Ultimate Guide to Bahamas Cruises: Port Info, Excursions, & More

A panoramic view of an island landscape with turquoise blue waters and scattered boats.

Exploring Ocean Cay: MSC Cruises Exclusive Private Island

Melissa Newman / August 6, 2024

Ocean Cay is MSC Cruises’ private island, designed exclusively for its passengers. This serene destination in the Bahamas offers an idyllic getaway with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and a variety of activities tailored to provide a perfect island experience. About Ocean Cay Ocean Cay is a private island owned by MSC Cruises, located in the Bahamas. It serves as a unique port of call for MSC cruise ships, including MSC Divina, MSC Seaside, and MSC Meraviglia. This island spans approximately 95 acres and was formerly an industrial site that MSC Cruises transformed into a tropical paradise. Ocean Cay is part of the Bimini district of the Bahamas. A private island like Ocean Cay is dedicated exclusively to the cruise line’s passengers, providing a secluded and controlled environment for a day of relaxation and fun. Since it is not a tender port, passengers can exit immediately onto a short pier. Just a short distance from the ship is an amazing beach with sugar-white sands and turquoise waters. Note that towels are not provided, so be sure to bring yours from the ship. Note that “cay” is pronounced “key”. Related: Learn more about how to prepare for port days. Things to do at Ocean Cay Because Ocean Cay is a private island, there aren’t any third-party excursion options. If you want to partake in an excursion (offerings include a lighthouse climb, paddleboard and kayak rentals, and snorkeling), you’ll need to book it directly through MSC. My recommendation is to save money and enjoy a beach day here. The use of loungers and umbrellas is free for cruise guests. Ocean Cay Paradise Ocean Cay is expansive, with many locations and opportunities for snorkeling (I recommend you save money and bring your own gear). You can rent an umbrella or cabana, but I’ve never had a problem finding a shaded spot for free, and there are ample chairs available for cruisers at no cost. If you branch out further from the port, you can escape the crowds, although due to the size of the island, this can be a bit of a hike. MSC does offer tram service, but it’s not particularly fast or efficient, and it does not take cruisers to all corners of the island. There is also a spa on the island if you’re looking for a day of relaxation, but these spots book fast in advance. Related: New to cruising? Check out my Comprehensive Cruise Guide. Wi-Fi at Ocean Cay MSC does promote that their Wi-Fi works on the island, which would be a nice perk, but it has been spotty at best in my two visits there. If you opt to use MSC Wi-Fi, you’ll need to first disconnect from the ship’s wifi, and reconnect to the island’s Wi-Fi, as they are two separate networks. Does the Drink Package Work at Ocean Cay? Yes, the cruise line allows the use of its drink package on Ocean Cay. The legal drinking age in the Bahamas is 18. Related: Learn about the pros and cons (and risks) of booking independent excursions. Language and Currency The official language of the Bahamas is English, making it easy for most cruisers to communicate. The currency is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), which is equivalent to the US Dollar (USD). However, on a private island like Ocean Cay, currency is often not needed because it’s generally a free beach day and you don’t necessarily need to spend money on anything, which is one of the great things about cruise ship private islands. There are shops selling souvenirs, though, so you may spend money on that. This map shows all the exciting spots to visit on this beautiful marine reserve in the Bahamas. Because it’s a private island owned by the cruise line, any purchase here can generally be billed to your stateroom account using your ship card. Food Options at Ocean Cay Cruise lines provide a free lunch buffet to their guests on the island. Additional food and drink may also be available for purchase. Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady Climate and What to Wear Ocean Cay enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging around 75-85°F (24-29°C). Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, along with sun protection such as hats and sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring. Related: Shop my favorite cruise styles and outfits. Time Zone Keeping track of time zones can get complicated when cruising, especially for itineraries with multiple time zone changes on one sailing. Your captain will make announcements during the cruise to update you on these changes, but it’s good to be aware good to be aware of these differences ahead of time when planning your stop at the port, especially for excursions. Most cruise lines operate on “ship time” set to the time of their departing port, so for sailings off the eastern coast of the US, this is Eastern Standard Time (EST). The Bahamas operates on Eastern Standard Time across all islands. From the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November, The Bahamas recognizes Daylight Saving Time in conjunction with the U.S.

A woman in a purple bikini is standing on the sandy beach with crystal-clear turquoise water in the background

