carnival cruise excursions in nassau bahamas

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Search the site, the best carnival bahamas excursions in nassau & freeport.

by Jennifer

This is part 3 of our Carnival Cruise Bahamas series. If you missed the first 2 posts, check them out here:  book a Carnival Cruise  and foodie favorites. Now it’s time to talk about Carnival Nassau & Freeport excursions! After all, you’re cruising somewhere, right? So you might as well embrace the destination by partaking in a fun activity or two! Here are  some of our favorite Carnival Bahamas excursions .

This is a partnered post for #CruisingCarnival. All opinions are my own.

The Bahamas has tranquil blue water for miles and beautiful surroundings, but there are also a lot of fun activities to do off the ship. Wondering what excursions are available for travelers in the Bahamas?

Here are our top picks for Nassau and Freeport Bahamas.

Carnival Nassau Excursions

Relax and soak up the warm Caribbean sun at the world-famous Atlantis Resort!

Select from multiple shore excursions at Atlantis Resort including :

A  Beach Day with reserved seating, then explore the resort on your where you can shop, dine and more.

Not up for the beach? Choose the guided Discover Atlantis tour where your guide escorts you through the Ruins Lagoon , a recreation of the sunken streets of mythical Atlantis, and The Dig , a replica of an archeological excavation site. Visit the Predator Lagoon , where you will view sharks, barracuda and many other creatures from the deep.

Want to swim with the fish? Atlantis offers a Snorkel Experience where you can don a wetsuit and snorkel in world’s largest open-air marine habitat.

Atlantis Aquaventure allows guests to explore the largest water-themed attraction in the Caribbean. Ride four adrenaline-inducing water slides among a mile long rapids and wave river. Experience the thrills of the towering Mayan temple’s five water slides and the 7-story Power Tower. Relax in the warm tropical sun, plunging into the refreshing waters of a swimming pool or pristine beach.

Or opt for a swim with the dolphins at the Atlantis Dolphin Cay . They offer shallow and deep water dolphin excursions.

Not interested in visiting the resort? Book a Catamaran Sail & Snorkel shore excursion aboard a stylish, 110-passenger catamaran. It’s one of the featured Carnival Bahamas excursions. Take a relaxing 30 minute journey before plunging into the crystal-clear waters below while you snorkel with the fishes.

Many of the Carnival Bahamas excursions are family-friendly, so bring the kids along! Or you can elect to keep them at the popular Carnival Camp Ocean , while you venture off on your own.

Don’t forget these items before you go!

Freeport, Bahamas Excursions

Discover the colorful reefs and their inhabitants in the waters surrounding Freeport in a Reef Dive excursion. Enjoy a 60-80 ft. dive as you explore the amazing marine life in the reefs and wrecks.

Looking for something more basic? Try the Discover Scuba and Beach Day excursion where guests are introduced to the Scuba world. Gear up and take a basic dive course, then head to the shore to explore, followed by food and relaxing on the beach.

You can also Swim with the Dolphins or book a Dolphin Close Encounter excursion. Enjoy a 20-minute boat ride through the beautiful canals of Grand Bahama Island then arrive at Sanctuary Bay where you’ll have an opportunity to swim with the dolphins in the open ocean. Or elect for the encounter where you’ll also visit Sanctuary Bay, a natural 9-acre lagoon and home to fourteen Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins. Interact with the dolphins on a 3 foot deep platform.

One of the featured Carnival Bahamas excursions in Freeport is the Beach Getaway where guests will spend a day in paradise. Swim in the crystal Caribbean waters; participate in activities based both on land or water. This inclusive package includes an open bar and a delicious Bahamian buffet.

Which Bahamas excursion will you be booking?

*some photos courtesy of Carnival.com

You Are Also Going to Love:

Nidhi Chauhan says

Looks like your family had so much fun. I love tropical vacation. hope I get a chance to go for such fun vacation with my family soon.

1stopmom says

I would love to try snorkeling. It is one of the things on my bucket list. The beach getaway sounds like a lot of fun too!

