22 Great Things To Do In Nassau Bahamas When On A Cruise

Are you planning a cruise to Nassau Bahamas and wondering what to do when you get there? You’re in luck! This stunning Caribbean destination has a plethora of activities that will make your visit unforgettable. From soaking up the sun on pristine beaches to exploring vibrant local markets there are many great things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.
One of the best things about Nassau is its rich history, which is evident in its architecture, museums, and cultural landmarks. Take a stroll through the historic town of Nassau and see the iconic pastel-colored buildings that line the streets. Whatever your interests, Nassau is sure to captivate you with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
You will find many great things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise once you make it to port. Whether you are looking to shop, discover the beaches, tour the history, or take in the many wonders of Atlantis, Nassau has you covered.
The Basics To Know Of Nassau

So you got to port, you are in Nassau, but what do you really know about it? Language? Currency? Location? Should you drive?
The Bahamas is an archipelago island group. Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas on an island called New Providence. You will also be in the Eastern Time Zone. Do take note that The Bahamas are in a high activity zone for tropical storms and hurricanes during the warmer months of the year.
Because of the warm weather and close proximity to The United States, Nassau is one of the most popular cruise ship ports. The port, Prince George Wharf has been going through renovations and puts you right in the heart of the city. Once you get out of the port, you are thrown into the bustling city of shops, taxis, and restaurants.
If you are an English-speaking citizen, you will not have a hard time communicating in The Bahamas since English is the official language. The Bahamas was once an English colony and English stayed as a language.
The official currency is the Bahamian Dollar. If you are an American with U.S. Dollars, you do not need to worry about exchanging them. Nassau will take U.S. currency and credit cards. If you want to though, there are plenty of banks on Parliament Street, which is close to the cruise terminal.
As for driving, The Bahamas was once a British colony and adopted driving on the left side of the road. Take a look later on in this post for getting around Nassau.
A Brief History Of Nassau
Nassau was founded in 1670 by British nobles who brought settlers with them. They established a fort called, Charles Town but it was burned to the ground in 1684. In 1695, it was rebuilt by the new Governor, Nicholas Trott, and renamed Nassau in honor of King William III.
During this time, the slave trade was working hard between all the British colonies, Europe and Africa with The Bahamas largely involved. Much of the influences in The Bahamas come from the strong background of descendants of slaves in the country.
In the early 1710s of Nassau, the city was governed loosely and it became a strong pirate haven. At one time there were over 1,000 pirates living on New Providence Island and proclaimed Nassau a pirate republic.
In 1718, the British appointed Captain Wood Rogers as Royal Governor to quell the pirate problem. He succeeded and brought Nassau back to British control by 1720.
During the American Revolution, Nassau prospered economically with the influx of Loyalists and the slaves they brought with them. Nassau greatly prospered again in the 1920s and 1930s because of prohibition in The United States.
The Bahamas gained its independence from Britain on July 10th, 1973.
Things To Do In Nassau Bahamas When On A Cruise
Nassau will have many things to choose from while on a cruise. The city is loaded with many different options. Each time you come to port, you could do a completely different style of adventure.
Most cruises will be in port for a half day or so and will most likely have activities that you can purchase. However, many people like to head out and adventure on their own and make their own discoveries. If that is you, then this list of activities is for you.
Special Note: If you are looking for some great tips when cruising for what you should expect, check out this page by my friend, Semi Pro Cruiser for all your needs while on board.
I hope that through this list of options, you will find your own adventure. Enjoy these different things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.
Historic Sites to see in Nassau when on a cruise
As you read earlier, Nassau is full of great history. British, African, and Native peoples have greatly influenced the city. Nassau has some great historical sites to see. This is a great start while looking for things to do in Nassau Bahamas while on a cruise.
1. Queen’s Staircase

The Queen’s Staircase is 102 ft high and consists of 66 steps. This staircase was carved between the years of 1793 and 1794 by 600 slaves out of solid limestone. The Queen’s Staircase was named in honor of Queen Victoria, who reigned from 1837 to 1901 for The United Kingdom. She abolished slavery in the British Empire and the staircase was named in her honor.
You will find the staircase between high stone walls with tropical plants and trees surrounding it. On one of the sides of the staircase is water cascading down to a pool. The staircase is right next to Fort Fincastle, which resides on top of Bennett’s Hill, Nassau’s highest point.
2. Fort Fincastle

Fort Fincastle was built on top of Bennett’s Hill in 1793 by Lord Dunmore. This fort was built to protect Nassau and the harbor from pirates. It is named Fort Fincastle in honor of Lord Dunmore and his official second title, Viscount Fincastle. The fort hosted 2 24-pounders, 2 32-pounders, 2 12-pounder canons, and a single howitzer.
Sitting just up from The Queen’s Staircase, Fort Fincastle was constructed out of the same limestone. Fort Fincastle and The Queen’s Staircase go hand in hand together while touring since they are connected. While in the fort, prepare to take in amazing views of Nassau, Paradise Island, and the ocean.
3. Pirates Of Nassau Museum

If you are into pirates at all, then this is your place! Pirates of Nassau is your pirate museum dream come true! Nassau was at the heart of the Golden Age of Piracy that lasted for thirty years from 1690 to 1720.
Start your journey on the docks next to a replica ship built in the museum. As you walk through the exhibits that include, Women Pirates, Marooned, and Trials; you will learn all about the history of piracy.

