excursions in bahamas royal caribbean

Best shore excursions for Bahamas cruises

From lazy lounging on the beach to action-packed water adventures, cruise ship shore excursions in the Bahamas are packed with fun in the sun and sea.

Whether you're looking to get wet, get chill or get stuff, you'll find a way to do it on a shore excursion here. You can swim with pigs and dive with sharks. You can cruise the islands on ATVs or skim across the water on a wide array of vessels. Tours often include time to shop the straw markets, and many also include traditional Bahamian lunches, snacks and/or beverages.

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The list of Bahamas tours and activities includes options to suit almost everyone. We sorted through the choices to find you the best Bahamas shore excursions. Ready? Let's dive in.

Prices for the same tours can vary across cruise lines and third-party sellers, so tours are listed below by price ranges, using the following shorthand (per adult):

$= $0-50. $$= $51-99. $$$= $100-199. $$$$=$200-499.

Best Nassau, Bahamas shore excursions

Island food and culinary tour

3-3.5 hours, easy, $$.

Bahamas food and beverage excursions are an ideal way to immerse yourself in the culture of the islands. You'll feast on island specialties and favorites such as conch fritters or salad, rock lobster, traditional cornbread-like Johnny cakes and tropical punches laced with rum. Most cruise lines offer food tours that stop at multiple local eateries. There may be walking involved, so be sure to read your cruise line's description.

Blue Lagoon beach break

Varies, easy to moderate, $$-$$$.

Some of the best excursions in Nassau are to Blue Lagoon Island, a privately owned island with a beach, food, water sports and other activities. You can choose the standard beach break option with lunch, beach games and use of water noodles and tubes. Or you can upgrade to a tour that includes snorkeling or swimming with stingrays, dolphins, sharks and even sea lions. Additional activities can be purchased upon arrival on the island.

Scuba diving with sharks

4.5 hours, moderate, $$$-$$$$.

If you are a certified scuba diver and have ever considered diving with sharks, this is your excursion. The shark dives involve one reef dive, followed by a second dive with everyone kneeling in the sand on the bottom as the shark feeder doles out his goodies. You've heard the term "sharknado?" It's a real thing and being in one is an adrenaline rush you'll never forget.

I should warn the shark-timid among you that because Caribbean reef sharks are plentiful in the waters surrounding Nassau and because dive shops have been doing baited shark dives here for years, you may encounter sharks on any dive in Nassau, though at a bit more distance than during the shark feeds. In fact, I've never not seen a shark while diving here.

Paradise Island and Aquaventure Oasis Waterpark

All day, moderate, $$$$.

Excursions that include access to Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas seem to no longer mention the name of the mega-resort that made Paradise Island famous. If you've always wanted to go, excursions labeled Aquaventure are your ticket.

The day pass includes access to miles of beaches, the on-site casino, and the Aquaventure water park featuring 141 acres of slides, swimming areas, river rides, and wave areas. The pass also allows you to dine in the resort's eateries, explore a myriad of shops or even add an aquatic animal experience like a dolphin swim.

You can purchase Atlantis day passes independently, but the advantage of booking your visit as an excursion is that transportation will be included.

Related: A day in Nassau, Bahamas: What to do while your cruise is in port

Best shore excursions in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island

Freeport island tour, beach and shopping

4 hours, easy, $.

Shore excursions that bundle a tour with a beach break and shopping are always a good choice in the Bahamas. You get to see a bit of the island, learn its history, shop for souvenirs and get in some coveted beach time, all with easy transportation. This kind of tour is especially useful if you've never been to Grand Bahama Island. For a small amount of money, you get to scope the place out for your adventures on your next Bahamas cruise.

Pirate's Cove beach, zipline and waterpark

4 hours, moderate, $$$.

If zip lining is your thing, this is a good place to get your fix. The beachside zip line has options for starting at 50 feet up or 30 feet, making it ideal for newbies wanting to try the experience. Since this excursion also includes time at the beach and floating water park, consider it a deal.

Glass bottom boat shark experience

3 hours, easy, $$$.

Want to see Caribbean reef sharks without putting your toes in the water? This excursion takes you on a glass-bottom boat ride to waters where Caribbean reef sharks have been fed. The boat has ample deck space for sunning when you aren't watching the action below the boat. It's a fun way to spend a day out on the water with an opportunity to see these predators and other colorful tropical fish without fear. Typical Bahamian refreshments round out the fun.

