Nassau, Bahamas is one of the most popular cruise ports of call for all major cruise lines. Nassau offers travelers a variety of different attractions and popular sights to explore during their time ashore. To help you narrow down your choices, below are our Best Things to Do in Nassau, Bahamas on a Cruise.

The capital of the Bahamas, Nassau is the largest city among the 30 inhabited islands of the country. About 70 percent of all residents of the Bahamas live in Nassau, making it the country’s economic center. Once a colony of Great Britain, the Bahamas gained full independence in 1973. However, plenty of English influences can still be found in the culture, architecture, and everyday life.

Best Things to Do in Nassau, Bahamas on a Cruise

Spend the Day at Atlantis Resort

Located on Paradise Island, the Atlantis Bahamas Resort is a world-famous casino and resort that offers visitors a variety of attractions. You will need to purchase either an excursion through the cruise company or tickets at Atlantis as access to most spots and activities are restricted. Staff are situated throughout the resort to ensure only paying guests are permitted in the designated areas.

The most popular attraction is the Aquaventure Water Park. Most excursions to the water park run about six to eight hours, providing you with time to see the surrounding grounds as well.

If water parks aren’t your thing, many cruise lines also offer excursions that include self-guided tours of the grounds. These tours give travelers access to explore the hotel and other sites like “The Dig” and Shark Encounters, as well as access to the lagoon and beaches at the resort.

If you are reluctant to book an excursion through the cruise line due to the hefty price tag, you might want to consider booking a room for the day at the Comfort Suites. Located within walking distance to Atlantis, rooms at this hotel include complimentary entrance to all the Atlantis facilities for up to four guests, and the cost to book a room is often cheaper than paying for the cruise-sponsored excursion for even just two adults. Of course, you will have to weigh the risk of potential itinerary changes with the hotel’s cancellation policies.

Take a Trip to Blue Lagoon

Located a 40-minute boat ride away from Nassau is Blue Lagoon Island. This private island resort offers visitors an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Even though it is only a short trip away, this Nassau shore excursion will have you feeling like you have been transported to your own secluded paradise.

Day-long beach passes include access to facilities, a grilled buffet lunch, an inflatable waterpark, and WiFi; additional non-motorized equipment can be rented while on the island as well.

Blue Lagoon also offers a variety of different marine experiences. If you want to get up close and personal with some marine life in their natural habitat, you can book a dolphin encounter, a sea lion encounter, stingray encounter, and even a shark encounter. Make sure to reserve these experiences early as space is limited for these one-of-a-kind encounters.

Relax at Pearl Island

You can also spend the day relaxing at Pearl Island, which is the closest private island to Nassau. A short ferry ride will transport you to this secluded tropical location. Pearl Island is home to two beaches, plentiful loungers, and amazing panoramic views from the top of its lighthouse.

You ticket to paradise also includes a traditional Bahamian lunch and use of non-motorized equipment. If you want to upgrade your experience, you can book a package that includes a guided snorkeling adventure. There are also private oceanview cabanas available, which come with a personal server for the day.

If you want to interact with the famed swimming pigs, there’s also a package that allows for that activity plus the inclusions in the standard beach package.

A trip to any of these private locations is definitely a recipe for a day of fun in the sun! Which will you choose?

Book an Island Tour

Soak up some of the British influence and history while exploring the city’s more memorable highlights during an organized tour of Nassau, Bahamas. Depending on whether you book through the cruise line or arrange a private tour directly with a local tour operator or third-party provider, your island tour could include a variety of stops.

Most tours will stop at Fort Fincastle and the Queen’s Staircase. Built out of coral rock, these 66 stairs were constructed using hammers and chisels during the late 18th century. Other popular forts include the largest fort, Fort Charlotte and the oldest fort, Fort Montagu. These forts and the Queen’s Staircase are among the free things to do in Nassau as well, if you’re exploring the port on your own and want to see some historical sites.

Most arranged Nassau cruise excursion tours pass other popular public buildings such as the Parliament Building and the Government House, with a statue of Christopher Columbus adorning the entrance. Some tours do stop at Atlantis for a brief time — mostly for photo ops — as you need to purchase a pass to visit most attractions.

Of course, a visit to the Bahamas wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Bahamas Rum Cake Factory, the John Watling’s Distillery, or the Straw Market.

Experience History at the Nassau Cruise Port

Visitors to Nassau, Bahamas can also create their own customized island tour by visiting other island attractions like Graycliff Restaurant, Hotel, and Chocolate Factory.

Graycliff is a historic hotel said to be built in 1740 by a famous pirate. Today, the building still serves as a hotel welcoming guests to the Bahamas. If you are just visiting Nassau for the day, Graycliff offers some unique experiences. You can escape to this 5-star hotel for the day to enjoy use of its pool and a delicious three-course lunch. You can even take a cooking class with the hotel’s executive chef, along with a tour of the wine cellar.

Additionally, visitors can tour the Graycliff Cigar Company, book a cigar rolling lesson, or watch a cigar rolling demonstration alongside a rum tasting.

If that’s not enough, there’s the Graycliff Chocolatier. Here, guests can take a factory tour, learn how to make their own chocolates, or partake in the Chocolates and Spirits pairing.

Best Beaches in Nassau

With so many beautiful beaches, a beach break is definitely one of the best things to do in Nassau, Bahamas on a cruise.

Junkanoo Beach

A cruiser favorite, Junkanoo Beach is within walking distance (15 minutes) from the cruise ship. Here, locals and travelers alike can enjoy the water at this free beach. This spot is popular, so get there early to stake your claim. Be sure to take advantage of the amenities available including food, beverages, and equipment rentals. The Tiki Hut is a popular spot for food and drinks.

Cabbage Beach

A short cab ride from the port, Cabbage Beach on Paradise Island offers another free beach with plenty of white sand, picture worthy vistas of palm trees, and over a mile of coastline. While it is known for its soft sand and azure waters, the current can be strong so it may not be the best choice for families.

Be sure to bring cash (and your towel) if you want to rent beach chairs and umbrellas. The one downfall of this beach is that there are no public facilities. So, if you plan to spend the day, you might need to purchase a resort pass from nearby hotels such as Atlantis.

Cable Beach

Considered one of the best beaches in the Bahamas, Cable Beach is a stretch of about four miles of mostly private beaches. Though, there are a couple of public spots. This beach is also located a short cab ride away from the cruise terminal.

If you are okay spending a few bucks on your beach break, getting exclusive access is well worth the cost. Breezes Resort is one such hotel on Cable Beach that offer beach access. These resort for a day passes typically provide an “all-inclusive” experience. Again, if you do not pay for a pass to a resort, facilities will be limited.

Jaws Beach

Jaws Beach is another popular beach in Nassau mostly because it is recognized from movies such as Jaws and James Bond films. Though, it is located the furthest from the cruise port. This beach is a favorite for those who like to snorkel and scuba. It is located within the Clifton Heritage Park which is worth exploring as well (and has a restroom). This beach is rather secluded so don’t expect to find vendors here.

Love Beach

Love Beach is another more secluded beach option in Nassau, located between Cable Beach and Jaws Beach. This beach is free to access, and you are able to rent chairs and umbrellas from the bar onsite. The Nirvana Beach Bar also has restrooms and serves food and drinks. The water here is rather calm, so this beach is a good swimming choice for families. It is also a good location for snorkeling.

Day Pass to the British Colonial Hilton

Closer to the cruise pier, a popular spot to score a day pass for full access to resort facilities is the British Colonial Hilton. Located just a short 10-minute walk from the cruise pier in downtown Nassau, you will have access to a private beach, pool, lounge chairs and umbrellas, and non-motorized watersports at this resort. In addition, day pass guests receive 10 percent off food and beverages.

Explore Ardastra Gardens and Zoo

Looking for a wild time when visiting Nassau, Bahamas? We suggest taking a short 12-minute drive from the cruise port to Ardastra Gardens, Zoo, and Conservatory. What was started in the 1950’s as a garden and attempt to increase the flamingo population has grown into a full blown zoo and conservatory with over 200 animals. Hence, it is definitely one of the best things to do in Nassau, Bahamas on a cruise!

Yes, the now world-famous flamingos are still here. You can watch their daily shows while visiting the conservatory and get some great photos interacting with these majestic birds. Also, don’t miss the chance to feed and groom a tortoise, an experience that takes place daily at 11:30 am.