During your journey at Pirates of Nassau Museum, you will learn about famous pirates that called Nassau home. Those pirates include Benjamin Hornigold, Henry Jennings, Edward Teach (Blackbeard), Stede Bonnet, Charles Vane, “Calico” Jack Rackham, Anne Bonny, and Mary Read.
This is not something you want to miss while visiting Nassau.
4. Fort Charlotte

Fort Charlotte was built in 1789 by Lord Dunmore. It was named Fort Charlotte in honor of the wife of King George III, Queen Charlotte. Fort Charlotte is the largest of the three forts around Nassau. The fort was built to protect Nassau from pirates and Spanish invaders.

Fort Charlotte sits about one mile west of downtown Nassau. It has a water-less moat, drawbridge, dungeons, and ramparts. While touring the fort you will be able to see spectacular views of Nassau Harbor and Paradise Island.
Beaches to go to in Nassau when on a cruise

Beaches are always a great option everywhere you go while on a cruise. And while in Nassau, this is no exception. You will have the option of choosing between many different beaches.
The Bahamas are surrounded by some of the most beautiful water. Finding a great beach on this water is not hard to do while you are visiting Nassau. The more you come to Nassau, the more beaches you get to visit.
5. Junkanoo Beach
Junkanoo Beach is a great beach for those that do not want to venture too far from their cruise ship. This beach is located just a mile from the cruise port by downtown Nassau. A great thing about this beach is that it is a bit small than the rest of the beaches around Nassau, so it usually stays less busy. Though at times it can get crowded.
Junkanoo Beach also hosts some great little restaurants so you can get the taste of the Bahamas while there. While enjoying the water, you are able to snorkel and paddleboard. At times, be prepared to see live bands or a DJ while enjoying your beach time.
6. Cable Beach
Cable Beach is about 6 miles west of the cruise port and is one of the most crowded beaches in Nassau. This beach hosts some of the most popular all-inclusive resorts in the area. The 2.5-mile-long beach has lots of activities and watersports to do while there.
Cable Beach is a free beach to visit unless you want to use some of the hotel amenities there. You will be able to find many bars and restaurants along the beach as you are enjoying your day. When you think of the perfect beaches in the Bahamas, this is the one that will come to mind.
7. Cabbage Beach
Cabbage Beach can be found on the north side of Paradise Island. You will need to rent a taxi or ride a bus to get there. This beautiful, white sand beach makes for the perfect day for laying out in the sun. You will have the ability to rent beach chairs and umbrellas from the beach club if you are looking to relax a little more.
If swimming at Cabbage Beach, be cautious because the waves will be bigger and the rip tides are strong. There are no lifeguards on this beach, so just be aware of the water. Though, there is a lot to do on the water from kayaks, jet skis, and banana boats. Be prepared for the beach to fill up with people that can turn into a fun party on the beach too.
8. Love Beach
Love Beach is about 10 miles from downtown Nassau which is about a 20-minute ride. This beach is located on the north side of New Providence Island. You will notice that this beach has a completely different feel than the busy Cable Beach.
Love Beach is a much more laid-back beach area. If you are into snorkeling, this is one of the best places to go to in Nassau. There are close to 40 acres of protected coral to discover as you snorkel the waters. When you are finished with your day of sun and water, have a drink at the Nirvana Beach Bar.
Fun things to do in the water
If you are looking for plenty of things to do in the water, you can’t beat Nassau and the Bahamas. Being an archipelago, the water is all over the place with amazing beaches. There are so many different things to choose from when finding things to do in the water. Some are well known like snorkeling, swimming, and jet skiing; while others will be new, like swimming with pigs!
9. Blue Lagoon Island
Blue Lagoon Island, also known as Salt Cay is located just northeast of Paradise Island and is a short 40-minute boat ride from Nassau. This can be an all-day event for you and your family with plenty to do. There are so many options to do while visiting Blue Lagoon Island.
Blue Lagoon Island is an all-exclusive island that you would buy a day pass to enjoy. You will enjoy secluded beaches that are private. Enjoy many water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and water biking.
If you are looking for a more relaxing time, lay back in a hammock or float around in the crystal blue waters on an inner tube. Enjoy some great food and drinks before you go for a walk around the island to see some great wildlife. Take some time to go to the marine park to see dolphins and sea lions.
10. Swim With Pigs

