variety, the Caribbean’s bar scene — which is infused with the flavors of Mexico, Spain, France, England, and Holland — is hard to beat. 

The hunt for gold first inspired Europeans to explore the Caribbean and Bahamas from as far back as the 16th century. Then sugar cane and other natural resources drove them to stake their claims. The Spanish and British had a big presence in the Bahamas and the Caribbean, while the Dutch grabbed Curacao and Aruba, and the French took over islands like St. Barts and Guadeloupe. When they finally shoved off, the colonial powers left behind their old fortresses and churches. Vestiges of their languages and cuisines also stuck, in some cases more than others. Locals still speak French in Guadeloupe and Spanish in Puerto Rico. 

This one is easy: There are many more colonial-era ruins and cultural holdovers in the Caribbean than there are in the Bahamas.

The cruise line private islands in the Bahamas are designed for families with kids, featuring water slides and playgrounds. Rent bikes to pedal around the island, or play in the “archaeological dig” set up in the sand on Disney’s Castaway Cay. On Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay, the giant inflatable water slide sends passengers on 40-foot-high, 175-foot-long thrill rides. There are battery-operated mini race cars for little kids on Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, and you can snorkel with the stingrays at Holland America’s Half Moon Cay. True, the Caribbean has its share of family-friendly activities, from water parks in Mexico to snorkeling all over, but the Caribbean has more offerings geared toward adults than kids.

Our Pick:  Bahamas

You just can’t beat the convenience. Plus, cruise line private islands not only offer family-friendly beaches and activities, but a free lunch too.

The Caribbean trumps the convenience of the Bahamas for its huge variety of beaches, landscapes, and cultures. 

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How Much Does a Cruise to the Bahamas Cost?

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A cruise to the Bahamas delivers fun in the sun and beautiful scenery. Of course, there’s great shopping, dining and watersports on the islands, too. With a cruise, the journey is just as much fun as the destination. But how much is a cruise to the Bahamas? The answer depends on how long your cruise is, the time of year, the cruise line and what promotions are going on when you book.

There are incredible deals for shorter three-night cruises that can appear online for less than $100, but a longer cruise in the most luxe cabin can reach into five digits during certain times of year. The average cost of a cruise to the Bahamas can be less than $1,000 for a short cruise. It is even more enticing if you live close to a cruise port and can drive instead of fly to the port to save on costs. With cruises to the Bahamas taking place all year long, consider avoiding holiday periods if you want to save more. 

Here are some important considerations to keep in mind when determining the cost of a cruise to the Bahamas. It may be cheaper than you think if you can use miles and points on a trip or are willing to forgo some frills on board.

How much is a Bahamas cruise?

Cruises advertise the base price of a sailing, which often doesn’t include taxes and port fees. The super-low numbers you see at first may not be entirely transparent . You’ll want to consider the taxes and fees as well as the type of cabin you book on board.

The base fare for a cruise can be around $169 for an entry-level room on a shorter cruise, but some promotions can drop the price down to $98. These prices are typically for two or three-night cruises before taxes and fees. These prices are per person and based on at least two people being in the cabin (double occupancy). 

We looked at a sample of shorter-term cruises to the Bahamas across multiple cruise lines in October 2023. Based on our findings, we’ve determined an average base price for a Bahamas cruise for less than a week to be $186.50. 

Note that this doesn’t account for myriad expenses, such as travel getting to/from the port of departure, as well as other typical expenses that we outline below.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

How much is a week cruise to the Bahamas?

Obviously, the longer the cruise, the more expensive it can become. This is especially important to consider if flying to a cruise port rather than driving since your expenses would be potentially higher . If you’re paying for a flight, you might as well enjoy a longer sailing.

You’ll also have shore excursions and onboard activities that you’ll want to consider as part of the overall cost. Here are some important factors that can affect a cruise to the Bahamas cost.

We looked at a sample of weeklong cruises to the Bahamas across multiple cruise lines in fall 2023. Based on our findings, we’ve determined an average base price for roughly weeklong cruises to be $570. 

Again, these base prices are semi-misleading as you will still need to cover costs related to taxes and port fees, gratuities and more.

Additional expenses of longer cruises to plan for

Longer cruises often call for more opportunities to try land-based adventures and other special activities. Here’s what else you might want to account for as you plan for your Bahamas cruise budget.

Shore excursions

Many people prefer to explore on their own in the islands rather than book an expensive shore excursion. This can save substantially on the overall cost, but you would be responsible for any additional expenses if you do not return in time to the ship on time before it leaves.

Review the ports of call and decide what you want to do before you board. You may be able to organize a cheaper excursion with a local vendor or just take a taxi to get out and explore on your own schedule.

Specialty dining

Cruise ships have plenty of free food. You’ll find buffets, poolside snacks, late-night dining and everything in between to keep you satiated. But if you’re looking for a more upscale experience, some cruise lines have added specialty restaurants that carry an additional charge.

This can include Japanese sushi or teppanyaki venues, gourmet steakhouses and celebrity chef-inspired restaurants. If you visit these restaurants, there is an added, per-person cost. The quality of food and the experience will certainly be notably higher though.

The fee will depend on the restaurant. For example, a burger joint may cost around $7, but a super-fancy venue can be more than $100. The average price of a specialty restaurant, per person (before gratuity or alcoholic drinks), is $30-50.

Cruise lines may include tap water, juices, coffee, and hot or iced tea, but on mainstream cruise lines, most drinks (including soft drinks) have a surcharge. This can include specialty coffee drinks like a cappuccino or espresso. If you get thirsty for something even heavier, like wine, beer or a cocktail, these have a cost, too.

You can choose to pay as you go or opt for one of many different beverage packages — ranging from bottled water all the way up to the most premium liquors — which may make sense if you consume a lot. Do the math in your head before committing to this package as you may end up spending more that way.

Think twice about bringing your own alcohol or bottled water aboard. While cruise lines do have a certain limit you can bring with you, going over that amount will mean leaving it at the cruise port or picking it up at the end of the cruise. Plus, if you bring your own wine to a dining room, there may be a corkage fee, too.

Onboard recreation

Whether you indulge in the spa or partake in activities like the casino, organized games or amusement rides (some ships have things like race tracks and thrill rides), these carry extra expenses.

It’s important to budget these into your overall spending plan so you don’t walk off the ship with a bigger bill than expected.

Additional cruise expenses to plan for, beyond the base price

Taxes and port fees.

Sometimes, the taxes and port fees can be almost as much as the cost of a cruise, if you find a really cheap fare. For example, the $149 cruise fare with Carnival above has taxes and fees of $129.20 per person. All of a sudden, the starting price for that cruise is $278 per person. But that’s not all.

» Learn more: 7 tips for getting the best deal on your next cruise

All of the people that take care of you on board rely on tips as part of their salary. While some cruise lines may package gratuities into the rates, many do not. There are standard flat rates that are used as a suggestion for how much to tip.

For example, Carnival’s gratuity suggestion is $14.50 per person, per day for a standard cabin and $16.50 per person, per day for a suite. If you book the lowest category room, a three-day cruise for two people would cost $87 for gratuities. This is just for the stateroom attendant. If you order drinks in the bar or dine in the restaurant, you’d want to tip there, too. 

For the purposes of the rate, let’s add the gratuity to the base cost and taxes. That comes to $321.50 per person for a three day cruise for two people (or $643 total for the couple).

Cabin upgrades

Cruise lines, like any other business, advertise their lowest fares, but there are opportunities to upgrade to a higher cabin. Perhaps, you prefer a cabin with a large window or one with a balcony. If you want a suite, it will cost even more. Keep this in mind when considering how much a Bahamas cruise is because it is easy to see the costs spiral out of control if you’re not careful.

» Learn more: 7 ways a cheap cruise gets pricey fast — and how to deal

Loyalty programs

One helpful tip is to join a cruise line’s loyalty program. If you travel with one cruise line often enough, you can earn elite status, which comes with different benefits. These can include cabin upgrades, discounts for onboard services like laundry or the gift shop, welcome drinks and other perks that can slash the cost of a cruise. 

» Learn more: How to earn and redeem points on cruises

Cruise credit cards

Other perks are reserved for cardholders of a co-branded credit card with the cruise line . Savvy sailors know that this can be another great way to save money on a Bahamas cruise cost. The Carnival World Mastercard has no annual fee and the ability to earn 20,000 FunPoints, enough to redeem a $200 statement credit toward your next cruise. The card also offers a 10% discount for onboard shore excursions.

If you apply that $200 credit toward the earlier example of the starting cabin price without any shore excursions, the price suddenly drops. It may make sense to look into a no-free credit card for the cruise line you are using before setting sail.

Other notable cruise credit cards include the Royal Caribbean Visa Signature card , Princess Cruises Rewards Visa® Card and the Norwegian Cruise Line World Mastercard .

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Travel insurance

If you need to cancel or change your trip, or disembark mid-trip, it can be helpful to get travel insurance to help cover some of the unexpected costs.

» Learn more: Is cruise travel insurance worth the cost?

Bahamas cruise prices recapped

The price can vary greatly by cruise line, length of the trip, type of cabin and the amenities you enjoy onboard or ashore. But there are incredible deals to be had if you know how to create your own fun and don’t overindulge on the ship.

Even better, holding elite status with a cruise line or perks from a co-branded credit card can make the experience more enjoyable with a host of freebies and discounts that can cut down on the overall Bahamas cruise cost.

All information about the Carnival World Mastercard , Royal Caribbean Visa Signature Card, Princess Cruises Rewards Visa® Card and Norwegian Cruise Line World Mastercard has been collected independently by NerdWallet. The Carnival World Mastercard , Royal Caribbean Visa Signature Card, Princess Cruises Rewards Visa® Card and Norwegian Cruise Line World Mastercard are no longer available through NerdWallet.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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on Bank of America's website

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Bahamas vs. Bermuda cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Ah, the bliss of island cruising! Who cares if you choose the Bahamas or Bermuda as your next cruise destination — all islands offer warm weather, gorgeous beaches and outdoor activities year-round. Right?

Wrong. Sure, the Bahamas and Bermuda are both island nations located in the Atlantic Ocean, and you can hit the beach on your cruise to either place. But that's where the similarities end. Bermuda and the Bahamas each possess a unique island vibe and culture, and itineraries to each destination vary in departure ports and cruise styles.

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

Which itinerary is best for you? Compare Bahamas versus Bermuda cruises to make the right choice for your next vacation at sea.

Bahamas vs. Bermuda cruise itineraries

You can sail on a cruise ship to the Bahamas year-round from a number of port cities in the U.S. including Baltimore; New York City (via ports both in Manhattan and in nearby Bayonne, New Jersey); Fort Lauderdale; Miami; Palm Beach, Florida; Port Canaveral, Florida; Galveston, Texas; and New Orleans. That's because it's beach season all year long in the Bahamas – except when a passing hurricane brings the rain in summer and fall.

Itineraries can be as short as two nights or as long as a week. Both short and weeklong Bahamas cruises sail exclusively to Bahamian ports, but some seven-night sailings mix it up with ports of call in the Caribbean or Florida.

Bermuda, on the other hand, is not hot year-round, so cruises typically sail from April through November. Some cruise lines offer the occasional winter Bermuda cruise, or tack a visit onto an off-season transatlantic sailing. You'll still have fun in the shoulder season, but it might not be swimming weather.

The standard Bermuda cruise is a week, though you can find four- and five-night options. Bermuda cruises depart exclusively from Northeastern ports, including Boston, New York and Baltimore. In most cases, the ship will sail to one of the Bermuda ports and dock there for one to three days before heading back home.

RELATED: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

The benefit of this style of itinerary is you're in port overnight and can explore the island nation in-depth, from early morning bike rides to romantic sunset sails. However, cruisers who love getting rocked to sleep by the waves will miss those extra nights of sailing when they're docked for two evenings straight.

Bahamas vs. Bermuda ports of call

Bermuda is a former British colony, with a more formal vibe than you'll find in the laid-back Bahamas. Though it's made up of more than 100 islands, its largest and most populated islands are connected by bridges to form the destination we think of as Bermuda. Cruise ships don't island-hop here. They pick one of three cruise ports and dock.

Cruise ships that dock in Hamilton are in the heart of the action; the city is the nation's capital. Visitors can choose from city pursuits like shopping and dining or head to the beaches and golf courses. The Royal Naval Dockyard, referred to as King's Wharf by some cruise lines, is a historic naval site located at the western tip of Bermuda. St. George's on Bermuda's eastern end is a World Heritage Site with narrow, cobblestone streets and oodles of charm. (It was one of the first colonial settlements in the New World.)

Cruises to the Bahamas will visit several Bahamian ports on a weeklong cruise, though a few itineraries feature two days at a cruise line's private island. These private islands -- such as Holland America 's Half Moon Cay, Disney Cruise Line 's Castaway Cay and Royal Caribbean 's Perfect Day at CocoCay – are popular with cruisers for their pristine beaches and plentiful activities, all in a safe environment where your cruise card is accepted currency and a lunch buffet is free.

