The Bahamas offers exciting excursions that allow you to explore the islands’ beauty and culture in greater depth.
You can swim with friendly dolphins, explore coral reefs, or wander through colorful markets. You could also take a boat ride to secluded islands or visit historic landmarks that tell stories from the past.
Each excursion offers a unique way to experience the Bahamas beyond the typical beach day. This place has lots to offer everyone, whether they enjoy relaxing or seeking out new adventures.
Here are the top shore excursions you can add to your Bahamas cruise to elevate your experience to the next level.
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Why choose Bahamas excursions?
Choosing a Bahamas shore excursion allows you to experience the best of what these islands have to offer beyond the typical cruise ship experience.
From historical tours and cultural experiences to thrilling water sports and relaxing beach days, there’s something for every traveler.
Want to learn more about what to expect on your Bahamas cruise? Check out our comprehensive guide, everything you need to know about Bahamas cruises, and get all the insider tips before you set sail.
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Nassau: A cultural and historical gem
Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is rich in history and culture. This bustling city is a favorite among travelers for its unique blend of colonial heritage and modern attractions.
With its pristine beaches, warm tropical climate, and endless activities, Nassau is the perfect spot for unwinding or exploring.
Top activities on the Nassau excursion
Swimming pigs and snorkeling
On Nassau Shore Excursions, you can enjoy the unique experience of swimming with pigs and snorkeling.
The swimming pigs with pickup ticket, for $189 per adult, offers a full beach day on Rose Island, with pig encounters, lunch, and optional pickup from your hotel or cruise port. It’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed, all-inclusive experience.
If you’re short on time, the swimming pigs, snorkeling, beach break package ($140) lets you swim with pigs, snorkel, and enjoy unlimited drinks in just 2.5 hours.
For the ultimate experience, try the ultimate seaXscape ($249), which includes turtle encounters, snorkeling with tropical fish, a small group setting, lunch, and WiFi onboard.
Each ticket offers unique benefits to match your preferences and schedule.
Packing for your Bahamas cruise? Don’t miss our essential packing list to ensure you’re fully prepared for every shore excursion and adventure.
Nassau island tour
On a Nassau Island Tour, you’ll explore the city’s top landmarks while learning about its rich history.
The Nassau Island highlights sightseeing tour offers a relaxing 2.5-hour experience for $80, with visits to Atlantis Resort, Queen Victoria’s staircase, and the Rum Cake Factory. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned van with a local guide who shares fascinating facts.
For more adventure, try the ATV island tour with beach break at $199. You’ll ride along the coastline, visit historical sites, and enjoy lunch on the beach.
The Nassau ATV tour with Bahamian lunch at $197 offers a similar thrill, with stops at Fort Charlotte and Arawak Cay, topped off with an authentic local meal. Each tour brings a different flavor of Nassau to life.
Nassau to Exuma tour
On this full-day trip to Exuma from Nassau, you’ll explore stunning spots like Allen Cay and Pig Beach for $450.
With breakfast, lunch, and snorkeling at Pablo Escobar’s plane wreck included, this adventure offers everything you need for a fun-filled day in the Bahamas.
Freeport: Nature and adventure together
Freeport, located on the island of Grand Bahama, is known for its mesmerizing natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
This port city offers a quieter, more laid-back alternative to Nassau, with plenty of opportunities to explore its pristine beaches, lush gardens, and diverse marine life.
Top Freeport excursions
In Freeport, you can enjoy a variety of activities tailored to different interests.
For just $65, the Paradise Cove day pass offers access to a secluded beach with snorkeling, kayaking, and volleyball. You’ll have round-trip transport from Freeport, beach lounge chairs, and food and drinks if you choose the full-day pass.
For a local experience, the Mamma Gal native experience at $70 introduces you to Freeport’s culture with visits to a fruit market, a beach, and a perfume factory. It’s a great way to see life beyond the tourist spots.
If you’re looking for something unique, try the swim with pigs tour for $96. Spend half a day at Crystal Beach, swimming with wild pigs and enjoying the scenic views. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but lunch is on your own.
Garden of the Groves and City tour
This four-hour excursion starts with a visit to the Garden of the Groves, a lush tropical garden once damaged by Hurricane Dorian.
Explore its serene pathways, waterfalls, and vibrant flora.
The tour also includes a narrated bus ride through Freeport, showcasing the city’s recovery efforts and key landmarks.
Conclude your day with some shopping at the duty-free Port Lucaya Marketplace. This tour offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and shopping.
Wondering when to plan your cruise for the perfect weather? Our guide, best time to visit the Bahamas for a cruise, breaks down the ideal times to visit for both the weather and fewer crowds.
Neighboring Bahamian islands
Beyond the famous ports of Nassau and Freeport, the Bahamas is home to numerous smaller islands, each offering its own slice of paradise.
From the luxury of Paradise Island to the tranquil beauty of Pearl Island, these neighboring islands are perfect for day trips and short excursions.
Paradise Island: A Luxury Escape
Paradise Island, situated just a short bridge ride from Nassau, is famed for its opulence and scenic beauty. This island is home to the luxurious Atlantis Resort, which is a destination in itself.
Atlantis Resort: A world of wonders
The Atlantis Resort sprawls over 141 acres and is known for its elaborate marine habitats, magnificent architecture, and an array of activities suitable for all ages.
The Aquaventure water park features water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium provides a mesmerizing glimpse into the underwater world with its expansive exhibits showcasing a variety of marine species.
Other attractions on Paradise Island
For those looking for relaxation beyond the resort, Paradise Beach offers pristine sands and transparent waters perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
The island also boasts world-class golf courses, such as the Ocean Club Golf Course and the Atlantis Golf Club, which are ideal for enthusiasts looking to tee off in a picturesque setting.
Pearl Island: A tropical haven
Pearl Island is a private island located just a short boat ride from Nassau. It offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city, featuring white-sand beaches, clear waters, and a range of water activities.
Upon arriving at Pearl Island, you’ll find a serene beach setting where you can unwind under a palm tree or take a refreshing dip in the ocean.
The island’s tranquil environment makes it perfect for a relaxing day away from the crowds.
Exciting activities on Pearl Island
- Snorkeling tour – Explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding Pearl Island. The clear waters and abundant marine life make for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Guided tours provide insights into the local marine ecology.
- Paddleboarding and kayaking – Glide across the calm waters surrounding the island. Paddleboarding and kayaking are great ways to enjoy the scenery and get a bit of exercise.
- Beach BBQ lunch – Enjoy a delicious Bahamian BBQ lunch on the beach, featuring local specialties like grilled seafood and tropical fruits.
Ready to book your cruise to the Bahamas? Check out our detailed guide, popular cruises to the Bahamas, to find the perfect itinerary for your dream vacation.
