Is it worth getting off the boat in Nassau?


Is it worth getting off the boat in Nassau? Yes! I think it's worth getting off the ship even if you prefer to skip the excursions (aka port adventures). Exploring on your own is a great way to spend the morning. But also take advantage of lower crowds onboard the ship.


Can you walk around Nassau Bahamas from cruise port?

If you have never been to Nassau and want something free to do, your best bet is to get off the ship for a few hours and explore Downtown Nassau! Sure, you can book a walking tour through your cruise line, but most of the sites are easily accessible on your own and just 5-10 minutes from the cruise pier.


What is the best way to get around Nassau Bahamas?

How to Get Around Nassau
  1. Public Transportation. There are several minibuses, also known as jitneys, that will take you around Nassau. ...
  2. Taxi. Taxis are a convenient way to get around Nassau, especially at night since jitneys typically stop operating between 6 and 7 pm. ...
  3. Car. You can rent a car for B$50 a day.


How many days do you need in Nassau?

With three days in Nassau, you'll have plenty of time to hit all the highlights, from colonial sites to beautiful Caribbean beaches, and still have time left over for a couple of island day trips.


Can you use your cell phone on a cruise to the Bahamas?

Guests are free to utilize their cellular data or connect to our onboard Wi-Fi on any ship. But, please be aware that cellular data used on the ship or in certain ports of call will result in charges from your cell phone provider.


Can you get off a cruise ship without an excursion in Nassau?

While there are a number of things to do like chilling at the beaches, exploring Nassau's historical sites, renting a jet-ski or visiting the Atlantis Resort, you can have a great day just walking around the port area on your own, without an excursion.


Can you get around Nassau without a car?

Buses, known locally as “jitneys”, run in downtown Nassau and Cable Beach several times a day. The cost for a one-way ride is approximately $1.50 per person, and exact change is required.


Is it safe to go off resort in Nassau?

In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas.


How do tourists get around in the Bahamas?

The best way to get around the Bahamas is by car, whether that's a rental or taxi. If you're staying at a big resort and plan to remain on-site for the majority of your trip, then taking a taxi to off-site attractions is more cost effective than shelling out money for a rental.


Do you need a passport to get off the ship in Nassau?

Though most foreign travel requires that you have a valid passport to come back home, cruising makes it easier to enjoy your vacation without worrying about this paperwork. If you are a US citizen, you can take a “closed-loop cruise” (one that begins and ends at the same port) to The Bahamas without a passport.


Do you tip taxi drivers in Nassau Bahamas?

In the Bahamas, service staff and hotel workers expect to be tipped. The usual tip for service from a taxi driver or waiter is 15% and $1–$2 a bag for porters. Most travelers leave $1 to $3 per day for their hotel maid, usually every morning since the maid may have a day off.


What to avoid in Nassau?

  • Avoid Nassau's “over the hill” (south of Shirley Street) and Fish Fry (Arawak Cay) areas, especially at night.
  • Stay alert to your surroundings at all times.
  • Don't walk alone, particularly after dark.
  • Don't carry large sums of cash or wear expensive jewellery.


Should you pay taxis with cash or card in the Bahamas?

You'll find that merchants on the island do accept most major credit cards, though we recommend some cash for smaller, local merchants and restaurants who may require cash. Taxis in The Bahamas will require cash.


Can I explore Nassau without an excursion?

While there are a number of things to do like chilling at the beaches, exploring Nassau's historical sites, renting a jet-ski or visiting the Atlantis Resort, you can have a great day just walking around the port area on your own, without an excursion.


What should you be careful of in the Bahamas?

Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.


What happens if you miss your cruise departure at a port?

If you miss the ship, you'll have to either meet it in a subsequent port of call or call it a wash and head home. Your cruise line, travel agent or travel insurance provider might be able to help you make the plans; otherwise, you'll have to make arrangements on your own.


Can you have fun on a cruise without excursions?

You absolutely do not have to do shore excursions on a cruise. You are free to come and go at will from most cruise ships while they are in ports of call. Shore excursions are simply one means to explore the areas visited by the ship and to participate in available activities off the ship.


What can you not bring into The Bahamas?

Anything except fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products can be brought into The Bahamas. All meats must be canned or frozen.