Avid cruisers give the staple Bahamian ports of Nassau and Freeport mixed reviews. The Freeport cruise port is isolated, and the beaches and resorts on surrounding Grand Bahama Island don't always live up to expectations. Nassau is touristy; the cruise port is located in the heart of a large shopping district. Escape downtown to find yourself a spot on a gorgeous resort beach or hop in a boat for some water sports action.

Bahamas vs. Bermuda beaches and water sports

Neither Bermuda nor the Bahamas will disappoint when it comes to beaches. The Bahamas lure visitors with beach weather year-round, but Bermuda has a more temperate climate. If you cruise there in the shoulder season, the weather might not be warm enough for swimming.

Bermuda is known for its pink-sand beaches, such as Horseshoe Bay Beach, often with scenic rock formations framing the sand and sea. Beaches here are smaller than the far-ranging stretches of sand you find in the Caribbean or U.S. You'll need transportation from the cruise port to the best beaches, though little Snorkel Park Beach is walking distance from King's Wharf.

You can snorkel from a Bermuda beach in many places, or rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or boogie boards. Book a tour to try snuba, jet skiing or parasailing. Sailing tours by day or for sunset are popular choices.

All of the cruise line private islands in the Bahamas offer idyllic beach days, with gorgeous white-sand beaches, on-site bars and buffets, and a variety of activities, from snorkeling to kayaking and horseback riding. You won't be bothered by vendors trying to braid your hair or sell you souvenirs, though staff will come through taking drink orders.

Nassau and Freeport are also popular beach destinations, and many people will purchase day passes to resorts for the nicest and safest options. Junkanoo Beach is walking distance from the Nassau cruise port and offers on-site bars, restaurants and water sports rentals, but it's more of a party beach than a tropical idyll. Head to Atlantis if you want a beachfront waterpark as your playground for the day. Be warned, though: Day passes don't come cheap.

Freeport's beaches range in quality when it comes to resort amenities, and beach clubs occasionally over-promise and under-deliver. Bimini has that private-island vibe, with an emphasis on sunbathing, diving, snorkeling and boating.

You'll find all your favorite water sports in the Bahamas. Snorkel, dive, sail, kayak or take a glass-bottom boat tour on your own or via an excursion. If you're a wildlife fan, you can swim with dolphins, stingrays, sharks and even pigs.

Bahamas vs. Bermuda shore excursions and activities

The main difference between Bermuda and the Bahamas is that beaches and water sports are the key activities in the Bahamas, while Bermuda's attractions are more varied.

In Bermuda, cruise visitors can enjoy the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum & Zoo, as well as historic forts and the limestone formations of the Crystal Caves. The island's capital, Hamilton, is a small city and its Front Street is chock-full of shops and restaurants. Hop on a bike and pedal your way along the Bermuda Railway Trail or to Cooper's Island Nature Reserve.

Bermuda is also famous for its plentiful golf courses, and enthusiasts can book tee times at courses such as Belmont Hills and Turtle Hill.

Nassau has a few historic sites, such as the Queen's Staircase and Fort Fincastle, but they are not the main attraction. The Pirates of Nassau Museum is a fun rainy day destination, and the small National Art Gallery set in a historic home is a hidden gem. You'll find plenty of shopping on Bay Street from the straw market to high-end jewelry stores, but check out the artisans market in Pompey Square for locally made goods.

Bottom line

When pitting Bermuda versus the Bahamas as your potential cruise destination, you need to match each island nation's beaches, activities and ports of call with your preferred vacation style.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

• Cruise Destinations
• The Bahamas

Cruises to The Bahamas

• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Venezia

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20 YEARS IN A ROW *

• Ports of Call

You know the name, the laid-back attitude and where to find them, but you’ll just have to visit The Bahamas to truly appreciate this classic cruise destination. On this 700-strong string of sun-splashed islands dotting the blue Atlantic, the living’s easy. (And it’s not bad on a Bahamas cruise either!) The central port of Nassau is the bustling capital of the country — “bustling” is a relative term, of course — while Freeport is all chill, all the time. And then there’s Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays: pure private-destination paradise, the likes of which could put a smile on the face of someone who really loves frowning. Enjoy sailing, snorkeling, strolling pearly pink-sand beaches, and swimming through crystalline turquoise seas on a Bahamas cruise.

• Swim and splash in sparkling waters.
• Taste the private destination life on Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays.
• Explore the expansive Atlantis resort.

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* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

Atlantis Aquaventure - worth it??

By disneycruisin , October 1, 2007 in Bahamas

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disneycruisin

Me and my DBF will be booking our first cruise at the end of this month - the 4 Night Bahamian on the Disney Wonder. I have always, always wanted to stay at Atlantis, so a trip there will be definately in the works. DCL offers 3 different excursions: Basic Tour of Atlantis $39, Beach Day at Atlantis $65, and Aquaventure $155.

Aquaventure seems soooo cool to me, and I would love to use the pools, but DBF thinks £75 is no way worth it just to use some other hotel's pools - it does seem expensive?

What do you guys think? We will be docked in Nassau from 9.30am - 7pm

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Me and my DBF will be booking our first cruise at the end of this month - the 4 Night Bahamian on the Disney Wonder. I have always, always wanted to stay at Atlantis, so a trip there will be definately in the works. DCL offers 3 different excursions: Basic Tour of Atlantis $39, Beach Day at Atlantis $65, and Aquaventure $155.   Aquaventure seems soooo cool to me, and I would love to use the pools, but DBF thinks £75 is no way worth it just to use some other hotel's pools - it does seem expensive?   What do you guys think? We will be docked in Nassau from 9.30am - 7pm

If you are already planning a trip to the Atlantis, then I'd pass on it for the cruise and check out the "real" bahamas. You can take a day trip to exuma via the Powerboatadventure.com, or snorkel, scuba etc.

You can find a waterpark anywhere, but the crystal clear waters and beautiful beaches are a must see.

Atlantis is a false environment, and not at all like visiting the bahamas.

Bribrittmom

For two or more people it is cheaper to rent a room at the Comfort Suites. Then you have full access to all Atlantis facilities.

We went to Atlantis a couple years ago before they built the new Aquaventure. But they had the myan temple and the water rides and the lazy river. We had an absolute blast. We stayed at Atlantis, it is very pricey but it was my 40th. We actually stayed in the Harborside Resort condos behind the main buildings and got a 1 bedroom condo for the same price as a Coral tower hotel room and we had a full kitchen and livingroom so it was nice.

I want to check out the Aquaventure but $155 a person is a little steep. We are taking a 3 day weekend Bahama cruise in December and plan on just taking a ferry or water taxi to Atlantis and go through the DIG. The cruise ship wants 56.00 a person for a 2 hour boat tour and a trip through the DIG. It will only cost us half that to do it on our own and then we can stay at Atlantis as long as we want and gamble too.

So it really depends on your budget and time but Atlantis is definitely worth a trip.

AerynSun_JohnCrighton

the comfort Inn still does the day room?

Does anyone have the site to book that?

Carnival is pricey for this as well, but I've been to Nassau a dozen times and never been to Atlantis, so this time I want to do it!

Thanks for your replies and thoughts guys :)

I really want to visit Atlantis since I've always wanted to stay at the hotel, but am unlikely to do so in the near future (if you pay that much for a hotel, you want all inclusive right?!) so a visit is a must. However, $155 is extremely steep - I'll check out the comfort inn to see if that's a better price.

We might do a short Atlantis trip and then if we have time, go see the beaches of the Bahamas :D

I got a AAA rate through hotels by city dot com and I am paying $135 for the room at Comfort Suites next Friday.

When I booked our room at CS last December through the smartertravel link I found it was cheaper than the AAA rate, might be worth checking out.

• 4 weeks later...

Thanks for all your help guys!

We have decided to just do the basic visit to Atlantis to see the Aquarium and resort ($39pp I think with DCL) and put the rest of the money towards a stateroom with a verandah :) I will still get to see the resort which will be really cool since I've always wanted to stay there!!

PaddleAddict

Thanks for all your help guys!   We have decided to just do the basic visit to Atlantis to see the Aquarium and resort ($39pp I think with DCL) and put the rest of the money towards a stateroom with a verandah :) I will still get to see the resort which will be really cool since I've always wanted to stay there!!

When we were there a few weeks ago Atlantis was selling day passes that included everything (aquarium, beaches, pools and water rides) for $105. It's still a little steep, but it's better than $155. They also sold passes for just the aquarium and the beaches/pools (no water rides) that was cheaper, I want to say about $60 (can't remember exact price).

Also, you don't have to do the tour through Disney if you don't want. It's free to wander around the resort (and pretty fun, too), and you can buy a pass to the Digs (the aquarium) for $32, and this includes a guided tour if you wish, or you can walk it alone. We took the guided tour and it was well worth it.

A taxi is $4 per person each way to get to Atlantis. Or a water taxi is $3 per person each way (but on the way back to the ship you may have to wait a little bit because they want to have those water taxis full before taking off).

When we were there a few weeks ago Atlantis was selling day passes that included everything (aquarium, beaches, pools and water rides) for $105. It's still a little steep, but it's better than $155. They also sold passes for just the aquarium and the beaches/pools (no water rides) that was cheaper, I want to say about $60 (can't remember exact price).   Also, you don't have to do the tour through Disney if you don't want. It's free to wander around the resort (and pretty fun, too), and you can buy a pass to the Digs (the aquarium) for $32, and this includes a guided tour if you wish, or you can walk it alone. We took the guided tour and it was well worth it.   A taxi is $4 per person each way to get to Atlantis. Or a water taxi is $3 per person each way (but on the way back to the ship you may have to wait a little bit because they want to have those water taxis full before taking off).

Atlantis was??? That is cool....another option.

Reviews are beginning to emerge on this fairly new, Nassau shore excursion option and this one is testimonial from one booked directly through Carnival. Given that there were only two in our party, we debated whether to partake in the Atlantis Aquaventure via the booking of a room at the Comfort Suites or through the cruise line’s shore excursion desk. We opted for the latter and had no regrets.

The per person charge was $149, which seemed steep initially, but considering all that it included, ended up being a pretty decent value. To wit:

• Roundtrip ferry transportation, which had a set 9:15 a.m. departure and on the half-hour return options through 5:00 p.m. so that you could return when you wanted. You can remain at Atlantis beyond 5:00 p.m., but are responsible for your own return transportation should you opt to do this.
• Admission to Atlantis Aquaventure and the Dig (guided tour if you wish), including all water slides, pools, beaches, and shower and changing facilities.
• Towels and use of chaise lounges.
• Complimentary bottle of water upon arrival.
• Lunch from your choice of one of three poolside concession stands.

What is not included:

• Locker rental (largest locker is $10; smaller lockers go for less).
• Additional food and beverages beyond those delineated above.

If you avail yourself of the Atlantis Aquaventure experience via the booking of a room at the Comfort Suites, you would be responsible for your own transportation to and from the ship as well as your lunch.

The Atlantis Aquaventure is a well-executed water park attraction with myriad activities and slides suited to a variety of age and adventure levels. One could also just relax by one of the pools or beaches; however, a more affordable shore excursion might be a better pick if relaxation is the only desire. If adventure and fun is the priority, this is the excursion for you.

Based on personal experience, I recommend commencing with the various water slides upon arrival, when the sun is not yet directly overhead and the lines are shorter. That being said, given the vast number of water slides, the waiting lines were never excessively long. When you’re ready for a break, the lazy river is a nice interlude and takes about half an hour to fully traverse. Having exhausted the water slide and lazy river options in the morning, we had lunch and then relaxed by one of the pools for a few hours. The chaise lounges have a canopy option should you want to escape the full sun. We concluded the day by walking through the Dig, (a huge indoor aquarium) which was enjoyable, air-conditioned, and near where you need to exit. Pleasantly exhausted, we took the 4:00 p.m. ferry back to the port.

Even after reading this, it still seems to me as if booking a room at Comfort Suites is the better deal. (Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong, though, because I'm still a cruising rookie).

My boyfriend and I will be taking our first cruise to the Bahamas in August of next year, and the price I saw for a room at Comfort Suites was about $240. I know that transportation, lunch and a water bottle are not included with the Comfort Suites room, but unless the above are worth more than $60, the Comfort Suites room is ideal.

Whichever route you choose to get to Atlantis, you'll be happy. My review was more about a recommendation of the Atlantis Aquaventure experience and far less about the road to get there. For me it was worth it to spend a little extra to have it all taken care of in advance so I could maximize my time at Atlantis. The lunch was equivalent to about $15 per person. The Comfort Inn will probably work out a bit cheaper, but I always like to factor in the value of my time in these equations. Whatever you decide to do, you'll enjoy the Aquaventure.

konkrete kid

So glad I've read all these posts as my DH and I will be in Nassau the first of week of January for a day. We will definitely visit Atlantis on our own as we are past the age of enjoying a water park, but still want to visit the Dig and roam around for a bit. I thought the ship excursion was a bit steep for getting us there, a quick tour, a little gambling, then back to the ship. It is less costly to grab a cab and hang out at Atlantis for a bit, then also do a snorkel and sail excursion the same day - a win-win situation!