There are plenty of other great photo ops here too, from Australian Black Swans, Lemurs, and Iguanas to the threatened species, the Bahamian BOA Constrictor. While here, don’t forget to enjoy the gardens too which showcase native regional plants and flowers. Here are some of our favorite reasons to visit Ardastra Gardens.

Given the zoo’s location, you can easily visit other city highlights on your walk back to the cruise ship. Maybe a visit to the National Art Gallery or the Fish Fry (Arawak Cay) are in order?

Swim with the Pigs

The popular swimming with the pigs shore excursion in Nassau is now offered by many cruise lines. There are a few different locations where you can partake in this instagram-worthy excursion. Regardless of the location though, you will get the chance to feed, swim, and interact with these famous creatures. Your tour will also include a ride through Nassau harbor to this attraction, often providing narration of city highlights along the way.

Rose Island is located only 25 minutes from Nassau, and is home to a wildlife sanctuary including the beloved pigs. This island is much closer than the popular spot in Exuma (Pig Beach) making it a perfect cruise excursion.

Taste the Local Flavor on a Tru Bahamian Food Tour

If you are a foodie who is looking for something a bit different during your visit to Nassau, we suggest booking a Tru Bahamian Food Tour. The popular Bites of Nassau Food & Cultural Tour is a three-hour Nassau shore excursion that runs multiple times daily.

This small group experience is a walking tour that visits six different tasting locations. Each location highlights unique Bahamian dishes, including conch, rum cake, and cocktails of course. During the tour, you will get to meet local chefs and small business owners, as well as hear a bit about the history and culture of the Bahamas.

Get Ready to See Nassau, Bahamas

Now that you know the best things to do in Nassau, Bahamas on a cruise, what are you waiting for? If you already have a cruise stopping in the Bahamas booked, now is the time to make definite plans to experience one or more of these activities during your trip.

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Have you visited Nassau, Bahamas on a cruise? What are your favorite things to do on the island? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences.

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Do you have an upcoming cruise heading to Disney’s newest private destination in the Bahamas? If so, then this guide to everything you need to know about Disney’s Lookout Cay is for you. We were among the first guests to visit Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Fantasy. Now, we’re back and have the most recent information about this brand-new port of call to share with you.

Everything You Need to Know About Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

What is Disney’s Lookout Cay?

Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is Disney Cruise Line’s latest venture. This private destination is located at the southern end of the island of Eleuthera, which is located east of Nassau and south of Disney’s other private Bahamian destination, Castaway Cay.

Unlike Castaway Cay, Lookout Cay is not a “private island” though. It’s actually a 700-acre area of land on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera, very nearby to Princess Cruises’ Princess Cays. As part of the purchase from the Bahamas government in 2019, Disney pledged to keep much of the area undeveloped and to uphold strict environmental regulations.

Disney Cruise Line also collaborated with local artists and vendors to help showcase the culture and people of the area. This is evident in the design and decor of the private resort from the curvature of the buildings, to the vibrant colors, right down to Mickey and Minnie’s outfits.

Getting to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

As mentioned above, Disney’s Lookout Cay is DCL’s private destination. So, the only way to visit the resort is to book a Disney cruise that calls at this exclusive Bahamian port.

While there has been mention that residents of Eleuthera may be allowed to visit the island as well, or that DCL might allow day passes for non-cruise guests, there’s no official information regarding this just yet.

Disney Cruise Line ships only dock in Lookout Cay for the day, so you will not be able to spend the night here. Your cruise itinerary will dictate how long you spend at Disney’s Lookout Cay. However, in general, your ship will spend approximately 8 hours in port.

The good news is that unlike other private islands in the Bahamas, Lookout Cay has a pier. Thus, cruisers can just walk ashore from the ship, while watching the neighbors tender to shore at Princess Cays. However, you will need to prepare yourself for quite the hike to get there!

It takes approximately 1200 steps or a 1/2 mile to get from the ship to Mabrika Cove. While those with accessibility needs can request a transfer from the ship, this service is limited meaning most guests will need to walk. Unfortunately, there’s no shade or benches to rest along the way either.

It’s then a 10-minute ride from the Mabrika Cove tram stop to the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop where most of the facilities are located. While this could be walkable in the future, it is quite a distance and there are currently no paved paths.

Once at the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop, there are mostly paved paths and wooden boardwalks to navigate the area.

Disney’s Lookout Cay Map

To get a better visualization of the resort, we’ve included the Disney’s Lookout Cay map. As you can see below, the area is divided up into two sections, Mabrika Cove and Goombay Cultural Center.

Mabrika Cove

There is little at Mabrika Cove aside from the Mabrika Cove cabanas, or the family cabanas. These cabanas are rather secluded from the rest of Lookout Cay and have a great view of your cruise ship. In case you are wondering, there is a dedicated food and bar area for these cabanas, so you won’t have to trek all the way to Goombay for food or drinks.

In Mabrika Cove, you’ll also find the Turbot Berth for charter boat rentals, Mangroves & Go which serves specialty coffee like the Junkanoo Latte, dole whip, and draft beer, and a small merchandise kiosk called First & Last Chance Stand.

Goombay Cultural Center

Off the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop is where you’ll find all the major amenities, dining, bars, and shopping options. When you exit the tram, The Gathering Tree is to the left where you’ll meet for many of the organized shore excursions at Lookout Cay. To the right is Rocky Point, a hut for bicycle rentals; though, we were told only organized bike tours are available at this time.

Immediately beyond the tram stop, there are crew members handing out towels for your day ashore and an information hut. There are also two shops, Disney T’ings for all your Lookout Cay merchandise and Treasures of Eleuthera selling local crafts. From here, if you head straight towards the beach, you’ll find the Cultural Center where activities occur throughout the day.

However, if you want to explore more of the island, you’ll have to decide whether to head left eventually making your way to Serenity Bay or right towards the majority of other amenities at Lookout Cay.

If you head right, there’s the vast Family Beach, the Rush Out Gush Out family water play area, Sandsational Smoothies, the Watering Hole and Reef & Wreck bars, True-True BBQ, Sebastian’s Cove youth area, the Play-Play Pavilion for family activities, and the Nature Trail which leads to the namesake lighthouse.

If you head left, there’s the Flippers & Fins snorkel rental hut, the Bow & Ribbon bar, True-True Too BBQ, the adults-only Serenity Bay, Serenity Bay cabanas, Serenity Bay BBQ, and the Blue Hole Bar within Serenity Bay.

Of note, most of the bars also have restrooms conveniently located on the opposite side of the building. There are 9 restroom locations scattered throughout Lookout Cay.

Food at Disney’s Lookout Cay

Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point has plenty of food and drink options. Most of these items are complimentary, minus the bars.

There are three food stations on the island that serve a free buffet-style BBQ lunch. There’s True-True BBQ, True-True Too BBQ, and Serenity Bay BBQ. All three locations serve mostly the same items including some Bahamian-inspired dishes.

The menu features grilled salmon, snapper, rotisserie chicken, ribs, hot dogs, hamburgers, spicy chicken sandwiches, chicken and seafood rice bowls, a few plant-based options, and a variety of side dishes. At Serenity Bay, the buffet includes steak as well. Of course, there’s also dessert like cookies and soft serve ice cream.

If you have any allergies, you can arrange with your waiter ahead of time to pick up your food at the True-True Too BBQ location.

Depending on what time your ship is in port, lunch is generally served from around 11:30 AM to 2 PM.

In addition to these BBQ spots, there are several covered seating pavilions located nearby each one. The seating area at Serenity Bay BBQ is particularly small, but you might have trouble finding seats at any of these locations during peak lunch times. Currently, flies are also an issue near these food pavilions.

Lookout Cay Buffet Menu | Allergy Friendly Menu

Drinks at Disney’s Lookout Cay

There is no need to buy soda or bottled water at Disney’s Lookout Cay as there are fountain beverage stations throughout the island. If you bring a refillable Yeti-type water bottle, it will stay cold longer and save you from making multiple trips. These stations include water, soda, and even Vitamin Water and Powerade.

Now, if you want to enjoy an alcoholic beverage during your time on Disney’s Lookout Cay, these drinks will cost you extra.

There are four bars on Lookout Cay:

• Blue Hole Bar
• Bow & Ribbon Bar
• Watering Hole Bar
• Reef & Wreck Bar

The Blue Hole Bar is located in the adults-only Serenity Bay and has its own unique menu. The remaining three bars all have the same menu. There are also servers roaming the beach area to take your drink orders.