Honey + Lime (@honeyandlimeco) says

I’ve never swam with dolphins, and that Atlantis Adventure looks awesome!

Allison says

These pictures are beautiful! I’m looking to plan a family vacation for the summer and this sure looks like a place to look into!

Melissa Au says

That looks absolutely amazing. I have always wanted to take my kids on a cruise.

justin tan says

Swim with the Dolphins or book a Dolphin Close Encounter Excursion simply because we’re dolphins lovers!!!

Maria H says

Looks like you guys had a great time!! Love the pics!

Denise Hoyle says

Looks like you guys had so much fun! I’ve never been on a cruise but I need to get to planning one!

Lauryn R says

What a beautiful tropical vacation spot!! I definitely want to take my kids someday. 🙂 Thank you so much for sharing!

Jennifer says

The boys are still thanking us for taking them, so I highly recommend taking the kids on a cruise. It’s SO fun!

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Best shore excursions for Bahamas cruises

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

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

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

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

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

Best Nassau, Bahamas shore excursions

Island food and culinary tour

3-3.5 hours, easy, $$.

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

Blue Lagoon beach break

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

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

Scuba diving with sharks

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

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

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

Paradise Island and Aquaventure Oasis Waterpark

All day, moderate, $$$$.

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

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

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

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

Best shore excursions in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island

Freeport island tour, beach and shopping

4 hours, easy, $.

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

Pirate's Cove beach, zipline and waterpark

4 hours, moderate, $$$.

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

Glass bottom boat shark experience

3 hours, easy, $$$.

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

Blue hole snorkeling

5 hours, moderate, $$$.

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

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

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

Swim with the pigs

1.5 hours, easy, $$$.

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

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

Best Bahamas shore excursions from cruise line private islands

Snorkeling from shore or by boat

Varies, moderate, $-$$.

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

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

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

Stingray City Bahamas

1.5 hours, easy, $$.

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

Horseback riding by land and sea

1.25 hours, moderate, $$$.

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

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

Bottom line

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

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THE 10 BEST Nassau Shore Excursions

Shore excursions in nassau.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. ATV Private City Tour in Nassau

2. Perfect Day - Swimming Pigs, Snorkel & Lunch

3. Pearl Island Bahamas Snorkeling Experience and Lunch

4. Nassau City tour that visits 7attractions in Nassau Bahamas.

5. ATV Island Tour with (Beach Break+Lunch+Free Pickup/Drop off)

6. Swimming Pigs Encounter : Morning or Afternoon Options

7. Rose Island Snorkeling Experience at a Secluded Beach

8. Original Powerboat Adventures Exuma Day Tour

9. Pirate Jeep Tours Sightseeing in the Bahamas

10. Nassau to Exuma Full-Day Trip Experience

11. Pearl Island Ocean View Cabana from Nassau

12. Private Boating Adventure for Snorkeling or Fishing in Nassau - 31ft boat

13. Cabbage Beach Jet Ski Adventure

14. Nassau Food and History Bus Tour

15. 3 Hour Eco-Glide Adventure in Nassau

16. 3-Hour Buggy Tour of New Providence (Inclusive of water & local deserts)

17. Funky Nassau Jeep Adventure

18. Nassau Culture and Cuisine Tour with Free Samples

19. Ultimate SeaXscape: Swim with Pigs/Turtles/snorkel/Lunch/Shuttle

20. CHIPPIES BAHAMAS Island Tours : Feel The Culture

21. Exuma,Bahamas: 6 Seater Buggy/Jeep Rental with Bluetooth speakers

22. Buggy Rental in Nassau Bahamas with Bluetooth speaker

23. Bahamas ATV tour in Nassau with Full Bahamian Lunch

24. Bahamas Famous Pink Sand and Pig Experience with Snorkeling

25. Round Trip Private Airport To Hotel Transfer in Nassau

26. Half Day - Pigs, Turtles, Snorkel & Lunch

27. Swimming with Pigs in Nassau with Transportation Included

28. Nassau Shore Excursion: Bahamas Snorkel Adventure

29. Nassau Bahamas Private Boat Charter to Rose Island

30. Dilly Dally Walking Tour of Nassau Attractions

What travelers are saying.

