Nassau Bahamas Cruise Port: The Ultimate Guide to a Day in Nassau Bahamas on a Budget (2024)

If you find yourself docking in Nassau Bahamas on your next cruise and do not know what to do while at port, we are here to save the day.

Cruising is a great way to vacation. Especially when you are short on time and want to see all the places. However, those excursions can get a little pricey. They sure do add up and before you know it that great cruise deal you got just turned into a really pricey vacation.

Not all is lost though because Nassau Bahamas is a great port where you can DIY. And the best bet. You can do it on a budget.

Whether you are looking for something that is free and cheap or want to spend the day at an all-inclusive resort, we got you covered.

So let's get started with the basics and everything you need to know to plan a day in Nassau Bahamas.

Where is Nassau Bahamas?

Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas. Located on the small island of New Providence Nassau Bahamas is a popular destination for cruise ships. Over 3 million cruise ship passengers a year pass through this port. This port can see upwards of 5 cruise ships on every given day making for a very busy port.

Where do the cruise ships dock in Nassau Bahamas?

Cruise ships dock just outside of Nassau's historic downtown at Prince George Wharf. Being the most visited port in the Bahamas and a popular destination for cruise ships is a very lively port.

As soon as you get off the ship not only will you be greeted by the lively music of the island, but you will also be greeted by locals offering you island tours, taxi rides, scooter rentals, jet skiing, beach excursions, and hair braiding just to name a few things.

This port is usually pretty crowded with lots of shops and tourist so it is best to plan your time accordingly as getting back on the ship might involve you fighting through the crowds.

Don't get discouraged. There is so much to see and do within walking distance of the port which makes this an ideal stop on your cruise vacation. The goal is to get out of the port as quickly as you can so you can enjoy all else Nassau has to offer.

What is there to do in Nassau Bahamas on a cruise?

You have a few options. Some people opt to stay on the boat as port days are always to best days to explore the ship. No crowds. Spa deals. It is pretty much paradise however if you are anything like me you want to get out and explore.

Whether you have a couple of hours or a few days there is so much you can do. There are many things within walking distance to the port like Bay Street for shopping Junkanoo beach if you want to get your tan on, or the historic district where you can explore old forts.

But is Nassau safe for cruise passengers?

Just like any place in the world, it is always best to be a little street smart. Nassau is relatively safe however there have been reports of thefts, robberies, and sexual assaults.

I would recommend being cautious just like in any other new location. Valuables should be kept out of sight or preferably at home or in your stateroom safe. Be aware of your surroundings. Don't leave valuables unattended. Especially while at the beach. Don't wander around at night in places that you are unfamiliar with.

Currency and Best Way to Get Money

The Bahamian Dollar is equivalent to the US Dollar. Both the Bahamian Dollar and the US Dollar are widely accepted. If you require to exchange your money you have a few options.

You can exchange it on the Ship. Most people do this out of convenience. However, you can get a better rate by exchanging at a bank or withdrawing money from an ATM. There are a number of banks and ATMs located less than a five-minute walk from the cruise terminal on Parliament Street. There are even more ATMs so finding a place to get Bahamian Dollars should be easy.

Keep in mind, since US Dollars are readily accepted unless you don't have either it is not necessary to exchange your money.

Language spoken in the Bahamas

English is the official language of the Bahamas.

Best Time to Go to The Bahamas

High Season in the Bahamas runs from November to Mid April. If you are trying to avoid the crowds consider traveling in October or late April and May. Keep in mind hurricane season runs from July-October. Summers in the Bahamas can be really hot and wet. A lot of people say that May is the perfect time of year. Still quite warm but dry with less crowds.

The average temp ranges from 77F (January/February) to 88F (August)

What are the best cruise excursions in Nassau Bahamas?

First, you need to figure out whether you want to DIY or you prefer to just book via the cruise ships. There is plenty to do within walking distance to the port. Whether you are looking for something free and cheap or a day trip to your very own private island you can easily do any of these on your own.

You all know I love a budget vacation so of course, I am going to start with free and cheap.

As always make sure you are planning your time accordingly. Not paying attention to the time and missing the boat can be very costly. I recommend always planning to be on the boat at least an hour before the last call.

Free and Cheap Things to do in Nassau on a cruise

What is the cheapest thing to do in Nassau Bahamas?

If you are on a budget there is no need to bother with booking a pricey excursion. There is plenty to see and do within walking distance from the port.

Choose your own adventure? Do you want to lounge on the beach? Do you prefer to do some sightseeing? Or is shopping more your style? Well, you can do any of the above without breaking the bank.

Stroll Around Downtown Nassau, Bay Street

With shops, restaurants and bars you can spend the entire day just walking up and down Bay Street. Here are few stops that you can make along the way.

