Here are some of the activities that you can enjoy in the Bahamas while you are on a cruise to the coral-based archipelago.
Located about 200 miles from the coast of Florida, the Bahamas is a year-round cruise destination and attracts thousands of cruise passengers each year. It is a tropical paradise that allows people to escape from the humdrum of life and relax and delight their senses with the sandy beaches, swaying palms, and other attractions.
The Queen’s Staircase used to connect Fort Fincastle to Nassau town. It was constructed in 1793 by slaves, who carved 66 stairs into the limestone. Today, the staircase is a famous landmark in Nassau and is covered with ferns and moss, but it allows you to find respite in the vegetation from the sun and click some amazing pictures.
If you don’t feel like spending your time at the beach, head to the Atlantis Resort and Casino. It has waterslides and a spectacular aquarium. At night, you can try your luck at the casino or head to the nightclub or restaurant of the resort.
You will find Parliament Square on Bay Street. The square has three white and pink Georgian neoclassical buildings that are home to the Bahamian parliament and government offices. These buildings are a great example of early colonial architecture in the archipelago and allow visitors to see how the Bahamian parliament conducts its sessions.
Also, Read: What to do in Nassau during a cruise?
Seafood forms the major bulk of the local cuisine, and the best place to savor it is a Fish Fry, a strip replete with restaurants in Nassau. Here, you should try the queen of seafood, a local delicacy, the conch. You can opt for conch salad or conch fritters to figure out why the locals love this ingredient in their food.
In the 18th century, Nassau was a haven for pirates, especially Captain Blackbeard. You can find out more about these pirates and their history at the fascinating Pirates of Nassau Museum. At the museum, you will be able to see artifacts and a pirate ship on display.
The Bahamas is also blessed with natural beauty, which is showcased at the Lucayan National Park. Put on a pair of walking shoes and leave the cruise ship behind to explore about 40 acres of trails in the park. There are even two underwater caves that you can explore with the right guide.
If you want to escape the crowds, head to the Versailles Garden. This tranquil garden has a number of flowering plants and is also home to many statues of historical figures, like FD Roosevelt and Napoleon. You will even be able to check out the remnants of a stone monastery, which was constructed in the 13th century. The monastery was brought from France by William Randolph Hearst.
If you are looking to take authentic Bahamian souvenirs for family and friends, head to the iconic Straw Market in Nassau. As the name suggests, you can buy items made from straw. All items are handcrafted; just make sure you bargain and bring the price down. It is the norm. The market has straw baskets and hats, wood carvings and sculptures, beaded jewelry, clothing, and t-shirts.
Nassau has a few beaches that are extremely popular with visitors and the locals. These Junkanoo Beach, which is close to the cruise ship terminal, and always busy. If you want a less crowded beach, head to Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island. It is the ideal beach to swim, snorkel and sunbathe. The waves are gentle and hence, even kids can enjoy swimming here.
Also, Read: Where are the best pristine beaches in Nassau, Bahamas?
If not for Cabbage Beach, visit Paradise Island for its world-class Atlantis Resort and Casino. This massive resort has magnificent walk-in aquariums, a water park, open-air marine habitat, swimming pools, and even a golf course. Plan a whole day of fun and frolic on the island.
If you want some peace and quiet in the afternoon, head to Ardastra Gardens. Here, you will enjoy the serenity and also get to see amazing wildlife and avian life. The park is home to flamingos, lorikeets, snakes, monkeys, and many more tropical animals and birds. You can feed some of the animals and birds, and even enjoy shows like the Flamingo March.
These are some of the wonderful attractions and activities that you can enjoy during your cruise and when your ship docks at Nassau. Be sure to even explore the cruise terminal, which has many restaurants, shops, and boutiques that you can visit.
Also, Read: Popular Beaches in Freeport Bahamas
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November 27, 2024
