bahamas cruise routes

The 9 best Bahamas cruises for every type of traveler

The best Bahamas cru ises take you away from the daily grind, transporting you to theme park-like private islands and beach-lined paradises. Cruise choices include new and jazzed-up ships sailing an array of short and weeklong Bahamas itineraries. Cruising to the Bahamas is so easy you may even be able to go without a passport .

Family-friendly lines, such as Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line, offer cruises focused on the Bahamas all year. So do newcomers Virgin Voyages, with its adults-only sailings, and Margaritaville at Sea, offering short two-night hops and longer cruise-and-stay packages. The winter and early spring seasons bring a handful of itineraries on premium lines like Celebrity Cruises and Holland America.

The only cruise lines that don't regularly offer Bahamas cruises are the luxury lines. But don't worry, luxe lovers: Many of the ships we included on our list of the best Bahamas cruises offer suites that come with concierge services, private enclaves or special spa privileges. If a luxury cruise to the Bahamas is your goal, look at the top suite options on a mainstream or premium line.

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Whether you're looking for a quick and cheap getaway or a week at the beach, here are the best Bahamas cruise itineraries to start your search, in order from shortest to longest.

2-night cruises on Margaritaville at Sea Paradise from Palm Beach, Florida

Though cruising is relatively new to the Margaritaville travel and hospitality franchise, cruise line Margaritaville at Sea is essentially a rebranding of the old Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line. Its refurbished ship, Paradise, originally debuted in the 1990s for Costa Cruises.

One Jimmy Buffett-themed makeover later, the ship is a perfect fit for the laid-back vibe of the Bahamas. Grab a drink or a bite to eat from the 5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill, try your luck at the Par-A-Dice Casino and enjoy plenty of entertainment, including the musical production, "Tales from Margaritaville: Jimmy's Ship Show." There's a kids club, a teen club, a spa and two pools stocked with beach balls and inflatable parrots.

The two-night cruise itinerary includes one day in Freeport, where you can shop, hit the casino, enjoy water sports or chill on the beach. The ship offers shore excursions, or you can explore independently. Margaritaville at Sea also offers cruise-and-stay itineraries of either four or six nights (including the two nights onboard the ship). These packages let you choose between two partner hotels in Freeport, where you'll stay two or four nights on land, then hop back on the ship for your return night at sea.

Margaritaville at Sea Paradise carries around 1,300 passengers in an assortment of inside and ocean-view cabins, all around 176 square feet, which is larger than the average for those categories on most mainstream ships. Ten suites with balconies are also available, with 524 square feet of space.

Who should go? Obviously, Parrotheads are gonna want to try this ship, with all its Jimmy Buffett-inspired themes and decor, but it's also a good trial run for anyone on the fence about cruising. Pricing makes this a great cruise to enjoy an escape without spending a fortune. We found weekday sailings that begin at $99 per person based on double occupancy for an inside cabin.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

3- or 4-night cruises on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas from Miami

This itinerary may be the best overall short Bahamas cruise. Both the three- and four-night cruises have stops at Nassau and Royal Caribbean 's massive private island — Perfect Day at CocoCay . Those two stops combined give cruisers the opportunity to enjoy water sports, spend some time at the beach and experience a bit of Bahamian culture.

Freedom of the Seas has plenty of onboard fun to occupy travelers of all ages on sea days. It's loaded with top-deck slides and water features, specialty restaurant choices and more entertainment options than you can take in on a short cruise. Carrying around 4,000 cruise guests, Freedom of the Seas is big enough to impress without being overwhelming.

Plus, logistics for cruising out of Miami are simple enough for even first-time cruisers. From flight choices to pre- or post-cruise hotels, it's a city that caters to tourists, especially the cruising ones.

Who should go? From first-timers to veteran cruisers, anyone looking for a short but fun-filled hop to the Bahamas should give Freedom of the Seas a look. Families looking for a quick escape will find entertainment and activities for toddlers to teens. The ship is also ideal for family reunions, bachelorette parties and birthday cruises. Couples will love the adults-only Solarium with its extra-large hot tubs looking out over the sea.

Related: Bahamas cruise packing list: What to pack for the islands

3- or 4-night cruises on Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas from Port Canaveral, Florida

When Royal Caribbean' s giant Utopia of the Seas debuts in July 2024, it will offer a bevy of short sailings, including three- and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. The 236,860-ton, 5,669-passenger vessel will be the second-largest cruise ship in the world and offer more exciting amenities than any other cruise ship sailing short itineraries in North America.

Why? The newest, biggest ships in the world typically sail longer cruises. Offering short cruises on its humongous Oasis Class ships is new for Royal Caribbean; sister ship Allure of the Seas will test out the concept before Utopia launches.

Families with kids will definitely go bananas over the choices on board the new ship. The top deck alone will feature three separate pool areas, a surfing simulator, a kiddie splash zone, a basketball court, two rock walls, a miniature golf course and even a zip line.

The ship will also boast an extensive selection of restaurants, bars, lounges and shops. Additionally, there will be an indoor skating rink, a spa and a showroom with Broadway-style shows.

Utopia of the Seas' inaugural voyage is set for July 22, 2024, and will be a four-night cruise to Nassau and the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. The second sailing will be a three-night cruise to the Bahamas that departs on July 26, 2024.

Who should go? Short sailings on this new ship will appeal to all sorts of cruisers. Historically, new ships are reserved for longer itineraries, so this is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a snack-size sampling of a brand-new ship without spending the money on a longer sailing.

Families craving a quick getaway where the entire brood is satisfied will not be disappointed. In addition to seemingly endless kid-friendly amenities and top-notch children's programming, Utopia of the Seas will feature a casino and adults-only spaces.