Blue hole snorkeling

5 hours, moderate, $$$.

My rule of thumb is to snorkel at every opportunity while in the Bahamas. It's a fun and easy way to take a peek beneath the waves at the colorful sea life found in these waters. When you book a snorkeling excursion in the Bahamas, gear is provided, including snorkeling vests to keep you afloat.

For the best Bahamas snorkeling, choose a blue hole snorkeling excursion. Blue holes are found throughout the Bahamas and are essentially open-topped caverns, so it's like swimming in a fishbowl. Some are landlocked, where they may be filled with either fresh or salt water, and inhabited by a wide range of aquatic life, including crabs, lobsters, octopus and fish. Others are offshore, below the surface of the ocean, creating a mini reef environment to explore.

This excursion involves a lengthy ride, but it's definitely worth it.

Swim with the pigs

1.5 hours, easy, $$$.

Swimming pigs are kind of a big deal in the Bahamas. Animal lovers can enjoy time in shallow water watching (and even feeding) these silly pigs. Most of the cruise line private islands also offer pig swims, but the one in Freeport does not involve a boat ride, which may make it more appealing to some. You'll also get time to hang out on Crystal Beach and buy lunch.

Related: Bahamas cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Best Bahamas shore excursions from cruise line private islands

Snorkeling from shore or by boat

Varies, moderate, $-$$.

Cruise ship private islands make snorkeling easy. Most of the islands will offer snorkeling gear for rent, and you can snorkel right from the beach. (If you, like me, never miss an opportunity to put your face in the water, consider buying your own snorkel gear for future sailings.) Optional boat excursions to primo snorkeling spots are also possible from some islands.

1-1.5 hours, moderate, $-$$.

Kayaking from the cruise line private islands gives you a new perspective of these fun playgrounds. Tours are led by experienced guides who can point out sea life in shallow water while leading you along the shore of the tropical paradise. Beginners are welcome and life jackets are provided.

Stingray City Bahamas

1.5 hours, easy, $$.

While the Stingray City experience has been popular in Grand Cayman for years, it's relatively new to the Bahamas. Stingray City Bahamas is located among the Berry Islands, home to Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay and Norwegian's Great Stirrup Cay. You'll be taken on a short speedboat ride to a shallow sandy spot in a location where stingrays congregate. Your guide will provide fish to feed the rays, which swoop in and suck the fish from your hand. It's a fun outing if you haven't done it before and it doesn't take away too much of your beach time on the island.

Horseback riding by land and sea

1.25 hours, moderate, $$$.

Carnival offers a horseback riding tour from Half Moon Cay that includes a brief venture into the sea with your horse. The minimum age is 10. As the mother of a horse-loving daughter, I can tell you that riding in the ocean was one of her favorite cruise memories ever. No riding experience is required, but you must be able to follow directions and pay attention to your guide for your own safety as well as that of the horses and other riders. One other thing to know: There will be poo, both on land and in the water.

Related: Visiting a cruise line's private island? Don't make these 11 mistakes

Bottom line

Bahamas shore excursions typically focus on activity in the water, but if shopping, food tours or sightseeing are more your thing, you'll find those options as well. The Bahamas is made up of a culturally rich collection of islands that have a reputation for welcoming visitors with arms wide open. From simple beach break excursions to full-day tours, you can easily find something that floats your boat in the Bahamas.

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Fun Shore Excursions in the Bahamas on Royal Caribbean

2 thoughts on “ fun shore excursions in the bahamas on royal caribbean ”.

Wow I never even know there was such a type of cruise! Admittedly I generally try to stay away from cruises since I don’t like being ‘stuck’ in one place for a long period of time.. but this sounds really fun 😉 x

You should definitely try one just to see if it could work for you. Short cruises are a great introduction to cruising and longer ones are great for relaxing, but also seeing lots of different ports