The signature island drinks are the Eleuthera Euphoria and the non-alcoholic Butterfly Switcha. The Eleuthera Euphoria is made with Gosling’s Spirited Seas Ocean Aged Rum, Pineapple, and Dole Whip.

In addition to these bars, there’s also the previously mentioned Mangroves & Go, located in Mabrika Cove, and Sandsational Smoothies. This bar serves up frozen and specialty non-alcoholic drinks like the Pineapple Pleaser made with Dole Whip Pineapple, Marshmallow Cream, and Graham Crackers.

If you want a souvenir from Disney’s Lookout Cay, you can purchase any of these drinks in the signature Pineapple souvenir cup, similar to the coconut cup from Castaway Cay.

Serenity Bay Bar Menu | Standard Bar Menu | Sandsational Smoothies Menu | Mangroves & Go Menu

What’s Free at Disney’s Lookout Cay

Beaches

When you think of a cruise line private island, you probably envision stretches of beautifully manicured beaches. Disney’s Lookout Cay is exactly that! In fact, we think the water and beaches are much nicer than sister island Castaway Cay.

Unlike Castaway Cay though, Family Beach and Serenity Bay Beach are along the same stretch with not much separation. Family Beach is the larger of the two beaches and the true gem. Serenity Bay Beach is the adults-only area; however, it is much smaller and less private when compared to its counterpart on Castaway Cay.

Both beaches are lined with plenty of lounge chairs and colorful umbrellas. Although, most of the chairs are found above the sand dunes, meaning guests will have to use the small “bridges” to cross the dunes and access the water. Most of these bridges have stairs but there are a few strategically positioned ramps as well.

We had no issues finding lounge chairs on Family Beach, but the seating on Serenity Bay Beach was full shortly after the ship’s arrival.

While snorkeling equipment can be rented, there is no dedicated snorkeling lagoon on Lookout Cay like there is on Castaway Cay.

Family Play Areas (Rush Out Gush Out and Play-Play Pavilion)

Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point has a variety of activities for families to enjoy a day of fun in the sun. The Rush Out Gush Out water play area is designed for younger children. It features two slides, water drums, fountains, and more.

The Play-Play Pavilion is a covered gaming area with life-sized games like Connect 4 and Jenga, hula hoops, soccer nets, and more. It is certainly not as elaborate as the In Da Shade Games on Castway Cay though.

Of note, there’s no basketball court or in-water play areas on Lookout Cay.

Youth Areas

Disney’s Lookout Cay features a Little Mermaid-themed youth area. Sebastian’s Cove is for children ages 3-10 years old. We got to explore the area a bit during an open house and thought it was a decent size. Its focal point is an under the sea water play area, but there’s also plenty of sand for building sand castles and playing games with the youth activities staff. There’s even a small lunch pavilion here.

However, there is no dedicated equivalent to Vibe or Edge on Disney’s Lookout Cay. The Play-Play Pavilion currently doubles as the meeting spot for teens and tweens.

Other Lookout Cay Activities

The signature island activity is RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration. This cultural performance occurs at the Goombay Cultural Center twice daily. During our sailing, the show times were 12 PM and 2:30 PM. This celebration is under 10 minutes and features costumed dancers and a band. The Goombay Cultural Center also holds craft sessions and informal presentations throughout the day.

Another family-friendly activity that is signature to Lookout Cay is the Fun in the Sun Beach Bash. This activity occurs at the Play-Play Pavilion and features Disney characters and games that all family members will enjoy.

There’s also a Nature Trail that leads to the namesake lighthouse. This trail is a compacted dirt path that begins past the Reef & Wreck Bar and leads to the lighthouse. There are Discovery Trail signs along the way on which you can scan the QR code to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

And it wouldn’t be a Disney cruise without Character Meet and Greets. Throughout the day, guests can take photos with their favorite Disney characters donned in Bahamian outfits that are exclusive to Lookout Cay. Located near the True-True BBQ, you’ll find Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Chip & Dale, Daisy, and Donald at various times. Just be prepared to wait in line.

Things to Do at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point That Will Cost Extra

If you are looking for more than just a beach day, there are other activities on Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point that will cost you extra money. Besides alcoholic beverages, coffee, and smoothies, you’ll need to scan your Key to the World card or DisneyBand+ for shopping purchases. You’ll also have to pay extra for shore excursions and cabana rentals.

Of note, there are currently no spa services available on Lookout Cay.

Shopping

On Lookout Cay, you’ll find three shopping areas and the Plaits & Pleats hair braiding stand. The First & Last Chance Stand at Mabrika Cove is a small kiosk, while the Disney T’ings is the much larger Disney merchandise shop. Here, you will find exclusive Lookout Cay merchandise along with other Disney Cruise Line merchandise. Think t-shirts, spirit jerseys, Minnie ears, ornaments, Loungefly backpacks, and more.

Across from Disney T’ings is the Treasures of Eleuthera. This shop features handmade Bahamian goods, and it was pretty empty during our visit.

Like most things Disney, if you do want to purchase any merchandise, be prepared to wait in line. The lines were quite LONG in the morning during this initial sailing. If you don’t want to chance something selling out, you may decide to wait in line; otherwise, you can always stop in later in the day.

Shore Excursions

Like most cruise line private islands, Disney’s Lookout Cay also features a number of shore excursions that are available for purchase pre-cruise or once onboard the ship. While only a select number of tours are currently available, below is the list of tours expected to be offered.

Staff indiciated that it would be weeks before bike rentals would be available. We were also told that there will be a Lookout Cay 5K, similar to the one on Castaway Cay, but the timeline of when it will be available is unclear.

• Bahamian Bank Boat Escape- $109 (ages 10+), $79 (ages 8-9)
• Banana Boat- $59, $49
• Bike and Kayak- $99, $89
• Nature Walk and Coral Nursery- $59, $49
• Snorkel Rental- $38
• Snorkel by Boat- $109, $89
• South Eleuthera Eco & Historical Tour- $119, $79
• Tropical Reef Safari Snorkel- $109, $79
• Bicycle Rental- $15 (currently unavailable)
• Boiling Hole Reef Snorkel- $109, $79 (currently unavailable)
• Ebike, Sand, Snorkel, and History- $139 (currently unavailable)
• Historical Nature and Buggy Tour (2 person)- $239 (currently unavailable)
• Historical Nature and Buggy Tour (4 person)- $399 (currently unavailable)
• Pirates of Eleuthera- $79, $69 (currently unavailable)
• Private Historical Cultural Tour- $799 (currently unavailable)
• South Eleuthera Eco & Cultural Tour- $149, $119 (currently unavailable)

Cabana Rentals

As mentioned previously, there are two cabana locations on Lookout Cay. The family cabanas are located in Mabrika Cove and the adult-only cabanas are located at Serenity Bay. There are regular cabanas that can hold up to 10 guests and grand cabanas that can hold up to 16 guests at both locations.

Current pricing is as follows:

• Family Cabanas at Mabrika Cove- $963 for up to 6 guests and $56 for additional guests up to 10.
• Grand Family Cabanas- $1300 for up to 10 guests and $56 for additional guests up to 16.
• Serenity Bay Cabanas- $523 for up to 4 guests and $56 for additional guests up to 10.
• Grand Serenity Bay Cabanas- $963 for up to 10 guests and $56 for additional guests up to 16.

Our Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Review

Whether this is your first cruise with Disney or you are a seasoned Castaway Club member, you can’t go wrong with either of Disney’s private destinations in the Bahamas. Though, there are certainly pros and cons to the new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

The beach was soft and sandy leading to beautiful azure water. The area is easy to navigate, and we liked the concrete pathways and wooden boardwalks leading from one location to the next. We loved the vibrant colors and architectural design. We also appreciated the little Bahamian touches like the Junkanoo celebration and the local menu items on the buffet.

However, we did miss the seclusion of Serenity Bay at Castaway Cay and thought the area was too small on Lookout Cay. There was also not much shade to be found anywhere on the resort, especially during the long walk down the pier.

On a similar note, there was no seating anywhere on the pier nor near the tram stops for those needing a seated rest along the way. The flies were a big issue near the food stations as well, making it difficult to eat lunch without constantly swatting these insects away.

Further, the separation between Mabrika Cove and the rest of the amenities is not ideal either, especially for those opting for a family cabana. While we don’t have kids, we could see families missing some of the options at Castaway Cay like the snorkeling trail, Pelican Plunge, or In Da Shade game pavilion.

While we enjoyed our two visits to Lookout Cay, we don’t see it adding much to the Disney experience beyond what Castaway Cay already offers. Honestly, there’s really nothing that would lead us to pick an itinerary calling in Lookout Cay over one in Castaway Cay.

