The Port Of Call Nassau, Bahamas

A favorite port for three and four day cruises out of Florida as well as returning longer cruises, Nassau has a lot to offer.

Where You’re Ship Docks

Cruise ships dock at Prince George Wharf, sometimes as many as five are there at once. The wharf is located right in downtown Nassau with a large number of good restaurants and plenty of “duty free” shopping. The island is also famous for it numerous great beaches as well as coral reefs, sport fishing and boating.

Crossing a bridge in downtown Nassau gets you to Paradise Island, home of Atlantis and other resorts. It is a two mile walk from the cruise piers over to Paradise Island across a connecting bridge.

Transportation

If you just want to walk around and see the town it is only a short stroll into the main downtown area. You can rent cars and scooters right at the wharf as well as book land and water tours. Taxis are readily available but you need negotiate price before heading out. If you are going to rent a car and especially a scooter pay special attention as the Bahamas drive on the left.

Currency

The countries currency is the Bahama Dollar which is on par with the U.S. Dollar but there is no need to change currency as the U.S. Dollar is readily accepted. Most major credit cards and many debit cards are welcome.

Attractions

Because it is the nearest foreign country to the Eastern United States, Nassau takes full advantage of its duty free status. Downtown Nassau offers a number of opportunities for saving on duty free goods but know the U.S. duty free limits before you start shopping.

Traveling three miles east along the north shore out of Nassau you’ll find the exclusive Cable Beach area, a resort beach with great beaches and a number of good restaurants and spectacular resort hotels. Nearer to town there is also Paradise Island featuring the Atlantis resort (most cruise ships offer day tours over to Atlantis to visit the water park, beaches and exhibits).

Atlantis on Paradise Island A destination all its own. Features water park, aquariums, beaches, restaurants and more. Requires admission (day passes) unless you are a resort guest.
Fort Fincastle 1793 stone fort & former lighthouse
Ardastra Gardens Zoo, gardens & conservation center
Prince George Wharf The cruise ship dock with local crafts and tour vendors
Clifton Heritage Park Nature trails, historic ruins & beaches
Dolphin Cay Atlantis & Bahamas Dolphin Adventure Marine habitat with dolphin interaction
Marine Habitat at Atlantis Large aquarium at the upscale resort
Fort Charlotte 1788 stone fort with moats & dungeons
Queen’s Staircase Stone staircase, circa 1793
Pirates of Nassau Pirate museum with replica ships and good exhibits
National Art Museum Local history & art in a historic villa
Sea Trek Helmet Diving. An interesting way to explore under water