Landmarks on Bay Street

You do not have to travel far to visit some of the best landmarks in the Bahamas. Here are some that are within walking distance of the cruise port.

Parliament Square

Get your cameras out because Parliament Square is the place to get that perfect insta shot. Stand in the middle of the square and you will be surrounded by the colonial-style flamingo pink buildings that are so well known in old Nassau.

Made of three buildings, Parliament Square is home to The House of Assembly, The Senate Building and The Supreme Court of the Bahamas. You will also find a statue of Queen Victoria which was erected in the early 1900s.

Garden of Rememberance

Immediately Behind the Supreme Court you will find the Garden of Rememberance. This park honors the Bahamian Veterans of World War I and World War II.

Public Library and Museum

Located south of Parliament Square you will find yourself at the Nassau Public Library and Museum. This octagonal building was originally constructed as a jail. It later became a library. I'd like to think it is one of the coolest libraries I have ever seen.

Queen's Staircase

The Queen's Staircase or “The 66 Steps” was constructed by slaves in the late 1700s. It provides a direct path between Fort Fincastle to downtown Nassau. Surrounded by lush gardens it makes for a great photo op. If you have the energy make you way up the steps. If you count along the way don't be disappointed when you only count 65. It's not you. The first step is buried . So now there are only 65 visible.

Fort Fincastle

So you made the climb and you now find yourself in Fort Fincastle. Sitting atop Bennett's Hill the Fort was constructed in the late 1700s to protect Nassau and its harbor. The Fort overlooks Nassau therefore you will get great views of Nassau, the harbor and even your cruise ship. Definitely well worth the climb.

Government House

The Government House is the official residence of the Governor General of the Bahamas. Built in the early 1800s this homes architecture combines both British and Colonial features which results in a magnificent pink and white structure. What is better is that because it sits high it overlooks Nassau and the harbor.

If you find yourself in Nassau on the second Saturday of the month be sure to stop by to witness the changing of the guard.

The house is also open to the public on the last Friday of the month from January-November where the governor general's spouse hosts high tea.

Christ Church Cathedral

The Christ Church Cathedral has a long history. The first two churches to be built on this site were both built and subsequently destroyed by the Spaniards in the late 1600s and early 1700s. A third building made of wood was built in 1724 but was replaced 30 years later by a stone builiding. A steeple was added in the late 1700s but was taken down and replaced by a square tower in the early 1800s. The fifth building was added to extend the church which is what you see today.

The church underwent a restoration which was completed in 1995.

Today this is a present day house of worship. The gothic architecture is beautiful and a must see however please be respectful of the parishioners during your visit.

King Street

Take a little break from sightseeing and make your way down King Street for some shopping and a bit of a food and beverage break.

Charlotte Street

Looking for more restaurants and shopping. Charlotte Street is another great spot in downtown Nassau with restaurants, shopping and bars.

Rawson Square

As soon as you step out of the cruise terminal you most likely made you way through or around Rawson Square. Rawson Square was named for the Governor of the Bahamas in the late 1860s.

Graycliff Hotel

Located about a 15 minute walk from Port, the Graycliff Hotel is an experience of itself and you can easily spend the whole day exploring the property sipping on wine, tasting chocolate and even indulge in a handmade cigar.

The Graycliff Hotel offers a number of experiences. Here is a sampling of things to do:

Take a tour of the hotel followed by a three course meal poolside. You can choose to lounge by the pool for the rest of the day and get some much needed R & R.

Take a cooking class at the Graycliff Culinary Academy.

Take a tour of the Graycliff Cigar Company, enjoy a Cigar and Rum pairing or learn how to roll you own cigars.

Visit the Graycliff Chocolatier where you can take a tour of the factory or learn how to make your own chocolate. They also offer a chocolate and spirits tasting.

Visit the Bahamas Barrels where you can take part in a wine blending class.

Shopping in Nassau, Bahamas

Festival Place

Located right at the cruise docs Festival Place is a great spot to get your last minute souvenirs and gifts. Comprised of over 45 vendors selling crafts, food and drink it is a great stop just before you get back on the ship or for those that do not want to venture too far.

The Straw Market

Located in the middle of it all on Bay Street the Straw Market is home to a variety of Handmade Bahamian gifts, crafts and souvenirs. This is the perfect place to get your shopping fix and find goodies to take home to love ones.

Visit the Museums in Nassau, Bahamas

With several museums located within walking distance to the port it is easy to do a museum crawl and get to know a different side of The Bahamas.

National Art Gallery of The Bahamas

Spend the day enjoying Bahamian Art at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas. The Gallery is located at West Street and W Hill Street which is about a 15 minute walk from the port. The Gallery is open from Tuesday-Sunday and the admission is $10 for non locals.