I agree, if you're not into the waterpark, then there really no reason to pay to go to Atlantis. The rest of it is open to the public, with the exception of the DIGS, which you can see, in part, from the entry point at the great hall of waters cafe. The rest is the same old, same old.

• 1 year later...

Hi all, I am a new member of forum

We did the altantis aquaventure and loved it. Yes it is alot of money, but I think I was like you and always wanted to go there so we bit the bullet and just went. We were the first people off the boat and took a taxi in. this was nice because aquaventure didnt open intill 10:00 so we had time to explore and do the digs. Overall we were really happy with the aquaventure and would recomend it.

• 4 years later...

Has anyone been to Atlantis Aquaventure lately? How exactly do you go about getting a room at Comfort Inn, checking in and checking out at the same time? I can't seem to book online. There are only 3 of us going. I don't want to risk missing getting a day pass from Atlantis, I hear they sell out quickly and no telling how long it will take to get off the ship, and I do not want to pay the $179 per person from Carnival. Any help would be greatly appreciated. The more details the better. Thanks again!

I don't know why you can't book online - it's just a regular hotel room, not a day pass. Be aware of extra fees - they can really add up! Like any hotel, rates are higher during peak seasons. Sometimes it's cheaper, sometimes it's not. Just have to do the math.

• 2 months later...

Are the pools heated in the winter?

pecandelight

It was cheaper than Carnival but you get no lunch while at Atlantis. Hopefully the prices aren't crazy there to eat.

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What’s the Best Month to Cruise? Pros & Cons of Sailing Each Month of the Year

Let’s get one thing straight right at the start. There is no bad time to cruise . Whether you want to have a summer vacation or a winter getaway, the weather somewhere in the Caribbean is always warm and welcoming.

That said, with our experiences having sailed seemingly every month on the calendar, we have found there are definite advantages and disadvantages to sailing each month of the year. For example, cruises in August offer the ability to sail when the kids are out of school (meaning entire families can travel together). On the other hand, August is also notorious for hurricanes disrupting travel to Caribbean ports.

As you’ll see below, there are trade-offs with each time of year to sail. No month is perfect. However, many of the potential downsides are manageable in our opinion — and shouldn’t deter you from taking a cruise when it fits your schedule and budget.

Taking a Cruise in January

Pros : We like sailing in January as one of the biggest advantages of cruising this time of year is price. During this time of year school is in session and many people are back at work after a holiday break. That means it’s difficult for many to cruise. Cruise lines typically have discounted rates to fill up the ship in January; the same cruise departing at the height of the busy summer can cost hundreds of dollars more than in January.

As well, when winter has gripped most of North America, the Caribbean still offers a warm getaway with lots of sunshine. It’s a welcome change from the snow and cold see in most areas.

Cons : If you are a family, it might be tough for you to take a January cruise. It will usually mean the kids have to skip a few days of school to take the trip. In addition, if you have to fly in for your cruise, there are chances of winter weather causing delays to your schedule. You’ll want to make sure you plan your flight to arrive the day before your cruise, just in case. 

As well, this time of year trips from the West Coast will still be cool and Alaskan cruises don’t start sailing until April/May.

Taking a Cruise in February

Pros : February offers the same advantages to sailing as you see in January. Fares are normally discounted, with the ability to save hundreds on a cruise by sailing in February versus the height of the summer season. It’s also cold in most of the United States and Canada, making a warm getaway awfully enticing.

Cons : Like January, you might find it difficult to take time off after the holidays to enjoy a cruise. Doing so means spending vacation days early in the year and/or having the kids miss school. There are also still strong snowstorms in many parts of North America during February, meaning it’s possible that getting to the port can be an adventure if you have to fly in for your cruise from a northern city. 

As well, even if sailing to the Caribbean, the pools and water on a ship may still be too cool to enjoy fully. Don’t plan on spending much time in the water in our experience.

Taking a Cruise in March

Pros : With warmer weather and Spring Break, a cruise is on many people’s minds come March. In fact, if you are a Spring Breaker, this is a great time to sail as a cruise offers an affordable getaway to the beach without having to worry about flights or hotel. Just hop on the ship and start your vacation.

As well, if you’re headed to the Caribbean, March can be warm — but not too warm compared to the heat of the summer months.

Cons : If you aren’t a Spring Break fan, then this might not be the best month to sail. Cruises — especially shorter trips (3-5 days) — will have a younger crowd and more of a party atmosphere. You’ll also see a spike in prices starting in mid-March as cruise lines raise prices for trips that coincide with Spring Break.

Taking a Cruise in April

Pros : April represents one of your last chances to get a deal on a cruise before the busy summer sailing season. Discounts and deals are still available up until about mid-May, giving you the chance to save a bundle on a trip compared to sailing just a month or two later. As well, the threat of snow is diminished in northern parts of the United States and hurricane season isn’t here yet for port cities. It’s hard to find better weather than what you get in April.

Cons : After Spring Break, it’s back to school and work for most people. That means many have a tough time taking a trip at this time a year. That’s unfortunate because April is the “Goldilocks” of cruise months for the Caribbean — it features affordable prices, good weather, and is before hurricane season gets cranked up, which always adds a wildcard to travel in the Caribbean.

Taking a Cruise in May

Pros : Heading into May, cruisers hitting the Caribbean can start to experience some warmer weather both at home and on their cruise. While the water and beach are typically warm enough for swimming and laying out even during the coldest winter months, it is a few degrees warmer in May, which can make it more inviting to hit the beach. For example, Cozumel’s average high in January is 83, compared to 91 degrees in May. If you’re the type who loves warm water, May is when things start to heat up.

Cons : If you wait until too late in the month, you’ll start to see higher prices for your cruise. The end of May marks the start of the summer cruising season, and fares start to jump up. One place where you can save? Cruises to Alaska typically start their season in May, and it’s the cheapest month to sail to that region . We’ve sailed Alaska this time of year and highly recommend it.

Taking a Cruise in June

Pros : If you want a summer getaway with warm weather and water, June is a great choice. Hurricane season starts June 1st, but it’s still rare that you’ll have a chance of a hurricane this early. Meanwhile, the Caribbean is starting to heat up so you can have a true beach summer vacation without worrying about it being too chilly either on the ship or in port. Also, with the kids out of school, you can take them on your trip without worrying about absences.

Cons : With schools out of session and the popular summer vacation season, fares spike for June and through the rest of summer. You’ll usually be paying more for the same cruise compared to taking it earlier in the year. As well, if you aren’t the type that likes to cruise with families on the ship, then keep in mind that summer months typically see an influx of kids.

Taking a Cruise in July

Pros : Like June, you’ll find warm and sunny days filling July. And with the kids out of classes, you’ll have the opportunity to sail without missing school, making it an ideal time to cruise if you are traveling with kids. While it is warm in the Caribbean, regular afternoon “pop-up” showers can help cool things off during the heat of the afternoon. This also represents the height of the Alaskan cruise season, offering the most options (albeit at higher prices) of the year.

Cons : The biggest negative with sailing in July is hot weather. On sunny days, it can get downright hot in many Caribbean ports. If you aren’t used to the heat and humidity, it can be draining. As well, you should start to look out for hurricanes and tropical storms during July — especially if traveling later in the month. While cruise ships will avoid any storms, they can be unpredictable and cause changes to your itinerary.

Also, just keep in mind that you should expect the highest cruise fares of the year during this time.

Taking a Cruise in August

Pros : Consider August the last hurrah if you want to be able to cruise with the kids out of school. While the weather is hot, being able to travel as a family without missing school days is the biggest draw of sailing in this month. If the kids don’t start back until September, then you can sometimes find deals late in the month that can save you considerably on your cruise fare.

Cons : Similar to July, you can run into weather issues in August. Specifically, the heat and humidity is at its worst in the Caribbean during August. While afternoon showers can cool things off, they are not a guarantee. You also have to start worrying seriously about hurricanes. Late August is reaching the peak of hurricane season. While the chances are low that your specific cruise will be hit by a storm (cruise lines steer clears of storms as much as possible), it could disrupt your trip if a hurricane hits a port of call.

Taking a Cruise in September

Pros : With the busy summer cruise season past, students back to school, and summer vacations in the rear view mirror, September offers a “shoulder” season of sorts. While the Caribbean is still warm — perfect for those that want to hit the beach and the water — cruise fares are heavily discounted versus the expensive summer months. In other words, you get the warm weather of the summer with the lower prices of the fall. As well, your cruise is likely to have fewer kids onboard. It’s also the last chance to sail Alaska for the season, when crowds are fewer and fares are generally cheaper.

Cons : September actually marks the peak of hurricane season. Historically, the first week of the month is the busiest for storms and then activity quickly drops off later in the month. Still, even if your ship isn’t directly impacted by a storm, it can cause issues at Caribbean ports.

Taking a Cruise in October

Pros : If you’re not wanting to deal with heat, then October is a great time to visit the Caribbean. While the humidity is always a factor, October sees the start of a cooling trend in the weather. As well, while hurricanes can occur in October, the season is largely over so you don’t have to worry about them disrupting your trip as much. Finally, cruise prices also fall during this time of year, meaning you can book a solid deal without spending a bundle.

Cons : It shouldn’t be a surprise that April and October are two months that we consider great times to sail. Like April, the biggest con is that it can be difficult for people with kids to travel without taking their children out of school for a few days. Apart from that, the month sees good weather and cheaper fares, and it’s before the harsh winter hits many places in the U.S. and Canada, disrupting air travel to the port or the weather in the port city.

Taking a Cruise in November

Pros : By the time November rolls around, people are starting to think of warmer weather, especially if you live in a cold area. Taking a trip during this month can lead you away from the cold and gray to the warm and blue. It’s also a great time to find cheap cruises, apart from trips that sail during the Thanksgiving holiday (which are more expensive).

Cons : Scheduling around the Thanksgiving holiday can be tough, and if you have to fly to your cruise during the busiest travel time in the United States, it can mean dealing with long lines and delays at airports. Apart from that, November is a great time to book a cruise with cheap deals and nice weather in the Caribbean and The Bahamas.

Taking a Cruise in December

Pros : The period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is one of the absolute cheapest times to sail. With many people not looking to travel between these two major holidays, cruise lines slash fares. It’s not unusual to see a trip costing 50% less than a comparable trip during the summer. Needless to say, cruising in December is also a big draw for people wanting to get away from the snow and cold of many places in the north.

Cons : Trying to fit a cruise between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be tough for many schedules. And while many people take a cruise during Christmas itself, those trips are more expensive. If you are traveling by air, be ready for the possibility of delays due to weather and holiday travel crowds.

What Are the Least Expensive Months to Sail?

If you want to sail for cheap, then we suggest looking at months like January, February, April, May, September and October . We find that rates during these months tend to be less expensive than for the same cruise if headed to the Caribbean. During these times fewer people are traveling, leading to generally lower cruise fare.

If headed to Alaska, then the months are more limited. The season runs largely from May through September. In this case the ‘shoulder’ months of May and September offer the lowest prices.

So Which Month Is Best to Cruise?

As mentioned above, there is no “bad” time to sail. However, if we had our pick, we would suggest either April or October if you need to fly into a cruise port . The generally good weather and low prices combine to make it a cheap and easy time to sail.

If you are within driving distance of a port, then you can expand these months to include early winter months and later fall months. During these times the weather on a cruise will be warmer than back home, prices are very affordable, and if driving, you can get to the port without worrying about airline delays.

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Home » Should I Take a Cruise to Bimini Bahamas?

Should I Take a Cruise to Bimini Bahamas?

Last updated on September 16th, 2023 at 07:58 am

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Exploring the Idyllic Island Paradise of Bimini

If you’re in search of an unforgettable cruise in the Caribbean , Bimini in the Bahamas is a destination worth considering. Just a short cruise away from mainland Florida, this idyllic island offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Bimini has the clearest and cleanest waters in the region which makes snorkeling and diving particularly enjoyable. Marine life is diverse around Bimiini and the islands are popular for sport fishing.

Let’s dive into the reasons why taking a cruise to Bimini is an excellent choice, discuss the cruise lines that travel to the island, and highlight the exciting activities and attractions to explore during your visit.

A Little Bit About Bimini

Only about 9 square miles, there are two main islands that make up the island chain, North Bimini and South Bimini, with a much smaller third island, East Bimini. The waters surrounding the islands are shallow at just 20 to 30 feet in most places.

Known as the “Gateway to the Bahamas,” Bimini was settled by indigenous Lucayan people. They christened the area Bimini, meaning “two islands” or “twin islands.”

In the past, the islands were also a haven for pirates, and during the Prohibition period in the United States, the islands’ close proximity made them an excellent haven and supply point for rum-running.

Ernest Hemingway lived in Bimini for two years, from 1935 to 1937. It was here that he worked on To Have and Have Not and fished aboard his boat Pilar .