Only 25 minutes from Nassau and Paradise Island, you can get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, swimming with pigs. You will be able to find this great adventure at Sandy Toes on Rose Island, which is just west of Blue Lagoon Island. Sandy Toes is home to an amazing sanctuary of protected wildlife.
In this sanctuary, you will find ocean coral reef life, peacocks, lizards, and 9 Rose Island pigs! The pigs are living their best lives and you will be able to open swim with them and have a ton of fun. The pigs are taken care of in an extremely great matter from their diet, to wearing sunscreen and getting plenty of love.
11. Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
With the crystal clear waters of The Bahamas, going out to see underwater is a must. For those that do not like scuba diving or snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours are the next best thing to see the amazing underwater ecosystem.
By doing glass-bottom boat tours, you will get to see a plethora of amazing things. The Bahamian waters are filled with a ton of fish and coral reefs. Chances are that you will be able to see a shipwreck as well!
12. Dolphin Excursions
One of the most asked questions that comes up when talking about Caribbean island cruise ports is, “Where can I swim with dolphins”?
Almost everyone loves dolphins and wants to interact with them. Swimming with dolphins is one of the best things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise. You can expect to swim, dance, kiss, and take a photo with dolphins during your encounter with them. These are the places to have the best dolphin encounters to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.
Click the link to purchase tickets to each location.
13. Dive with Sharks
For those that like a little more danger and adrenaline in their adventures, go all out and dive with sharks. The best place in Nassau to do your shark diving is at Stuart Cove’s. You will find this location on the south side of New Providence Island, but they will pick you up from the port.
You will receive your equipment to use before you head out on your dive. You will get to go to two different locations on your shark dive, “The Arena” and the “Shark Wall” or “The Runway” and “Shark Wall North”.
The first dive is a free swim as you are at one of the walls where the sharks will swim close to you. Enjoy the adrenaline of the second dive as it is a shark-feeding dive. During this dive, a professional shark feeder will feed the sharks as they swim and feed all around you.
14. Catamaran Snorkel Cruise
Hop aboard The Flying Cloud and sail in paradise on this 57′ catamaran on Paradise Island. Depending on what day you are visiting you will be able to choose between a full-day or half-day excursion. Depending on the time of day too, you might be able to get a sunset cruise in.
While out on the catamaran, you will get the chance to snorkel a beautiful coral reef, stop at Rose Island for a beach day, and see some amazing sea turtles. All of the excursions include an all-inclusive bar for your fun.
Click Here For More Information
Shopping and Eating when in Nassau
If you are looking for a more on-the-flow feel of Nassau and want to just walk around shopping and eating, the downtown area is a perfect place for you. As soon as you get out of the cruise terminal, you will be in the heart of Nassau and be surrounded by shops and restaurants. Take your time to venture out and find what you are looking for. Here are a few spots to make sure to hit up while walking around downtown Nassau.
15. Nassau Cruise Port

As soon as you disembark your cruise ship, you will enter the Nassau Cruise Port. The Nassau Cruise Port was recently completed in 2023 and it is amazing. You will find shops and restaurants lined up throughout the cruise port. I was very impressed with how the overall look of the new cruise port.
For many cruisers who do not wish to venture into Nassau, this is a perfect location to explore while you are in port. There is a great museum as soon as you enter the cruise port. Enjoy all the classic tourist shops, restaurants, and other activities as you relax at the Nassau Cruise Port.
16. Nassau Straw Market

No stop in Nassau is complete until you stop in the Nassau Straw Market. You will find the Nassau Straw Market in the heart of Nassau’s boutique shops on Bay Street.
Here you will find tons of amazing handmade Bahamian crafts, souvenirs, gifts, and hand-crafted items like bags, hats, jewelry, and so much more. Enjoy the amazing work that the locals work hard at. Don’t be afraid to negotiate on the prices as well. They do take US dollars here too.
This is a perfect tourist spot to stop at while looking for things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.
17. Bay Street
Bay Street is the street to know in Nassau. This street is known for its world-class shopping. Just off of the cruise port terminal, Bay Street is busy and full of what you are looking for if you are shopping. You can get everything from high-end stores to your typical tourist gift shops.
Take your time to go from shop to shop as you will find amazing treasures all over Bay Street. Make sure to stop at the Nassau Straw Market or one of the amazing rum cake shops. Bay Street is a shopper’s paradise with so many options. Don’t forget to take a break and get some amazing food at one of the many restaurants along Bay Street as well.
18. Local Food to Try in Nassau