Bahamas, Bimini, Caribbean, Cruise Ports

Exploring Bimini: Beaches, Free Tram, Golf Carts, and More

Melissa Newman / June 26, 2024

The Bimini cruise port is teeny tiny compared to the other two popular ports of call in the Bahamas, Nassau and Freeport. Bimini comprises two main islands, North and South Bimini, with a total area of about 9 square miles, housing just 2,000 residents. It’s a very narrow and skinny island. In contrast, Nassau, located on New Providence Island, spans approximately 80 square miles and is the capital city with a higher population density and more developed infrastructure. Freeport, on Grand Bahama Island, covers around 530 square miles. Bimini is surprisingly close to the United States, only 55 nautical miles offshore from Miami. Because of its very small size, there aren’t many options in Bimini for cruisers. Virgin Voyages is the main cruise line to call here, but some of the others like Carnival, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and Margaritaville at Sea do as well. Cruisers most commonly use their time at this port of call as a beach day. Related: Learn more about how to prepare for port days. Bimini Cruise Port to the City Center One advantage of Bimini’s small size is the ease of getting around, with everything situated close together. The Bimini cruise port is just over 2 miles from the main city center, known as Alice Town. This downtown area of North Bimini is the main hub of activity, featuring local shops, restaurants, bars, and cultural sites. Alice Town is where you can experience much of the island’s charm and local flavor. There are several transportation options for those who prefer not to walk. While Uber is unavailable in Bimini, local taxis offer a convenient alternative with regulated fares. A typical taxi ride to the city center costs around $10 USD. A local tram is also available (more on that below), providing a hassle-free option for travelers. Bimini Tram & Port Map A Malaysian company called Resorts World pretty much has a Bimini monopoly, as the island is so small and the company operates the only major hotel, a co-branded Hilton location on the Resorts World complex. While this makes for limited options in Bimini, it does provide cruisers with the benefit of an efficient and free tram service. Resorts World runs a tram service that operates every 30 minutes, making select stops around the island. With clearly marked pick-up locations, these trams transport passengers between various Resorts World properties from the cruise pier. Although they only stop at Resorts World locations, anyone can use them to access the island’s casinos, beaches, and dining options. This map, provided by Resorts World, highlights some of the key features of the Bimini cruise port area and details the various tram stops. Bimini Golf Cart Rentals Because of Bimini’s small size, some cruisers are tempted to rent a golf cart, which is a popular option at another similar cruise port, Grand Turk. While that’s a great option in Grand Turk, with numerous options and competing vendors, I do not recommend it in Bimini—at least without doing some homework first. There are very limited vendor choices in Bimini, and I’ve heard almost nothing but universal complaints about old and poorly maintained golf carts with regular breakdowns. Some cruisers have reported some success using this company by making an advance reservation, so that may be an option worth exploring. I’ve personally never used this company, though, so I can’t vouch for them. In Bimini, golf carts typically cost around $90 per day for a four-seater and $120 per day for a six-seater. Things to Do at the Bimini Cruise Port The Bimini cruise port area is pretty sparse (basically, a pier), but fortunately, there are options to explore that aren’t far away. The island is small enough that cruisers could conceivably explore downtown and have time to enjoy the beach, all on the same day. Explore Alice Town As noted above, downtown Bimini is known as “Alice Town,” many cruisers spend their day here exploring this area, which is just over two miles from the cruise port. Alice Town in Bimini is the main hub of North Bimini, known for its blend of local culture and activities. In Alice Town, visitors can explore the Bimini Museum to learn about the island’s history, enjoy seafood at local restaurants, and shop for souvenirs at quaint shops. Popular activities include visiting the Dolphin House Museum, a hand-built mosaic structure, and relaxing at nearby Radio Beach. Alice Town offers travelers a taste of Bimini’s heritage and a variety of experiences. Enjoy a Beach Day Radio Beach in Bimini is a popular public beach known for its soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful Bahamian coastline. The beach is conveniently located near the Bimini cruise port, just about 2.5 miles away (about a 10-minute ride), making it easily accessible for cruise passengers looking to enjoy some time by the sea without traveling far. Other beaches, all on the tram line, include Paradise Beach and Bimini Beach. Bimini Beach Club The Bimini Beach Club, also known as The Beach Club at Bimini, is located on the western shore of North Bimini, within the Resorts World Bimini complex (see… that whole monopoly thing). It provides beachfront access and a range of amenities for visitors and is included as a stop on the free tram route. Resort day passes start at $40, but… there’s a big caveat here. When a Virgin Voyages ship is docked at Bimini, Virgin cruisers benefit from exclusive use of the Bimini Beach Club, a perk that I enjoyed when sailing Scarlet Lady on my visit there. It’s included in the cruise fare at no additional cost for Virgin gusts, and I found this club to be stellar, with fantastic beach access, including complimentary use of loungers and umbrellas, and a great pool area with a DJ and a fun, upbeat beach club vibe. The downside, however, is that the Bimini Beach Club is off-limits if you’re on a non-Virgin

A young person with curly hair and a necklace is looking out a window at a Carnival cruise ship docked in port.

