Nassau Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to Nassau, where your cruise ship docks right in the heart of the action! After a transformative $300 million renovation, Prince George Wharf has become a world-class facility handling over 30,000 passengers daily across six state-of-the-art berths. In 2024, Nassau welcomed 5.6 million cruise visitors, setting a single-day record of 30,538 visitors in March 2025 – a testament to this destination's enduring appeal.

Port Overview: Your Gateway to Paradise

The moment you step off your ship, you're essentially in downtown Nassau. This unique setup means no shuttles or transfers – just a pleasant 5-minute walk to Bay Street's shopping district and the famous Straw Market. The port features complimentary WiFi, clean facilities, and numerous shops for any last-minute needs.

Getting Around Nassau

Walking Distance Attractions

• Downtown/Bay Street: 5 minutes of easy, flat walking
• Straw Market: 7-10 minutes through the port area
• Junkanoo Beach: 15-minute scenic waterfront stroll westward
• Queen's Staircase: 20-minute walk with a gentle uphill climb

Taxi Services

Official taxis display "TN" plates and operate on a zone-based fare system. Here are the standard rates from the port:

• Paradise Island: $6 per person (couples often pay $11-13 total)
• Cable Beach: $16-18 for two people
• Atlantis: Same as Paradise Island plus $2 bridge toll

Local Transportation: Jitney Buses

Experience authentic Bahamian culture for just $1.25 on the colorful jitney buses. The #10 jitney runs every 10-15 minutes to Cable Beach. Remember to have exact change ready and pay when exiting the bus. These local buses offer a fun, economical way to travel while enjoying local music and atmosphere.

Paradise Island & Atlantis Resort

The iconic Atlantis Resort draws many visitors to Paradise Island. Day passes are available when hotel occupancy permits (typically below 90%), and must be booked at least 48 hours in advance through the resort's website or your cruise line.

Day pass pricing ranges from $130-200 for adults and includes:

• • Access to the 141-acre Aquaventure water park
• • Use of all 5 beaches
• • The Dig aquarium and ruins
• • Marine habitats featuring 50,000+ sea creatures

If passes aren't available, you can still enjoy:

• • Marina Village (free to explore)
• • The casino (open to the public)
• • Cabbage Beach via the public access point

Beach Destinations

Junkanoo Beach

This convenient beach offers quick access to sand and sea when time is limited. While it may have some rocks and sea glass, its proximity and vibrant local atmosphere make it a popular choice for cruise passengers with shorter port stays.

Cable Beach

Cable Beach showcases the Bahamas at its finest – beautiful white sand and crystal-clear water protected by an offshore reef. This is where many locals spend their beach days, offering a more authentic experience.

Blue Lagoon Island

This private island offers a complete beach day experience with the option to add dolphin or sea lion encounters ($165-235). The programs are popular and should be booked in advance.

Nassau Attractions & Experiences

Historical & Cultural Sites (Free)

• Queen's Staircase: 66 hand-carved steps with historical significance and beautiful surroundings
• Fort Fincastle: Historic fort with panoramic views of Nassau harbor
• John Watling's Distillery: Complimentary rum tours with tastings in a beautifully restored 1789 estate
• Parliament Square: Distinctive pink colonial buildings that are perfect for photos

Premium Experiences

• Swimming with Dolphins ($165-235): A memorable encounter at Blue Lagoon Island
• Pirates of Nassau Museum ($14): Interactive museum bringing pirate history to life
• Graycliff Chocolate Making ($54.95): Hands-on chocolate making in a historic mansion

Straw Market Shopping

The Straw Market is Nassau's most famous shopping destination, offering everything from authentic Bahamian crafts to souvenir items. Here's how to make the most of your visit:

Look for genuine Bahamian straw work, wood carvings, and locally made jewelry for authentic souvenirs.

Dining Recommendations

Fish Fry at Arawak Cay – Authentic Bahamian Cuisine

Located a 25-minute walk or short taxi ride ($8) from the port, Fish Fry offers the most authentic dining experience in Nassau.

Top restaurants:

• Twin Brothers: Famous for perfectly seasoned conch fritters
• Oh Andros: Excellent cracked conch with traditional sides
• Drifter's: Great atmosphere with live music on Sundays

Must-try dishes:

• • Fresh conch fritters
• • Sky juice (a refreshing local cocktail)
• • Conch salad prepared fresh to order

Downtown Dining

• Bahamian Cookin': Family recipes served just 10 minutes from the port
• Potter's Cay: Fresh seafood under the Paradise Island bridge
• Pirate Republic Brewing: Local craft beer at the port area

What to Watch Out For

Areas to Avoid

The area known as "Over the Hill" (south of Shirley Street) has higher crime rates and limited tourist facilities. It's best to stay within the established tourist zones for safety.

Common Tourist Concerns

• Pricing negotiations: Some vendors may quote high initial prices. Polite bargaining is normal and expected
• Taxi meters: Taxis don't use meters – confirm your fare before departing
• Beach vendors: Can be persistent but a polite "no thank you" usually works
• Tour operators: Verify credentials and prices before committing to activities

Practical Considerations

• • Use official taxis with "TN" plates
• • Confirm all prices upfront
• • Keep copies of important documents
• • Stay aware of your surroundings
• • Return to ship well before all-aboard time

Time Management for Your Visit

6-Hour Port Stop

Choose one main activity:

• • Beach time plus Straw Market browsing
• • Downtown walking tour with lunch at Fish Fry
• • Blue Lagoon Island excursion

8-Hour Port Stop

Combine multiple experiences:

• • Morning: Queen's Staircase and Fort Fincastle tour
• • Lunch: Fish Fry for authentic cuisine
• • Afternoon: Relax at Cable Beach or explore Bay Street shops

Weather & Best Times to Visit

Port Facilities & Services

The renovated terminal offers excellent amenities:

• WiFi: Complimentary throughout the terminal
• Currency: US dollars accepted everywhere (1:1 with Bahamian dollars)
• ATMs: Available on Parliament Street
• Shopping: 60+ stores at the port
• Banking: Hours typically 9:30am-3pm (Mon-Thu), until 5pm Friday

Making the Most of Your Nassau Visit

Nassau offers a perfect blend of convenience, culture, and Caribbean beauty. Whether you choose to explore historical sites, relax on stunning beaches, or dive into local cuisine, this port provides options for every type of traveler. The key to a great day is choosing activities that match your interests and energy level rather than trying to see everything.

Remember to leave time to simply soak in the island atmosphere – perhaps with a rum punch in hand while watching the turquoise waters. Most importantly, build in plenty of buffer time for your return to the ship, allowing you to enjoy your day without stress.

Safe travels and enjoy your Bahamian adventure!