Related: These 2 cruise lines are building new private destinations in the Bahamas

3- or 4-night cruises on Disney Wish from Port Canaveral, Florida

Disney waited a decade to build its next new ship, but Disney dreamers had their wish granted in 2022. Even better, the new Disney Wish cruises to the Bahamas. Designed to be the perfect complement to a visit to Orlando's Disney theme parks, these short cruises visit Nassau and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. The four-night itinerary adds a sea day to enjoy the ship.

Disney Wish is designed to immerse cruisers in the various Disney worlds through technology. An onboard augmented reality game turns the Disney Cruise Line Navigator smartphone app into a virtual spyglass that lets cruisers participate in a fantasy adventure with Disney and Pixar characters. The AquaMouse waterslide combines a splashy tube ride in a two-seater raft with a pre-adventure tale told through screens at the beginning of the ride. Diners at the Worlds of Marvel restaurant take part in an interactive Avengers-themed experience through videos and special effects.

Wish carries 4,000 passengers in cabins and suites designed to simplify cruising with kids. But never fear, adult Disney fans; you'll also find your spot on board. From the "Star Wars"-themed Hyperspace Lounge to the Quiet Cove adults-only sun deck, Disney manages to cater to grownups as well as kids.

Who should go ? This is obviously the best Bahamas cruise for lovers of all things Disney, including "Star Wars" and Marvel fans.

Related: Best shore excursions for Bahamas cruises

3- or 4-night cruises on Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Beginning in April 2024, Celebrity Cruises will sail three- and four-night voyages round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, year-round.

The 3,046-passenger Celebrity Reflection will offer a consistent rotation of three-night weekend cruises (departing each Friday and returning each Monday morning) and four-night weekday sailings (departing each Monday and returning each Friday morning).

Itineraries will include stops at Key West in Florida and Nassau and Bimini in the Bahamas.

Celebrity appeals mostly to the 40-plus set sans small children. It's light on the kid-centric attractions (such as waterslides, go-karts and laser tag) that other big-ship lines include. The line offers instead lots of quiet and relaxing pool and lounge areas. (If you do have kids in tow, you can take advantage of the extensive children's program, Camp at Sea. It provides supervised activities daily for children ages 3-12 in dedicated spaces.)

Celebrity Reflection is the line's last and largest Solstice Class cruise ship. The Solstice Class ships feature some of the most stylish outdoor pool decks at sea, with indoor, adults-only pool areas that, notably, are topped with glass panels embedded with solar panels that contribute to the ship's power grid. You'll also find large spas, casinos, showrooms and a nice selection of restaurants on board.

This ship also boasts one of the most spectacular suites in the cruising world — the 1,646-square-foot Reflection Suite. It was the first two-bedroom suite on a Celebrity Cruises vessel.

Who should go? This an ideal cruise for older travelers who are new to cruising and want to sample one or frequent cruisers who might prefer a shorter time at sea. Although Celebrity doesn't draw many families with young children, the shorter Bahamas itineraries are also perfect for multigenerational family groups seeking an affordable cruise that appeals to all ages.

4-night cruises on Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady from Miami

Virgin Voyages aimed to be a disrupter in the cruise market from the beginning — creating a product designed to please even those who claim they would never set foot on a cruise ship. Yet the itinerary for this four-night Bahamas cruise on Scarlet Lady is fairly ordinary. Ports of call include Key West and a private beach club on the Bahamian island of Bimini.

It's the ship itself that sets this cruise apart from the pack. You'll find unique cabins (with balcony hammocks), brash red livery and one-of-a-kind onboard activities, such as tattoo parlors, drag shows and '80s-themed fitness classes, to keep its 2,700 sailors (as Virgin calls its passengers) entertained.

Who should go ? This is the best Bahamas cruise for the non-cruiser who is either young at heart or young and eager to party aboard this glitzy ship. If you're easily offended by loud music, round-the-clock partying or sexual innuendo, this is not your Bahamas cruise.

4-day cruises on Norwegian Jade from Miami

Norwegian Cruise Line offers four-day sailings from Miami aboard Norwegian Jade. Ports of call include Key West and Great Stirrup Cay, the line's private island.

Port diversions consist of touring the Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum and the Key West Aquarium, shopping along Nassau's Bay Street and exploring the white-sand beaches and pristine waters on Great Stirrup Cay.

The 2,402-passenger vessel is part of the line's Jewel class of ships. Though the ship launched in 2006, it received a substantial refurbishment in 2017 that included a cabin remodel, new and expanded dining and a design overhaul.

Norwegian Jewel might not have the extensive top-deck attractions of newer ships, like Norwegian Prima, or as many restaurants and bars. However, passengers will find plenty to occupy their time onboard with scheduled activities, a casino, spa and pool areas.

Who should go? Families, couples and friend groups will appreciate the unstructured nature of a Norwegian cruise. The line's "freestyle cruising" mantra — cruising without rigid dining schedules, dress codes and formal nights — is perfectly suited for short sailings. With a wide range of eateries and no assigned seating times, passengers have lots of flexibility for their limited time at sea.

Related: Best time to cruise to the Bahamas

5-night cruises on Carnival Sunshine from South Carolina

I am a huge lover of five-night sailings. They are long enough to scratch the cruise itch and short enough to account for travel time to and from the port without adding any extra vacation days. Plus, the slightly longer itineraries are less popular with hard partiers who can be disruptive on shorter Bahamas cruises.

Carnival Cruise Line offers 10 different five-night sailings from Charleston, South Carolina, aboard the 3,002-passenger Carnival Sunshine. It's currently Carnival's oldest ship (it debuted in 1996 under the name Carnival Destiny). However, in 2013, the line gave it a $200 million bow-to-stern glow-up and renamed it Carnival Sunshine. The overhaul produced a new top-deck WaterWorks water park, a comedy club and several bars, lounges and restaurants.

Depending on which itinerary you choose, you can chill out on the beaches of Bimini, shop Nassau's iconic straw market or go horseback riding by the shore of Carnival's private island, Half Moon Cay. Consider a pre- or post-cruise stay in Charleston to take in the city's historic landmarks, epic dining and charming cobblestone streets.