• Swimming Pigs, Boat Tour, Snorkeling, Beach Break Package
• Swimming Pigs And Turtles Ultimate Excursion by Boat (3 Islands)
• Pirate Jeep Tours Sightseeing in the Bahamas
• Swimming Pigs Encounter - Pigs can’t fly, but they do swim!
• Nassau City Tour that Visits 7 attractions in Nassau and Atlantis

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Excursions & Tours

Swimming Pigs, Snorkeling, and Sun

Discover Nassau Town and Atlantis

Pearl Island Beach Escape and Snorkel

Glass Bottom Boat to the Sea Garden

Best Of Nassau by Boat

Sail and Snorkel Cruise

Cultural Treasures of Nassau

Cultural Treasures of Nassau with Traditional Lunch

The Art of Chocolate

Bahama Barrels: Winemaker for a Day

Downtown Nassau by Bike

Half Day Learn to Dive

Afternoon Tea Experience

Graycliff Wine Luncheon

Winemaker for a Day with Charcuterie Plate

2 Tank - Certified Shark Dive

Winemaker for a Day with Fresh Fruit Plate

Winemaker for a Day with Nuts and Dried Fruit Plate

Cigar Rolling With Rum Tasting

Taste of Nassau Cuisine and Walking Tour

Pearl Island Beach Escape

Blackbeard Pirate Adventure

SNUBA in the Bahamas

Two Tank Certified Dive

Explore Nassau Walking Tour

Historical Downtown Nassau Walk

Nassau Beach Break

Private Deep Sea Sport Fishing

Nassau excursions are a gateway to exploring the rich culture and history of the Bahamas, featuring visits to historic sites and vibrant local markets. Nassau Excursions also offer a variety of water-based activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, catering to both adventure lovers and those seeking relaxation. Snorkeling, beach day, scuba diving, water sports, and sightseeing excursions await in the Bahamas' capital. Nassau, the largest city in the Bahamas , has long been a favorite Caribbean vacation destination for travelers. Thanks to its island charm, state-of-the-art resorts, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters, Nassau has a relaxing feel rarely present anywhere else. It's also close to Paradise Island, home to the world-famous Atlantis Resort.

At Shore Excursions Group, we offer an incredible variety of Bahamian sightseeing island tours sure to impress. Discover the best of this Bahamian city on a walking tour, beach day excursion, or catamaran cruise line. Whether you choose a half-day or full-day adventure, our Nassau shore excursions are designed to give you an unforgettable experience.

Popular Excursions

Note the following are sample tours and may not work with your itinerary. Find excursions for your cruise itinerary here .

Discover Nassau for an introduction to the Bahamas' best and most beautiful highlights, including downtown Nassau, Paradise Island, Atlantis Resort, Junkanoo Beach, Arawak Cay, and Nassau Harbor. Swim with dolphins during one of our dolphin encounters, learn to scuba dive, enjoy snorkeling among stingrays and the beautiful Bahamian coral reefs, or dive down in your own personal SUB for a one-of-a-kind diving experience.

Paradise Island

Paradise Island is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters. You can also explore Paradise Island's popular Atlantis Resort and its legendary Aquaventure water park. Paradise Island has something for everyone. Whether you want to relax in a spa, golf on world-class golf courses, win big in two of the largest Caribbean casinos, or paddleboard all day, you'll be in paradise - literally and figuratively.

Blue Lagoon Island

Also, just a few minutes away from Paradise Island is Blue Lagoon Island, a private local-family owned island famous for its secluded beaches and animal encounter programs. You can swim with the dolphins, interact with stingrays, snorkel with sharks, and have personal encounters with sea lions, all in their natural environment.

