cruise to the bahamas

Thanks to its proximity, Nassau, in the Bahamas, is often the first place many cruise ships experience their first time “at sea.” Cruises depart from Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, or Port Canaveral to sail the short distance to Nassau or Freeport (the largest and most populous islands in the Bahamas), giving first-time passengers a taste of cruising. In fact, when someone takes a cruise to the Bahamas, the destination is often Nassau or Freeport.

The short distance of 50 miles from the United States makes it easy enough for a long weekend getaway.

While thousands of cruise ships are in Nassau every weekend, the size of the beaches and Bahamian law keep it from getting too crowded and feeling overcrowded.

What makes the Bahamas, and Nassau in particular, such a popular cruise destination is a perfect blend of British heritage and colonialism along with modern resorts and picturesque beaches. The “exotic feel”, the police officers in their old English style uniforms and the European method of driving on the left let you know immediately that you are no longer in the United States.

However, the island contains all the modern conveniences to make your stay familiar enough that you won’t be left wondering what you’re supposed to do.

When in Nassau for the day, you can take a cruise-sponsored shore excursion, book an excursion on your own, or use the time to explore the city, island, or beach. Short “day trips” to the other island are available, and I highly recommend a trip to Sting Ray City, a small island near Nassau. There you can snorkel with rays, even feed them. Other shore excursions include a tour of Nassau or the island, boating, snorkeling or diving, golf, swimming with dolphins, or exploring in a submarine. I hesitate to use the cliché, but… There is something for everyone.

Another amazing thing to do in the Bahamas is a “tour” in a glass-bottom boat. These give you the chance to see some of the amazing marine life and even some historic underwater sites without needing to get wet and sandy.

And let’s not forget one of the amazing “dolphin encounter” excursions. While these are some of the most expensive things you can do, IT IS AMAZING to be able to spend time with the dolphins.

This article only scratches the surface of all the things you can do when sailing to the Bahamas. I will say this though. One of the things about the Bahamas that makes it such an amazing place to sail is its picturesque beaches. Don’t forget to take some time to lie down and relax.