Who should go? These cruises are the best Bahamas sailings for those who prefer the intimacy of an older ship and don't care about flashy amenities and onboard attractions on newer vessels. Plus, they're ideal for travelers who live north of Florida and are looking for a more convenient drive-to departure port.

8-night cruises on Carnival Venezia from New York City

The 4,090-passenger Carnival Venezia is a bit of an outlier in Carnival Cruise Line's fleet. Originally built for Italy-based Costa Cruises and launched in 2019, it joined the Carnival family in May 2023. (Carnival Corporation is the parent company of both Costa and Carnival.)

The ship was renovated to add many of Carnival's signature venues. However, many of its Costa-aligned, Italian-themed designs remain, including a real gondola "sailing" down the middle of its main dining room and a pool deck built to look like a Venetian boulevard.

Guests might feel like they've been whisked away to Italy thanks to regional touches like the handmade Italian gelato at JavaBlue Cafe and the Italian liqueur-infused concoctions found at many bars.

Two eight-night voyages out of New York City include stops at Freeport, Nassau and Half Moon Cay.

Who should go? This Bahamas cruise is ideal for anyone looking for a different Carnival experience during a weeklong cruise. It's almost like traveling to Italy and the Bahamas in one trip.

Bottom line

The best Bahamas cruises offer something cruisers can't quite get enough of — whether it's beach time or party time. While short sailings are still the most popular Bahamas itineraries, you can find options for almost every cruising style. The key is identifying the cruise that fits your style, preferred activities and vacation budget.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Bahamas Cruises

Relax and recharge on the caribbean’s most iconic beaches.

Float through crystal-clear waters and sunbathe on palm tree-lined beaches during a Bahamas cruise with Princess®. This vibrant destination is home to Princess Cays, our private island resort that is truly relaxation defined. Spend the day relaxing beachside or snorkeling just off the shore. Find cruises to the Bahamas that fit just about any schedule with options of a short getaway or a week long Caribbean vacation with the family.

Bahamas Cruise Overview

Surf, sand and sun await on a Bahamas cruise. Indulge in rest and relaxation while lounging on unspoiled beaches that offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a dip in the water, and ride in a paddle wheeler with your loved ones. Or revel in the laid-back atmosphere of island time while floating along the shoreline. Experience the best of the Bahamas and the Caribbean with Princess.

Princess Cays, Relaxation Defined

On a Bahamas cruise, visit the dazzling port of Princess Cays, Princess’ Private Island Resort. Relax in a beachside sanctuary bungalow, ride on a banana boat or paddle through the turquoise waters on a kayak with friends and family. Experience this quintessential Bahamas port on most of our Caribbean cruise itineraries, and indulge in the best of both worlds as you sail on to explore other nearby destinations.

Cruise to the Bahamas on These Featured Caribbean Cruises

Caribbean Getaways

Relaxation and ocean exploration.

Caribbean Getaways offer short cruises to the Bahamas for a dose of relaxation on a quick weekend trip or a mid-week recharge. From kayaks and paddleboards to noodles and floats, frolic through the water and refuel with a complimentary beach barbecue. Then embark on a leisurely glass-bottom boat ride around the island, or unwind in a private bungalow and enjoy access to Princess MedallionNet® right from your beach chair.

Find Cruises

Learn more about Caribbean Getaways

Week-Long Caribbean Cruises

Caribbean sun and aquatic fun.

Take a week-long vacation on a Bahamas cruise with more to love, calling on additional Caribbean ports. Visit Princess Cays for a day in the sun, sand and surf. Then have more time to explore Trunk Bay – one of the “Cruise Wonders of the World” – during a late-night stay in St. Thomas on Eastern Caribbean itineraries. From relaxation to adventure, experience cruises to the Bahamas that have more range with Princess.

Learn more about Caribbean Cruises

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Where traditions abound.

Get a taste of traditional Caribbean culture as you sail to ports like Bonaire and Aruba. Relive Curacao's colorful past, and discover Bonaire's pristine coral reefs. Or explore Aruba’s underwater "Antilla" shipwreck, home to a variety of exotic sea life. Whether sailing to a specific region or embarking on a comprehensive cruise, cruise to the Bahamas and unwind at Princess Cays before heading to your next destination.

Learn more about Southern Caribbean Cruises

Cruises to the Bahamas by Season

Fall Bahamas Cruises

Get a taste of the Caribbean while savoring tropical delights on each of the islands. Enjoy jerk chicken in Jamaica, coconut bread pudding in St. Kitts, or a beach barbecue in Princess Cays. Or indulge in conch — the national food of The Bahamas. Cruises to the Bahamas also come complete with island-inspired cocktails and cuisine on board.

Spring Bahamas Cruises

On Bahamas cruises, embark on diverse adventures no matter the destination. Explore the Mayan Ruins in the Western Caribbean, snorkel past coral reefs in the Southern Caribbean, and sail on a catamaran in the Eastern Caribbean. Find activities for the family during a spring break vacation that feels like summer.

Summer Bahamas Cruises

Nothing says summer quite like the Caribbean, especially when you spend the day playing in the Caribbean Sea. On cruises to the Bahamas, snorkel alongside tropical fish, and paddle through the waters in a tandem kayak with family or friends. Or float in the clear blue Caribbean Sea in an inner tube.

Winter Bahamas Cruises

Spice up your holiday season on a Bahamas cruise and immerse yourself in the best of each destination with our exclusive Local Connections Program. Sample Blue Curacao on a distillery tour, snorkel alongside friendly stingrays in Antigua or discover St. Lucia’s Creole traditions from a master craftsman.

#PrincessCruises Caribbean Connections

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2023-2024 Caribbean Cruises

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Caribbean Cruise Weather by Month

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Top Five Caribbean Cruise Destinations

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Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go.

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Learn more about transfers

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax.