Bimini has been a favorite cruising ground for America’s yachting set, because of its location off the Florida coast where the Gulf Stream meets the Bahama Banks. The channel here between North and South Bimini is a large and sheltered harbor ideal for boaters.

Bimini is known as the Big Fish Fishing Capital because it has some of the greatest ocean fishing anywhere in the world.

Resorts World Bimini Cruise Port

Opened in the summer of 2021,   Bimini’s New Cruise Port at Resorts World has made it possible for Oasis-class vessels to dock directly in the area. Resorts World Bimini is an expansive beachfront resort that has a hotel, casino, marina and a private beach.

Cruise Lines That Travel to Bimini

Several cruise lines offer voyages to Bimini, making it easily accessible to travelers. Let’s take a closer look at some of the popular cruise lines that include Bimini as a port of call :

Virgin Voyages : Known for their innovative and adult-focused cruise experiences, Virgin Voyages offers voyages to Bimini as part of their itineraries.

Virgin Voyages Adults-Only Cruises cater to those 18 and above. Their ship, the Scarlet Lady, provides a luxurious and vibrant atmosphere with a focus on relaxation, entertainment, and rejuvenation.

Margaritaville at Sea : Offering two-night cruises from Palm Beach, Florida, formerly called Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, Margaritaville at Sea provides an affordable option for those seeking a quick getaway to Bimini. The MV Grand Classica, one of their ships, features a range of onboard amenities to ensure a comfortable journey.

Carnival Cruises : Known for its fun-filled atmosphere, Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of itineraries that include stops at Bimini. With a diverse selection of activities and entertainment options onboard their ships, you can expect a lively and enjoyable cruise experience.

Royal Caribbean Cruises : Renowned for its fleet of innovative and luxurious ships, Royal Caribbean  provides cruises to Bimini, often as part of a longer itinerary exploring other Bahamian islands. Their ships boast a plethora of amenities and activities, ensuring a memorable vacation at sea.

Things to Do in Bimini

Although Bimini is a small island, it offers a wealth of activities and attractions to suit a short cruise visit. Bimini Cruise Port has many things to do that are not your run-of-the-mill tourist activities.

Here are some highlights to consider during your time on the island:

Explore Bimini’s Beaches: Bimini boasts pristine beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it a haven for beach lovers. From the powdery sands of Alice Town Beach to the secluded sands of Radio Beach, you’ll find the perfect spot to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Dive into Underwater Adventures: Bimini is a paradise for divers and snorkelers, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Explore sites like the famous Bimini Road, a series of underwater rock formations believed to be part of an ancient civilization, or swim with dolphins in their natural habitat.

Visit the Bimini Biological Field Station: Also known as the “Shark Lab,” this research facility allows visitors to learn about marine conservation and observe shark research up close. At Bimini Biological Field Station you can join educational tours and even participate in snorkeling expeditions to encounter these majestic creatures in their natural environment.

Experience the Healing Hole: Bimini is home to the legendary Fountain of Youth, a natural underwater spring known as The Healing Hole . It is believed to have rejuvenating properties due to its mineral-rich water. Take a refreshing dip and see if the legends hold true.

Dolphin House Museum: The Dolphin House Museum is full of items collected across the Bimini islands. It is an ocean-inspired museum built using recycled, salvaged and donated materials. A truly unique spot to visit on the island.

Snorkel the S.S. Sapona Shipwreck: the S.S. Sapona is one of a fleet of concrete ships commissioned by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson when steel was in short supply and troops needed to be transported during WWI.

The ship was completed after the end of the war, and so was sold for scrap. Briefly used as a casino, and then for oil storage, Sapona was bought to be used as a floating warehouse to store and distribute liquor during the prohibition.

During a hurricane in 1926, the ship ran aground and was damaged beyond repair. Today, the Sapona Shipwreck  sits in 15 feet of water and makes for a fascinating snorkel site.

Discover Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Bimini by visiting the local art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Enjoy delicious Bahamian cuisine, sip on a refreshing cocktail, and engage with friendly locals who are eager to share their island’s rich heritage.

Bimini Is Worth The Visit

With its beautiful beaches, diving excursion, fantastic marine life and laid-back atmosphere, Bimini is a refreshing place to visit. Year-round warm temperatures that rarely get below 60, make it pleasant to visit almost any time of the year.

Taking a cruise to Bimini ensures a memorable vacation filled with adventure, relaxation, natural wonders, and cultural immersion. With its proximity, stunning landscapes, and exciting activities, Bimini offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all kinds.

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

About Jonathon Hyjek

Jonathon is the tech guy behind CruiseportAdvisor.com. When he's not stuck in front of his computer, Jonathon enjoys travel & cruising (even after being on a cruise ship that caught fire - a story for another day!)

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REAL-LIFE WATER WORLD

Bahamas cruises.

Soak up island views and aquatic adventures with a cruise to the Bahamas.

A respite for sun and sand seekers, the Bahamas is home to light blue beaches, translucent underwater caves, a rich royal heritage and exclusive private isles. These can all be found throughout a beautifully scattered string of 700 islands (most of which are uninhabited). Cruise to the Bahamas to take a dive and witness a majestic coral garden at Orange Bowl reef, hang out at ultra-luxurious resorts like Atlantis, and shop resort fashion in Paradise Island or Nassau. The Bahamas has an island for every taste and style, and it's easy to enjoy its subtropical charm during an overnight stint or a week-long cruise. Discover the magic with a Bahamas cruise.

Save Big With These Bahamas Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with Bahamas cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

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FIND YOUR SUN-DRENCHED PLAYGROUND

Home to enchanting shades of blue and deliciously warm breezes, the Bahamas is the ideal place for adventures involving the sea. The best Bahamas cruises will allow you to dive and discover underwater worlds, meet marine animals and shop for island souvenirs by the ocean. 

INTO THE BLUE

Dive and drift through warm waters to reach colorful coral reefs in Bimini like Rainbow Reef. See mysterious shipwrecks like Theo's Wreck and Sea Star Wreck in Grand Bahama. And take part in some thrilling wall diving — where you can explore deep reef edges — in New Providence.

AQUATIC ADRENALINE IN ATLANTIS

For water thrills and close encounters with marine creatures, head to lush and majestic Atlantis, the fantasy resort by the sea that boasts the world's largest open-air marine habitat and what is perhaps the most exhilarating waterpark around: Aquaventure.

SHOP SEASHELLS BY THE SEASHORE

Shop in the Bahamas with an ocean breeze blowing your way as you explore the crafts center in Bimini, the straw market in Grand Bahama and the exclusive hub that is Crystal Court in Atlantis resort.

BEYOND THE BEACH

Beyond the coasts lie more wonderful discoveries. Saunter the lively streets of Nassau, chill by a freshwater pool in Perfect Day at CocoCay, or get a history lesson at the Heritage Museum during your cruise to the Bahamas. 

ROADS LESS TRAVELED

Shake off the sand and delve deep into towns like Nassau and Freeport and the remote island of CocoCay. Take a nature walk or a Jeep adventure through the pine forests, or stretch your legs at the Rand Nature Center, which offers bird-watching and installations by local artists.

THIS IS YOUR PERFECT DAY

To take your vacation experience to an entirely new level, visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, where a perfect day is waiting. Swim in the Bahamas' largest freshwater pool, go down the tallest waterslide in North America, and chill with a book in the only private overwater cabanas in the Bahamas.

PLAY IN PASTIMES

Out of all the towns in the Bahamas, Nassau encapsulates this destination's heritage with many historical landmarks. Stop by Fort Charlotte, the Queen's Staircase, Pompey Square or the Heritage Museum of the Bahamas and get a dose of its past.

WATERSCAPES ON THE BEST BAHAMAS CRUISES

A cruise to the Bahamas is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover the Bahamas onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

DECK DEFYING DAYS

Fill your days on a short escape with Oasis Class thrills — onboard Allure of the Seas ®. Tame waves on two FlowRider® surf simulators. Zipline nine decks up. And catch jaw dropping entertainment, night after night. All while sailing to the picture-perfect shores of The Bahamas and our private destination Perfect Day at CocoCay.

EXPLORE ALLURE OF THE SEAS

EXPLORE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ISLES

If you’re craving crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and island vibes turned way, way up, these getaways check all the boxes. Each week-long sailing onboard Adventure of the Seas includes two thrill- and chill-filled days at our top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay — plus stops in Grand Bahama Island and  Cozumel . 

EXPLORE PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Bahamas Cruises Insider

As a subtropical destination, the Bahamas is blessed with year-long comfortable temperatures that range between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes packing an easy chore, with only spring and summer frocks to carry for your trip.

To get around, take the local jitneys, the buses making the rounds to Nassau and Cable Beach. Visit the Bahamas and hop on the ferry to get to Paradise Island, the home of the Atlantis resort.

For those looking to encounter some of the Bahamas famous aquatic critters, October to January is the best time to see Tiger Sharks, December to March is when Hammerhead Sharks migrate through Bimini, and you can find Oceanic Whitetips April to June.

Take Your Perfect Day at CocoCay® to the Next Level | Royal Caribbean Cruises

March 8, 2024

Who said you shouldn't mess with perfection? Visit a thrilling water park or a relaxing lagoon to make your Perfect Day at CocoCay® even better.

Top Free Activities and Free Things To Do at Perfect Day at CocoCay

The best free activities and free things to do at Perfect Day at CocoCay®, Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas.

[Infographic] Weekend Getaways: Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas gives you the best opportunity to create your own great weekend getaway the way you want to travel!

Traveling With a Toddler to Perfect Day at CocoCay | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Traveling with a toddler is easy when you book a cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay. Read on for advice and tips for traveling with a toddler.

Best Food in Nassau, Bahamas

A guide to the best food in Nassau, Bahamas. Discover new flavors in restaurants by the water or within the historic city of Nassau.

One Day, Three Ways At Perfect Day At Cococay

Planning your time at the new CocoCay? If you want to unwind, head to Chill Island on the east side of CocoCay. Or visit the Oasis Lagoon or the Thrill Waterpark to get on the side of adventure.

Everything You Need to Plan a Perfect Day at Cococay

Planning on maximizing your experience at Perfect Day at CocoCay discover everything you need to know from record-breaking slides and rides, free kid-friendly attractions to delicious restaurants, and chilled out activities.

Ultimate Guide To Oasis Lagoon

The best Oasis Lagoon at Perfect Day at CocoCay insider Tips to discovering all the amazing things to do, family-friendly attractions and thrills you don't want to miss. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Best Cruises From Miami

Cruise from Miami and start your vacation in one of the worlds best places to visit, then set sail from the Port of Miami to The Bahamas, Mexico, Puerto Rico and beyond on weekend getaway cruise or a longer Caribbean adventure. Here are the best cruises from Miami

Perfect Day Honeymoon Guide

Celebrate your newly-wedded bliss on a romantic Caribbean honeymoon cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay, the best Caribbean destination for newly married couples. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay

The Ultimate College Spring Break Cruise Vacation

If you are looking for an all-out college spring break vacation filled with beach vibes, thrilling rides and amazing parties it doesn’t get any better than a spring break cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay

Top 7 Most Thrilling Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Experience the top 7 most thrilling things to do at the Perfect Day at CocoCay from sliding down the tallest waterslide in North America to zip lining across the island and much more.

Top 4 Insider Tips to Thrill Waterpark

Thrill Waterpark at Perfect Day At CocoCay top 4 insider travel tips uncovers free things to do, places to go and thrills you can share with friends. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Best Restaurants at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Explore all the restaurants on the Perfect Day at CocoCay island and discover all the complimentary dining venues that offers loads of food and drink favorites that will fuel you up in between adventures.

Guide To Chill Island at Perfect Day

Discover Chill Island insider tips to all the relaxing things to do from renting overwater cabanas with VIP services, snorkeling with the friendly manta rays to finding the best places to unwind and soak up the island vibes.

The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Vacation to Perfect Day at CocoCay

Set sail to the best kid-friendly destination in the world on a cruise from Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to Perfect Day at CocoCay and discover all the amazing family-friendly activities, award-winning shows, and record-breaking attractions.

Amazing Family Friendly Summer Cruise Vacations

Enjoy your family summer vacation on a cruise to Perfect Day CocoCay and discover the private islands beautiful beaches, kid-friendly attractions, great restaurants and record-breaking water rides and activities for all ages. Find summer cruise deals.

The 5 Most Relaxing Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Discover the most relaxing things to do on your luxury getaway to Perfect Day at CocoCay from the luxury CocoCay Overwater Cabanas to the most popular Chill Island Cabanas and much more.

Relaxing Weekend Caribbean Vacation Ideas

Envision your next weekend Caribbean vacation, plan a short cruise or quick getaway to the best travel destinations to visit. Adventure awaits!

Bahamas Travel Hacks for Families

If you're taking the whole family on a Bahamas vacation, we've got some travel hacks for families to make your kid-friendly trip easier.

Quick Bahamas & Key West Vacations

Bahamas & Key West vacation getaways are perfect for travelers looking for pristine beaches, rich history, delicious food, & stunning wildlife encounters.