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Excursions & Tours

Swimming Pigs, Snorkeling, and Sun

Discover Nassau Town and Atlantis

Pearl Island Beach Escape and Snorkel

Glass Bottom Boat to the Sea Garden

Best Of Nassau by Boat

Sail and Snorkel Cruise

Cultural Treasures of Nassau

The Art of Chocolate

Bahama Barrels: Winemaker for a Day

Downtown Nassau by Bike

Half Day Learn to Dive

Afternoon Tea Experience

Graycliff Wine Luncheon

Winemaker for a Day with Charcuterie Plate

2 Tank - Certified Shark Dive

Winemaker for a Day with Fresh Fruit Plate

Winemaker for a Day with Nuts and Dried Fruit Plate

Cigar Rolling With Rum Tasting

Taste of Nassau Cuisine and Walking Tour

Pearl Island Beach Escape

SNUBA in the Bahamas

Two Tank Certified Dive

Explore Nassau Walking Tour

Historical Downtown Nassau Walk

Nassau Beach Break

Pearl Island and Pigs Beach

Snorkeling, Sea Turtles, and Swimming Pigs

Private Deep Sea Sport Fishing

Semi-Private Arawak Beach Day with Cabana

Nassau, bahamas.

Nassau excursions are a gateway to exploring the rich culture and history of the Bahamas, featuring visits to historic sites and vibrant local markets. Our Bahamas excursions in Nassau also offer a variety of water-based activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters, catering to both adventure lovers and those seeking relaxation. If you are looking for the best things to do in Nassau, walking tours, a beach day, scuba diving, water sports, and sightseeing tours await in the Bahamas' capital. Nassau, the capital and largest city in the Bahamas , has long been a favorite Caribbean vacation destination for travelers. Thanks to its island charm, state-of-the-art resorts, white sand beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise waters, Nassau has a relaxing feel rarely present anywhere else. It's also close to Paradise Island, home to the world-famous Atlantis Resort.

At Shore Excursions Group, we offer an incredible variety of Bahamian sightseeing island tours sure to impress. Discover the best of this Bahamian city on a walking tour, beach day excursion, or catamaran cruise line. Whether you choose a half-day or full-day adventure, our Nassau shore excursions are designed to give you an unforgettable experience.

Popular Excursions

Note the following are sample tours and may not work with your itinerary. Find excursions for your cruise itinerary here .

Discover Nassau for an introduction to the Bahamas' best and most beautiful highlights, including downtown Nassau, Paradise Island, Atlantis Resort, Junkanoo Beach, Arawak Cay, and Nassau Harbor. Swim with dolphins during one of our dolphin encounters, learn to scuba dive, enjoy snorkeling among stingrays and the beautiful Bahamian coral reefs, or dive down in your own personal SUB for a one-of-a-kind diving experience.

Paradise Island

Paradise Island is known for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. You can also explore Paradise Island's popular Atlantis Resort and its legendary Aquaventure water park. Paradise Island has something for everyone. Whether you want to relax in a spa, golf on world-class golf courses, win big in two of the largest Caribbean casinos, or paddleboard all day, you'll be in paradise - literally and figuratively.

Blue Lagoon Island

Also, just a few minutes away from Paradise Island is Blue Lagoon Island, a private local-family owned island famous for its secluded beaches and animal encounter programs. You can swim with the dolphins, interact with stingrays, snorkel with sharks, and have personal encounters with sea lions, all in their natural environment.

Pearl Island

Experience the beautiful clear waters, white-sand beaches, and warm tropical sun from this hidden gem of an island. Just a short boat ride from Nassau, Pearl Island is a private beach getaway filled with luxurious experiences. From private cabanas to charter rentals, there's simply something magical about this place.

Downtown Nassau

Nassau is one of the most visited cruise ports in the Bahamas and one of the most popular cruising destinations in the Caribbean. Nassau has it all. If you want to get a taste of city life, take a walking tour of downtown and nearby sightseeing destinations. If you are a history buff, explore excursions where you can see different landmarks , like visit Government House. Built in 1737, this 10-acre estate serves as the official residence of the Governor General of The Bahamas. If you are a foodie, try local delicacies such as conch fritters and rum cake, and visit a fair trade chocolatier to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you feel like ditching the beach chairs and treating yourself to a Bahamian fine dining experience, you can enjoy a unique meal at Graycliff. It's a five-star Caribbean restaurant complete with a delicious wine tasting. In the mood for some smooth spirits? John Watling's Distillery has been providing high-quality rum since 2003, and they do tours of their incredible distillery. No matter your style, there are plenty of activities for you to see and do on this lovely island. Browse our Nassau shore excursions and tours below to find your perfect getaway.

No matter your style, there are plenty of activities for you to see and do on this lovely island. Browse more of our Nassau shore excursions and tours below to find your perfect getaway.