If you are looking for a taste of the islands while visiting Nassau, you are in luck. Nassau and the Bahamas hold a lot of great Caribbean food that you must try when visiting. As you walk around downtown Nassau, you will have plenty of options on where to try some of their great food.
One of the specialties of food you will find throughout Nassau is Conch. Conch (pronounced “konk”) is a major staple of food in the Bahamian culture. Look for many different ways that it is served, cracked (fried), as a salad, and as a fritter just to name a few options.
A few other specialty foods to keep an eye out for in Nassau are Rock Lobsters, Johnnycakes, Bahamian Stew Fish, and Souse. There are so many options for you to try while finding things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.
Some great restaurants to check out great Bahamian food in Nassau:
Other things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise
As you can see, there are many things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise. A few more main things that you should check out are below. Nassau is a place that you have to visit multiple times to really get the full Nassau experience.
19. Check out Atlantis

As you have read this post, you have noticed a lot of amazing things on Paradise Island, which is a quick ride from the cruise port. But as you walk on Paradise or are taking in the sun at the beach, you will notice the large buildings on the island. Welcome to the famous Atlantis.
There are so many different activities to choose from while visiting Atlantis that it will be hard to find something that you don’t want to do or try.
Take some time visiting Dolphin Cay and Marine Adventures and swim with Dolphins and meet some amazing Sea Lions. Or take the family and enjoy Aquaventure, an amazing water park with slides, a rolling rapids river, and dozens of pools. Take some time to relax at the Mandara Spa and have your troubles leave your body. If you are feeling lucky, take a chance on yourself while gambling at their casino.
20. Ardastra Gardens And Wildlife Conservation Center
Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center was named from the Latin words ardua ad astra, which means “striving towards the stars. This name was chosen by the center’s founder, Hedley Edwards, a Jamaican Horticulturalist. He developed that 4-acre tropical garden as a nature preserve.
Edwards brought the endangered Caribbean Flamingo to the center, which then became a successful breeding center for the birds. The flamingos have been trained to perform acts for visitors of Ardastra Gardens and Wildlife Conservation Center.
Today you will be able to enjoy over 135 different animals while you walk around and take in the beauty of the tranquil gardens. This is a great place to get out of the bustling city for a little bit and be around nature.
21. Walking Tours
Nassau is a great city with a lot to do and learn about. One of the best ways to do this is by doing a walking tour. The downtown area of Nassau is very well laid out and very walkable.
There are so many different types of walking tours that you will be able to find one that works best for you or for your group. Whether you are looking for history, food, drink, or culture; there will be a tour for you.
Check out a few of these and purchase the best tour for you.
22. Visit A Rum Distillery
Rum and The Caribbean go hand-in-hand together. All the pirate history of rum that is known just makes rum one of the most popular spirits in the world. “But why is the rum gone?” – Jack Sparrow played by Johnny Depp, Pirates Of The Caribbean.
There are a couple of great rum distilleries to visit while in Nassau. Both of them are not too far from the cruise port and downtown. The first one you can walk to but the second you may have to take a taxi or bus.
Check out these Rum Distillery locations
How To Get Around When in Nassau
There are plenty of ways to get around while in Nassau. I will say, if you are planning on renting a car, be prepared to drive on the left side of the road since the Bahamas adopted the British driving system when it was a British colony.
Overall though, there are plenty of ways for you to get to your adventures for things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise. Here are the best suggestions for you.
- Walk
- Rent a car or moped
- Taxi
- Use the tour vehicle such as a bus
Is Nassau Safe?
Wondering if Nassau is safe while finding things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise?
Nassau has about a medium safe/risk level if you are visiting. Meaning that as long as you stay in the tourist areas, you should be alright. It is all about being smart, going out in a group, and paying attention to your surroundings.
Nassau does have a high murder rate but that usually doesn’t happen in the tourist areas. It is recommended that visitors stay away from the area known as Over-The-Hill, which is south of downtown and one of the poorest areas in Nassau.
Another area of concern in Nassau is mugging. These tend to happen around hotels. The best way to handle this is to be in a group and be vigilant about where you are going.
If you can keep the pointers in your mind, you should be safe as you explore the city. You will see as you leave your boat, the city will be flooded with tourists all trying to see the same things you are. Stay safe and pay attention and enjoy Nassau.
Things To Do In Nassau Bahamas When On A Cruise: In Conclusion
Of course, there are many options to do when on a cruise when visiting a place. Most cruises will offer excursions that you can buy while on board. But as you can see, there are many things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise to choose from.
I personally love to get off the ships and explore myself. So if you are like me, Nassau is a great place to explore on your own. Nassau has a lot to do and to offer someone who is visiting for a port stop or spending a long time.
As you can see, you can take a cruise to Nassau a lot and still find a lot to do. I love Nassau and going as much as possible. This is a perfect location while cruising. I hope this post will help you find things to do in Nassau Bahamas when on a cruise.
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