Look for the "Bahamahost" sticker when getting a taxi — the label identifies those belonging to a program that promotes excellent service to tourists.

If you happen to visit on the second Friday of the month, go find the Government House and witness the Changing of the Guard, a British custom that's been performed since 1958.

The Bahamian dollar is kept at the same value as the U.S. dollar, making it easy to pay, as both are used interchangeably.

LOCAL CUISINE ISLAND TWIST AND TANG 

There's a lot of similarity between the soul food of the southern U.S., and Bahamian cuisine, that blends the Caribbean tang with its very own spice, creating a trademark flavor unique to the region.

FRUITS OF THE SEA

Little-known as a culinary ingredient in the continental U.S., conch is a large mollusk (akin to clams) with a meaty texture. Locals use it to prepare conch salad, conch fritters, conch chowder and more.

PEAS N' RICE

Pigeon peas are mixed with onions, tomatoes and spices, and incorporated into cooking rice. Often simply called Peas n' Rice, but there's a lot of savory flavors thrown in, like tomato paste, fresh thyme and salted pork or bacon.

CITRUS DELIGHT

Switcha, which many locals consider the official Bahamian drink, blends lemons and limes to concoct a powerful accompaniment to dessert or a refreshing beverage on a hot sunny day.

RELATED PORTS

Laze in a beachside hammock or get your thrills at Thrill Waterpark on Perfect Day at CocoCay. Jump onboard a Bahamas cruise to stroll along the waterfront of capital city Nassau and see its distinctive pastel-colored buildings. Or explore waterfalls and botanic gardens on Grand Bahama Island.

Nassau, Bahamas

Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas

Baltimore, Maryland

Charleston, South Carolina

Bimini, Bahamas

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Miami, Florida

Related Destinations

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My Personas

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I've been on 50 cruises. Here are 3 routes I'd sail again in a heartbeat and 3 I'd probably skip.

• I've been on 50 cruises (at least six a year), and some routes are better than others. 
• I try to avoid cruises that make stops at Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas.
• My favorite cruise I've ever been on was a Mediterranean voyage from Barcelona. 

I've taken 50 cruises with family and friends, and I'm always looking to try out new routes with different port stops .

Before I ever book a cruise — which I do about six times a year — I try to find either a new-to-me ship or a new-to-me route. If neither of those options works for my budget or timeframe, I opt for a familiar favorite.

Here are my favorite cruise routes that I'm always happy to book, and the ones I don't need to sail again.

My favorite route is a Mediterranean cruise that starts and ends in Barcelona, Spain.

Mediterranean cruises start and end in various ports of call around Europe, typically throughout the summer sailing season.

Last year, my family and I took a Disney Cruise that started and ended in Barcelona, with stops in France and Italy.

My favorite part of this trip was splitting a day between Nice and Eze in the French Riviera . I was able to walk through cobblestone streets overlooking the ocean while sipping on limoncello.

I love Caribbean cruises along the western ports.

I've taken many western Caribbean routes over the years on Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line, and they never disappoint.

The route usually includes stops at Cozumel, Mexico, and Georgetown, Grand Cayman. But it may also include ports of call at Falmouth, Jamaica; Costa Maya, Mexico; or Roatán, Honduras.

I always get off the ship in Cozumel, even if it's just to have lunch at a taco shop. Don't get lured into the restaurants right at the docks because the best food is in the spots farther down the main street.

I also love getting off in Roatán. On a recent cruise, I took an excursion to Roatan Island Brewing Company to try different beers made with local ingredients.

I also enjoy routes that only stop at private islands.

Every once in a while, I can find a short three-night cruise on Royal Caribbean or Disney that only visits the brand's private islands.

These short cruises are ideal weekend getaways and go to some of my favorite ports of call, like Royal Caribbean's CocoCay and Disney's Castaway Cay.

I love both of these destinations because there's so much to do — you really can spend the entire day at the beach or exploring the various parts of the island. I also love that food and drinks are all provided, so I don't have to return to the ship for lunch.

On the other hand, I don't need to go to Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas again.

I love short cruises from Port Canaveral or Fort Lauderdale, Florida, but they often mean stopping at Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas .

I don't really think there's much to see at either stop once you've done it once or twice. If my route includes them, I usually stay on the ship to enjoy the less crowded pool and spa.

The trade-off for these two ports is often getting to visit a cruise line's private island , so I think it's worth it for that. But I don't need to go on another long cruise through the Bahamas.

I'm also not a big fan of Bimini, Bahamas.

Many cruise lines, like Carnival and Virgin Voyages , are now taking cruisers to Bimini for an easy beach day. But if you're not a big fan of chilling at the beach, there's not much else to do on the island.

I’d probably skip cruising to Key West.

I love Key West in the Florida Keys , but as a port stop, it was hard to see a lot of the island and explore beyond Duval Street.

I'd prefer to spend a few days in the destination to explore all that it has to offer instead of making it a cruise stop.

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Atlantis Bahamas Day Pass: 3 Things You Need To Know

By Lisa Wells Last Updated: Nov 12, 2023 · This post may contain affiliate links · 7 Comments

Here are 3 key things you need to know before you book your Atlantis Bahamas day pass. This includes knowing the best things to do and see, taking a closer look at each of the day pass options, and understanding when and how you should book your day trip.

If you're planning a Caribbean cruise with Nassau listed as one of its ports of call then you're likely to see the Atlantis Bahamas day pass as one of your choices among the shore excursion packages.

No matter whether you're a beach lover, water park-loving thrill-seeker, first-time cruiser , or aquarium junkie, this huge action-packed resort truly offers something for every type of traveler.

It's the perfect choice if you're cruising the Caribbean! But before you start booking your day trip, you'll need to know what you want to do and see at the Atlantis Bahamas resort.

The Atlantis day passes aren't created equally and there's no "All Access" pass that gives you unlimited access to everything on the resort, so you'll need to consider your options carefully and decide what type of day you'd like to have onshore.

With that in mind, this guide is intended to help you understand your activity options, what the Atlantis Bahamas day passes do (and don't) cover, as well as where and when you should book your day pass.

Ready to start planning your visit to Atlantis Bahamas now? Book your day pass here.

1. Learn The Best Things To Do At Atlantis Bahamas Resort

Whether you're in the mood to kick back at the beach or zip down a waterslide, Atlantis Paradise Island offers plenty of activities for every type of traveler.

Here are some of the best things to do during your day onshore:

Soak Up The Sun On The Atlantis Bahamas Beaches

You'll find five miles of white sandy beaches along the edge of the resort – beautiful white sandy shores and exquisite blue waters split across three pristine beaches and one lagoon beach. It's truly any beach-lover's paradise !

Whether you visit Cove Beach, Atlantis Beach, Paradise Beach or the Lagoon Beach, you're sure to find a beach vibe that suits your style. While Cove Beach and Paradise Beach are a little more tranquil and laid-back, Atlantis Beach is the action-packed destination, located right at the heart of the Atlantis resort. 

And if you're in the mood for a water activity or two, you'll want to visit Paradise Lagoon Beach. This sheltered environment is a great place to snorkel, go for a paddle in a paddleboat, or enjoy one of the other nearby water sports.

Here's a little glimpse of the beautiful ocean views on the main beach:

Explore The Dig & Other Atlantis Marine Habitats

The Dig and Atlantis marine habitats are an absolute must-see if you're even remotely interested in marine wildlife. And you're reading this...so you probably are. Why is this a must-see? Because Atlantis Bahamas houses the biggest open-air marine habitat in the entire world!

The Atlantis marine habitats cover 14 lagoons with more than 50,000 (!!!) aquatic sea creatures, which when combined, span over 250 different marine species. And those 14 lagoons hold more than eight million gallons of seawater. This aquarium is serious business. It's probably the next best thing to visiting a coral reef !

And among these marine habitats is none other than "The Dig". This very popular habitat offers its visitors a look at over 100 venomous Indo-Pacific Ocean lionfish, Moray eels and all sorts of iridescent jellyfish. All in all, the Dig offers a pretty spectacular sight to behold!

Take just a few steps outside the Atlantis aquarium and you'll find yourself in front of the Stingray Lagoon. This is where you'll have a chance to get a closer look at some spectacular rays. 

Wondering what else you can see in the Atlantis marine habitats? Enormous groupers, "Jewel Habitats" of beautiful tropical fish, and special exhibits with lobster, seahorses, clownfish, triggerfish, Bermuda chubs and more. You'll even have the rare opportunity to get an up-close-and-personal look at Great Hammerhead sharks, Caribbean Reef sharks and Smalltooth Sawfish. 

If you'd prefer to steer clear of the more dangerous species in the aquarium, you should make your way over to the Green sea turtles. And if you're hoping to get really close to some marine wildlife, you'll want to check out the interactive tank filled with conch, starfish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers and crabs. 

No matter what your favorite tropical sea creature is, there are probably at least a couple of them that call the Atlantis marine habitats home.  

Spend A Day With The Dolphins At Dolphin Cay

If you love dolphins, you'll need to check out Dolphin Cay while you're at Atlantis. This open-air marine mammal habitat stretches over 14 acres of man-made environment.

This is not an entertainment facility. Originally opened in 2007, Dolphin Cay was created to fill a need in providing a safe home to 17 homeless dolphins. The Dolphin Cay lagoon, coves, breathtaking beaches and pool area are the perfect response to this need. And Dolphin Cay also offers an animal rescue-rehabilitation hospital, animal pharmacy, and even provides a safe home for some lucky sea lions in the separate sea lion center. 

So, what can you do when you visit Dolphin Cay ? There are plenty of different ways to spend your day with the dolphins. Guests can swim, play, snorkel, kayak or paddleboard alongside the dolphins. And you can even spend a day working alongside one of the trainers! 

Splash Around At The Aquaventure Water Park

This highlight is for the thrill seekers in the crowd! The Aquaventure water park is a completely unique, ginormous (141-acres!) water park. It's one of the largest in the world, so if water parks are your thing, you'll need to make sure you stop by!

Guests and day pass holders can enjoy over 18 different water slides, a mile of river-riding fun, 20 different swimming areas and 11 beautiful swimming pools. For those that are curious, this huge water park has over twenty million gallons of water...that's a lot of water! And, of course, the entire park keeps with the Atlantis-themed surroundings. Impressive towers that look like they could be part of an incredible ancient city!

Other Things To Do & See With At Atlantis Bahamas

Of course, the beaches, the Dig, Dolphin Cay and Aquaventure are just a couple of my favorite highlights at the Atlantis Paradise Island resort. You can also:

• Spend a day at Atlantis' Mandara Spa
• Game at the Atlantis casino
• Snorkel with the Cownose stingrays with the Stingray Experience
• Take a self-guided underground tour of the Atlantis property

With plenty of activity options to choose from, you might just wish you were spending more than a day!

2. Understand Your Atlantis Bahamas Day Pass Options

No matter how you imagine your perfect day in paradise, you'll find the right Atlantis Day Pass to suit your style. While all of the Atlantis Bahamas day passes provide access to the casino, shopping and dining, you'll need to decide what type of activities you would like to do while you're onshore. This will determine which day pass and day pass add-ons you'll need to purchase. 

Your 3 Core Atlantis Bahamas Day Pass Choices

You'll have 3 core choices for your Atlantis Bahamas day pass. Here's what each of those day passes does (and doesn't) cover:

Atlantis Beach Day Pass

This day pass gets you exclusive access to the beautiful beaches of Atlantis. While quantities are (of course) limited, you will also have access to the onsite lounge chairs and towels. Pack your beach bag with some reef-safe sunscreen and a good book and you're all set for the day!

You'll have access to:

• All of the Atlantis beaches, as well as Paradise Lagoon Beach
• The Discover Atlantis Aquarium Tour
• Plus all other Atlantis marine habitats
• Shopping and dining

You will not have access to:

• The Atlantis pools
• Aquaventure slides and river rides
• Private Atlantis lagoons

Aquaventure Water Park Day Pass

The Atlantis Aquaventure day pass gets you unlimited access to enjoy a day at one of the largest water parks in the world! Perfect if you're a thrill-seeker or are just in the mood for a fun water adventure!

• The entire Aquaventure waterpark
• 20 swimming areas, including 11 pools
• The Atlantis beaches

You will not have access to: 

• The Atlantis marine habitats

Discover Atlantis Day Pass

This day pass gives you access to The Dig and the Atlantis marine habitats. Perfect if you're looking for an educational day learning about your favorite sea animals!

• A self-guided tour through the underwater city of Atlantis
• Any of the Atlantis beaches
• Aquaventure water park

Other Adventures To Enjoy With Your Atlantis Day Pass

Want to take your day trip to the next level? Here are two options to try in combination with your Aquaventure Day Pass:

• Snorkel the Ruins at Atlantis: Enjoy 60 minutes of fun as you snorkel through the Ruins Lagoon. You'll get an up-close look at the sunken ruins of the lost city. This is a particularly fun activity for kids (they must be over the age of 8) and those that are young at heart.
• Stingray Experience: This is a unique opportunity to have a (literal) hands-on experience with the Atlantis Cownose stingrays. Learn about these incredible creatures and then go for a snorkel among them. This is the best way to get close to these incredible animals.