Nassau, the Bahamas, combines the excitement of a big city with the relaxed lifestyle of a Caribbean utopia. Located on New Providence Island, Nassau's sightseeing opportunities, crystal clear blue waters, and white sand beaches make it a truly remarkable tropical vacation destination. This city serves as the heart of the Bahamas and is near Paradise Island, Blue Lagoon Island, Salt Cay, Rose Island, Fort Montagu, Ardastra Gardens, Cable Beach, and Arawak Cay. With so much to do, Nassau features some of the best tours and shore excursions in the Bahamas that will immerse you in the traditions, culture, and marine life that are unique to the area.

Rich History

This historic Caribbean city is one of the world's most popular cruise and snorkeling destinations, and it's easy to see why. Around 4.5 million travelers boarded Caribbean cruise ships to Nassau in 2023! With these staggering numbers, it's easy to see that Nassau is truly a spot you won't want to miss. Not to mention the remarkable historical sites, like the Queen's Staircase. A 66-step major landmark in Nassau, it was carved out of solid limestone rock between 1793 and 1794. Located at the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex, the staircase is within walking distance from downtown and perfect for small group tours.

Lifetime Experiences

We offer a variety of unforgettable Bahamian experiences for every kind of traveler. Visit the private island of Balmoral where you'll get to see the famous Bahamian swimming pigs, or join one of our dolphin encounters for an up-close and personal experience with dolphins and sea lions. If you're looking for more excitement, check out our Paradise Island excursions - take a catamaran cruise and experience the resort's famous Aquaventure water park and water slides. For some rest and relaxation, our Blue Lagoon Island Beach Day is a great opportunity to recharge. For a taste of local Nassau culture, we offer sightseeing island tours via powerboat, ATV, and more. We also offer plenty of snorkeling and scuba diving excursions for those who want to experience the Bahamas' exquisite marine life.

Whether it's snorkeling with dolphins, scuba diving with sharks, or simply kicking back on the beach, our wide selection of Nassau shore excursions has something for everyone. We're here to help you embark on a truly memorable getaway.

Royal Caribbean passenger dies after excursion boat sinks on way to private island in Bahamas

The two-tiered catamaran was carrying the passengers to the blue lagoon island near nassau, bahamas, by nbc6 • published november 15, 2023 • updated on november 16, 2023 at 9:38 am.

A U.S. tourist died in the Bahamas after an excursion boat carrying more than 100 people sank while traveling to a private island, police said Wednesday.

Chief Superintendent Chrislyn Skippings told The Associated Press that the unidentified 74-year-old woman from Broomfield, Colorado , was on a five-day vacation with her family when the boat sank late Tuesday morning.

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The rest of the passengers and crew members were rescued. Two other unidentified people were taken to a medical facility, police said, but their conditions were not immediately known.

It wasn’t immediately clear how the 74-year-old woman died. Police said in a statement that the woman was found unresponsive as they helped pull the passengers and crew members from the water. They said she was given CPR and then taken to a dock where she was declared dead.

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A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean confirmed that the woman had been a passenger on one of their ships and was participating in a shore excursion.

"We are saddened to hear that one of our guests passed away following an accident on a shore excursion in Nassau, Bahamas," the spokesperson said in a statement. "Our hearts are with the families involved and our Care Team has been activated to support them during this difficult time."

Kelly Schissell, a passenger on the catamaran, recalled the moments the ferry went down.

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"So we were on a two tiered ferry to Blue Lagoon. We were almost there. We started to stop and turn to go into the Blue Lagoon area. And we kind of, I kind of thought like the captain was trying to be silly and like whip a shootie because we all kind of went forward, and the water kind of splashed up. And then all of a sudden, we stayed leaning forward," Schissell said.

Schissell also said that people didn't jump into the water right away as they were awaiting instructions from the crew, but never got them.

"You wonder why people didn't jump in right away. We were kind of waiting for the staff to tell us what to do, which they never did because they were too busy crying and freaking out," Schissell added.

Life vests were available, and those aboard were wearing them, according to authorities.

Police said the double-deck catamaran began taking on water after departing Paradise Island with a group of tourists headed to Blue Lagoon Island, a popular destination located just northeast of the capital of Nassau.

A video posted on social media showed some passengers yelling as the catamaran began listing on its right side, prompting tourists to slowly start jumping into the water as they swam toward nearby boats.

Police said the Royal Bahamas Defense Force also helped with the rescue, as well as nearby pleasure craft.

Authorities said the investigation is ongoing.

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