Bahamas, Caribbean, Cruise Ports, Freeport

Discover Freeport Cruise Port: Everything You Need to Know

Melissa Newman / June 26, 2024

Freeport, located on Grand Bahama Island in the Bahamas, is a popular cruise port in the Caribbean, along with Nassau and Bimini. Of all the Caribbean ports, this one generally gets the least amount of love and, admittedly, is probably my personal least favorite of them all, but there are still some hidden gems here. The key with this one, though? Get out of the port area. It’s important to note that many Caribbean destinations, including the Bahamas, prohibit civilians from wearing camouflage. While you can wear it on the cruise ship, don’t risk disembarking with it on, or you risk being sent back to the ship to change. Enjoying the view from the balcony About the Freeport Cruise Port The Freeport Cruise Port is a gateway to the stunning Grand Bahama Island, and many major cruise lines, such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, frequently visit this port. The port features two terminals, and the primary terminal for cruise passengers is the Lucayan Harbour Cruise Facility. The facility isn’t the best or most aesthetic cruise terminal, and here you’ll find a small straw market with local vendors selling their wares, and… that’s about it. This is nothing compared to the better-known Nassau cruise port in the Bahamas, which, after the 2023 renovation, is clean, modern, and filled with things to do, eat, and see. Freeport just isn’t the sort of port of call where you can just get out and wander around on foot. You can certainly do that, but you won’t find much in and around the cruise port area, and many seasoned cruisers who visit here opt to stay on the ship when calling to Freeport. My advice here is not to do that. Don’t stay on the ship, but don’t just wander, either — this is one of those times where, in my opinion, it’s essential to do an excursion, or at least a planned activity that will require some form of transportation, such as a taxi or shuttle. Related: Explore the pros and cons (and risks) of independent excursions. From Freeport Cruise Port to the City Center The Freeport Cruise Port is about 6 miles from the city center. Due to the distance, walking is not practical, which is another reason I encourage cruisers not to wander around when visiting here. Ride-share services like Uber are unavailable in Freeport, but taxis are a common choice, costing around $20 USD each way. Taxis here are regulated with set rates. Another convenient option is the shuttle service, which is more affordable at about $15 USD roundtrip. Public buses are available, too, but are less reliable for tourists due to infrequent schedules. Related: New to cruising? Check out my Comprehensive Cruise Guide. Rainy day adventures at Freeport. Things to Do in Freeport Even outside of the cruise port area, there aren’t many great attractions in Freeport, so I generally advise cruisers to use this port of call visit as a beach day or purchase a water activity like snorkeling or boating. But if that’s not your thing or the weather isn’t cooperative, here are the top things to do in Freeport. Port Lucaya Marketplace As noted above, the straw market at the Freeport cruise terminal leaves a lot to be desired, so cruisers who love shopping will find a much better experience at Port Lucaya Marketplace, which is about 5 miles from the cruise terminal. This vibrant open-air shopping and entertainment hub offers shops, restaurants, bars, and live music. It’s great for souvenirs, dining, and experiencing local culture, and the nice thing is that a shuttle is provided to transport cruisers to and from the terminal to the marketplace. If you visit the Marketplace and want to experience the beach, you can walk to Lucaya Beach through one of the public access points between the resorts. However, be aware that there are no public restrooms, beach chairs, or other amenities available. Most of this beachfront area is private and reserved for resort guests, so it’s probably not the best place to plan for a full beach day. Bahamas Maritime Museum The Bahamas Maritime Museum, located in the Port Lucaya Marketplace, offers a fun exploration of the country’s rich maritime history. It features exhibits on shipwrecks, exploration, and maritime artifacts. Admission costs are generally around $12 for adults and $6 for children, providing an affordable and educational experience. The museum is conveniently situated about 5 miles from the Freeport Cruise Terminal. The Bahamian Brewery The Bahamian Brewery, located in Freeport, is a popular attraction where cruisers can tour the facility to learn about the brewing process and sample various locally produced beers, including the well-known Sands beer. The brewery also has a gift shop where guests can purchase souvenirs and their favorite brews. It is situated about 4 miles from the cruise terminal. Freeport Perfume Factory The Freeport Perfume Factory, also known as The Perfume Factory of Fragrances of the Bahamas, offers visitors a unique experience. They can learn about the perfume-making process and even create their own custom scents. The factory is housed in a pink and white replica of an old Bahamian mansion and provides guided tours. It’s great because admission is free (they provide that with the hope that visitors will buy something, although that is not required), but it is about 5 miles from the cruise terminal (and conveniently en route to the Port Lucayan Marketplace), so it’s not accessible on foot. Garden of the Groves Garden of the Groves, a twelve-acre garden full of tropical plants and animals, is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island. Located about a 30-minute taxi ride from the port, this lush botanical garden offers a serene escape with waterfalls, wildlife, and trails, making it perfect for nature lovers. Admission costs $17 USD for adults, and $11 for children. Related: Learn more about how to prepare for port days. Beaches at the Freeport Cruise Port There is not direct beach access from any point at the Freeport cruise

A vibrant dock scene featuring two large Royal Caribbean cruise ships docked side by side.