Or, if you'd just like to spend a little time with the dolphins, you can simply book a Dolphin Cay adventure. There are plenty of different ways to spend a day with these local dolphins and sea lions, including:

• Swimming with the rescued bottlenose dolphins
• Playing with the sea lions
• Spending a day in the life of a trainer
• Or kayak, paddleboard or snorkel with the dolphins to your heart's content

These Dolphin Cay activities are the only adventures at Atlantis resort that do not require a day pass (but you won't have access to any other part of the resort either).

Whether you choose one (or a couple!) of these add-on activities, you're sure to have a blast during your visit and a fantastic memory to carry with you when you return home.

3. How To Purchase Your Atlantis Day Pass

If your cruise line has a port of call at Nassau, then it's very likely that you'll have the choice of a day trip to Atlantis as one of your onshore excursion packages. There are usually a few different options depending on what you want to see and what time you want to go.

You can also purchase your day pass directly through the Atlantis resort, but you'll have to get your own transportation to and from Paradise Island. (It's a short distance - we could see the Atlantis hotel towers from the ship when we docked at the Nassau cruise port.) 

No matter which way you choose to purchase your day pass, you'll want to read the pass description and fine print very carefully. As you've already seen there isn't one day pass that offers access to every part of Atlantis. You'll need to decide what you want to do and then choose your day pass accordingly. 

Other Important Details About Booking Your Day Pass

Here are a few key details to note about booking your day pass:

• No matter whether you book your day pass in advance or on the day you visit, you'll need your cruise line ID or partner hotel room key to redeem your pass.
• Day pass availability is limited, so you should book your pass in advance if Atlantis is a must-see on your excursion list (it should be!).
• You'll need to call in advance or take your chances and buy in-person if you decide to book a last-minute day pass. You will not be able to make a same-day reservation online.

If you keep these key details in mind, you'll be sure to have a fantastic day exploring paradise.

Enjoy A Day In Paradise With Your Atlantis Bahamas Day Pass

Looking to spend a day enjoying some of the most beautiful beaches?

Hankering for a fun day learning about your favorite underwater sea creatures and marine life?

In need of an adrenaline rush as you zoom down a water slideor float along the mile-long river ride? Head to Atlantis.

No matter what your version of paradise looks like, the Atlantis resort on Paradise Island is sure to deliver a spectacular day of fun in the sun. 

To book your Atlantis Bahamas Day Pass, click here.

Reader Interactions

February 05, 2022 at 5:03 am

Are drinks and food included with the pass?

February 06, 2022 at 9:26 pm

Hi Gail, drinks and food are not included. We had lunch at one of the casual restaurants near the beach and just paid for it there. Hope this helps!

June 24, 2022 at 10:03 pm

What’s included on the Atlantis Bahamas day pass and how much is the day pass?

July 03, 2022 at 9:03 pm

Hi Juanita, click here to see what's currently available . Once you enter your travel date, it will show you all the options and prices for that day.

Diane Greenbaum

December 12, 2022 at 10:58 pm

Hi. Is there a fairly good chance we can get tickets if we wait to book a few days in advance? We will be on a cruise in January and want to wait to ensure we will have good weather before buying the 13 tickets we need. Thanks!

June 09, 2023 at 3:46 am

I boughy my day pass on Carinval cruisefor $251. Does this include anything with the dolphins?

June 09, 2023 at 10:22 pm

Hi Tamra, the Dolphin Cay activities are add-ons to the Atlantis day pass (not included). You can check with Carnival to see if they bundled any add-ons in your excursion.

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Is Nassau Worth It in 2024? Should You Stay On The Ship?

Flannels or FlipFlops Travel Blog contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my disclaimer for more information.

When your cruise ship pulls into Nassau Cruise Port, the first question you’ll need to answer is whether or not to get off. A lot of people ask if Nassau is worth it?

This beautiful island offers plenty of things to do, but it can also be overwhelming for first-time visitors. If you’re not sure whether or not Nassau is worth it, read on for our tips on what to do (and what to avoid!) in the Bahamas’ capital city.

Is Nassau Worth it? Should you get off the ship in Nassau?

I think you absolutely should get off the ship anytime you arrive at a port of call.

Obviously, some ports you will like more than others, but you should at least give it a try. If you stay on the ship, you will miss learning about other cultures, seeing how other people live, and broadening your horizons and understanding of others.

The only time I would recommend staying on board is if you have been there many times before and want to take advantage of ship amenities. Even then, I’d still hop off the ship in Nassau to grab some Conch Fritters from Twin Brothers!

Why do people stay on the ship in Nassau?

There are a few reasons why people might choose to stay on the ship when it docks in Nassau.

Some people may choose to stay on board because they feel there is nothing to do in Nassau. This is not true – the island offers plenty of activities, from exploring the city to swimming with dolphins.

Others may choose to stay on the ship because they feel that the locals and vendors are aggressive. This is definitely true – many Bahamians are used to dealing with cruise ship passengers, and they may try to sell you something or invite you into their shop.

However, it’s important to remember that they’re just trying to make a living, and it’s usually easy to walk away if you’re not interested.

One way to combat this aggressiveness is to have a plan before you get off the ship. If you already know what you want to do appear confident and have a direction, you’ll be less likely to be hassled.

If you feel like someone is being overly aggressive, firmly say no thank you and keep walking.

Another common reason cruisers stay on the ship in Nassau is because Nassau is a very common port on cruise itineraries.

Frequent cruisers may stay on board and enjoy the cruise ship amenities like the Rainforest Room on DCL , the Flowrider on RCL, or even just relax on Carnivals’ Serenity Deck with fewer people on board.

Finally, some people choose to stay on the ship because they feel that Nassau is dirty and “run down”. While it’s true that the city doesn’t have the same level of luxury as other Caribbean destinations, it’s still worth exploring!

The beaches are beautiful, and there are plenty of interesting shops and restaurants to check out.

What is there to do in Nassau?

There are a lot of things to do in Nassau, so it really depends on what you’re interested in. If you want to explore the city, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to check out.

If you’re looking for some beach time, there are some great spots to relax on the sand.

And if you’re looking for some adventure, there are plenty of activities to choose from like jet skiing or snorkeling.

As I mentioned before, the best way to be safe in Nassau is to have a plan. Here are the best things you can do in Nassau when you stop there on your cruise.

1 Hire a Taxi

We hired a driver to give us a tour of the island . We told him the places we wanted to see and then had him drop us off at Twin Brothers for lunch.

We walked back to the cruise port after lunch, stopping at some of the beaches and attractions along the way.

This gave us a chance to see the island, learn some history, and still have time to do our own thing and check out some of the best bars in Nassau .

✅ Click here to book a local tour of Nassau

2. Visit the Straw Market

This is where you can purchase souvenirs and spend time with locals. Bring small bills with you. This is where you most likely will be met with aggressive sales techniques and vendors hollering at you to entice you to get to their stall. If this bothers you, skip the straw market and shop somewhere else.

3. Visit Fort Montagu

If you want to see an old fort, go to Fort Montagu. It’s the oldest fort on the whole island. It’s at the east end of Nassau Harbor by the water. The British built it in 1725 to protect their island from Spanish invaders.

In 1776, some Marines tried to get a gunpowder supply from the fort, but they didn’t succeed. They did, however, take control of the fort and made the Bahamian militia retreat.

4. Tour Fort Fincastle

This fort is built in the shape of a paddle. Fort Fincastle was built in 1793 and sits on Bennet Hill. There is a small fee to tour the fort, the views are outstanding from the top of the fort.

5. Head to Potters Cay

This is where you will get the freshest and most authentic Bahamian food. Be sure and try conch in fritters or in a salad. Potters Cay has 40 different stalls where you can get fried fish.

✅ Book an ATV Tour of Nassau

6. Arawak Cay

This is another hot spot for local eats and sometimes even local performers.

7. Go to the Pirates of Nassau Museum

This interactive museum focuses on the pirate history of the Bahamas and is great for kids and adults. The cost is $13.50 for adults and $6.50 for kids.

8. Take a glass-bottom boat tour

This allows you to see the beautiful underwater world without having to get in the water.

9. John Watling’s Distillery

Take a free tour here to see how the small batch of rum is made. You can walk the grounds and enjoy rum from the tavern. Be sure you know the legal drinking age in the Bahamas !

✅ Click to book a Rum and Reggae Tour in Nassau

10. Spend some time at Clifton Heritage National Park

At Clifton Heritage National Park, you can explore the history and culture of three groups that left their mark on the country: the Lucayans, Loyalists, and Africans.

11. Enjoy some of the best Bahamian Resorts by booking a resort for a day pass

You can get passes to Atlantis, Margaritaville, Riu Palace , and more. You can learn more in this post ” Best Nassau Resort for a day Passes “.

✅ Click here to book a Resort for a Day Pass

12. Walk the Queens Staircase

The Queen’s Staircase, which contains 66 steps in total, was hand-crafted by around 600 slaves. These men and women used pick axes and other handheld tools to cut through solid limestone; the entire staircase took over 16 years to complete.

This 65-step staircase was named in honor of Queen Victoria, who signed a declaration abolishing slavery upon her ascension to the throne in 1837.

13. Hit the Beach

You’re in the Bahamas, after all! There are some wonderful beach options, both free and paid. You can read all about the Best Nassau Beaches here .

14. Go to the free museum

It used to be an old jail and now is a library and museum.

15. Check out the Parliament Building

Its PINK! Seeing a government building painted in a beautiful pastel just tickled me pink. 🤣

Is Nassau Safe for Cruisers?

According to the US Department of State , the Bahamas are “Yellow, level 2”, which means Exercise Increased Caution.

Nassau, being the most populated area, also has the highest crime rate. That doesn’t necessarily mean you are unsafe just by getting off the ship in Nassau.

The recommendation by the Department of State is to “The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population.

You should read: Margaritaville Nassau Review

Violent crimes, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence”.  

There are a few things that you can do to help keep you safe while in Nassau.

First, always be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone or venturing off the beaten path into deserted areas.

Secondly, try not to flash cash or expensive jewelry around, and be aware of how much alcohol you drink.

Finally, if you’re unsure about an area or feel unsafe, ask locals or security personnel for advice.

What to avoid in Nassau

Watercraft-related recreational activities, such as water tours, are not strictly regulated. Watercraft may be in poor working order and some operators may not have safety certificates.

So, what exactly does this mean for tourists?

Well, it means that you should be very careful if you choose to participate in any water-based activities while in Nassau. This includes things like jet skis, kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling.

Make sure that you are aware of the risks involved and that you are only doing these activities within your abilities.

Some beaches have riptides. Learn to watch for signs of riptides, and learn what beach flags and their warnings mean.

Always swim with a buddy, no matter your age or swimming level, and heed all weather and water warnings.

Staying safe in Nassau requires the same amount of common sense and vigilance as staying safe in any major city.

You should also stick to the tourist areas and avoid dark, deserted, or residential areas.

Avoid going anywhere alone, and if you are being robbed, avoid fighting back.

So, what does all of this mean for tourists visiting Nassau? It’s important to remember that just because Nassau has a high crime rate doesn’t mean that you’re automatically unsafe just by getting off the ship.

There are things that you can do to help keep yourself safe while in Nassau, such as avoiding deserted areas and being aware of your surroundings. Use common sense and be vigilant, and you’ll have a great time exploring everything that Nassau has to offer!

Is Nassau Worth It?

So, is Nassau worth it? I think so. I think every place has something unique and special to offer. Just go in with the right expectations and a sense of adventure and everything will be good. Remember, at least you aren’t at work!

Chantelle Kincy

Chantelle is a nationally syndicated travel writer, and travel advisor. An avid cruiser, Chantelle has explored many parts of the world through her travels. She is also a dedicated National Parks enthusiast and loves to hike in these beautiful locations. To further her expertise in the industry, Chantelle has taken numerous courses to become a specialist in various destinations, including the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, and Alaska. Through her blog and advising business, Chantelle shares her love for travel and helps others plan their dream vacations.

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‘Wheel of Fortune’ Contestant Flunks Answer & Loses $40K (VIDEO)

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Pat Sajak provided comforting words on Tuesday’s (March 20) Wheel of Fortune after a contestant fell just one word short of solving the final puzzle and bagging an extra $40,000.

In fact, she did all the hard work by amazingly guessing the first three words correctly, but completely flunked on the final word, which seemed the easiest of the lot to guess.

The contestant in question was LaQuisha Persak, a married mother of one from Tallahassee, Florida. She faced off against Zevon Atkinson from Bloomington, Indiana, and Danielle Krueger from Omaha, Nebraska. Fun fact: Krueger’s mom competed on the show 20 years ago.

Persak got off to a solid start, and by the end of the Express Round, she’d won $19,589 cash and a cruise aboard the Disney Wish to the Bahamas worth $11,889.