Eduuculture Junkanoo Museum

Right next to the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas you will find the Eduucultre Junkanoo Museum. This cultural center tells the story of Junkanoo, a celebration that takes place around the Christmas holidays in The Bahamas.

The Junkanoo parade was a celebration that started when slaves were given three days off for Christmas.

Today Junkanoo is a parade full of colorful costumes, music and all around celebration. It is a nice treat for anyone that happens to be in The Bahamas during the holidays.

Balcony House (On Market Street Just Off of Bay Street)

The Balcony House gets it's name from the large Balcony which overlooks Market Street. It is believed to be the oldest residential building still standing in The Bahamas. Admission is free to visit the Museum however the Museum is closed on Holidays and Weekends so be sure to plan accordingly.

Pompey Museum

The Pompey Museum is located just of of Bay Street on George Street. The Museum is named after Pompey, a slave that escaped his plantation which sparked the beginning of the fight against slavery in The Bahamas. The one room museum features a collection of articles, letters and photos which document the history of slavery in The Bahamas. The Museum is opened Monday-Saturday and admission is $3.

Pirates of Nassau Museum

Located on King and George Street, the Pirates of Nassau offers an interactive experience for the whole family. The museum tells that story of the Pirates of the Bahamas through displays and live reenactments. Admission is $13.75 for adults and $6.75 for children.

Visit the Beach: Beaches near the Nassau Bahamas Cruise Port

If you are looking to enjoy a beach day then Nassau is the perfect place with you. With beaches within walking distance even those that are short on time can fit in a bit of sun and sand. Below is a list of beaches sorted by distance to the cruise port.

Visit Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is within walking distance to the cruise port which makes a cheap way to spend the day. Junkanoo Beach is a 15 minute walk from the cruise port which makes it a perfect spot to spend the day when you're short on time.

It is so close you can see the cruise ships right from the beach.

There are vendors up and down the beach where you can buy a bucket of ice cold beer. Kalik and Sands are two of the island favorites and you will see plenty of people enjoying a beer or two on the beach.

Bring your towel or rent chairs from one of the vendors.

Budget Tip: If you walk further down the beach there are vendors that will give you free chairs when you buy a bucket of beer. We paid $10 for a bucket of beer and got two chairs and an umbrella with the price. It is was a great deal.

The beach is also a local favorite so it does get crowded on weekends with tourists, cruise passengers and locals enjoying a beach day.

Visit Cabbage Beach

Cabbage Beach is located just over the bridge from the Cruise Port on Paradise Island. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Nassau however the water can be a bit rough at times so it may not be the best beach for non swimmers.

The cab ride is about $4-6 per person. So it is not a bad deal. While the beach doesn't have a lot of amenities there are locals up and down the beach offering chairs for rent and even beverages.

As a bonus take a long walk on the beach and you will eventually get to the famous Atlantis where you can take advantage of some photo ops.

Fun fact. This is one of the very first beaches I ever visited as a child. The other we went to most often was in Playa Del Carmen.

Visit Cable Beach

Cable Beach is about a 20 minute drive from the Cruise Port. You can take a cab there however the cheapest way to get there is to take the #10 bus. It is about $1.25 per person. This is the most economical way to get there as cabs charge per person and can be pricey.

Where to Eat in Nassau Near the Port

Bahamian cuisine is something to get excited about. Make sure you try the conch fritters. If you do not like seafood then you definitely have to try the rice and peas. And don't forget to wash it all down with a Bahama Mama or Kalik (Bahamian Beer).

If you are not the adventurous type there are plenty of international options in and around the cruise dock. Here are some options:

AquaFire

Caribbean and Bahamian Cuisine

Pink Octopus

International Cuisine. Most people recommend the tacos.

Halcyon

Caribbean Cuisine.

Syrah

Great spot for wine and tapas.

Social House

Located in Cable Beach. Great for Sushi or Brunch.

Shima and Mahaghon House at Island House

If you are looking to splurge this is a great option for Asian cuisine.

Cafe Matisse

Italian Cuisine

Meze Grill

Mediterranean Grill

Wild Thyme

Seafood and Carribbean

Where to Eat and Drink in Nassau, Bahamas: Fish Fry

But for the more adventurous try a Fish Fry. From fried fish to pork and everything in between you will be treated to a culinary feast.

Arawak Cay (Fish Fry)

Arawak Cay or the Fish Fry is a great spot for traditional Bahamian food and a local favorite. It's a great spot to stop for lunch if you are visiting the Ardastra Gardens, Botanical Gardens, Fort Charlotte or Fort Stanley. Be sure to check out Oh Andros.