Additional FAQs about Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Where is Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point?

Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is located in the Bahamas. Not a true private island, Lookout Cay is at the southern end of the island of Eleuthera, known for its pink sand beaches. The island of Eleuthera is east of Nassau and south of Disney’s Castaway Cay.

How is Lookout Cay different from Castaway Cay?

Disney’s Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay both offer private beach destinations in the Bahamas for Disney Cruise Line guests. While both ports have many similarities, there are some notable differences.

Geographically speaking, Castaway Cay is a private island, while Lookout Cay is part of the island of Eleuthera. Futher, Castaway Cay is designed to resemble a shipwrecked community, while Lookout Cay celebrates the real life people of the Bahamas.

Both locations have a pier that allow guests to walk ashore and avoid the tendering process like some other cruise line private islands. However, the pier at Lookout Cay is much longer and the island is more spread out requiring a tram to the main facilities.

Both locations feature family areas and adult-only areas. However, while the adult-only Serenity Bay is a private retreat on Castaway Cay, it’s part of the same beach area on Lookout Cay. It’s also smaller on Lookout Cay. Though, in our opinion, the Family Beach is nicer on Lookout Cay than Castaway Cay.

Further, Lookout Cay actually features less amenities. There is no in-water play area similar to Pelican Plunge on Castaway Cay. There’s no dedicated snorkeling area either and no stingray adventure. There’s also no dedicated teen or tween area and currently no sports area. However, Lookout Cay does feature the Goombay Cultural Center with local artists and an exclusive Junkanoo celebration.

The food is similar in both destinations but Lookout Cay does feature some Bahamian specialties on the menu. Lookout Cay also features some signature drinks on the bar menus, along with a specialty coffee shop.

Another difference is the location of the family cabanas. Unfortunately, the family cabanas on Lookout Cay require a tram ride to reach any of the kid and family activities.

What Disney ships go to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point?

In 2024, Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Dream visit Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. In 2025, Disney Wish will also offer sailings to this private Bahamian destination.

Do you need to take towels with you when going ashore? 

No. As you get off the tram at Lookout Cay’s Goombay stop, there are crew members handing out towels for you to use while on the island.

Do cell phones work on Lookout Cay? 

Maybe. This will depend on your cellular carrier and your international coverage plan. If you take your cell phone out of airplane mode, you may incur additional fees. If the Bahamas is included in your international plan, then you can use cell service at Lookout Cay.

Does the Disney Navigator app work on Lookout Cay? 

Yes. While you are off the ship enjoying your time on Lookout Cay, you can still view the Navigator app for the list of daily activities and such.

Does the WiFi work on Lookout Cay? 

Yes. If you purchased a Disney WiFi package onboard the ship, the service extends to the private destination as well. The WiFi actually works pretty well on Lookout Cay as opposed to Castaway Cay where the signal can be spotty the further away from the ship you get.

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Do you have a cruise planned to visit Disney’s new Lookout Cay in the Bahamas? Do you enjoy cruise line private destinations? Drop us an anchor below with your first impressions of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

The post We Just Returned From Disney’s Newest Private Destination and Share Everything You Need to Know About Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Disney Cruise Line’s brand-new private destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, welcomed its first guests on Friday.

Passengers on a special preview voyage aboard Disney Magic arrived at the Eleuthera, Bahamas destination for the first time on June 7th. The ship is currently on a three-night voyage out of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Bloggers and travel media reported that the cruise dock at Lighthouse Point is almost half a mile long, which was constructed in accordance with government mandates designed to protect the environment. It’s also been shared that the walk from the ship down the pier and to the family beach at Lookout Cay is about 1.5 miles, and takes about 45 minutes. However, there is a tram once guests get on land to take them to the entrance of Lookout Cay. On the pier, there are also golf carts to help passengers who have difficulty walking such a distance, but reports say that Disney Cruise Line is working on other solutions for guests with mobility issues to get to the entrance of Lookout Cay.

At Lookout Cay, preview guests were treated to meet-and-greets with Pluto, Chip and Dale, and Goofy during a Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, and had the opportunity to enjoy the RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration parade featuring local dancers. Kid-friendly activities including a ring toss, water brigade, and limbo also took place.

The destination is also introducing a brand-new original song produced in collaboration with Walt Disney Imagineering and two local Bahamian producers called “Ery-ting Cool.”

Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point will welcome its official inaugural guests on June 10th when Disney Fantasy arrives during a seven-night cruise out of Port Canaveral that departs today. The voyage actually includes a second stop at Lighthouse Point on June 13th, as well as visits to Nassau and Disney’s other private destination — Castaway Cay.

This summer, Disney Magic and Fantasy will offer a variety of three to seven-night cruises that visit Lighthouse Point.

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Construction has officially been completed at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination in the Bahamas, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Lookout Cay is located at the southern end of the island of Eleuthera, which is located east of Nassau and south of Disney’s other private Bahamian destination, Castaway Cay.

Disney executives and cast members, community members, and Bahamian officials gathered together on Thursday at Lookout Cay in front of the brightly-colored, Junkanoo-inspired Goombay Cultural Center for a celebration of the completion of the project. The event included remarks from the line’s leadership team, Prime Minister Philip Davis, Deputy Prime Minister/Tourism Minister Chester Cooper, and Minister of Works and Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera Clay Sweeting.

“We are excited to celebrate the opening of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point with the Bahamian community,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “The making of our second island destination in The Bahamas has been an incredible collaboration. We’re so proud of the relationships that we’ve built here in the community and the unique story that we’re telling together. We look forward to welcoming our first guests to the island, where they will experience the spirit of The Bahamas with a special touch of Disney magic.”

Guests were also treated to a performance by a group of local Junkanoos featuring the winning teams of this year’s Junior Junkanoo competition from Tarpum Bay Primary and Preston H. Albury High School in Eleuthera.

The new development created hundreds of construction-related roles for Bahamians, more than tripling the number of jobs Disney committed to before the project began. It will open with an all-Bahamian leadership team and has created nearly 200 high-quality roles for Bahamians.

‘Disney’s collaboration with Bahamian creative communities resulted in a truly unique cultural experience in South Eleuthera,’ said Antonius Roberts, a popular Bahamian artist. ‘Visitors and locals alike will be enlightened and entertained by the powerful stories shared by local musicians, artisans and storytellers. I am proud to have played a part in bringing this vision to life and believe that Disney’s commitment to promoting cultural understanding and appreciation will leave a lasting impact on all who visit Disney Lookout Cay.”

To celebrate the opening of Lookout Cay, Disney is investing $1 million to support youth programs, school playground improvements, and a community sports spaces — in addition to its other ongoing initiatives to support community needs. This investment also includes support from the Disney Conservation Fund for youth education focused on conservation in central and south Eleuthera.

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Carnival Cruise Line has announced new details on the family-friendly area that will be a part of its new destination in the Bahamas, Celebration Key.

Centered around one of the largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean, Starfish Lagoon will feature a variety of activities for all ages. Named after the national bird and national fish of the Bahamas, the pink Flash Flamingo and blue Mach III Marlin water slides — each over 350 feet long — invite guests to friendly competition as they weave through and around the 10-story high Suncastle in a race with exciting turns and flashes of light and color.

Located at the entrance to Starfish Lagoon, the Guppy Grotto splash pad for toddlers and small kids is a colorful coral reef-themed children’s water play area. It features a refreshing two-foot-deep wading pool, water toys, a dump bucket, and plenty of shaded seating for parents with a nearby ice cream shop.

The Game Pavilion features a variety of table games including foosball, ping pong, and cornhole, as well as seating area for socializing and meeting new friends. The Sports Court, adjacent to the Game Pavilion, offers volleyball, basketball, and pickleball.

Floating AquaBanas are comfortable and sturdy floating cabanas that are fun for the whole family. Guests can relax with their feet in the water under the shady canopy as they sip on a refreshing beverage. Available for rental, they come with seating space for eight, a solid table, non-slip surfaces, and steps for easy access into the lagoon. These 12 floating “private islands” are grouped around a peninsula with a dedicated bar. More traditional cabanas and daybeds will also be available.

For the adults, there’s a Swim Up Bar where colorful drinks, including the bar’s specialty frozen rum cocktails, will be served — all without leaving the water.

Hanging out will take on a new meaning at Celebration Key with a number of hammocks located right next to the iconic Suncastle, letting guests swing over the water and take in the views of Starfish Lagoon.

