The crystal clear water of the Caribbean is calling — Photo courtesy of Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
It’s your first trip to Nassau, Bahamas – maybe even your first cruise ever. How do you spend your one-day stay in this Caribbean port of call?
Start with breakfast at Via Caffe – just a short walk from the boat – and a cup of Italian coffee. Order Via’s signature steak & egg wrap for a spicy start to your day, or try the banana French toast dipped in piña colada mix.
You’re on vacation. Be decadent.
After you’re sufficiently caffeinated, grab a taxi for the short ride to Ardastra Gardens & Zoo. Arrive by 10:30 a.m. for the first flamingo show of the day. Then wander through four acres of breathtakingly beautiful gardens, complete with exotic fruit trees and hibiscus blossoms.
When your stomach starts to growl, walk to restaurant strip The Fish Fry on Arawak Cay for an authentically Bahamian dining experience. Here you’ll find a number of colorful huts serving up the freshest seafood in Nassau. Best bets are Oh Andros or Twin Brothers Seafood & Steakhouse. Order the conch salad - made from conch, pepper, onion, tomato, chili and citrus juice.
Twin Brothers Seafood & Steakhouse at The Fish Fry — Photo courtesy of Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
Walk off lunch with a stroll along the Western Esplande Beach (also known as "Junkanoo Beach") on your way back to the cruise ship docked at Prince George Wharf. Get your toes in the white sand and soak up some sun, or go for a swim in the crystal clear water.
The experience will spoil you.
Save a little time in your afternoon to shop for the perfect Bahamian souvenir at Straw Market. From handmade dolls and jewelry to t-shirts and hats, this outdoor market offers plenty of inexpensive options.
Handmade Bahamian crafts that you can find at Straw Market — Photo courtesy of Bahamas Ministry of Tourism
Cap your first visit to Nassau with dinner at Señor Frogs. It may be touristy, but it’s close to the port and the atmosphere is always festive. The food’s not fancy – think burgers and barbeque – but the drinks are fun. Park your bum on one of the bikini-clad stools at the bar, and toast to a great day in Nassau with a Bahama mama.
Note: Your time in Nassau will vary based on the cruise line. You may arrive in the early morning and leave in the afternoon. You may arrive at lunch and leave at midnight. Or you may stay docked overnight. Adjust this itinerary to your timeline. You can always grab a bite to eat on the boat before or after your Nassau adventure.
. . . Just don’t miss your ship, or you'll be stuck in paradise.
