This picture perfect destination is home to some of the most beautiful turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. Made up of 700 islands, adventure awaits for all types of vacationers. Whether you want to dive deep into history and culture, lounge beach-front or experience snorkeling in the beautiful coral reefs, there’s always something for everyone. Cruise to the Bahamas and embark in a boat-load of fun from a variety of off-shore excursions to indulging in all sorts of local foods. Explore the different cruise lines’ private islands and spend your days relaxing and recharging in the sun (or shade) of this beautiful paradise. However you choose to cruise, the Bahamas charm is sure to win you over.
Featured ports
Nassau, Bahamas
The Bahamian capital is the heart of it all. Featuring some of the world's most beautiful waters, white-sand beaches and tasteful local cuisine, this radiant town was once a pirate's haven. Rich in history but also luxury, Nassau is home to both colonial fortresses and resorts like the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island featuring an expansive water park. You can also experience swimming with dolphins and exploring the Pearl Island Lighthouse. With so much to see and do, there's a reason Nassau is a popular favorite.
Grand Bahama Island
Ever wonder what makes this island a fan-favorite? Its picturesque beaches stand out amongst others glistening with every shade of blue. While you can also dive and snorkel on your eco-adventure, Grand Bahama Island also offers beyond the shore excursions like shopping and golfing in Port Lucaya Marketplace and Freeport. You can also embark on an adventure to hike forest-lined trails and see beautiful waterfalls at the Garden of the Groves. Whether you choose to lounge beachfront or escape beyond the shore, you can't go wrong with this cruising experience.
Bimini
Small but mighty, Bimini's charm is like no other. Vibrant, radiant, and bursting with color, head on over to Alice Town and see what the buzz is all about. From tasteful local cuisine to strolling along boutique shops, you'll find everything from the traditional Bimini bread to craft centers that have original straw items and wood carvings. Deep-sea fishing? Say less. Bimini isn't renowned as the fishing capital for nothing. From wahoo to sailfish and marlin, you're bound to get some delicious prime catch.
Destination highlights
Tradition and culture
Beyond the stretch of white-sand beaches lies culture, history and a story behind these beautiful islands. As a former British colony, the Bahamas has colonial fortresses that were designed to keep out pirates and other invaders. Learn about the rest of the Bahamian history at the Heritage Museum and explore the local fortresses to see what other discoveries have been made. Its culture is vibrant and is a combination of African heritage with influences of British and American traditions. The Bahamas has 3 traditional forms of music and dance which include Goombay, Rake 'n' Scrape and Junkanoo. Goombay music is most often celebrated on New Year's Day where Bahamians dress in masquerade costumes and dance.
Food and cuisine
Everyone loves a great cruise menu but what about the delicious local cuisine found in these pristine destinations? Bahamas cuisine is very similar to the soul food of the South and reflects local seafood of Spanish, West African and British influences. Blending Caribbean spices with its own touch, this flavor is a unique trademark to the region. With some of the freshest seafood available from fish to crab and lobster, you're also in for a treat with tropical drinks and island rum. One of our favorite island treats, conch, can be found in so many Bahamian dishes from conch salad to conch fritter and is known as the fruit of sea. While we love a good Bahama Mama and Goombay Smash, Switcha is what many locals consider to be the official Bahamian drink. This citrusy blend is the perfect non-alcoholic beverage that pairs so well with duff. What is duff? If you consider yourself a dessert fanatic, this dough filled spongy dessert made with guava is another traditional Bahamian favorite. No matter how you choose to indulge, the Bahamas has the perfect mix of local cuisine.
Featured private islands
Perfect Day® at CoCoCay®
As Royal Caribbean likes to say, this isn't vacation days spent. This is bragging rights earned. Cruise to Royal Caribbean's private island, CocoCay, and get ready for a boat-load of fun. Between conquering North America's tallest waterslide to floating in helium balloons and enjoying Bora Bora on your own Overwater Cabana there's no wrong way to upgrade this vacay.
Half Moon Cay
The private island that welcomes you with a smile. Sail away to Half Moon Cay, Carnival's private island and experience a unique island getaway. Whether you prefer to relax ocean-side in a villa or seek thrilling adventures like horseback riding and kayaking with stingrays, you'll love what this little island has to offer.
Bahamas FAQ
What are the best things to do in Nassau, Bahamas while on a cruise?
Some of the best things to do in Nassau while on a cruise include visiting the Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park, swimming at Blue Lagoon Island (peep the dolphins) and snorkeling along the Bahamian coral reefs like Rainbow Reef.
What are the best things to do in Freeport, Bahamas while on a cruise?
Some of our favorite things to do in Freeport, Bahamas while on a cruise include shopping at Port Lucaya marketplace, snorkeling around Deadman's Reef and fishing.
Do you need a passport for a cruise to the Bahamas?
If you are going on a cruise to the Bahamas, you will need a U.S. passport with an expiration date of more than 6 months after travel. Some cruise lines will accept an original birth certificate, passport card or trusted traveler card as an alternative form of identification. Make sure to check with your cruise line when booking your cruise to ensure you have the proper travel documentation for smooth sailing.