Extend your Caribbean cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation and the services of the representative.

View Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

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Western Caribbean Cruises

Historic Spots and Natural Wonders

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Bahamas Cruises

3-night disney lookout cay at lighthouse point preview cruise from fort lauderdale.

Be among the first to visit our newest island destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, when you cast off from Fort Lauderdale on a 3-night preview cruise that includes a stop at Nassau, where pirate haunts, old-world colonial charm and bustling marketplaces await. At Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, surrender to a perfect beach day with all the amenities—including a freshly grilled lunch—and experience the rich culture, beauty and history of The Bahamas at our colorful Arts and Culture Pavilion. Please note that some experiences on this sailing may be limited or impacted due to preview events occurring at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Take off on a 3-night magical family adventure to The Bahamas and soak up all the natural beauty this quintessential island paradise has to offer—relax on white-sand beaches and splash it up in clear-turquoise waters. Stops may include Nassau and one or both of our secluded island paradises—Disney Castaway Cay and the all-new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. While sailing the open waters, delight in Broadway-quality shows, themed dining experiences, imaginative kids clubs and so much more.

3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale ending in San Juan

Bask in the tranquil beauty of The Bahamas on this 3-night cruise to San Juan. Enjoy a day-long sojourn at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, our newest tropical retreat celebrating Bahamian culture and the island’s natural wonders. Then, spend a glorious day at sea delighting in all the magic on board—from Broadway-quality shows to festive deck parties and more.

3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Jingle all the way to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, decked out just for the holidays. Enjoy a barbecue lunch, games, Character experiences and an adults-only beach. Back onboard, celebrate the season with winter wonderland décor, holiday parties, festive activities and more on itineraries departing November through Christmas.

3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Set sail for a hauntingly fun Halloween celebration at sea brimming with spooky surprises, not-so-scary activities, and bewitching décor. Plus, soak up the beauty of The Bahamas with stops in Nassau and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, our brand-new island retreat.

3-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Celebrate Halloween at sea with treats, tricks and spooky surprises, including elaborate décor and themed entertainment. Plus, discover dazzling Bahamian destinations with select itineraries dropping anchor in Nassau, Disney Castaway Cay or Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

3-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Delight in seasonal magic at sea during a glittering Very Merrytime Cruise in The Bahamas. Join a grand celebration on deck—complete with garlands, shimmering lights, a 24-foot Christmas tree and beloved Disney Characters dressed in their holly-jolly best. Plus, with a stop at our private island paradise Disney Castaway Cay, you're sure to enjoy some holiday fun in the sun as well!

3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Sail from Port Canaveral—just an hour from Walt Disney World Resort—to Castaway Cay, our private island paradise. Feast on barbecue fare, play beach games, meet Disney Characters and relax on an adults-only beach. Throughout your cruise, enjoy a bevy of onboard delights, from fine dining for adults to interactive play spaces for kids.

4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Relax on pristine white-sand beaches, explore turquoise waters and experience the vibrant culture of this inviting island paradise. While sailing the high seas, make a splash in the freshwater pools and water coasters, savor gourmet meals and take in an enchanting Broadway-style show.

4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Ring in the holidays with a Bahamian cruise brimming with winter wonderland décor, holiday parties, seasonal surprises, joyous caroling and themed activities on board. Spend a day in Nassau, where white-sand beaches and inviting turquoise waters are sure to make all your tropical holiday dreams come true. Plus, enjoy day-long sojourns to our Bahamian retreats on select sailings to Disney Castaway Cay or Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

4-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Celebrate the Halloween season during a spirited 4-night sailing filled with spook-tacular onboard fun, spellbinding entertainment and themed Character encounters. Plus, discover the vibrant culture and incredible natural beauty of The Bahamas with stops at Nassau and our newest island retreat, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

4-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Celebrate the season surrounded by the captivating beauty of The Bahamas. Depending on your itinerary, stops may include Nassau, our private island Disney Castaway Cay or our newest tropical retreat, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. On board, delight in a winter wonderland of holiday magic—complete with glittering décor, holiday parties, festive activities and more.

4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Set your sights on The Bahamas for pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and a laid-back island vibe. Back on board, delight in the magic of Disney—from Broadway-style shows and enchanting themed dining to rollicking deck parties and fun-filled activities for the whole family.

4-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Celebrate All Hallows’ Eve with treats, tricks and spooky surprises, from elaborate décor to themed entertainment, and call upon historic Nassau for a day of shopping, sightseeing or marine life encounters at the Atlantis resort. Plus, enjoy a visit to one of our amazing Bahamian island destinations—Disney Castaway Cay or Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

4-Night Bahamian Cruise from San Juan ending in Fort Lauderdale

Sail away to the tranquil charm of The Bahamas on a fun-filled 4-night cruise from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Discover powdery white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and a laid-back island vibe during stops at Nassau and our very own island destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. While at sea, delight in Broadway-style shows, themed dining experiences, imaginative kids clubs and more.

4-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral ending in San Juan

Cast off for magical mischief and spellbinding fun on a spook-tacular 4-night Bahamian cruise from sunny Port Canaveral to historic San Juan, Puerto Rico. Along the way, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of The Bahamas at our newest island retreat, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Marvel Day at Sea

Embark on an enchanted journey to The Bahamas—which includes a stop at Nassau, where you can experience old-world colonial charm, historic forts, bustling marketplaces, delectable island cuisine and gorgeous beaches. For even more magic, enjoy stops at our island destinations Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. On board, unleash the hero within during Marvel Day at Sea, where you’ll enjoy a Marvel-themed deck party, Super Hero meet-and-greets, a costume celebration and more!

5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Embark on an enchanted journey to The Bahamas—which includes a stop at Nassau, where you can experience old-world colonial charm, historic forts, bustling marketplaces, delectable island cuisine and gorgeous beaches. For even more magic, enjoy a stop at one of our island destinations, either Disney Castaway Cay or Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Both locations offer loads of family fun, dedicated play areas for kids, adult-exclusive beaches and incredible natural beauty. On board, delight in the world-class hospitality and entertainment only Disney can create.