Bahamas, Coco Cay, Cruise Ports

The Perfect Day at CocoCay: Royal Caribbean’s Private Island Paradise

Melissa Newman / June 25, 2024

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s exclusive private island in the Bahamas, offers a unique getaway for cruise passengers. This beautiful island, designed to provide the ultimate beach day experience, is a popular stop for many of Royal’s Caribbean cruises and is also used by Royal Caribbean’s sister brand, Celebrity. This massive island has multiple themed sectioned areas, including a water park. Because of its size, Royal Caribbean offers a continuously running shuttle to help cruisers traverse the different sections of the island. Check out this promo video from Royal Caribbean for a quick visual of what to expect at CocoCay. Royal Caribbean sometimes docks two ships here simultaneously, so if that’s the case on the day of your visit, you can expect it to obviously be substantially more crowded, as that may mean upwards of 10,000 guests at CocoCay simultaneously. Note that “cay” is generally pronounced “key” (although many cruisers get this wrong), but “Perfect Day at CoCo Key” doesn’t quite have the same flair to it, so in this case, most people call it “Perfect Day at CoCo Cay,” pronouncing the last word as “cay.” About CocoCay The Bahamas, a nation of islands, is known for its clear blue waters and stunning beaches. One of them, Little Stirrup Cay, is home to CocoCay. It’s a huge private island spanning approximately 140 acres, dedicated exclusively to the enjoyment of cruise passengers. The Bahamas, a nation of over 700 islands, is known for its clear blue waters and stunning beaches. CoCo Cay, a private island, provides a tailored experience for cruise guests. The cruise line reserves this private island solely for its passengers, ensuring a controlled and secure environment. Private islands like CocoCay and others like Carnival Corporation’s Princess Cays are reserved exclusively for cruise line passengers, providing a controlled and safe environment for relaxation and fun. It’s really nice to call upon a port where you don’t have to deal with aggressive local vendors hassling you right at the port to buy their goods. You also don’t have to arrange for transportation, figure out where to go and what to do, or book an expensive excursion. Those are the benefits of private islands, and that’s why I now even seek out itineraries that visit them. The swimming with the pigs excursion at CocoCay. Is CocoCay a Tender Port? I really like CocoCay for many reasons, and one of them is that unlike other cruise line private islands like Half Moon Cay, CocoCay is not a tender port. This means that cruisers avoid the tedious time-suck of taking a water shuttle 20-30 minutes each way from the cruise ship to the pier, and instead, they just step right out from the ship onto a pier. Related: Learn more about how to prepare for port days. Things to Do at CocoCay Because CocoCay is a private island, no third-party excursion options exist. If you want to take an excursion, you must book it directly through the cruise line. If you’re visiting here, you can enjoy the following types of activities. Enjoy a Beach Day Enjoying a relaxing beach day is one of the free things to do at CocoCay, as many of the sections (more on that in a moment) are free for guest use. Additionally, cruise guests can use loungers free of charge, and unlike other cruise line private islands, Royal Caribbean even provides umbrellas free of charge, although daybeds and cabanas are available to rent at an additional fee. Beach strollers are also available at no cost, but like loungers and other complimentary amenities, they’re available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests seeking a more exclusive or elevated beach day experience can pay a fee to enjoy the specialty areas of Hideaway Beach and Coco Beach Club. Free kid-friendly activities at CocoCay include Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill’s Galleon, which are two splash pads designed specifically for children, and Oasis Lagoon, the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool, covering three-quarters of an acre. Adventure Activities CocoCay provides some great adventure activities for cruisers seeking more adrenaline-pumping activities, including the Thrill Waterpark, Zipline, and the Up, Up, and Away balloon ride. Each activity requires an additional fee, varying by season and demand (and they can get quite expensive, especially the waterpark!), and has some specifications, such as height and weight requirements, and guests must wear close-toed shoes on the zipline. The Thrill Waterpark is a popular spot featuring North America’s tallest waterslide, Daredevil’s Peak, a wave pool, and numerous other exciting water slides. The zipline allows cruisers to soar over the island, covering 1,600 feet in three segments. The Up, Up, and Away balloon ride provides a unique experience, lifting guests 450 feet into the air for stunning aerial views. Royal Caribbean Excursions As noted above, because this is a private island, no independent or third-party excursions are available, only ones offered by Royal Caribbean. Adventure activities like the waterpark, zipline, and balloon ride are offered as excursion options, but others are also generally available. These include snorkeling, boat rides, jet skiing, and swimming with the pigs. I personally participated in the latter and loved the experience, although reviews on this one tend to be mixed, which I documented here. Related: New to cruising? Check out my Comprehensive Cruise Guide. Are CocoCay Cabana Rentals Worth it? Guests wanting a more private and luxurious experience at CocoCay can rent a private cabana to enhance the island experience. Each cabana provides unique amenities and varying levels of luxury (and varying costs, of course). Royal Caribbean offers these with dynamic pricing, meaning that the cost fluctuates depending on seasonality and demand. Chill Island Cabanas offer a relaxing retreat with sectional seating and beach loungers priced between $299 and $569. Oasis Lagoon Cabanas, located by the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, provide a similar setup with poolside access. For a more exclusive experience, Coco Beach Club Cabanas cost $949 to $1,599, including access to an infinity pool and upscale dining. The pinnacle of luxury is the Coco Beach

A light blue beach cabana with a sign that reads "GUINEP 2" stands against a clear blue sky.