Pearl Island

Experience the beautiful clear waters, white-sand beaches, and warm tropical sun from this hidden gem of an island. Just a short boat ride from Nassau. Pearl Island is a private beach getaway filled with luxurious experiences. From private cabanas to charter rentals, there's simply something magical about this place.

Downtown Nassau

Nassau is one of the most visited cruise ports in the Bahamas and one of the most popular cruising destinations in the Caribbean. Nassau has it all. If you want to get a taste of city life, take a walking tour of downtown and nearby sightseeing destinations. If you feel like ditching the beach chairs and treating yourself to a Bahamian dining experience, you can enjoy a unique meal at Graycliff. It's a five-star Caribbean restaurant complete with a delicious wine tasting. In the mood for some smooth spirits? John Watling's Distillery has been providing high-quality rum since 2003, and they do tours of their incredible distillery.

No matter your style, there are plenty of activities for you to see and do on this lovely island. Browse more of our Nassau shore excursions and tours below to find your perfect getaway.

Nassau, the Bahamas, combines the excitement of a big city with the relaxed lifestyle of a Caribbean utopia. Located on New Providence Island, Nassau's sightseeing opportunities, crystal clear blue waters, and white sand beaches make it a truly remarkable tropical vacation destination. This city serves as the heart of the Bahamas and is near Paradise Island, Blue Lagoon Island, Salt Cay, Rose Island, Ardastra Gardens, Cable Beach, and Arawak Cay. With so much to do, Nassau features some of the best Bahamas tours and shore excursions that will immerse you in the traditions, culture, and marine life that are unique to the area.

Rich History

This historic Caribbean city is one of the world's most popular cruise and snorkeling destinations, and it's easy to see why. Around one million travelers board Caribbean cruise ships that travel to Nassau every year! With these staggering numbers, it's easy to see that Nassau is truly a spot you won't want to miss. Not to mention the remarkable historical sites, like the Queen's Staircase. A 66-step major landmark in Nassau, it was carved out of solid limestone rock between 1793 and 1794. Located at the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, the staircase is within walking distance from downtown and perfect for small group tours.

Lifetime Experiences

We offer a variety of unforgettable Bahamian experiences for every kind of traveler. Visit the private island of Balmoral where you'll get to see the famous Bahamian swimming pigs, or join one of our dolphin encounters for an up-close and personal experience with dolphins and sea lions. If you're looking for more excitement, check out our catamaran cruise to Paradise Island to experience the resort's famous Aquaventure water park and water slides. For some rest and relaxation, our Blue Lagoon Island Beach Day is a great opportunity to recharge. And for a taste of local Nassau culture, we offer sightseeing island tours via powerboat, ATV, and more. We also offer plenty of snorkeling and scuba diving excursions for those who want to experience the Bahamas' exquisite marine life.

Whether it's snorkeling with dolphins, scuba diving with sharks, or simply kicking back on the beach, our wide selection of Nassau shore excursions has something for everyone. We're here to help you embark on a truly memorable getaway.

Nassau Bahamas

Cruise excursions & tours, bahamas cruise excursions.

Welcome to Nassau Cruise Excursions, your guide to shore excursions in Nassau Bahamas. Whether you will be visiting Nassau or Paradise Island for a day or a week we can help you make the most of your vacation time.

Nassau offers an abundance of activities and tours both above and below the turquoise waters that surround this tropical island.

Whether you are searching for the perfect beach or All Inclusive Resort to soak up the sun, the perfect snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing or deep sea fishing excursion we can help you find the tour that right for you. If you are organising a special day for a group we can help you arrange private or custom excursions.

Nassau Island Tours are a great way to learn about the Bahamian culture and history and see some of the popular island attractions of Cable Beach, Paradise Island, Atlantis Resort and so much more.

Booking your own Nassau shore excursion will not only save you money but it will provide you with the option of unique and diverse excursions, small groups, individualised itineraries and the freedom and knowledge to go off on your own if you so choose.