5-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Scare-a-brate the Halloween season on a spook-tacular 5-night sailing to The Bahamas. Enjoy stops at Nassau and both of our very own island retreats—Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Both magical locations offer loads of family fun, dedicated play areas for kids, an adult-exclusive beach and incredible natural beauty. On board, delight in spellbinding entertainment and themed Character encounters.

5-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Celebrate the season surrounded by the captivating beauty of The Bahamas during a 5-night cruise from Port Canaveral. Stops may include Nassau, Disney Castaway Cay or Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Both our island retreats offer loads of family fun, dedicated play areas for kids, an adult-exclusive beach and incredible natural beauty. On board, delight in a winter wonderland of holiday magic—complete with glittering décor, holiday parties, festive activities and more.

5-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Hit the high seas for Halloween on this frightfully fun Bahamian sailing from Fort Lauderdale. Drop anchor in 3 sun-kissed ports of call—including Disney Castaway Cay and our newest island retreat, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. While at sea, get your fill of treats and not-so-scary surprises, from spooky décor to chilling entertainment.

5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral with 2 Stops at Castaway Cay

Strike a balance between relaxation and adventure during this “double-dip” roundtrip cruise from Port Canaveral, granting you a day in Nassau and 2 opportunities to play at Castaway Cay. Envision swaying on a hammock at Serenity Bay with your favorite beverage in hand, pedaling up and down quaint bike paths or challenging your core with stand up paddle boarding. The possibilities are endless.

5-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Experience the magic of the holidays at sea on a festive 5-night cruise from Fort Lauderdale. Wintry décor, enchanting holiday activities and joyous surprises await on board. Also, explore 3 sun-splashed Bahamian wonderlands including our newest island retreat, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Strike a balance between relaxation and adventure during this roundtrip cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, granting you a day in Nassau, home to the bustling Straw Market, delectable cuisine and the world’s largest waterpark. Plus, depending on your itinerary, enjoy stops at one or both of our magical island destinations, Disney Castaway Cay and the all-new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Soak up the family fun amid lush panoramas, pristine beaches and breathtaking ocean views. The possibilities are endless.

6-Night Very Merrytime Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral with 2 Stops at Castaway Cay

Create unforgettable memories at sea on this 6-night sailing overflowing with festive surprises for the whole family. Enjoy seasonal décor, enchanting activities and holly-jolly encounters with beloved Disney Characters. Plus, call upon dazzling ports in The Bahamas—including holiday-themed fun at Disney Castaway Cay.

6-Night Bahamian Cruise from San Juan ending in Galveston

Discover tropical island fun and the vibrant culture of The Bahamas on a 6-night sailing aboard the Disney Magic. Spend a carefree day splashing in turquoise waters and exploring the blissful amenities of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, our newest island retreat. Then, drop anchor at our very own private island, Disney Castaway Cay—where world-class recreation and white-sand beaches await. Plus, immerse yourself in all the magic on board with 3 fun-filled days at sea.

6-Night Halloween on the High Seas Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral with 2 stops at Castaway Cay

Cast off on a thrilling 6-night voyage through The Bahamas. Enjoy all the world-class amenities of a Disney Cruise Line vacation—with a spook-tacular twist! Experience bewitching surroundings and meet some of your favorite Disney friends dressed in their Halloween best. Then soak up tropical vibes at Bahamian ports of call, including 2 stops at our private island destination, Disney Castaway Cay.

7-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston ending in San Juan

Escape to a vibrant tropical paradise on a 7-night Bahamian cruise from Galveston to San Juan. Immerse yourself in turquoise waters, white-sand beaches and endless sunshine during stops at Nassau and both of our very own island destinations—Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. On board, freshwater pools, world-famous entertainment, imaginative kids clubs and adult-exclusive dining and lounges await.

7-Night Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Inaugural Cruise from Port Canaveral

Be among the first to drop anchor—not just once, but twice—at our colorful, brand-new island retreat, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Enjoy a carefree beach day filled with family fun, blissful tranquility and the rich culture, traditions and stories of The Bahamas. Other sun-drenched stops on this special 7-night inaugural sailing include Nassau and our private island paradise, Disney Castaway Cay. It’s a Bahamian vacation at sea like no other, awash with relaxation, adventure and magical memories in the making.

Island Hopping Made Easy: 10 Best Cruises To Explore The Bahamas

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The Bahamas is an archipelago of over 700 islands, and it's no secret that it's one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. With its crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and abundant marine life, it's no wonder why people from all over the world flock to this tropical paradise .

One of the best ways to explore The Bahamas is by taking a cruise. A Bahamas cruise allows you to visit several islands, each with its unique charm and attractions. In this blog post, we'll be showcasing the 10 best cruises to explore The Bahamas.

10 Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day At CocoCay Cruise

Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay Cruise offers travelers an exclusive beach day experience in the Bahamas with a range of activities, including the tallest waterslide in North America and a hot air balloon ride. Guests can also relax in their own Overwater Cabana, offering a taste of Bora Bora. CocoCay is quickly becoming a favorite private island destination for its perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

• Name: 4-Night Cruise to the Bahamas
• Cost: US$499
• Ports Visited: Grand Bahama Island, Nassau, Great Stirrup Cay

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Related: Royal Caribbean Unveils Their Icon Of The Seas Cruise Ship

9 Disney Cruise Line's Bahamian Cruise

Disney Cruise Line's Bahamian Cruise allows travelers to experience the beauty of the Bahamas up close. The cruise takes guests to historic Nassau and Disney Castaway Cay, a private island paradise reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests. Guests can also enjoy Disney's signature entertainment and activities, including character meet-and-greets and Broadway-style shows.