Krueger fought back towards the end of the episode, putting the pressure on Persak. But it wasn’t enough. Ultimately, Persak won the episode with $23,589, while Krueger finished in second with a respectable $21,600. Atkinson trailed with $2,000.

In the Bonus Round, Persak selected the dreaded “Phrase” category and the additional letters “M, G, W, and A.” This left her with a four-word puzzle that read: “_ / _ A _ E / _ _ _ R / _ A _ _.”

Impressively, Persak figured out the first three words, answering, “I Have Your…” But she struggled to work out the last word, incorrectly guessing “Card” and “Case.”

Eventually, the timer ran out, and Vanna White revealed the correct answer as “I Have Your Back.”

“Oh my gosh,” Persak said. “And I love to say that phrase!”

'Wheel of Fortune': Maggie Sajak Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Show Secrets

Sajak looked genuinely disappointed that Persak came so close but failed to figure it out in time, telling her he felt “sorry” for her.

“You did everything you could. You had the right idea, and you did everything you could,” he told her. “You were trying other words. The 10 seconds just flies by. I’m sorry it didn’t work out.”

The long-time host then opened the prize envelope to reveal Persak lost out on an extra $40,000. “It was a nice effort, it really was,” he added.

Still, Persak walked away with over $23,000 and a cruise to the Bahamas, so all in all, not a bad night’s work.

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Are Balcony Cabins Worth it on a Cruise? 10 Pros & 4 Cons

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One of the most important decisions you’ll make as you plan your cruise, is what type of cabin to book. Balcony cabins, sometimes called veranda staterooms, are a popular cruise cabin choice for good reason. 

When we think of balcony cabins, we envision amazing balcony views of the ocean, islands, glaciers and more.

However, you might be wondering if a balcony cabin is worth it on a cruise, especially since the cost will be higher than ocean view and interior cabins .

In this post, I share the 10 reasons to book a balcony cabin on a cruise and why it may be the perfect choice for you. However, there are times when a balcony won’t make as much sense or be worth the extra cost and we’ll look at this too.

Cruise Ship Balcony Cabins – Are They Worth it?

What is a Balcony Cabin on a Cruise?

A balcony cabin is a cruise ship stateroom which has all the same features as inside and ocean view cabins. However, balcony rooms are usually larger and have a private outdoor balcony space. On some cruise lines, such as Celebrity and Holland America, balcony cabins are called Veranda cabins. 

Balconies on some cruise ships will be larger than others, but all will have at least 2 outdoor chairs and one small table. If you book an aft facing balcony cabin , you’ll often get lucky and have deck chairs to lay out and enjoy.

Cruise cabin tip: Beware of obstructed balcony cabins , which may be disappointing in terms of the view.

Related: Worst Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

Is a Cruise Ship Balcony Cabin Worth the Extra Cost?

Are balcony cabins worth it on a cruise? These days, balcony cabins may not cost as much as you think, and for many people, they are definitely worth the splurge! When you book a balcony cabin, you’ll have a private outdoor space where you can get a sea view at any time. Along with the larger cabin space, this can add so much enjoyment to your cruise experience.

Top Reasons to Book a Balcony Cabin on a Cruise

1. the ocean views.

It’s undeniable that one of the best reasons to book a balcony cabin on a cruise is for the amazing ocean views! Whether you enjoy being up early to catch the sunrise with a cup of coffee on your private balcony, or you love a good sunset and a glass of wine – it’s a very special experience.

There’s something so peaceful about the sea and the waves, especially when all is quiet.

Your balcony is also great place for stargazing late at night on a cruise in the open seas where there’s little light pollution. 

2. Larger Cabin

Balcony cabins are larger than most inside and ocean view cabins. According to Cruise Critic , inside cabin sizes range from 150-185 square feet and ocean view cabins 160-200 square feet. Whereas, balcony cabins average 175-220 square feet. Some balcony cabins can even be larger depending on the cruise ship and cabin category.

3. Scenery & Itinerary

There are some itineraries where the view from your balcony is a big reason to choose this type of cabin. In Alaska , as you’re sailing through Glacier Bay or Endicott Arm, you’ll have a view on the glaciers and incredible scenery from the comfort of your own balcony space.

At any time of day, you’ll see the landscape as well as potential marine and wild life. This is a reason many travel agents and avid cruisers recommend balconies for Alaska cruise itineraries.

In addition to Alaska, other itineraries that may be well worth the splurge for a balcony cabin include Mediterranean and Hawaii cruises.

Related:   Port Side or Starboard Side on a Cruise? Which is best

4. Value of a Balcony Cabin

While cruise ship balcony cabins are generally more expensive than inside and ocean view cabins, they may be more affordable than you think. Years ago, there were fewer balcony rooms per cruise ship, and the cost difference may have been huge.

However, on some cruise ships you’ll find that the price of a balcony cabin may only be a couple hundred dollars more than an ocean view or outside stateroom. It’s always worth checking to see if there are any promotions or past passenger rates that can make a balcony room more affordable on a cruise.

Related:   27 Cruise Travel Hacks Repeat Cruisers Swear By  

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5. Escape the Crowds

Some large cruise ships can feel busy and crowded, especially on sea days. A balcony cabin can give you some private outdoor space to read or just sit quietly, away from the activities going on on the lido deck and inside the cruise ship.

Related:  The Ultimate Cruise Lingo Glossary – How to Talk Like a Cruiser

6. Avoid Seasickness

If you’re worried about getting seasick on a cruise , one of the best things you can do is have a balcony cabin ideally in a mid-ship location. When you feel seasick on a cruise, one of the worst things to do is to go back to a small cabin and sit indoors. Instead, getting fresh air is helpful.

The ocean breeze you’ll have by opening the sliding doors in your cabin, will help you to feel better if you are a bit bothered by the ship’s movement.

Read more:  How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise

Bonine or Dramamine for Motion Sickness on a Cruise – Which is best?

8. Claustrophobia

This probably goes without saying, but if you’re claustrophobic, having a balcony is absolutely worth the money. The fact is, inside cabins are small and cozy, meaning no natural light at all. You may be ok with an ocean view, but still feel a bit closed in. 

If you’re worried about feeling confined on a cruise ship, you’ll feel much better in a balcony or veranda cabin. You may even appreciate a larger mini suite or suite.

9. Balcony Dividers May Be Opened

Are you cruising with family or friends in different cabins? On many cruise ships, the crew will be able to open up the balcony dividers for you so you can enjoy a larger space for several cabins. 

Make sure to ask in advance, as cruise lines have different policies, but this is a great idea for group cruises if you do want to spend a lot of time together.

Related:   10 Things that Cost Extra on a Cruise but Are Worth It

10. See Whales and Dolphins

While there’s no guarantee, it’s certainly possible to sit on your balcony cabin and be lucky enough to see marine life like dolphins, whales and flying fish. When the seas are calm, you’ll have a greater chance of seeing such a spectacular sight right from your own veranda.

Remember to bring your travel binoculars to see as much as you can!

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When Is it Not Worth Booking a Balcony Cabin?

It’s hard to imagine when a balcony cabin wouldn’t be enjoyable, however there are times when it may be hard to justify the extra cost.

1. Short Cruises

If you’re only on a cruise for 2-4 days, you may just not have that much time to enjoy your private balcony. If you’ll be off then ship or plan to participate in the many activities on the cruise ship, this may be a time to stick with a cheaper cabin .

2. No Sea Days

There are some cruise itineraries that are very port intensive, and have few or even no sea days. In this case, if you booked the cruise planning to be off the ship exploring the ports of call, a balcony cabin may be a waste of money on your cruise .

3. Cold Weather Cruises

If your cruise itinerary has a good chance of very cool or even rainy weather, you may not get a lot of use out of the balcony itself. In this case a large ocean view cabin may be a better value.

4. You’re Never in Your Cabin

If you love to be out and about during your cruise, and are only in your cabin to shower, get dressed and sleep, don’t let anyone convince you that you are missing out if you don’t get a balcony cabin.

In your case, an inside cabin is likely your best option.

Read next:  7 Best Reasons to Book an Interior Cabin

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Final thoughts

In this post we went through 10 reasons why a balcony cabin is worth the extra cost, from having more privacy to experiencing incredible sea views. However, to be fair, we also shared a few reasons that you may not want to pay extra for a balcony. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not a balcony cabin is the best cabin choice for you.

What type of cabin do you usually get, and in your opinion, are balcony cabins worth it?

Happy cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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11 Comments

You are so correct. On our first cruise we had an outside cabin, big porthole, no problems and absolutely nothing wrong with it. Our second cruise was for our 25th anniversary. We decided to treat ourselves to a balcony. That was many years ago and many cruises ago and we never went back. Our last cruise we upgraded to a junior suite. Walk-in closet and bath tub…Uh oh…

Oh no…now you’re stuck, lol. Ah the larger spaces and bathtub must have been wonderful. Thanks for sharing this Greg!

We had a veranda room on our cruise to Alaska and loved it. This was on Holland America. Then we used the same cruise line going to New England and Canada. We chose the veranda again but then saw where a lanai room was cheaper so we chose that. My husband and I both loved it. We could see a few people walking by (I’m a people watcher!) but no one could see in out room and one could only use the sliding door with a room key. It automatically locked every time.

I have heard that those are such interesting cabins, and so unique. I would definitely choose a lanai if it was an itinerary where outdoor privacy wasn’t a concern. Thanks for the tip about that awesome HA cabin type!

Thanks for sharing Joanne. I’ve never had this type of cabin, but I’ve heard they are one of the unique “best kept secrets” on the smaller HAL ships.

Glad to know you enjoyed a balcony in Alaska!

I have always gotten a balcony or better room. I like suites but on the newer ships on longer sailings they can be priced out of my budget or what I want to spend. We sailed to Alaska and pulled up to the glaciers. Magnificent!!! We were on 9th deck, about 100 feet above the water. More glacier above us than below us. No crowds, no fighting for position for a good picture, and just the two of us. Thanks for your articles. Maybe we will be sailing again soon.

Sounds absolutely amazing & well worth it!! Enjoy your upcoming cruise Russell!

I am going to be add man out here. The first cruise I sailed was a obstructed ocean view. that is basically a window that looks out to the life boat. You did get a feeling of night and day, but I did not find it appealing I also spend almost NO time in my cabin. It is a place to change, shower and sleep. When I go on a cruise, I spend 95% of my waking hours in the common areas of the ship. I have been booking inside cabins ever since. On my third or fourth cruise, there was an anomaly in the pricing where the balcony was actually cheaper than the inside cabin due to extra onboard credit for the balcony that was more than the difference in price. We got a balcony for that cruise, and I spend about 30 minuets of the cruise on the balcony as we were leaving port and never used it the rest of the cruise. These types of decisions are personal and if you find that you stay in your cabin, or like to be alone on your balcony, then these are decisions you need to make based on your likes and dislikes. I have now cruised 18 times and will stick with the inside cabin unless the cost of the balcony is a wash or cheaper.

Thanks so much for sharing your experiences. You’re right, choosing a cabin is really personal and it depends how you spend your time on a cruise, and budget of course. Personally, I like an inside cabin sometimes and flop between these and balconies depending on the cruise.

We are on a back to back Hawaii to Vancouver to Alaska cruise with a balcony and the Alaska weather has been much nicer than the Hawaii weather. We love balconies!

So glad the Alaska weather has been so nice! Funny about Hawaii – hope it’s a great cruise!

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9 Best Cruise Destinations For Every Type Of Traveler

• Cruise to Hawaii for a romantic getaway with picturesque islands, sunsets, and adventures catering to couples.
• Bahamas cruises are perfect for families, offering fun activities, clear waters, private islands, and relaxation onboard.
• Ibiza is the ultimate party destination with a mix of nightlife, stunning beauty, culture, and adventurous activities to explore.

Planning a dream vacation at sea but not sure where to go? Keep reading to learn about the world's best cruise destinations and an incredible cruise that will live up to your fantasies!

A myriad of stunning locations across the globe are perfect for a wonderful cruise, from Antarctica for nature's splendor to tropical Caribbean islands for beaches , Eastern Mediterranean destinations for cultural experiences, and the Western Mediterranean for food and wine lovers. So, whether one is passionate about nature, history, or wildlife, wants to go on a romantic retreat or a fun holiday with family, or wants to discover new areas solo, there is a cruise for everyone's preference or taste. Moreover, the world's best cruise lines offer unforgettable voyages to these incredible destinations.

Choosing the perfect cruise destination is just the beginning of a magical experience. Once aboard, the cruise unfolds, offering a vacation filled with cherishable experiences and memories. Simply select your ideal cruise destination and set sail for a journey brimming with adventure and wonder!

Each cruise recommended in this article was chosen based on its TripAdvisor ratings. Factors such as itinerary, price, and the onboard experience were carefully weighed when making selections. Our curated list includes a diverse range of cruises, catering to the unique preferences of every type of traveler.

10 Best Cruise Lines For Every Type Of Traveler

Best for honeymooners.