Nassau Private Charters – Exuma, Spanish Wells Swimming Pigs, Rose Island – From $1,100us

• Private Charter for up to 12 passengers on a 38ft Private Boat with Triple 300HP Engines
• Rose Island, Spanish Wells Pigs, Exuma Pigs, Allens Cay Iguanas and more Options
• Pick up within walking distance of Cruise ship pier

Nassau Breezes All Inclusive Resort Day Pass – $100us

• Unlimited Drinks ( alcoholic and non).
• All You Can Eat Buffet and Snack Cafe.
• Seaside and Poolside Seating + Towels.

Nassau Island Tours – $40us

• Nassau 2.5hr Historical Island Tour
• Nassau Rum Cake Factory Tour and John Watling's Distillery
• Queen Staircase, Fort Fincastle, shopping and more!

Nassau Private Boat Charters – Swim with the Nassau Pigs, Rose Island, and Fishing! – From $750us

• Choice of Nassau Beach Pigs, Private Snorkeling, Secluded Beaches at Rose Island, Turtle Swim, Sight Seeing and fishing
• Snorkeling Gear, snorkeling vests
• Ice, bottled water, sodas and chips included

RIU Palace Adults Only All Inclusive Day Pass – $150us

• Free Open Bar With Tropical Drinks
• Delicious Lunch Buffet and snacks from the Sports bar
• Luxury Resort with Seaside pool with swim up bar and Beach Chairs

Nassau Private Custom Island Tours – From $180us

• Private Air Conditioned Vans all to yourself with Professional Guide.
• 4 hours or 2.5 hours Tour Options.
• Visit Historical Landmarks, Beaches, Local Attractions, Bars, Restaurants and More.

Nassau Ultimate Snorkeling Adventure – $99us

• 2 Snorkeling Stops : Explore a Wreck and a Stunning Coral Reef
• Full snorkeling gear and professional instruction are provided
• Round trip transfers from your Resort and your cruise ship port

Nassau Sailing and Snorkeling Tours – From $90us

• Private Sailing and Snorkeling Tours
• Full Day and Half Day Tours
• Private and non-private tours available

Nassau Discover Scuba Diving – $181us

• Instruction and Assistance with all aspects of SCUBA gear and safety
• All SCUBA required equipment
• 1 tank dive on a shallow reef

Nassau Shark Scuba Diving Adventure – $202us

• Two Tank Dive with Shark Encounters at both Locations
• Professional experienced Shark Feeders
• Tanks + weights included. Additional equipment is available at an additional cost

Other Destinations

Bahamas Excursions

Barbados Excursions

Belize Excursions

Cabo San Lucas Excursions

Costa Maya Excursions

Cozumel Excursions

Grand Cayman Excusions

Jamaica Excursions

Puerto Rico Excursions

Roatan Excursions

St. Maarten Excursions

St. Thomas Excursions

We guarantee a full refund of your excursion deposit if your ship can not make it into the port of Nassau and/or Freeport, Bahamas.

Nassau, Bahamas

Description.

For a taste of Europe with Caribbean flavor, look no farther than Nassau. The main city on New Providence Island in the Bahamas, Nassau offers everything from British-influenced cricket games and bewigged judges to Riviera-style casinos. And its banking system, with its strict secrecy laws, rivals that of Switzerland. Situated less than 75 miles from the coast of Florida, the islands of the Bahamas lure visitors with their tropical landscapes and clear waters. More than 700 islands, covering some 100,000 square miles, make up this popular archipelago, although only 20 or so are inhabited. Most of the island nation's 330,000 inhabitants live on New Providence Island, centered around bustling Nassau with its colorful waterfront area and open-air markets.

Points of Interest

• Atlantis Resort
• Paradise Island
• Fort Charlotte
• Ardastra Gardens & Zoo
• Queen's Staircase/Fort Fincastle
• Seaworld Explorer

More about Nassau, Bahamas Points of Interest

Envision an Atlantis-inspired resort rising from the sea in a swirl of fanciful architecture with everything from an art-filled casino to a nightclub, spa, dolphin habitat and Mayan Temple Waterslide.