• Name: 3-Night Cruise to the Bahamas
• Route: San Juan, Castaway Cay, Fort Lauderdale

8 Norwegian Cruise Line's Great Stirrup Cay Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line's Great Stirrup Cay Cruise is a popular choice among travelers who want to experience an exciting beach day on Norwegian's private island in the Bahamas. Known for its luxury ocean liners, Norwegian Cruise Line offers this itinerary on many of its Caribbean cruises, making it easily accessible for families with kids or adult-only groups. It's important to note that guests will need to take a tender boat to reach the island.

A tender boat is a smaller craft that runs back and forth from a larger yacht or ship.

• Route: Grand Bahama Island, Nassau, Great Stirrup Cay

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7 Carnival Cruise Line's Nassau Cruise

Carnival Cruise Line's Nassau Cruise takes passengers to the vibrant capital city of The Bahamas. Guests can explore the colorful streets of Nassau, visit the famous Straw Market, and even swim with dolphins at Blue Lagoon Island. For an affordable cruise option, it's definitely worth considering. Onboard entertainment is exciting and always fun, whether guests are looking to party or relax.

• Cost: US$211pp
• Route: Half Moon Cay, Nassau

6 MSC Cruises' Ocean Cay Cruise

MSC Cruises' Ocean Cay Cruise onboard the MSC Meraviglia is a great choice for families looking for a fun and entertaining vacation. The Ocean Cay Marine Reserve is a private island owned by MSC, offering plenty of activities for guests of all ages, including Kids’ Clubs & Activities and World-Class Entertainment. With a range of options for both family time and individual pursuits, Ocean Cay is perfect for a memorable family vacation. Additionally, MSC Cruises offer great deals to solo travelers looking for a luxurious Caribbean getaway.

• Cost: US$169pp
• Route: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Nassau, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Port Canaveral (Orlando)

Related: How To Know If Small Ship Cruising Is Right For You

5 Princess Cruises' Princess Cays Cruise

Princess Cruises' Princess Cays Cruise takes guests to the cruise line's own private island resort. Travelers enjoy going to cruises to private resorts because they offer great facilities, excellent service, and pristine beaches. The island boasts intact coral reefs, making it a top snorkeling spot in the entire Caribbean. Guests can snorkel right off the beach or engage in numerous water sports for hire, while souvenir shopping is also a popular activity on the island.

• Name: 7-Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean
• Cost: US$578 pp
• Route: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Cozumel, Roatan, Belize City, Costa Maya, Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

4 Celebrity Cruises' Nassau And Key West Cruise

Celebrity Cruises' Nassau and Key West Cruise is a popular itinerary for travelers looking to have an extraordinary vacation experience. Celebrity Cruises is hailed by passengers as one of the best cruise lines , and the luxurious staterooms on board the Celebrity Silhouette are no exception. The cruise takes guests to two beautiful destinations, Key West and Bimini, Bahamas, and it is definitely worth spending extra to travel with Celebrity Cruises.

• Cost: US$388 pp
• Route: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Key West, Nassau, Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

3 Oceania Cruises' Eastern Caribbean Cruise

Oceania Cruises' Eastern Caribbean Cruise offers a luxurious vacation experience with the ship's captivating residential furnishings and best-in-class culinary experiences. The Vista's luxurious signature public spaces create a welcoming home away from home for guests exploring the eastern Caribbean region, which appeals to those looking for quaint towns, beautiful beaches, and great water sports. Traveling onboard The Vista, guests can explore this vibrant region and enjoy a truly indulgent vacation.

• Name: 12-Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean
• Cost: US$3,799 pp
• Route: Miami, Great Stirrup Cay, Atlantic Ocean (Cruising), San Juan, St. Barts, Dominica, Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia, Antigua, Atlantic Ocean (Cruising), Atlantic Ocean (Cruising), Miami

Related: 10 Best All-Inclusive Resorts To Stay At During Your Next Caribbean Spring Vacation

2 Holland America Line's Half Moon Cay Cruise

Holland America Line's Half Moon Cay Cruise takes guests to the cruise line's very own private island, which is consistently rated as one of the highest-rated Bahamas private islands. With true bucket-list excursions such as feeding and touching gentle stingrays and a multi-level play structure for kids, there's no shortage of things to do on the island . Guests can stay busy all day or luxuriate in tranquil solitude, with many excursions and exclusive activities available, including multiple food pavilions and restaurants to dine at.

• Cost: US$1,129 pp
• Route: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Half Moon Cay, Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman (Georgetown), Cozumel, Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

1 Margaritaville At Sea

Margaritaville at Sea provides a unique cruise experience to Grand Bahama Island, complete with a casual yet luxurious design and resort-like atmosphere. With a promise to bring their signature resort experience onboard the ship, the cruise offers a range of activities for all, including swimming with dolphins, relaxing on powder-white beaches, romantic dinners, and local shopping. For younger travelers, there is also a Kid's Club.

• Name: 3-day and a 2-night cruise
• Cost: US$101 pp
• Route: Palm Beach, Freeport, Grand Bahama Island

Yes, You Can Island-Hop In The Bahamas & Here's How And To Where

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There's a beach with your name on it once you plan a Bahamas cruise holiday. Slip away for a 3 to 8-day cruise from Miami or Tampa, or cruise from Orlando (Port Canaveral) if you're in need of a quick getaway. Visit Great Stirrup Cay , where you can swim with stingrays, kayak, or enjoy island cocktails in your own private cabana. Whether you're looking for a tropical adventure, a little romance, or just a great time with the kids, we've got plenty of Bahamas cruises to choose from. Add in Freestyle Cruising with our award-winning dining, entertainment, and accommodations and you have the perfect Bahamas holiday. Do it all or nothing at all – that’s the beauty of a Bahamas cruise with Norwegian.