There’s a stretch of beautiful beach and crystal blue water with kayak and paddleboard rentals, as well as plenty of space for frisbee and sandcastle building. Sun loungers, umbrellas, and beachside cabanas will also be available.

At Celebration Key, a variety of dining venues provide many options for guests including restaurants, snack and bar shacks, and Bahamian food trucks.

Starfish Lagoon is just one of the many areas, or “portals” that Celebration Key will be comprised of. Others include Paradise Plaza (the welcome area), Calypso Lagoon (the adult-focused area), and Locono Cove (the shopping area). Details on the fifth portal, which will be exclusively for adults, will be announced soon.

Celebration Key is scheduled to welcome its first guests in July 2025, and more than 500 itineraries currently available for booking feature visits to the new destination on voyages from 10 U.S. homeports.

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If you’re heading out on a Virgin Voyages sailing that stops at Bimini — or are on another cruise ship that calls there — you may want to know more about the Beach Club at Bimini. Here’s our full guide on Virgin Voyages’ private beach destination in the Bahamas.

Everything You Need to Know About the Beach Club at Bimini

What is the Beach Club at Bimini?

The Beach Club at Bimini is a private beach club experience by Virgin Voyages in partnership with Resorts World, which owns the property where the beach club is located. The beach club is on North Bimini Island, which is located about 55 miles off the coast of Miami.

On days that a Virgin Voyages ship is in port, the beach club is reserved exclusively for VV passengers. On days that a Virgin Voyages ship is not docked at Bimini, other cruise lines occasionally use the beach club as well.

Getting to the Beach Club at Bimini

Bimini has a pier where cruise ships can dock, which means visitors can walk right off the ship and onto the island. At the end of the pier is a waiting area for the free open-air tram, which takes you to the Beach Club at Bimini.

Virgin Voyages passengers don’t need to worry about any tickets or identification to get into the club because access is free for them to enjoy.

Amenities at the Beach Club at Bimini

Once you arrive at the entrance to the Beach Club at Bimini, you’ll be facing towards The Main House and attached open-air lounge, which you’ll walk through to get into the club. Stretching out in front of you immediately you’ll find the two lagoon-style pools with the Lagoon Bar adjacent to the smaller pool on the left.

Also left of The Main House is one of the two Beach Eats dining areas and The Hideaway, which is a grove of palm trees filled with hammocks.

Beyond the pools is the beach, and to the far left towards the beach is The Retreat area for those staying in suites. To the right of the pools and towards the beach is the Beach Bar and the watersports shack. And to the immediate right of the pools is the other Beach Eats location.

The dining areas have picnic tables that visitors can use. Seating elsewhere in the club includes standard beachfront and poolside lounge chairs, daybeds, clamshell loungers, and cabanas for rent. The Lounge adjacent to The Main House has outdoor living room-style furniture.

Showers, changing rooms, and restrooms are also available at the Beach Club at Bimini.

Food at the Beach Club at Bimini

As mentioned above, there are two Beach Eats locations. And all food availble is complimentary at the Beach Club at Bimini for Virgin Voyages passengers. Instead of offering a buffet like many lines do at their private beach destinations, Virgin Voyages offers small plate options. All you have to do is walk up to the food counter, tell the crew member what you’d like, and they’ll arrange your dishes on a tray for you to take with you to a nearby table or back to your lounge chairs or daybed.

Additionally, drink stations are nearby, offering beverages like water and soda.

The food menu can vary slightly, but here’s an idea on what you’ll find at the beach club:

• Lechon Asado
• Caribbean Chicken and Coconut Curry
• Banana Leaf Steamed Red Snapper
• West Indian Pumpkin Curry
• Bahamian Manco and Macadamia Salad
• Watermelon and Jicama Salad
• Grilled Corn on the Cob
• Crispy Cassava
• Tropical Fruit Salad
• Rum Cake

We recommend getting lots of dishes and sharing them!

Drinks at the Beach Club at Bimini

A limited number of non-alcoholic beverages are free at the Beach Club at Bimini, such as water and soda.

However, all alcoholic drinks cost extra. At the bars, there’s a small menu of frozen and mixed cocktails as well as ready-to-drink packaged options including a Moscow Mule, Rum Old Fashioned, and Pineapple Daiquiri (among others).

Mixed cocktails can be purchased by the glass or by the pitcher (we recommend getting a pitcher of the Passion Drop to share — so good!). Prices for cocktails range from $11 to $13 (by the glass) and $41 to $45 (by the pitcher). The ready-to-drink packaged cocktails are $13 each.

Champagne (by the glass or bottle), canned wine and beer, and non-alcoholic choices including Red Bull and Heineken 0.0 are also served at the bars. Glasses of champagne range from $7 to $25, while cans of beer and wine range from $5 to $11 each.

Things to Do at the Beach Club at Bimini

For most visitors, a day at the Beach Club means a laid-back day at the beach and/or pool, sipping cocktails and eating delicious food. However, there are activities you can partake in during your time there as well.

For example, in the afternoon the ship’s Happenings Cast (entertainment staff) host a flotilla party at the larger pool, complete with lots of pool floats, bubbles, dancing, and music. There’s also a shady area at the club with a volleyball court, bocce ball, and cornhole. Team beach games and stand-up paddleboard yoga classes are also offered at the beach club.

Cabanas at the Beach Club at Bimini

For those who want their own space at the Beach Club at Bimini, there are cabanas available to rent. The cabanas have an organic, beachy vibe with thatched-wood roofs and three walls, with the fourth open to the air and extending out into a small patio. Inside the cabana is a day bed, beanbag chairs, and a drink cooler with a nearby coffee table. In front of the cabana are two lounge chairs.

The price of a cabana includes the services of dedicated crew members who will attend to your needs — including bringing you food and drinks. Cabanas are priced per cabana and can accommodate up to six people. There are four types of cabanas to choose from, based on their location.

There are 14 Bimini Beach Cabanas, which are located on the sandy beach area between the free lounge chairs near the water and the pools which are further back. Bimini Grove Cabanas are located further away from the water near the hammock grove and lounge. The four Bimini Lagoon Cabanas are located by the pool.

The nine Bimini RockStar Cabanas are available to those staying in a RockStar Suite or other VIPs that have access to Richard’s Rooftop on the ship. If any of them don’t sell, the cruise line may open them up to other passengers who will get the line’s full “rockstar” treatment during their time at the beach club.

Prices for the beach, lagoon, and RockStar cabanas start at $500. Prices for the grove cabanas start at $400.

Exclusive Beach Club Area For Suite Guests

If you’re booked in a suite on your Virgin Voyages ship or are some other form of a VIP on board, you’ll have access to the RockStar Retreat at the beach club, which is located to the far left when you’re looking towards the water. This special area includes an open-air pavilion that has a bar, patio seating areas, and private bathrooms.

The RockStar Retreat also includes food service, where all you have to do is find a seat on the patio and give your lunch order to a waiter. The food is the same as what you’ll get in Beach Eats, but you don’t have to go there yourself and stand in line waiting for it.

The retreat area also includes dedicated daybeds and lounge chairs, which don’t fill up as quickly as the ones on the main beach do.

Additional FAQs about the Beach Club at Bimini

Is there wifi at the Beach Club at Bimini?

Yes, the beach club includes free wifi.

How do I pay for drinks at the Beach Club at Bimini?

If you’re visiting from a Virgin Voyages ship, you can use your RFID bracelet to pay for drinks at the beach club just as you use it to pay for things on the ship. Purchases at the club will be charged to your onboard account. This means that if you have Sailor Loot (onboard credit) or Bar Tab credit, drinks purchased at the club do go towards that balance.

Can I do other things on Bimini besides go to the beach club?

Absolutely! Bimini offers a variety of other activties. The free tram ride to the beach club actually includes a stop at a golf cart rental business, where you can get off and rent a golf cart to explore the island on your own.

You can also hit up the Resorts World Bimini Casino, book excursions on the island through your cruise line, and more.

Is there a shop for souvenirs at the Beach Club at Bimini?

No, the beach club doesn’t have a shop. However, you can find Beach Club branded merchandise for sale on the ship. If you want to buy local Bahamian souvenirs, there are other spots on the island with shops, including the Bimini Craft Centre in Alice Town. It’s located just under three miles away from the beach club — an easy ride if you’ve rented a golf cart.