Bahamas, Cruise Ports, Princess Cays

Princess Cays Private Island: Important Info to Know

Melissa Newman / June 24, 2024

Princess Cays (pronounced “key,” not “cays”) is located on the southern tip of Eleuthera in the Bahamas and is a pristine private island for cruisers. Princess Cays is owned by Princess Cruises, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, so you’ll find that Princess, Carnival, and Holland America Line call upon this private paradise. Of all the cruise line private islands, this one is admittedly my least favorite, and I’ll tell you why in a moment. Still, though, it has a lot to offer cruisers. Primarily, I love that it offers a FREE beach day experience that can even feel relaxing and serene if you make your way further down the beach to avoid the more crowded areas instead of clustering right near the entrance. The island spans over 40 acres, so it’s pretty huge. About Princess Cays Princess Cays is part of the Bahamas, an archipelago of over 700 islands renowned for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. I’ve visited many of them, and they’re all wonderful. The water is perfect, and the turquoise is so clear you can see straight through it. Princess Cays is no exception. Is Princess Cays Rocky? Yes, the beach at Princess Cays is very rocky, and this is my biggest issue with it compared to the other cruise line private islands like MSC’s Ocean Cay and even Carnival’s other private island Half Moon Cay. While the water and beach are gorgeous, getting into the water can be frustrating (and painful!), as it’s rocky everywhere, although some areas are more so than others. So, I offer two bits of important advice to cruisers who plan to visit: Enjoying the gorgeous but rocky waters of Princess Cays. Bring a water float and/or snorkel gear. I always bring these things anyway to all beach destinations, but it’s especially important here, because Princess Cays is so rocky that it’s not the kind of place where you’ll want to just stand in the water. Bring water shoes like these. I personally dislike water shoes and find them ugly, bulky, and squishy, so I generally don’t bring them with me on cruises, but they’re almost a necessity at Princess Cays. Recently, I’ve started to embrace water socks, which also work. The area can also be very windy and gets a lot of direct sun, so these are two other factors to consider when planning your day here. Related: New to cruising? Check out my Comprehensive Cruise Guide. Is Princess Cays Worth It? Absolutely, Princess Cays is worth it. Although I find it the least desirable of all the cruise line private islands, it’s still a private island in the Bahamas, for crying out loud! You’ll still enjoy a great beach day with gorgeous sand and water and amazing snorkeling if that’s your thing. If you plan ahead with protective foot coverings and arrange for shade, you’ll be more likely to enjoy your day here. Is Princes Cays a Tender Port? Princess Cays operates as a tender port, which means passengers are transported from the cruise ship to the island using smaller boats, and this tendering process takes about 20-30 minutes each way. I personally don’t like tender ports since the process can be tedious getting to and from the pier, and this is another reason that Princess Cays (while still great) just isn’t my favorite island. What I like about MSC’s Ocean Cay and Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, in comparison, is that they have piers. While I’m generally not much of a fan of cruise line excursions, there’s an additional benefit to them when it comes to tender ports, and that is that the purchase of a cruise line excursion earns you the benefit of priority tendering, meaning you get to be the first people onto the water shuttles over to Princess Cays. If you’re not an early riser, this isn’t much benefit, but if you’re yearning to maximize your time on the island, this is the way to do it. Related: Learn more about how to prepare for port days. Arriving at the beautiful Princess Cay! Ready to explore and enjoy everything this stunning destination has to offer. Things to Do at Princess Cays Because Princess Cays is a private island, no third-party excursion options exist. If you want to take an excursion, you must book it directly through the cruise line. These excursions generally include activities like horseback riding in the surf, snorkeling, jet skiing, and other water activities. My recommendation is to save money and enjoy a beach day here. Using loungers is free for cruise guests, and it’s really all you need for a good beach day experience. The only downside here is that the beach area gets a lot of direct sun, and umbrellas and clamshells are not free, so plan for this aspect. Umbrellas cost $25 to rent, and I’ll talk about clamshells in detail in a moment. What to Bring to Princess Cays I recommend bringing a few things with you to enhance the experience (beyond the obvious things like sunscreen and the aforementioned water shoes and floaties). Princess Cays is great for snorkeling; I always bring my own set. My favorite is this one from Amazon; it’s affordable yet high quality and has traveled with me worldwide to all sorts of snorkeling experiences. It’s also much more hygienic this way, as you’re not putting something in your mouth that’s been used by many other random people. I also recommend a lockable beach bag of some sort. Princess Cays does have lockers available for rent, but they’re $10 per locker and not always conveniently located where you’re hanging out on the island. Having your own lockable bag allows you easy access to things like your phone while keeping it secure, along with your money and ship card. Also, don’t forget to bring your beach towels from the cruise ship! Related: Not sure about whether to pack beach towels? Here’s what you need to know. Wi-Fi at Princess Cays Wi-Fi is not available on Princess Cays. It’s frustrating because even if you pay the high fees for cruise Wi-Fi, it does not work here (unlike at MSC’s Ocean Cay private island, where guests who pay for ship Wi-Fi

A woman in a green floral dress stands joyfully on a sandy beach with clear turquoise waters in the background.