Hawaii is a serene tropical haven within U.S. territory for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic escape amid immaculate beaches and natural surroundings. And, cruising is the best way to experience the serenity and action of this paradise . All popular cruise lines offer Hawaii cruises with ports of call at Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, allowing couples to explore the islands, partake in cultural events like sunset luaus, and indulge in onboard amenities tailored for romantic adventurers. With a variety of excursions and activities, like surfing, helicopter excursions above molten lava, and jeep rides over rough terrain, this cruise is certainly the ultimate vacation. A Hawaiian cruise offers couples celebrating their new life together an enchanted experience packed with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments in paradise.

• Recommended Cruise: Pride of America's 7-night cruise to Hawaii
• TripAdvisor Rating: 3/5
• Route: Honolulu, Maui, Maui, Hilo, Kona (Kailua Bay), Kauai, Kauai, Honolulu

Best for families

Bahamas cruises are the ultimate family vacation , offering a complete package of fun, adventure, and relaxation. While powdery white sands provide an idyllic setting to relax and take in the beauty of nature, warm, clear waters are ideal for snorkeling to observe a vivid underwater world. Each port of call on a Bahamas cruise from Nassau to Exuma has its own unique charm, culture, and an array of family-friendly activities.

Additionally, cruise lines call at several private islands and exclusive resorts owned or managed by them. Onboard, there’s entertainment for everyone, from thrilling water slides, a kids' club, youth programs, and casinos to tranquil spas, making the Bahamas cruise a great choice for families looking for a memorable vacation on the sea.

• Recommended Cruise: Celebrity Silhouette's 4-night cruise to the Bahamas
• TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
• Route: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

10 All-Inclusive Cruises Worth Trying In 2024

Best for party lovers.

Ibiza, a Mediterranean gem with an abundance of thriving nightclubs and well-known DJs, is the heart of the clubbing scene in Spain. It is one of the country's most popular Balearic Islands and is an ideal location for party lovers to have a mix of excitement and leisure. Hold on! Ibiza is more than just a party destination —it's a place of breathtaking natural beauty, a rich cultural legacy, and charming small towns. Visitors can discover hidden coves, soak in the sun on golden dunes, or snorkel in the Mediterranean's pristine waters. A cruise around Ibiza takes cruisers deep into the heart of the most vibrant and scenic island in the Mediterranean.

• Recommended Cruise: Norwegian Escape's 16-night cruise to Transatlantic
• TripAdvisor Rating: 3.5/5
• Route: New York (Manhattan), King's Wharf, Ponta Delgada, Lisbon, Seville, Malaga, Ibiza, Barcelona, Cannes, Florence (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia)

Although clubbing in Ibiza is a unique experience, there are a few things visitors should know about partying on the island .

South Pacific

Best for romantic people.

Looking for a romantic retreat where nature is at its most breathtaking, away from the hordes of people and kids? Well, the South Pacific islands are best fitted with their immaculate beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unspoiled, lush landscapes. From strolling hand in hand through stunning landscapes and enjoying intimate dinners to witnessing mesmerizing sunsets over the horizon, the South Pacific's exotic charm ignites passion.

Additionally, cruise lines also offer indulgent moments with spa treatments and romantic dinners under the stars. For adventurous souls, there are opportunities for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and surfing. A South Pacific cruise frequently visits Bora Bora, Moorea, Napier, Fiji, Tahiti, and other stunning locations, all of which provide enchanting experiences for couples seeking romance and intimacy. On a cultural level, couples traveling through these islands can try new food, unwind with traditional massages, or enjoy Polynesian dance.

• Recommended Cruise: Resilient Lady's 10-night cruise to the South Pacific
• TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
• Route: Melbourne, Sydney (Australia), Sydney (Australia), Picton, Napier, Tauranga, Tauranga, Auckland

Galápagos Islands

Best for wildlife enthusiasts.

A cruise to the Galápagos Islands, a remote archipelago in South America , offers an unparalleled wildlife experience. Rich in diverse fauna and diverse landscapes, from volcanic terrain to lush highlands, a cruise to these islands provides an incredible opportunity to experience nature. Visitors have the chance to see unique wildlife, such as sea lions, iguanas, blue-footed boobies, tropical penguins, and some of the biggest tortoises around.

The cruise also includes guided excursions that provide insight into the islands' ecological importance, snorkeling that unveils the colorful life of the underwater world, and hiking through volcanic craters, making for an amazing journey. Cruising allows visitors access to isolated locations, guaranteeing a close-up look at wildlife and letting them discover why the preservation of this remarkable ecosystem is crucial.

• Recommended Cruise: 7-day Western Galápagos Islands aboard the yacht La Pinta
• TripAdvisor Rating: 5/5
• Route: Baltra & North Seymour Islands, Isabela & Fernandina Islands, Urbina Bay and Tagus Cove, Rabida & Santa Cruz Islands, Santa Cruz Island, Floreana Island, Baltra Islands

10 Best US Virgin Islands Cruises For Seafaring Escapades

Eastern mediterranean, best for history lovers.

The Eastern Mediterranean cruises offer travelers the chance to step back in time through immersive experiences into the ancient civilizations of Europe, Asia, and Africa. They typically call on Turkey, Greece, Italy, Croatia, Israel, Cyprus, Jordan, and numerous other locations renowned for their century-old landmarks that are sure to entice any history aficionado. Travelers on these cruises have the opportunity to visit a variety of historical sites and ancient ruins, including the Acropolis and intact relics of Ephesus and Pompeii, providing cultural diversity. The Eastern Mediterranean trip offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse oneself in millennia of history, as well as breathtaking scenery and unique cultural encounters.

• Recommended Cruise: Celebrity Infinity's 9-night cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean
• Route: Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Kusadasi, Mykonos, Volos, Ouranoupoli, Kavala, Athens (Piraeus)

Best for adventurers

Antarctica, the seventh continent, has always captivated travelers, and a cruise to this amazing wonderland is a memorable adventure . Many cruises travel to Antarctica, generally taking a round trip from Ushuaia, Argentina. Travelers first cross the Drake Passage, a renowned choppy and windy stretch, and then land in the South Shetland Islands on the Antarctic Peninsula, adding an element of thrill. Witnessing shimmering icebergs, penguins, and seals is an experience like no other. In addition, visitors may see the magical Southern Lights dancing across the night sky. All things considered, cruises to Antarctica provide a fully immersive experience in the world's most secluded and alluring location, offering an array of gorgeous landscapes and thrills.

• Recommended Cruise: Sapphire Princess's 17-night cruise to Antarctica
• Route: Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia (Tierra del Fuego), Stanley, Montevideo, Buenos Aires

Antarctica's expedition cruises are quite costly, but some major cruise lines provide scenic cruising in Antarctica (with no landings) at far lower prices.

Western Mediterranean

Best for food and wine lovers.

A Western Mediterranean cruise takes travelers through beautiful countries like France, Italy, and Spain, all of which are renowned for their unique cuisines and award-winning wines, making this cruise perfect for foodies and wine connoisseurs. Travelers can sample a variety of local dishes and wines, including paella, tapas, pizza, spaghetti, fries, red wine, cannoli, and many more. In addition, some cruise lines include onboard dinner menus that feature regional cuisine and local wines. They even provide shore excursions such as visits to local markets, farms, and wineries, as well as cookery lessons to learn local recipes. Western Mediterranean cruises offer a diverse range of gastronomic experiences, ensuring a wonderful, delectable voyage for food and wine enthusiasts.

• Recommended Cruise: Oasis of the Seas's 7-night cruise to the Western Mediterranean
• Route: Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca (Majorca), La Spezia (Cinque Terre), Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, Barcelona

Best for scenery lovers

An Alaska cruise takes travelers on a journey through several untouched natural wonders, including majestic glaciers, imposing mountains, and lush forests. Wildlife abounds in the area, including eagles, bears, and whales, all of which add to the adventure. As the ship navigates the Inside Passage, the views of breathtaking fjords and pristine wilderness are breathtaking.

Additionally, travelers have the opportunity to witness the magical Northern Lights in Alaska, one of the best places to see this extraordinary spectacle in the world . From Juneau, Skagway, and Hubbard Glacier to Tracy Arm Fjord and Glacier Bay National Park , each stop offers a unique experience. All in all, Alaska cruises are a sensory feast of natural beauty and an amazing experience.

• Recommended Cruise: Celebrity Summit's 7-night cruise to Alaska
• Route: Vancouver, Inside Passage, Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait, Hubbard Glacier, Seward

The best time to go on an Alaskan cruise is in June . Deals may be available in mid-April through May and the first part of September, but temperatures may be chilly.

Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package on board? Here's what cruise passengers should know.

A latte in the morning here, a piña colada by the pool there. On a cruise, ordering drinks can rack up a steep bill before you know it.

Though beverages like water, regular coffee, iced tea and lemonade are generally included in cruise fares, others cost extra. That’s where drink packages come in handy.

The optional add-ons broaden the range of beverages you can order without worrying about incurring charges each time. But they aren’t always worth it, and it can be cheaper to quench your thirst a la carte.

“What I tell clients is: Do the math on it,” said Rusty Pickett, a travel adviser and owner of Shellback Cruises.

What do cruise drink packages include?

“Each cruise line has a different package system,” Pickett said. The packages typically range from more limited soda or coffee packages to those that cover a wide range of alcohol and other drinks.

Carnival offers a Bottomless Bubbles package that includes sodas and juice. The line’s Cheers! package includes those, plus spirits, beer and wine by the glass priced at $20 or less, specialty coffee and more (guests can order only one drink at a time and are limited to 15 alcoholic drinks in 24 hours). Carnival also offers wine-specific packages. 

Be sure to read the fine print, too, because there are often restrictions. On Royal Caribbean International ships, for example, beverage packages exclude drinks served in licensed Starbucks stores.

How much do cruise drink packages cost?

Beverage packages are typically priced per person, per day and sold for the duration of a cruise. Starting prices vary but can range from $10 to $15 for soda and specialty coffee packages to upward of $100 for those that include alcohol. Pickett also noted that a number of lines have raised drink package prices in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The aforementioned Cheers!, Carnival's most comprehensive package, starts at $59.95 per person, per day, while the Bottomless Bubbles package starts at $6.95 for kids and $9.50 for adults. During a recent cruise on the line’s newest ship, Jubilee , cocktails at new venues Dr.Inks, Ph.D., and The Golden Mermaid were priced at $14 a la carte, plus an 18% gratuity charge. Beverage packages generally include gratuities, Pickett said.

The most I racked up in a single day on Jubilee – for two lattes at the ship's JavaBlue Cafe and Marina Bar; two bottles of water in my stateroom; and one cocktail at the Marina Bar that night (plus additional gratuities I added) – was $34.86.

“When (clients) want to talk it through, it's usually about how much you drink per day,” said Valerie Dorsey, a franchise owner and travel adviser at Cruise Planners. “And if you're only going to have one or two drinks, even at $15 a drink, it's still cheaper than buying a $100-a-day package.”

Mainstream cruise lines may offer lower prices if guests purchase a package advance, according to Dorsey (luxury lines tend to include more in their fares, including drinks). Operators may also bundle them as part of other offers.

Even if not for cost savings, Pickett and Dorsey both said some travelers are drawn to drink packages for the convenience. “They're willing to pay money for not being nickeled-and-dimed when they go up to the bar,” Pickett said.

Does everyone in the cabin need to get the drink package?

Often, all guests of legal drinking age in the same stateroom are required to purchase a drink package if any guest in the cabin buys one, including the Cheers! package and Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package .

Can I buy a drink package midcruise?

Even if you don't buy a drink package beforehand, you're not out of luck. Passengers may be able to buy them after they board, depending on when they make the purchase.

Royal Caribbean, for instance, sells drink packages on the first or second day of cruises four nights or longer; for sailings three nights or less, they're sold only on the first day. Celebrity Cruises (also part of Royal Caribbean Group), meanwhile, sells them up until three days before the end of a cruise.

Prices would be prorated on a per-day basis.

Can I bring my own drinks on a cruise?

Yes, depending on what it is. Beer and hard liquor are not allowed , but guests can bring wine or champagne to enjoy during their sailing – though Dorsey warned they will probably have to pay a corkage fee if they want to drink them outside their cabin.

For example, Princess Cruises charges $20 “should guests wish to consume their wine or champagne in the ship’s public areas,” according to its passage contract.

Guests may also be able to bring non-alcoholic drinks like bottled water, sodas and milk, but policies vary by line.

Dorsey also noted that if guests don’t mind going without espresso-based drinks or cocktails, they can opt not to buy a drink package at all. “I say to clients, ‘You don't have to put up extra money on a cruise if you don't want to.’ ”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Florida woman, 27, found dead on cruise en route to the bahamas.

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Authorities are investigating after a 27-year-old Florida woman died while on a cruise en route to the Bahamas.

According to the Royal Bahamas Police Force, she was found unresponsive in her cabin around 5:30 p.m. Monday.

She was declared dead after medical personnel on the ship performed CPR.

A 32-year-old Florida man was arrested after officers confiscated a quantity of suspected cocaine from the room.

An autopsy will be performed to determine her exact cause of death.

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