Visiting the Beach Club on Another Cruise Line

As briefly mentioned above, ships from other cruise lines do visit the Beach Club at Bimini occasionally when a Virgin Voyages ship isn’t in port. These include Carnival and Royal Caribbean, among others. The club is treated more as a beach day pass destination in this case, where visitors pay a flat fee to enjoy the club’s facilities and amenities.

In this case, when you get off the ship you check in at a booth at the end of the pier where they give you a wristband based on the package you bought for the club. On Carnival, for example, one is a standard day pass and the other includes an open bar. You must show this wristband once you get off the tram so you’re allowed into the beach club area.

Food and bar menus are also different for non-VV ships, and cost extra. The menu offerings may vary, but here’s an idea of what you can expect if you’re visiting via another cruise line:

• Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken
• Cheeseburger with Potato Chips
• Chicken Fingers with Potato Chips
• Grilled Hot Dog with Potato Chips
• Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Potato Chips
• Fish Sticks with Potato Chips
• Fresh Fruit Plate

The situation is similar for the drink menu at the bar. For example, during a Carnival cruise call, all cocktails were $12 each and included classic options such as a Piña Colada, Mudslide, Margarita, Daiquiri, Bahama Mama, Mojito, Long Island Ice Tea, Goombay Smash, White Russian, and Rum Punch. Other options included cocktails like the Tastie Lynette, Ocean, Sunshine, Mr. Zombie, and Sunset.

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Disney Cruise Line’s new private destination in the Bahamas, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, is set to open on June 6th. Ahead of the first guests arriving, the line has announced some of the menu items that visitors will be able to enjoy during their time there.

Lookout Cay Food

Disney is upping the game when it comes to the food offerings at Lookout Cay. Some Bahamian-inspired dishes will be served at the two main barbecue food venues, True-True BBQ and True-True Too BBQ. Serenity Bay BBQ is a third location that will be available at Serenity Bay, which is an adults-only area at Lookout Cay.

These menu items include:

• Bahamian pigeon peas & rice with marinated chicken, oven-baked plantains, and fried okra
• Grilled cheeseburger on a brioche bun with shredded iceberg lettuce, red onion, tomatoes, and pickles with french fries and American coleslaw
• Disney Lookout Cay spiced rotisserie chicken marinated with bay leaves, onion, sweet pepper, lime, thyme, and goat pepper with grilled pineapple and black bean salad
• Plant-based island curry with tofu, cilantro, and potatoes
• Bahamian-style lime marinated grilled snapper with sautéed pickled vegetables and yucca fries
• Grilled BBQ ribs with smoky barbecue sauce, grilled corn, and yucca fries

Freshly-prepared salads and a wide selection of sides will also be available.

Lookout Cay Drinks

There will be a number of bars and places to get drinks at Lookout Cay: Mangroves and Go, Blue Hole Bar, Bow and Ribbon Bar, Watering Hole, Reef and Wreck Bar, and Sandsational Smoothies.

These spots will feature Bahamian-inspired drinks along with classic cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages, with select drinks including locally-sourced ingredients. Lookout Cay’s signature cocktail will be the Eleuthera Euphoria (named for the island where Lookout Cay is located). It will consist of rum, pineapple smoothie mix, and DOLE Whip.

Other beverage highlights include the Bahama Brew — cold brew coffee blended with Hawaiian island syrup, cold brew, and coconut soft whip topping — as well as the Butterfly Switcha, a specialty mocktail made with lemonade, butterfly pea jasmine green tea, and a sprinkle of blue edible glitter.

A destination branded reusable coffee tumbler will also be available for purchase (photo above).

Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is being built with and will be serviced with sustainable practices in mind. Disney Cruise Line is committed to sending zero waste to the landfill, and will be reducing waste through the use of all reusable serviceware, including using stainless steel cups at food and beverage locations.

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Do you have an upcoming cruise heading to Half Moon Cay? If so, then this guide to everything you need to know about Half Moon Cay Bahamas is for you.

Everything You Need to Know About Half Moon Cay Bahamas

What Is Half Moon Cay Bahamas

Half Moon Cay is one of the 700 islands that make up the archipelago of The Bahamas. This small island is located approximately 100 miles southeast of Nassau and covers 2,400 acres. Though, only 50 acres have been developed into an exclusive beach resort for cruise passengers. The rest of the area remains as a wildlife habitat.

Also known as Little San Salvador Island, the island is referred to as Half Moon Cay to reflect its crescent-shaped beach.

Half Moon Cay is privately owned by Carnival Corporation. Holland America Line purchased this island back in 1996 from Norwegian Cruise Line. Today, Holland America cruise ships and some Carnival cruise ships visit Half Moon Cay.

Further, Half Moon Cay is frequently rated as one of the best cruise line private islands. In fact, it won “Best Private Island” in Porthole Cruise Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards for 20 years in a row.

Getting to Half Moon Cay Bahamas

As mentioned above, Half Moon Cay Bahamas is a cruise line private island. So, the only way to visit the island is to book a cruise that calls in this exclusive Bahamian port. Much like Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay or Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay, Half Moon Cay is only for Carnival Corp. guests.

The water around Half Moon Cay is quite shallow, which prevents ships from being able to dock there. Thus, you currently need to tender to head ashore. Cruisers need to take tender boats to Half Moon Cay, which takes about 20 minutes.

However, plans are currently in development to add a “pierside berth” to the island, according to Carnival Corp. CEO Josh Weinstein, so eventually tendering won’t be necessary.

Once on the island, walking is the easiest way to get around. If you are tired of walking or are unable to walk long distances, there are complimentary trams that run from the Welcome Center to the Food Pavilion.

What’s Included on Half Moon Cay Bahamas

When you think of a cruise line private island, you probably envision stretches of beautifully manicured beaches. Half Moon Cay is exactly that!

Half Moon Beach is a stretch of approximately 2.5 miles of soft, sandy beachfront. Perhaps the best private island beach, Half Moon Cay Bahamas makes for the perfect beach day.

Access to this prime beachfront is included during your stop at this private island. The beach loungers are also complimentary. Be sure to bring beach towels from the ship though.

If you are looking for a quieter spot or some tree-shaded areas, you will need to head further down the beach. So, we suggest getting off the ship early to secure the best beach real estate. You could also rent a clamshell for some coverage from the sun.

Unlike on some other private islands from competitor brands, there is no pool on Half Moon Cay, Bahamas.

If you want to get some cardio in during your visit to this private island, there are walking/jogging trails and sports courts.

Like most cruise line private islands, there is also complimentary food at Half Moon Cay. The tropical island buffet is usually open from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. It includes burgers, hot dogs, jerk chicken, and more. There is also a salad station including garden salad, tropical fruit salad, and potato salad, as well as desserts such as brownies, cookies, and banana rum cake.

While there are four bars on Half Moon Cay Bahamas, your ship drink package will NOT work on the island. You will need to pay a la carte for drinks using your ship card or purchase an island drink package.

The island drink package is available to Holland America guests only (Carnival guests can’t buy the island drink package) and must pay for drinks a la carte. This package entitles cruisers to 15 drinks ashore, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Guests can purchase this package pre-cruise using the online cruise planner or once onboard the ship.

Your ship WiFi package will not work on the island either. In fact, there is no wifi on Half Moon Cay at all. If you have international cell phone coverage Bahamas rates will apply, though coverage may be spotty.

Food and Drinks on Half Moon Cay Bahamas

As mentioned previously, complimentary lunch is available at the Food Pavilion on Half Moon Cay Bahamas. This open-air buffet provides all your beach BBQ favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, jerk chicken, tropical salads, basic non-alcoholic drinks (not including soda), and desserts. You could also grab a plate and head back to your spot on the beach.

If you are looking for an upgraded lunch, you might want to try the Lobster Shack. This menu is available for a la carte pricing. The menu includes items like chowder, lobster, and lobster rolls. This whole lobster with Caribbean beans and rice is $20, while the lobster roll is $13.

While not included in your ship drink package, what’s a beach day without some frozen cocktails? Luckily, Half Moon Cay Bahamas has plenty of bars to quench your thirst.

Perhaps the most visible bar on the island is the Captain Morgan “On the Rocks” Bar about halfway down the beach and shaped like a pirate ship. This open-air bar provides some shade and a tropical drink menu.

Additionally, the Bell Bar is located near the Food Pavilion. The I Wish I Could Stay Here Forever Bar is located on the beach near the Instagram-worthy sign. The Rum Runners Bar is located within the Welcome Center. Each of these bars offers the same drink menu with the signature Blue Lagoon cocktail.