Bahamas, Caribbean, Cruise Ports, Half Moon Cay

Exploring Half Moon Cay: A Cruise Line Private Island Paradise

Melissa Newman / June 23, 2024

Half Moon Cay, or Little San Salvador Island, is a private paradise in the Bahamas exclusively for Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line passengers. This serene retreat offers the perfect spot for a relaxing beach day during your cruise. Note that “cay” is pronounced “key”. Of all the cruise line private islands, it’s one of my favorites. It offers not just a relaxing day at the beach with sugar-soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, but it’s FREE. Just note that Half Moon Cay is quite a large island, so don’t cluster right near the entrance of the beach, but get out a bit further to avoid the more crowded spaces. Related: New to cruising? Check out my Comprehensive Cruise Guide. About Half Moon Cay Half Moon Cay is a private island in the Bahamas, primarily visited by Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line ships. This island covers around 2,400 acres, but only a small portion is developed for visitors, ensuring a natural and untouched environment. The Bahamas, a nation of over 700 islands, is known for its clear waters and sandy beaches. Private islands like Half Moon Cay and others like Princess Cays and CocoCay are reserved exclusively for cruise line passengers, providing a controlled and safe environment for relaxation and fun. It’s really nice to call upon a port where you don’t have to deal with aggressive local vendors hassling you right at the port to buy their goods. The sand and water at Half Moon Cay are known for their pristine quality. You also don’t have to arrange for transportation, figure out where to go and what to do, or book an expensive excursion. Those are the benefits of private islands, and that’s why I now even seek out itineraries that visit them. If you want to get an idea of what Half Moon Cay looks like, you can get a great overview from this promo video from Carnival (it’s exactly the same, too, for Holland and Princess). Is Half Moon Cay a Tender Port? Half Moon Cay operates as a tender port, which means passengers are transported from the cruise ship to the island using smaller boats. This tendering process takes about 20-30 minutes each way. The beach here is one of the main attractions, featuring soft white sand and calm, inviting waters. I personally don’t like tender ports since the process can be tedious getting to and from the pier, but in this case, the process is well worth it. While I’m generally not much of a fan of cruise line excursions, there’s an additional benefit to them when it comes to tender ports, and that is that the purchase of a cruise line excursion earns you the benefit of priority tendering, meaning you get to be the first people onto the water shuttles over to Half Moon Cay. If you’re not an early riser, this isn’t much benefit, but if you’re yearning to maximize your time on the island, this is the way to do it. Related: Learn more about how to prepare for port days. Things to Do at Half Moon Cay Because Half Moon Cay is a private island, no third-party excursion options exist. If you want to take an excursion, you must book it directly through the cruise line. These excursions generally include activities like horseback riding in the surf, snorkeling, jet skiing, and other water activities. My recommendation is to save money and enjoy a beach day here. Using loungers is free for cruise guests, and it’s really all you need for a good beach day experience. The only downside here is that the beach area gets a lot of direct sun, and umbrellas and clamshells are not free (more on that in a moment), so plan for this aspect. What to Bring to Half Moon Cay I recommend bringing a few things with you to enhance the experience (beyond the obvious things like sunscreen). Half Moon Cay is great for snorkeling; I always bring my own set. My favorite is this one from Amazon; it’s affordable yet high quality and has traveled with me worldwide to all sorts of snorkeling experiences. It’s also much more hygienic this way, as you’re not putting something in your mouth that’s been used by many other random people. I also recommend an inflatable float. Many recommend not bringing floats on cruises since they’re forbidden from cruise ship pools, but I disagree because these really enhance the beach day experience, and you don’t have to worry about renting a float or pool noodle. This is my favorite because it’s so compact and versatile. Finally, I recommend a lockable beach bag of some sort. Half Moon Cay does have lockers available for rent, but they’re $10 per locker and not always conveniently located where you’re hanging out on the island. Having your own lockable bag allows you easy access to things like your phone while keeping it secure, along with your money and ship card. Also, don’t forget to bring your beach towels with you from the cruise ship! Related: Not sure about whether to pack beach towels? Here’s what you need to know. Half Moon Cay is a huge island, so get out and explore the less crowded areas. Wi-Fi at Half Moon Cay Wi-Fi is not available on Half Moon Cay. It’s frustrating because even if you pay the high fees for cruise Wi-Fi, it does not work here (unlike at MSC’s Ocean Cay private island, where guests who pay for ship Wi-Fi can also use island Wi-Fi at no cost). In fact, there is no Wi-Fi on Half Moon Cay at all, although some cell providers may have service. I have AT&T, and it works here, but of course, I have to pay my daily international roaming fee to access it. If it’s possible to disconnect, this is a great opportunity to do just that and enjoy the natural surroundings. Does the Drink Package Work at Half Moon Cay? Some cruise lines allow the use of their drink packages on their private islands, but unfortunately, this is not the case here. Even if

