Atlantis
Atlantis / iStock.com / WorachatSodsri
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Harborside Resort at Atlantis
Harborside Resort at Atlantis / iStock.com / WorachatSodsri
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Parliament Square
Parliament Square / iStock.com / benjamieson
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Paradise Island Lighthouse
Paradise Island Lighthouse / iStock.com / tomalu
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Colorful Bahamian architecture
Colorful Bahamian architecture / iStock.com / marcutti
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Paradise Island jet ski rentals
Paradise Island jet ski rentals / iStock.com / WorachatSodsri
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Nassau, Bahamas

Our Review
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

The capital Bahamian island is a quick hop from the U.S., making it a popular stop for shorter itineraries. Its bustling, duty-free shopping scene, pristine beaches, and casinos appeal to a variety of personalities and generations of cruisers. Similarly, the restaurant landscape caters to all tastes with authentic local eats, high-end dining experiences, and big-name chains.

What We Love

Big-Game Fishing: The elusive bonefish of the Out Islands may get all the press, but the waters surrounding Nassau teem with large marine animals from sharks and marlin to tuna. Guided day trips drop lines at in-the-know spots. 

Tipple Tours: Pirating, privateering, and rum running are as much a part of the lore of the Bahamas as its sugar-sand beaches and glittering casinos. Take a free rum tour at the John Watling’s Distillery, a spirit producer since the late 1780s. 

Best Known For

Atlantis: The behemoth pink resort is a Nassau marquee that has excellent beach access, an extensive aquarium, and an awesome water park. Get a day pass and enjoy the lazy river, waterslides, and more. Add on a dolphin experience at Dolphin Cay for an interactive afternoon. 

Duty-Free Shopping: The main drag just by the dock is lined with a seemingly endless array of high-end arcades proffering advantageous pricing on electronics, luxury bags, and watches.

Who It's Best For

Relaxers: Nassau is the perfect port for those who can’t get around with ease, or who just want to do a quick spin before heading back to the ship. The dock is in the center of town, so there are no tenders, minimal stairs, and just a few steps to the bars, shops, and straw market.

Families: The beaches and water sports opportunities appeal to every generation of cruiser.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

Expect Crowds: Multiple large vessels can "park" in Nassau at a time, which means many thousands of cruisers may descend on the popular island on the same day.