Things to Do at Half Moon Cay Bahamas

If you are looking for other activities besides the complimentary offerings at Half Moon Cay Bahamas, the cruise line offers plenty of shore excursions for additional costs.

The Aqua Trax Adventure is a guided jet-ski tour, and the Eco Lagoon Kayak Adventure takes you on a guided kayak tour in Bone Fish Lagoon. There is also a Stingray Adventure where you can learn about and interact with these southern rays.

Then, there is a glass bottom boat tour, a guided bike tour, a guided nature walk, and a snorkel tour that lets you explore more of the island. Half Moon Cay is also a great place for bird watching.

Horseback riding is one of the most popular shore excursions on Half Moon Cay Bahamas. This fun and unique tour includes both a land and a sea ride with these majestic animals.

If you would prefer to venture out on your own rather than take part in an organized shore excursion, there are three water sport rental stations on the island. Here, you can rent equipment like a Hobie Catamaran, water trikes, kayaks, and more.

In the Welcome Center, there is also a small Straw Market where you can shop for local goods and Half Moon Cay logo merchandise.

Finally, if you are traveling with the little ones, they can enjoy the Half Moon Lagoon Aquapark and playground for no additional cost. The pirate-themed splash area provides plenty of wet and wild fun, while the somewhat hidden playground has swings, slides, and other climbing activities.

Cabanas and Beach Villas on Half Moon Cay Bahamas

If you are looking to upgrade your beach day on Half Moon Cay Bahamas, you can rent a cabana or a two-story Beach Villa.

The cabanas include a refrigerator, ceiling fan, air conditioner, table and chairs, as well as deck chairs and a misting shower on the private terrace. Fresh fruit and chips and dip are also provided, as well as an assortment of soft drinks and bottled water. Cabana guests also get floating mats and snorkel gear for no additional charge.

The private cabana is an all-day rental and is priced for four guests. If there are more than four guests, the additional guests must pay an additional per-person fee.

The beach villas include a five-person hot tub, refrigerator, ceiling fan, dining area with table and chairs, misting shower, and a private sun deck. Like the cabanas, light snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, floating mats, and snorkel gear are also provided.

The Beach Villa Package rate includes up to eight guests. If there are more than eight guests, the additional guests must pay an additional per-person fee.

For the ultimate in luxury, there is the Private Oasis. The Private Oasis offers a total of 1,620 square feet perched partially overwater for up to 12 guests. It includes a large covered deck and sun deck with an eight-person hot tub. It also includes an indoor teak dining table, outdoor loungers and bar stools, a barbecue area, a full wet bar and refrigerator, changing rooms, indoor and outdoor showers with heated fresh water, and a privacy gate.

A full barbecue lunch and snacks are also included, as well as the services of a butler, personal chef, bartender, cabana steward, and lifeguard. In addition to bottled water, juices, and soft drinks, the Private Oasis also includes domestic and imported beers, house wine by the glass, and various tropical cocktails.

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“Bermuda, Bahamas, come on pretty mama.” The Bahamas has long been an island chain popular with cruise ships, cruisers, and famously immortalized in song by the Beach Boys.

As a year-round destination, the sunny Bahamas has something to offer vacation seekers any time of year. But which time of year to sail to the Bahamas depends on what you’re looking for.

For some, a Bahamas cruise is a cheap weekend escape. For others, a cruise vacation in the Bahamas is a carefully planned family getaway. The time of year you choose to sail will not only dictate price but also crowds.

So, is there any perfect time of year to cruise to the Bahamas? This guide breaks down the best time to visit the Bahamas month by month, so you’ll known when to expect a little rain or the relative peace of shoulder season.

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS: Get Deals on Bahamas Cruises Now!

Best Time to Go on a Cruise to The Bahamas

When is the best time to cruise to the Bahamas?

We’ll get straight to it: The best time of year to cruise to the Bahamas is during the winter. But it all comes down to the month and even the week you select to sail.

The winter holidays of December will no doubt jack up the price of your cruise as families look to get away as a Christmas or Hannukah gift and forgo the cooking and cleaning. The same idea applies to cruises over New Year’s in early January; a voyage to the Bahamas is an ideal way to celebrate.

Additionally, December 26 and January 1 are observed by local Bahamians with colorful and lively Junkanoo parades. It’s an incredible tradition to witness but draws large crowds and could mean unexpected shop or attraction closures in ports of call like Nassau.

The winter season technically extends into mid-March, but beware of Spring Breakers. While there is no definitive week for spring break (grammar schools differ from universities), you can be sure that college kids will be taking advantage of a Bahamas cruise during this time to let loose on a shoestring budget.

Best Time to Cruise to the Bahamas: Weather

If your primary concern is the ideal weather conditions for your Bahamas cruise, choose January or February. The start of the year also marks the beginning of the dry season, and popular cruise port Nassau sees very little rain during this time.

While most of North America associates January with blustery winds and plummeting temperatures, the trade winds of the Bahamas ensure that it’s plenty warm year-round. Expect an average high of 79 degrees Fahrenheit and an average low of 64 degrees F, with most days reaching into the 80s.

February also maintains these same average temperatures and low rainfall, making a Valentine’s cruise to the Bahamas an equally solid choice.

What is the hottest month to cruise in the Bahamas?

Some people crave the sun’s rays, while others would much rather avoid frying to a crisp under the island sun. August is the hottest month in the Bahamas, on average.

Average high temperatures in the Bahamas during August climb up to 91 degrees F, and lows don’t usually dip below the high 70s. In addition to being hot, August is also a very humid month in the Bahamas. If you’re looking to avoid frizz, this is not the time to visit.

As families scramble to squeeze in a memorable summer vacation before school starts, the Bahamas might be under consideration. But taking into account your family’s tolerance for heat — especially if it’s already hot at home — is a key factor of considering a Bahamas cruise in August.

What is the rainiest month to cruise in the Bahamas?

The rainiest month on average in the Bahamas is also its hottest month: August. The combination of heat and moisture makes it a challenging time for those who would much rather hang in the A/C than on a beach.

It’s still possible to take part in many of Bahamas’ great excursions in the rain, including snorkeling, kayaking, or hiking. But if doing something active in high humidity or trying to work on your tan in the rain doesn’t sound appealing, don’t wait until the end of the summer to head to the Bahamas.

Hurricane season in the Bahamas

The Atlantic hurricane season, which encompasses the islands of the Bahamas, typically runs from June to November. However, it’s typically unlikely to experience a hurricane so early in the season, so June and July are normally in the clear.

Late August is when hurricanes notoriously begin to be a concern, and these tropical depressions and storm warnings can continue on and off throughout September and October.

The benefit of booking a cruise is that ships — unlike land-based hotels and resorts — are able to move to avoid a storm brewing. Still, cruise routes only have so much wiggle room and a larger storm could cause rough seas, bad weather, or even cancellations.

Your best bet planning or booking a Bahamas cruise during hurricane season is to stay flexible and purchase the right travel insurance.

What is the cheapest month to cruise to the Bahamas?

The key phrase with cheap cruises is “shoulder season.” A shoulder season is also known as an “off” season, usually between popular travel periods during major holidays and school breaks.

October is a particularly cheap time to cruise to the Bahamas. October is so budget friendly because there are few to no scheduled breaks or holidays; the school season is just getting started; and this month is also squarely in the middle of hurricane season. 

To avoid any potential hurricane interference, deal seekers can also consider late April into early May as a great time to book a cheap Bahamas cruise. Of course, be careful to book your springtime sailing after any school breaks but before graduation season.

How do you avoid cruise crowds in the Bahamas?

The most crowded months to cruise to the Bahamas are when the most people have access to vacation time. Think: winter, spring, and summer breaks. A warm-weather cruise is not only popular as a cheap and cheerful summer vacation or spring break, but as an escape from the cold, gray months of winter.

That being said, in order to avoid the vacationing hordes, you have to stick to shoulder seasons. October is not only a cost-effective month to visit the Bahamas, but it will also be a more laidback time of year to hit the shores of a private island or wander around the streets of Nassau or Freeport.

Another prime month for avoiding overcrowding in the Bahamas is February. After the excitement of the winter holidays and a new year dies down, many people go back to work and school until the spring or summer beckons them to book a trip.

Sneak in some self-care in the Bahamas during the shortest month of the year and you will be pleasantly surprised by how little it’s mobbed during such a warm and dry season. 

Best Time to Cruise to the Bahamas Conclusion

We can advise you to steer clear of the high heat of August or the partygoing 20-somethings who flock to the Bahamas in March and April, but the truth is that the best time to cruise to the Bahamas is whenever you can do it.

