Top 10 Things to Do in Nassau Bahamas Cruise Port (2024 Guide)

Are you heading to the Nassau Bahamas Cruise Port?

Nassau is one of the busiest and most frequently visited ports for Bahamian and Caribbean cruise itineraries.

The port city of Nassau offers travelers a wealth of activities and attractions. Whether your interests are cultural or culinary, there’s something for everyone at this popular destination.

As a travel advisor specializing in cruises and a frequent visitor to the Bahamas, I’ve researched and experienced the best this port has to offer. From my firsthand experiences, I can say that while Nassau has its challenges, it’s still possible to enjoy the port if you know what to do.

In this blog post, I will share my top 10 recommended things to do when visiting the Nassau Cruise Port in 2024.

Prince George Wharf: Nassau Cruise Port

Your cruise will dock at Prince George Wharf, located near Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. The port is quite busy and can be overcrowded at times.

From the Nassau Cruise Port, you can access shore excursions, beaches, Atlantis, and water taxis to nearby islands such as Rose Island.

It’s important to be prepared for the chaos that exists just outside the port in Nassau. Vendors will be there en masse, aggressively trying to persuade you to take a taxi tour, get your hair braided, or purchase something. They will often pull on your arm, shout, or follow you.

A firm no should do the trick, but keep walking if it doesn’t. I recommend that all my clients either have an excursion pre-planned for Nassau or, if they are doing something on their own, walk briskly away from the port area to get where they are going.

It’s honestly pretty nerve-wracking, and it’s my absolute least favorite thing about visiting Nassau on a cruise. I’m here to help you get prepared, though, so you have nothing to worry about!

Nassau Port Things to Do

1. Visit Atlantis Resort

The iconic Atlantis Resort is located just 10 minutes away from the Nassau Cruise Port. This resort has something for everyone – a casino, world-class restaurants, beautiful beaches, a waterpark, and more.

Atlantis is located on Paradise Island. You’ll want to take a taxi to get there. You can visit the resort area for free, but you’ll need to pay for a pass to use any amenities.

2. Tour the Queen’s Staircase

The Queen’s Staircase, also known as the 66 Steps, is a monumental staircase built in 1793 by slaves.

Approximately 600 slaves hand-carved the Queen’s Staircase, using only pickaxes and hand tools to cut through solid limestone. The entire staircase was completed over 16 years.

There is no cost to visit. The Queen’s Staircase is visited on most city tours and walking tours. You can visit yourself after about a 15-minute walk from the cruise port.

I thought walking the steps and seeing the handmade carvings in the stone was incredibly moving. As we were walking, I was thinking about the difficult task it was for the men who were tasked with this enormous job.

3. Enjoy the Beaches

Nassau offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, perfect for soaking up the sun or snorkeling in the blue Bahamian waters.

There are many beaches to choose from when in Nassau. Some are within walking distance, and some require a tour or pass to visit.

Cable Beach is the most popular beach in Nassau and is close to the cruise port. Cable Beach offers swimming, sunbathing, shopping, and more. Several hotels along Cable Beach offer day passes for access to their pools, restaurants, and other amenities.

Junkanoo Beach is a public beach just a short walk from the cruise port. Junkanoo Beach is a popular beach that can become crowded with multiple mega-ships in port.

At Junkanoo Beach, you’ll find music, food and drinks, vendors, and activities such as volleyball.

Cabbage Beach is a public beach located on Paradise Island, home to the Atlantis Resort. Cabbage Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Nassau and offers plenty of amenities such as food, drinks, showers, and changing rooms.

4. Take a Water Taxi to Rose Island

If you’re interested in getting away from the bustling port, take a water taxi and head out to the nearby private island of Rose Island.

This tropical paradise is the perfect spot for some peace and quiet. You can even swim with pigs here!

You’ll want to book an excursion to visit Rose Island.

5. Shopping at Nassau’s Straw Market

Don’t miss Nassau’s famous Straw Market for a dose of souvenirs and local culture. You’ll find handmade straw goods, jewelry, clothing, and other Bahamian trinkets here.

Bring cash in small bills to bargain with the vendors. You can walk here from the cruise port. There is also a smaller Straw Market near Fort Fincastle.

⚠️ The straw markets are infamous for very aggressive vendors. Keep moving and say no thank you if you aren’t interested.

6. Tour Fort Fincastle

This 18th-century fort is perched atop Bennet’s Hill, overlooking the harbor in downtown Nassau. It’s a great spot for picture-taking and offers stunning harbor views.

The fort is free to visit the outside. You’ll need to pay a few dollars for a ticket to enter the fort. Its interesting, but if you are short on time, I don’t think paying to go up to the top is the best use of time. You can walk here from the cruise port or take a taxi.

7. Explore the Historic City Center

The downtown area of Nassau is perfect for exploring the city’s history and culture. You’ll find cafes, restaurants, shops, art galleries, monuments, and other attractions here.

Be sure to check out the pink parliament building!

8. Visit Ardastra Gardens and Zoo

This popular zoo is home to flamingos, iguanas, exotic birds, and more. It’s a great place to take the kids for a day of fun.

The Zoo is open seven days a week. There is a fee to enter, about $30 for adults and slightly less for kids.

➡️ You can check up-to-date prices on Ardastra Gardens and Zoo here

9. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Nassau is known for its delicious seafood dishes, so don’t forget to indulge in some local cuisine. My favorite is Twin Brothers for conch fritters and fried plantains.

You’ll also find fresh fish, crab, lobster, tropical fruits, rice, peas, pigeon peas, and pork.