Potter's Cay Fish Shacks

If you are looking for a spot off the beaten path then check out Potter's Cay. Located about a 25 minute walk from port it is the perfect place to enjoy an authentic Bahamian lunch. Take your pick from one of the many fish shacks in this spot located under the bridge. You will not be disappointed.

Tip: This is definitely a rustic spot that is a local favorite. Potter's Cay is literally a collection of shacks dishing out some really great authentic Bahamian Food. If you are looking for white table clothes this may not be the place for you.

The Adastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Center.

Set on 4 acres of lush tropical gardens this conservation center specializes in the rescue and rehabilitation of birds.

While home to many plants and species, some of the endangered species that you will see here are the Caribbean Flamingos, Bahamian Boa Constrictor and the Bahama Parrot just to name a few.

Hours are : Daily 9am-5pm except holidays

Admission is: $18.75/adults, $9.50/Children, Children under 3 are free.

The Zoo is located just off of Chippingham Rd. and W. Bay Street, which is approximately a 30 minute walk or 10 minute cab ride from the port. You can also take any bus across from the Hilton in downtown that is going west and asked to be dropped off near Chippingham Rd. and W. Bay Street.

John Watling's Distillery

John Watling's Distillery, located near the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas, is home to John Watling's Rum, also known as ‘this spirit of the Bahamas'.

Take advantage of the free tours they offer or choose to enjoy a Bahamian Beverage at the Red Turtle Tavern.

Hours: Daily 10am-6pm

Stuart's Cove

If you have a little bit of time then you may want to consider a trip out to Stuart's Cove. Located approximately a 1 hour drive from Nassau most people visit Stuart Cove for snorkeling, diving and swimming with the sharks.

Fort Charlotte

Located about a mile west of downtown Nassau, Fort Charlotte is the largest fort on New Providence. Every Wednesday and Friday at 11:30am you can experience a real life historical recreation with characters dressed in the period and even a cannon firing at noon.

Admission is $5 and tour guides who work for tips are available to walk you through the history of the Fort.

After visiting Fort Charlotte you may want to consider a little bit of lunch at Arawark Cay (Fish Fry).

Shopping on Bay Street

If you prefer to spend your day in Nassau doing a little bit of shopping then Bay Street is the place to be. From Bahamian arts and crafts at the Straw Market to high end shops like David Yurman and Cartier.

DIY Nassau Bahamas cruise port excursions

Visit Atlantis- Getting to Atlantis from the Cruise port

Getting to Atlantis is a quick and easy cab ride and will run about $6 per person. While pricey you can opt for a day pass to Atlantis or you can take a cab to Cabbage Beach.

Getting Around-Transportation

From buses to ferries public transportation is pretty easy to come by in Nassau. There are plenty of options to rent a car or a motor scooter. But you can easily get around via bus, ferry or even on foot.

Buses in the Bahamas

The local buses in Nassau are called Jitneys and they make for a very inexpensive way to get around the Island. The jitney's are currently $1.25 per person and are a great way to get places like Cable Beach without breaking the bank.

Private Islands Near Nassau

There are over 700 islands in The Bahamas which means there are plenty of private islands to go around. If you are looking for something close to the port to get away from the hustle and bustle then consider one of the following island getaways. Some as close as a 15 minute ferry ride away.

Pearl Island

If you are looking for another option that is close to port then consider an excursion to Pearl Island. Pearl Island is only 15 away and you can spend the day at the beach, go snorkeling or take part in any of the other water sports they offer.

Blue Lagoon

While most cruises offer shore excursions to Blue Lagoon you can book an excursion yourself. Excursions include transportation, lunch and full access to beach loungers, hammocks and some water activities.

Balmoral Island

This is another option that you can book on your own and save a bit of money. It is definitely on the pricier side however it is a favorite among cruisers so if you are interested in visiting be sure to book early as they sell out.

Sandy Toes

Depending on your budget booking an excursion to Sandy Toes might be the perfect way to spend your day in Nassau.

Located 15 minutes from Nassau via boat, Sandy Toes which is located on Rose Island is the perfect way to spend the day. Go snorkeling, kayaking and even swim with pigs. Enjoy a buffet brunch and just lounge on the beach all day.

Prices start at $75 for Children and $119 for Adults.

Baha Mar Resort

Baha Mar Resort complex located on Cable Beach is a destination in it of itself. Made up of three properties, Grand Hyatt, SLS and Rosewood it is the ultimate destination for those looking for luxury.

While these properties do not offer day passes some cruises will reserve a room for the day in order to take advantage of the properties amenities. In addition to fine dining and a gorgeous beach the resort complex offers golf, a spa, casino and even a nature sanctuary.