Nearly every major cruise line has a private island within the Bahamas, and they are all fantastic vacation options for a girls’ getaway, a couple’s retreat, or a family reunion trip. A call on Nassau is a time-honored rite of passage for every cruiser, and far from Atlantis you can find some local flavor sprouting onto the scene.

The Bahamas is a welcoming cruise destination year-round, but there are some preferred months to visit, depending on what you are looking for out of your vacation.

• The best month for weather in the Bahamas is: January
• The best month for a cheap cruise to the Bahamas is: October
• The best month overall to cruise to the Bahamas is: February

Our advice is that for breezy, dry weather and reasonable cruise fares, look at Bahamas cruises between winter and spring, so mid-January through early May.  

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What’s your best time to go on a cruise to The Bahamas? Do you usually opt for ideal weather or reduced prices and crowds? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences cruising to The Bahamas.

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Two of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, the Caribbean and the Bahamas might seem similar enough at first glance. However, these neighboring collections of sunny islands off the southern tip of Florida stand apart in more ways than one.

If you’re trying to decide between a Caribbean vs Bahamas cruise, or one that visits both, read on to learn which cruise is the right choice for you.

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Caribbean vs. Bahamas Cruise: What’s Better?

What’s the Difference Between the Bahamas and the Caribbean?

To start, the Commonwealth of the Bahamas is an island nation, with its own flag, currency, and prime minister. The Lucayan Archipelago consists of roughly 3,000 islands, islets, and cays in the Atlantic Ocean. The Bahamian capital of Nassau is one of the busiest ports of call in the world.

The Caribbean is a subregion of the Americas located in the Caribbean Sea. Consisting of more than a dozen countries, these island nations are typically divided into three categories: Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean.

Like the Bahamas, each island in the Caribbean has its own unique culture and characteristics. Popular ports of call in the Caribbean include St. Thomas, USVI; St. Maarten/St. Martin; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Notably, while Bermuda is at times on a Caribbean cruise itinerary, the British island territory is not part of the Caribbean. Bermuda itineraries are often listed separately by cruise lines.

Perks of a Bahamas Cruise

Departing from cruise ports like Miami or New York, Bahamas cruises are great for travelers seeking short cruise getaways. Able to reach the islands of the Bahamas within hours, cruise ships calling on the warm-weather ports of Nassau or Freeport is a no-brainer.

Cruise line Margaritaville at Sea (formerly Bahamas Paradise) has built an entire business on two-night sailings from West Palm Beach to Grand Bahama Island and back.

Beyond the officially recognized ports of the Bahamas are a slew of private islands and private ports. These destinations offer cruisers an exclusive resort-style experience ashore. Most cruise lines, including Carnival, Princess, Royal Caribbean, MSC and Norwegian, all offer their own private islands in the Bahamas. These include Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Great Stirrup Cay, among others. Virgin Voyages has a private beach club accessible only to cruisers on the island of Bimini.

Often, the Bahamas is lumped into longer sailings that also call on the Caribbean. However, short cruises to the Bahamas are typically among some of the cheapest cruise vacations that you can book.

Logistically, a passport is not required if the voyage sails round trip from the U.S. (so to and from Fort Lauderdale, for example). Also making the Bahamas an easy destination to visit is that English is the official language and the U.S. dollar is widely accepted.

Perks of a Caribbean Cruise

The Caribbean is often referred to as a default cruise destination. But in fact, the islands of the Caribbean are vastly different. That is a good thing, since you can return to this tropical paradise again and again, experiencing something new each time.

On one end of the spectrum, you can visit the Caribbean without leaving the United States — yes, you read that right. Puerto Rico as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands are territories of the U.S. and therefore do not require a passport. That doesn’t mean that you won’t feel as if you haven’t left the country. The food, customs, and even language throughout ports like San Juan or St. Croix will definitely put you in vacation mode. If the sun, surf, and sand doesn’t do it, we offer three letters: r-u-m.

On the other end of the Caribbean spectrum are islands that remain part of foreign nations like France or the Netherlands. In one instance, a single island can be part of both, as is the case with St. Martin (French) and St. Maarten (Dutch) — separate but also the same. This gives its ports an intriguing blend of European influence alongside its local treasures.

There are also Caribbean island chains to explore like the British Virgin Islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke) and the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao). Many cruises give you the opportunity to visit various ports within these island chains over the course of a week or more.

The point we’re making about the Caribbean is that it’s a versatile cruise destination. It has way more depth and complexity than a nice beach to catch a tan. You can book a close-to-home Caribbean cruise from a homeport like Galveston, TX to Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico (considered Western Caribbean). Or you can venture further on a small ship that visits tucked-away harbors like Gustavia, St. Barts or St. John’s in Antigua and Barbuda.

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Bahamas Cruise Itineraries

There are very few established cruise ports in The Bahamas. Therefore, you will likely visit a cruise line-owned private island as part of your Bahamas itinerary. This is typically a plus. Many of these destinations include amenities like the use of pools or sun loungers in the cruise fare. Another perk is that oftentimes, your cruise line beverage package extends to the bars on the cruise line’s private island.

Sample Bahamas cruise itineraries include:

• Royal Caribbean’s 3-Night Bahamas & Perfect Day: Round trip from Miami, calling only on Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Carnival’s 4-Night Bahamas Cruise: Round trip from Jacksonville, with calls in Freeport and Nassau
• Norwegian’s 4-Night Bahamas Cruise: Round trip from Miami to Grand Bahama Island, Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau
• MSC’s 7-Night The Bahamas and Florida: Round trip from Brooklyn to Ocean Cay and Nassau
• Holland America’s 10-Day Western Caribbean Explorer: Round trip from Ft. Lauderdale, with calls on Half Moon Cay and Nassau (among others)

Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

The Caribbean is typically broken down into Western Caribbean (think: Mexico); Southern Caribbean (typically includes the ABC Islands); and Eastern Caribbean, which is often paired with The Bahamas. The selection of Caribbean ports is far vaster than Bahamas-focused voyages, but a few sample Caribbean cruise itineraries include:

• Royal Caribbean’s 5-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise: Round trip from Miami, with calls in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic and Labadee, Haiti.
• Carnival’s 5–Night Western Caribbean Cruise: Round trip from New Orleans, with calls in Progreso and Cozumel, Mexico
• Norwegian’s 7-Night Caribbean Cruise: Round trip from Port Canaveral, calling on Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Georgetown, Grand Cayman; Cozumel, Mexico; and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas
• MSC’s 7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise: Round trip from Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe, calling on Castries, St. Lucia; Bridgetown, Barbados; Kingstown, St. Vincent & Grenadines; St. George, Grenada; and Fort-de-France, Martinique
• Holland America’s 9-Night Southern Caribbean Seafarer: Round trip from Ft. Lauderdale, with calls on Willemstad, Curacao; Kralendijk, Bonaire; and Oranjestad, Aruba; with Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Final Verdict: Bahamas Cruises vs. Caribbean Cruises

The islands of either the Bahamas or the Caribbean will likely provide you with sunshine and good vibes, year-round. (Both are subject to Atlantic hurricane season from May through October. So, be aware of that prior to booking either destination.)

As with any cruise, it all depends on what you’re looking to get out of your vacation. If it’s a short getaway — maybe to celebrate a milestone with friends or family — the easiest option might be a Bahamas cruise, especially from ports in Florida. The Bahamas is also extremely family-friendly, as many of the private islands cater to kids as well as adults.

If you’re looking to go a bit farther or spend a bit longer, consider an itinerary in the Caribbean. A favorite among honeymooners, the Caribbean can be as well suited to relaxation and romance as it can be for partying. Depending on the homeport, short Caribbean cruises are still available in the Eastern and Western regions. For something a bit different, and typically better for couples, try a Southern Caribbean cruise.

Active and water-loving cruisers can’t go wrong with a stint in the Bahamas. Here, clear waters are prime for swimming and snorkeling. Those looking for more culture, should be impressed by the Mayan ruins of Mexico or the shipwreck museum of St. Thomas.

Wherever your ship brings you — and it might very well be to both destinations — you can’t go wrong. The Bahamas and the Caribbean are two of the top cruise destinations for a reason. Book that much-needed break at sea and find out for yourself!

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When it comes to Caribbean vs Bahamas cruises, which do you prefer? Do you like short Bahamas getaways or a traditional 7-day Caribbean cruise? Drop us an anchor below to share your cruise preferences.

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