This is the place to see and be seen - from the famed Vegas-style Atlantis resort to the Hog Island Lighthouse, a 14th-century French monastery and one casino, golf link or tennis court after another.

See the moat, draw-bridge, and dungeons and walk the ramparts overlooking beautiful Nassau Harbor. This impressive structure, built in 1789, bears the name of King George III's beloved queen.

Iguanas, monkeys, and jaguars - oh my! Encounter as many as 300 species, hand-feed endangered parrots and applaud the legendary marching flamingos while supporting Ardastra Garden's conservation program.

These famous hand-carved limestone steps are the handiwork of 18th-century slaves. The 102-foot, 65-step staircase provides a challenging shortcut to the bulwarks of Fort Fincastle atop Bennet's Hill.

Explore underwater without getting wet! You'll be mesmerized by the ever-changing scenery of the coral reef as your semi-submarine plies pristine waters brimming with a rainbow of tropical fish.

Take the plunge at a shallow reef like Nari Nari or Goulding Cay where the conditions are ideal for an afternoon of spectacular snorkeling. Look for fan coral, shipwrecks, angelfish, and stingrays.

The Bahamas are famous for their aquamarine waters, sugary beaches and dazzling seaside resorts. Enjoy a private beach day on Balmoral Island which offers activities like dolphin or stingray encounters.

8 Excursions

Best of nassau.

Moderate Activity

From $ 39.95

Easy Nassau Island Tour

Wheelchair Accessible, Easy Activity

From $ 49.95

Charm & Beauty Of Nassau & Paradise Island

From $ 44.95

Adults Only Beach Day at Blue Lagoon Island

Moderate Activity, Includes meal

From $ 119.95

Semi-Sub Adventure, Fort & Scenic City Drive

From $ 64.95

Sea Lion Encounter & Beach at Blue Lagoon Island

Easy Activity, Includes meal

From $ 129.95

VIP Family Beach & Dolphin Connection

From $ 169.95

Two Tank Certified Scuba Dive

Strenuous Activity

From $ 199.95

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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Bahamas Cruises

Explore the captivating Caribbean on an unforgettable Holland America Line cruise. Our Bahamas cruises include a visit to Half Moon Cay, a renowned “Best Private Island,” and Nassau, the nation’s capital, where you can explore Nassau Paradise Island. Book your dream Caribbean cruise today and experience its magic firsthand.

Featured Bahamas Cruise Ports

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Nassau, Bahamas

Bimini, Bahamas

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Charm & Beauty of Nassau & Paradise Island

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• Food & Drink
• How to Plan
• Shore Excursions
• Onboard Activities
• What to Expect

The Best Bahamas Shore Excursions for Families

By Carnival Cruise Line

For family fun in the sun, a cruise to The Bahamas puts you in the heart of paradise, with plenty of action for all ages. More than 700 islands boast lush forests, postcard-worthy beaches, and exciting marine life. Make the most of your cruise, and keep the kids smiling, with the best Bahamas shore excursions for families.

Princess Cays – Palm Trees, Pristine Seas and Pumped-Up Action

Set foot on the powder-soft sand of Princess Cays on Eleuthera Island and get ready for action above and below the sea.

Dune Buggy Heritage Adventure Tour

If you’re traveling with teens on a Carnival cruise ship , it’s likely they’ll jump at the chance to go on an adrenaline-boosting dune buggy ride . It’s not just about off-road action though, as you’ll tour and learn about historical sites, including the Wishing Well and Packing House Ruins. Best of all, you’ll journey down jungle roads to find secluded beaches.

Princess Cays Coastal Cruise

When you prefer to stay dry or have little ones with you, a coastal cruise is a relaxing way to enjoy the rich underwater world, sweeping views of perfect beaches and balmy sea breezes. The water is so clear that you’ll see colorful corals and tropical fish swimming below, while a guide gives you insight into the island’s maritime history.

Snorkeling at Princess Cays

If you’re a family of experienced snorkelers, you’ll love boarding a custom-made snorkel boat to head out to shallow reefs along Eleuthera’s southern coast. Dive into warm waters and get ready to meet parrotfish, grouper and angelfish, on reefs bursting with anemones, sponges and sea fans.