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The Perfect Getaway: Weekend Cruises

If you are looking for a worry-free vacation and don’t have many days to spare, a weekend cruise is the perfect option. Our recently renovated ship, Norwegian Sun offers the ultimate onboard experience as it whisks you away to the always sunny Bahamas. And with the added perks of Free at Sea, all you have to do is pack your bags and show up for a good time.

Great Stirrup Cay, Your Own Private Island

Set sail for the Bahamas and get ready for some fun in the sun! All of our Bahamas cruises feature a whole day visit to Great Stirrup Cay, an idyllic island paradise reserved only for our guests. Swim with dolphins, snorkel with exotic fish, or just stroll the white sand beaches. This eco-fun paradise offers something for everyone!

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Great stirrup cay.

• Stingray City
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• WaveRunner on Great Stirrup Cay
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• Unwind in the crystal-clear Bahamian waters.

Explore Bahamas Cruise Ports

Featured Bahamas CRUISE ITINERARIES

Best bahamas excursions.

We know the destinations you'll be visiting and what there is to see, do and experience. We offer you a variety of excursions to choose from, in every port you'll visit.

Atlantis Aquaventure

Aquaventure, Atlantis Paradise Island’s Water Park, is a one-of-a-kind 141 acre waterscape. ...

Wave Runner Tour - Single (Driver Only)

Take a 45-minute guided adventure through the Berry Islands, neighboring Great Stirrup Cay. After a safety briefing and orientation, you’ll board your Wave Runner for an informativ...

Kennedy Space Center

Located just minutes from Port Canaveral on Florida's Space Coast, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of mankind's most fascinati...

PIRATES COVE BEACH GETAWAY

Enjoy a spectacular day at the beachfront Pirate’s Cove doing most anything you please. With no schedule to follow, you can genuinely relax in style at your own pace. Feel free to ...

Bahamas HOTELS

New York Marriott Marquis

There is no city quite like New York City, and no hotel quite like New York Marriott Marquis. Set in the heart of Times Square on West 46th Street and Broadway, our iconic hotel lets you experience all the magic of New York from the moment you arrive. Feel the energy all around you, both within the hotel and as soon as you step outside. Inside our towering hotel, you'll find some of New York City's largest hotel rooms and suites, multiple restaurants - including the only revolving restaurant in the city and our new outdoor lounge -100,000 square feet of meeting and event space and a knowledgeable staff to help you navigate this expansive and ever-changing city.

There is no city quite like New York City, and no hotel quite like New York Marriott Marquis. Set in the heart of Times Square on West 46th Street and Broadway, our iconic hotel lets you experience all the magic of New York from the moment you arrive. Feel the energy all around you, both within the hotel and as soon as you step outside. Inside our towering hotel, you'll find some of New York City's largest hotel rooms and suites, multiple restaurants - including the only revolving restaurant in the city and our new outdoor lounge -100,000 square feet of meeting and event space and a knowledgeable staff to help you navigate this expansive and ever-changing city. Whether visiting for a family holiday, romantic getaway or attending a conference, the New York Marriott Marquis is truly the perfect hotel for your stay in New York City.

• Distance/Airport: 20 miles (JFK) / 12 miles (LGA) / 20 miles Distance/Pier: 1.5 miles
• Room and room tax Bellman gratuities Transfers between Hotel and Pier

Important Note: Accommodations are based on double occupancy per room. Some accommodation will allow triple and quad guests in a room and are subject to availability and surcharge will apply. Additional hotel rooms to accommodate triple and quads may be required, and surcharge will apply.

Read THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT Bahamas Cruises

Come explore our exclusive private island experience, Great Stirrup Cay.

Sail to Nassau, Key West and Great Stirrup Cay

Ready to find your perfect beach in the Bahamas? Now is the time to plan that tropical holiday with a Bahamas cruise.

Cruise The Bahamas Without a Passport

Did you know its possible to cruise without a passport? Learn more about cruising to The Bahamas without a passport.

Chase the Thrill

Swim with dolphins or parasail over the ocean. These are just two of the thrilling things you can do in The Bahamas.

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The 3 Best Bahamas Cruises of 2024

Cruise to the Bahamas for clear waters, sandy beaches, and stunning coral reefs.

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• Best Extended Cruise: Royal Caribbean
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Princess Cruises

Final Verdict

Best activities : carnival.

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• Sails from: Charleston
• Duration: 4 nights
• Ship Name: Carnival Sunshine
• Itinerary: Princess Cays, Bahamas 

Get a full dose of the Bahamas in a short amount of time aboard the 3,002-passenger, Carnival Sunshine . Known for a festive atmosphere onboard, Sunshine hosts comedy shows, lip sync battles, deck parties, karaoke, and live theater performances. When it’s time to relax, there’s Cloud 9 Spa or Serenity adults-only retreat. Expect a variety of dining options including Guy’s Burger Joint (from television restaurant personality Guy Fieri), as well as the BlueIguana Cantina — Carnival’s signature Mexican restaurant. The cruise calls on the private island Princess Cays and includes kayaking, eco tours, and more. Sunshine sails round-trip from Charleston.

Best Extended Cruise : Royal Caribbean

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• Sails from: Baltimore
• Duration: 7-8 nights
• Ship Name: Grandeur of the Seas
• Itinerary: Port Canaveral, Florida; CocoCay, Bahamas; Nassau, Bahamas; Baltimore, Maryland

Combine the pink-sand beaches of Bermuda with a trip to the Bahamas onboard Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas for a longer, sun-soaked getaway. The cruise sails from Baltimore and overnights in Port Canaveral, for even more time exploring. Then, it continues to Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas for private cabanas, gigantic water slides, and swim-up bars. Onboard Grandeur , passengers can watch movies under the stars, watch a tango show, take culinary or sushi classes, and learn some new dance moves. Sample excellent cuisine at one of Royal Caribbean’s signature restaurants, like Chops Grille steakhouse or Giovanni’s Table.