Disney and Carnival cruise ships at the cruise port in Nassau, Bahamas

Bahamas, Caribbean, Cruise Ports, Nassau

Exploring the Nassau, Bahamas Cruise Port: Beaches, Taxis, & Safety

Melissa Newman / March 14, 2024

Almost every seasoned cruiser has sailed at least once to Nassau, New Providence Island, Bahamas, as it’s one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, and you’ll likely find fewer cruise ports that invite more controversy. Just do a search for Nassau, and you’ll see popular hits like “is Nassau worth visiting?” and “is Nassau dangerous?” and my answer to this is “yes” and “no”, respectively. Regarding the safety issue, check out my post “Is Nassau Safe for Tourists”, and in terms of whether it’s worth visiting, I’ll share with you in a moment some of the top things to do in Nassau. Is Nassau Safe? But first, let me touch upon why Nassau gets such a bad rap. I first visited here in 2018, and like many cruisers, was put off by the unappealing, dirty port area and super aggressive vendors. But with the recent $300M renovation unveiled in May 2023, the experience now is like night-and-day. The new port area is huge, gorgeous, and clean, and it’s well regulated, meaning no pushy vendors. Now, you will still encounter some of this when you immediately exit the port, but it’s not bad. Due to the size of this port, it can be very crowded, especially when it’s at capacity with six ships, and the pier is quite long, so a tram runs periodically for cruisers with mobility issues. Cruise ships at the cruise port in Nassau, Bahamas Things to Do in Nassau Some cruisers opt to stay on the ship and skip Nassau entirely as a cruise port of call, which always saddens me, because I find this to be a beautiful location filled with great culture. I encourage all cruisers to visit, and here are my top recommendations of things to do in Nassau if you choose an independent excursion: Many cruisers opt to enjoy a beach day and save on excursions by visiting one of the public beaches like Cabbage Bezach, or Junkanoo Beach, which is walkable from port, but I discourage this because these tend to be overcrowded and filled with pushy vendors. My personal go-to is a day pass at one of Nassau’s resorts. Unlike Cozumel, however, most of them are not all-inclusive. These resorts provide private beachfront access and other amenities. The top ones in Nassau include: British Colonial – This one is typically the cheapest and is also closest to the cruise port, just a 10-minute walk. Margaritaville – This is right next door to British Colonial, and also a short walk from the port. It’s family-friendly with a lazy river, high jump and water slides. It gives private access to Junkanoo Beach. Atlantis – This one is the most famous Nassau resort, and it’s located on Paradise Island so you’ll need to take a taxi there. It’s pricey, but well worth it if you love adventure and water slides. It also has a pretty awesome “not so lazy” river. RIU Palace – There are two unique factors to this resort… it’s one of the only ones in Nassau that is all-inclusive, and it’s adults-only! Baha Mar – Like Atlantis and RIU, a visit to Baha Mar will require a taxi, but its private access to Cable Beach and Baha Bay Waterpark are top tier. If you want to get around and explore, especially if you’re concerned with safety in Nassau, I highly recommend hiring a private driver for the day. My go-to guy is Clement Stanley, and you can get his pricing and book him online here. You can walk, or take a taxi or use a driver to great stops like Queen’s Staircase (which is free) and Fort Fincastle, and sample rum cakes. My absolute favorite Nassau rum cake is the Bahamas Rum Cake Factory, where their cakes are made fresh in-house, and they offer free samples. Other top Nassau attractions include the Pirate Museum, Graycliff, and John Watling’s Distillery. Swimming with the pigs is a bucket list goal for many, and while I’ve done it and loved it at CocoCay, I’ve heard from many that Nassau isn’t the best spot for this. Nassau Time Zone Keeping track of time zones can get complicated when cruising, especially for itineraries where there can be multiple time zone changes on one sailing. Your captain will make announcements during the cruise to update you of these changes, but it’s good to be aware of these differences ahead of time when making plans for your stop at port, especially for excursions. Most cruise lines operate on “ship time” set to the time of its departing port, so for sailings off the eastern coast the US, this is Eastern Standard Time (EST). The Bahamas operates on Eastern Standard Time across all islands. From the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November, The Bahamas recognizes Daylight Saving Time, in conjunction with the U.S. https://youtu.be/4h5M8v2FoHA?si=A8ZMPhY8yPhyhP3k Hire a Private Driver in Nassau If you want to get around and explore, especially if you’re concerned with safety in Nassau, I highly recommend hiring a private driver for the day. My go-to guy is Clement Stanley, and you can get his pricing and book him online here. Online Here Get my full color detailed downloadable Nassau Guidebook here

Bahamas, Caribbean, Cruise Ports, Ocean Cay

What you need to know about Ocean Cay Marine Reserve

Melissa Newman / March 14, 2024

Most of the major cruise lines own and market their own private islands; in some cases, these are not “islands” at all (I’m looking at you Royal Caribbean and Labadee). However, one private island that truly is both an island and private is MSC cruise line’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. Ocean Cay has many great things to do, and you don’t need an excursion. Exclusive to MSC cruisers, this is one of my absolute private cruise line private islands. It’s not a tender port, so you exit immediately onto a short pier, and just a short distance from the ship is an amazing beach with sugar-white sands and turquoise waters. Towels are not provided, so be sure to bring yours from the ship. Related: 3 Things to Know About Cruise Ship Towels Ocean Cay Excursions Because Ocean Cay is a private island, no third-party excursion options exist. If you want to partake in an excursion (offerings include a lighthouse climb, paddleboard and kayak rentals, and snorkeling), you must book it directly through MSC. My recommendation is to save money and enjoy a beach day here. Ocean Cay is expansive, with many locations and opportunities for snorkeling (I recommend you save money and bring your own gear). You can rent an umbrella or cabana, but I’ve never had a problem finding a shaded spot for free, and ample chairs are available for cruisers at no cost. If you branch out further from the port, you can escape the crowds, although due to the size of the island, this can be a bit of a hike. MSC does offer tram service, but it’s not particularly fast or efficient, and it does not take cruisers to all corners of the island. There is also a spa on the island if you’re looking for a day of relaxation, but these spots book fast in advance. Ocean Cay Weather Because Ocean Cay is in the Bahamas, the weather there is generally lovely year-round. I have noted, however, that this location seems to have quite a bit of wildlife activity. I’ve heard from other cruisers that there are often shark sightings, and on my most recent visit, the MSC marine biologists warned of a Portuguese Man o’War migration, so heed any warnings made by the cruise line. MSC has installed shark nets, or “shark barriers”, surrounding the beaches and lagoon entrances. Wi-Fi at Ocean Cay MSC does promote that their Wi-Fi works on the island, which would be a nice perk, but it has been spotty at best in my two visits there. They also promised complimentary food at Seaker’s Food Court, but they did not provide this on my recent sailing, likely because our docking was pushed back from 8 am to noon due to high winds. If you have a sailing that docks late or is delayed, don’t count on eating there. They have other snack bars with ice cream and other items for sale, which can be charged to your stateroom account. Another thing I love about Ocean Cay is that it is often a long port call, with no rush to get back on board. MSC often offers it as a two-day overnight option. If you’re fortunate enough to visit there overnight, MSC offers a fantastic nighttime beach party, with a complimentary lighthouse laser show that you won’t want to miss. Ocean Cay Time Zone Keeping track of time zones can get complicated when cruising, especially for itineraries with multiple time zone changes on one sailing. Your captain will make announcements during the cruise to update you on these changes, but it’s good to be aware of these differences ahead of time when planning your stop at the port, especially for excursions. Most cruise lines operate on “ship time” set to the time of their departing port, so for sailings off the eastern coast of the US, this is Eastern Standard Time (EST). The Bahamas operates on Eastern Standard Time across all islands. From the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November, The Bahamas recognizes Daylight Saving Time in conjunction with the U.S. Exploring Ocean Cay Featured Clothing: CharmLeaks Bikini in Pink