10. Adventure at Blue Lagoon Island

This private island is a great spot for kayaking, snorkeling, and enjoying stunning views of the turquoise waters.

You’ll need to book an excursion to get out here, as it’s not accessible by public transportation. Most excursions include food and drinks, so you can spend the day exploring the island and then enjoy a beachside meal.

Nassau Resort Day Passes

Nassau is home to numerous bars and resorts geared for guests who want to stay a few days on vacation. These resorts have amenities such as all-inclusive food and drinks, private beaches, pools, and excellent customer service.

Luckily for cruise visitors, some resorts offer Resort Day Passes for cruisers that allow you to enjoy the same amenities as long-term guests.

These day passes can be a great way to enjoy your time in Nassau without all the stress of finding a tour. Resort day passes also offer a way to stay on a budget by offering an all-inclusive experience like the cruise.

✅ Check Availability on Nassau Resort Day Passes Here

Where to Eat near the Nassau Cruise Port

Near the cruise port in Nassau, you’ll have no trouble finding a place to grab a bite to eat. Plenty of chain-type establishments, such as Señor Frogs, Fat Tuesdays, and Hard Rock Cafe, are also here.

Walking toward Arawak Cay, you’ll find more local fish fry booths and smaller restaurants.

Green Parrot and Sharkeez are both near the port and offer food and drinks in a fun environment.

You can also find more upscale or ethnic restaurants such as the Taj Mahal (Indian Food), Cafe Matisse (Italian), Athena Cafe (Greek), or Graycliff Restaurant if you are feeling fancy.

Not surprisingly, there is no shortage of bars in Nassau near the cruise port. From Junkanoo Beach to Paradise Island, you’ll find lively bars serving up delicious tropical concoctions.

Getting Around Nassau from the Cruise Port

Can you walk to Nassau from the Cruise Port?

Nassau is pretty walkable! You can walk to beaches, restaurants, bars, museums, and shopping from the cruise port.

Can you get an Uber in Nassau from the Cruise Port?

There is no Uber or Lyft in Nassau. You’ll find plenty of taxis, though!

Are there Taxis at the Nassau Cruise Port?

There are A LOT of taxis at the Nassau Cruise Port. The government regulates taxi fares, so always check the posted rates to ensure you pay the appropriate price.

Most taxi operators in Nassau will wait until their vehicle is full of passengers before they leave the port area. If you know where you want to go and can round up a larger group, you can get a taxi that will leave sooner.

Are there buses at the Nassau Cruise Port?

Nassau has Jitney buses that run regularly (not as much in the evening). The Jitneys are affordable and safe. You can find the routes for Jitneys here. The cost of riding the Jitneys is $1.25.

Nassau Quick Facts

Local Currency of the Bahamas

The Bahamian Dollar is the local currency in Nassau (and all the Bahamas). You’ll see it noted like B$. The rate is on par with the USD; anywhere you go in the port area, you will accept either currency or VISA.

What Language do they speak in Nassau?

British English is the official language of the Bahamas, but you’ll often hear slang from Bahamian Creole.

Best Time to visit Nassau

While the weather is nice year-round in the Bahamas, December to April are the best times to visit Nassau.

Remember that hurricane season is June- November, and the Bahamas are in the hurricane belt. Always be flexible if your trip is within these months, and be sure to purchase travel insurance!

✅ Get Rates for Travel Insurance by Clicking Here

Nassau Cruise Port FAQ

Can you walk to a beach from the cruise port in Nassau?

You can walk from the cruise port to Junkanoo Beach. It is only a few minutes away.

Can I explore Nassau without an excursion?

You can explore Nassau without an excursion! You can walk to town to explore the pirate museum and the downtown area. You can also walk or ride to the beaches. You can also grab a cab to explore John Watlings Distillery or the forts.

Is Nassau Cruise Port finished?

Port of Nassau has been undergoing a massive overhaul to the tune of $300 million. The renovations are expected to be completed around May 2024.

Is it safe to walk around Nassau, Bahamas?

As with any city, walking around Nassau should be done with common sense and caution. Walk in groups, avoid alleys, and stick to tourist locations. Don’t flash cash or jewelry, and do not become too intoxicated.

How much does it cost to go to Cable Beach from Nassau?

The #10 Jitney bus will cost you $1.25 but will take about 40 minutes to get to the beach. A taxi will cost about $10 per person, and the trip is about 20 minutes.

Is there public access to Cable Beach Nassau?

Yes, Cable Beach is a public beach. Some parts are reserved for resorts, but plenty of public space also exists.

How far is the walk from Nassau cruise port to Atlantis?

You’ll want to take a taxi or water ferry to get from Nassau to Paradise Island, where Atlantis is located.

Do you have to pay to walk around Atlantis Bahamas?

No, you can walk around Atlantis but must pay if you want to use any of the amenities.

How much cash should I take to the Bahamas?

Bringing small bills when preparing for your port day in Nassau is a good idea. You can use a VISA for food and drinks and should only bring a small amount of cash for souvenirs.

Do you need a Covid test to enter the Bahamas?

Currently, you do not need a COVID test to visit the Bahamas.

Can you get off a cruise ship in Nassau without a passport?

While the Bahamas are not part of the US, if your cruise starts and ends in a US port, you do not need a passport to get on or off the ship in the Bahamas.

The exception to this is if you are sailing Virgin Voyages, you will need a passport regardless of where the ship begins its voyage.

Bon Voyage! Enjoy Nassau!