Nassau – Dolphins, Daring Slides and Dreamy Sailing

Home to the famous Atlantis Resort on nearby Paradise Island, activities in and around Nassau delight all ages.

VIP Dolphin Swim and Beach Day

A family cruise to The Bahamas gives you the perfect opportunity to swim with dolphins, one of the most popular things to do in Nassau . Under the guidance of master trainers, you’ll swim with the majestic mammals on Blue Lagoon Island, with the chance to hug and kiss them.

A VIP Dolphin Swim and Beach Day also includes snorkeling, a trip to the aqua park and a scrumptious buffet lunch.

Atlantis Aquaventure

Kids and big kids alike can’t get enough of shore excursions to Aquaventure , a water park offering serious thrills. Those with a need for speed can hop on the Mayan Temple slide and tackle the rolling rapids of the Power Tower. Younger children will love the tipping buckets and climbing frames at Splashers.

Catamaran Sail and Snorkel

How would you like to board a stylish catamaran to sail across the turquoise seas? This shore excursion puts you onboard an 86-foot long one, complete with a deck that offers both sun and shade for lounging in the sea breeze. You’ll cruise to a reef to snorkel and spot yellowtail snapper as well as spiny lobster hiding among the rocks.

Freeport – Culture, Kayaking and Natural Wonders

Freeport abounds with natural wonders: three national parks, palm-fringed beaches, and various animals to spot on shore tours.

Kayak and Nature Experience

The Lucayan National Park is home to fascinating mangrove trails, seabirds and raccoons. One of the best ways to explore it is by kayak , so you can paddle across inland creeks and learn about the Lucayan Indians and the area’s geology, with an experienced guide to show the way.

Bahamas Jeep Adventure

You’ll drive your own jeep across Freeport to discover exciting highlights on this guided trip. Stop by to see cascading waterfalls at Garden of the Groves, watch artisans at work on straw goods, and pick up some souvenirs while you’re there. To end your jeep adventure, you’ll drive to a remote beach for a refreshing dip.

Freeport Biking Adventure

A family bike ride is a fantastic way to see the sights and this shore excursion takes you to some of the best. Cycle along the coast to visit a native settlement and learn about local history. Watch the playful antics of dolphins at Sanctuary Bay and stop by for a splash in the sea to cool off. To end a fun day of cycling, you’ll visit the Port Lucaya Marketplace for shopping in Freeport .

Half Moon Cay – Stingray Encounters and Seaside Thrills

The sun-drenched island of Half Moon Cay is steeped in natural beauty, for both serenity and fun in the sun.

Horseback Riding by Land and Sea

Can’t wait to saddle up? Things to do around Half Moon Cay include Horseback riding on a backdrop of sparkling seas and spectacular views. Riding trails lead you to the highest point, where you’ll find the perfect spot for a photo across the surrounding islands. Then, get ready to ride your horse right into the ocean for the swim of a lifetime.

Eco Bike and Hike Tour

Peddle and walk across Half Moon Cay , for views, history and bird-spotting. You’ll get to see ruins dating back to the 1700’s, the Island Nursery and Pegasus Ranch. Hop off your bike for a hike up the ridge and you might spot Bahama Mockingbirds, before soaking in the views of Bonefish Lagoon from the top.

Stingray Adventure

Have you ever wondered what the wings of a stingray feel like? The most common description is ‘silky,’ but you’ll get to find out for yourself on a Stingray Adventure. It’s safe to swim with stingrays in The Bahamas and you’ll do so with snorkel equipment and an experienced guide, giving you insider knowledge about the marine creature’s behavior.

With water slides, outdoor adventures, marine-life encounters and endless sunny beaches to play on, a cruise to The Bahamas is sure to impress every member of your family – and create memories to last a lifetime.

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by  ship  and destination.

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https://www.carnival.com/cruise-to/bahamas-cruises.aspx