Bahamas, Caribbean, Cruise Ports, Nassau

Is the Nassau, Bahamas Cruise Port Safe for Tourists?

Melissa Newman / February 13, 2024

TW: Sexual Assault I was cruising on the Carnival Mardi Gras recently when my phone started blowing up with messages from my worried circle—friends and family who knew I was heading to Nassau, Bahamas. They were spooked because of a Level 2 Travel Advisory issued by the US Department of State for the Bahamas and news of 18 murders already in Nassau in 2024. The online cruise message boards were also buzzing with concerned cruisers, asking if it was even safe to step off the ship in Nassau, worried that the Bahamas were just too dangerous. I was a bit taken aback by the swift and immediate uproar, noting that the travel advisory mentioned that while the majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands, the advisory was due to gang-on-gang violence in the “Over the Hill” area near Shirley Street. I spent a lovely and uneventful day in Nassau, my eighth visit, and had some great conversations with locals who confirmed that the uptick in murders was a matter of “community policing” and should not be of concern to tourists. I was hearing so much about the fears of safety in Nassau, and the safety of the Bahamas in general, that I made a video on TikTok to address it. In the video, I noted that at any given time, the US Department of State has active travel advisories for over 200 locations, including popular cruise destinations like Antigua, Belize, Bermuda, Jamaica, and others. If I avoided getting off the ship at every location with an advisory, I’d likely never enjoy a port day in the Caribbean at all. A few days later, the TikTok video was still going strong, but now with some commentors accusing me of downplaying the safety concerns amid a new report that had just come out with a heartbreaking story of two Kentucky women who were cruising on Carnival and were raped in the Bahamas during a port stop in Freeport in broad daylight in the middle of the day at a local resort. Because of this and the travel advisory happening back-to-back, Bahamas news was not good and concerns from tourists amplified. Even searching for “things to do in the Bahamas” will generate results of these recent incidents at the very top. The question I was then asked was – are you still not afraid of traveling to the Bahamas? My answer? No. What happened to these women is devastating, but the sad reality is that sexual violence against women isn’t exactly a rare occurrence, and it’s something that happens every day everywhere. This is not a problem exclusive to the Bahamas. According to RAINN, every 68 seconds an American is sexually assaulted, with the majority of these instances happening in the United States. It’s a sad a concern just whnd sobering statistic, and I use it only to highlight that the risk of sexual assault isn’t aen cruising or traveling, but something that can happen even “at home” – and most often it does happen in the U.S. I do not in any way intend to downplay what happened to these women, and all other victims of sexual assault, but I do not think that this should result in cruisers avoiding the Bahamas. I do caution fellow travelers to exercise caution when traveling, whether it is a cruise or any other form of travel. While crime can happen anywhere, tourists can be specifically targeted. Cruisers can help minimize their risk by observing these cruise ship safety strategies, which are also detailed in the infographic: Stay close to port and in touristic areas. Verify and vet transportation. Consume alcohol with caution. Engage in only verified excursions from trusted, proven operators. You can get referrals of private drivers and excursions is through various cruise groups on Facebook, and on Viator, where you can read user reviews before booking. Here are options for private drivers in Nassau, for instance, or general excursions. Upon arrival, always ask the driver to show you their credentials, and don’t be afraid to even ask to take a photo of them. Yes, many of these cruise excursion safety travel tips and strategies are “no brainers”, but when we cruise and are in the confines of a port area, surrounded by thousands of other cruisers – or at a resort on an excursion as is the case of the Kentucky women who were victimized – it’s easy to get complacent and ignore these common safeguards. Being cautious, aware, and vigilant are always good defenses.

Bahamas