Best Cruise Experience : Princess Cruises

• Sails from: Fort Lauderdale
• Ship Name: Caribbean Princess
• Itinerary: Princess Cays, Bahamas; Fort Lauderdale

Many cruises on Princess tend to have longer itineraries, but you can escape to a private port in the Bahamas on a short, four-night jaunt aboard 3,140-passenger, Caribbean Princess . While sailing to a private port in Eleuthera, passengers can spend time at sea exploring the newly refurbished ship or participate in a roster of daily activities ranging from trivia, scavenger hunts, and pub crawls to spa seminars and sports contests. In the evenings, catch “Movies Under the Stars,” the “Voice of the Ocean” (a live show), or head over to the Club Fusion dance club. The private, 40-acre resort in the Bahamas has white-sand beaches, a craft market, volleyball and water sports, and a beach party complete with a barbecue lunch. 

Still can't find what you're looking for? Check out our roundup of the best cruises for adults .

For families who hope to have enough to keep everyone entertained, while also staying on a budget, the Carnival Cruises are great options. There are a variety of shows, access to parks for kids, and adults-only retreats for parents to wind down. Royal Caribbean Cruises are great options if you're looking for both short and long trips, while Princess provides a great all-around cruise experience.

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Bahamas Cruises

Explore the captivating Caribbean on an unforgettable Holland America Line cruise. Our Bahamas cruises include a visit to Half Moon Cay, a renowned “Best Private Island,” and Nassau, the nation’s capital, where you can explore Nassau Paradise Island. Book your dream Caribbean cruise today and experience its magic firsthand.

Featured Bahamas Cruise Ports

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Nassau, Bahamas

Bimini, Bahamas

Top bahamas shore excursions.

Charm & Beauty of Nassau & Paradise Island

Must See in Nassau

Horseback riding by land & sea, featured bahamas cruise itineraries.

5-Day Tropical Caribbean

7-Day Eastern Caribbean

10-Day Southern Caribbean Seafarer

The bahamas experience.

Uncover expert insights and Bahamas travel tips courtesy of Holland America Line’s seasoned professionals.

Packing List for the Caribbean and the Bahamas

First Time Caribbean Guide

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Best things to do on half moon cay, bahamas cruises from fort lauderdale, florida.

EXPLORE THE BAHAMAS ON A HOLLAND CRUISE DEPARTING FROM FORT LAUDERDALE

Best holland america line cruise ships, introducing our newest ships, nieuw statendam, add to your bahamas cruise.

Exquisite Onboard Experiences

Experience world-class dining on our cruise ships with a variety of restaurants led by celebrity chefs. From casual poolside bites to Pan-Asian flavors at Tamarind and fine dining at Pinnacle Grill, our menus offer a culinary adventure.

Flight Ease

Book flights that depart and arrive in time for Caribbean cruises with Holland America Line Flight Ease®. Find low prices, loads of options, and enjoy flexibility and support should plans change.

Add A Hotel Package to Your Bahamas Cruise

Add a hotel package to your Caribbean cruise and indulge in a convenient, comfortable overnight in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida before or after your cruise.

Celebrations On Board

While on your dream cruise to Caribbean islands, celebrate special moments in life. Let us plan the perfect event while you relax and soak up the sunshine.

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Southern Caribbean Cruises    |    Eastern Caribbean Cruises    |    Western Caribbean Cruises    |    Bahamas Cruises

7 - Day The Bahamas from Baltimore, MD

Cruise itinerary.

Day 1: Baltimore

Day 2 & 3: Fun Day at Sea

Day 4: nassau, day 5: princess cays, day 6: freeport.

Day 7: Fun Day at Sea

Day 8: baltimore.

Get to Know Carnival Pride

Carnival Pride charms, alright — it's a treat for your eyes, your taste buds... and of course, your fun buds. Invite them all to come enjoy the vacation that this ship is proud to offer. Carnival Pride invites you to dine refined, from the zen-like simplicity of Bonsai Sushi ™ to the art deco ocean liner inspiration of the Normandie Restaurant, to the American-Traditional style of Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse. And of course there's real, delectable substance under all that style. But for something a little more casual, loosen your tie... or maybe just throw it away and grab a main course (and fries) from our main man Guy Fieri, at Guy's Burger Joint ™ . The Mexican heat's optional at BlueIguana Cantina ™ , but make your next stop Cherry on Top ™ — our candy-and-more store — where everything's sweet. And to raise a glass to important sacrifices of the past, Heroes Tribute Bar makes remembrance its primary objective. You'll find yourself with room to move at the Beauties Dance Club, and a hard time sitting still at Playlist Productions ™ . All around this cruise ship you'll discover even more ways to stay cool, like an adult-only pool at Serenity, a fun-only midship pool featuring a retractable roof, plus Carnival Pride's splashy onboard waterpark, Carnival WaterWorks ™ . And if all the waterslide action leaves you needing a little extra unwinding, we recommend you dry off and head to the Cloud 9 Spa ™ . Alongside the pool is the big-screen, big-fun Carnival Seaside Theater ™ , while Seuss at Sea ™ is a good time for kids who love a good rhyme too. (Like we do!) Camp Ocean ® , Circle "C" ® and Club O2 ® prove that we've got spots for cool kids of all ages.

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From FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - onboard CELEBRITY BEYOND

†Taxes, fees and port expenses $159.55 USD *

At Celebrity Cruises®, we believe choice matters. That’s why we’ve pre-packaged our most popular amenities—drinks, and Wi-Fi— Tips charged separately. So you can now choose the most convenient way to get the best value from your cruise.

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Choose from an incredible array of beers, spirits, cocktails, liqueurs, frozen drinks, wines by the glass, sodas, juices, specialty coffees and bottled water.

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We know staying in touch is important, so we’ve included internet access for all guests. Browse the web, check email, and use messaging apps.

Cruise Itinerary

• Port of Departure
• Port of Call
• Cruise Route

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Sun, Jun 23, 2024

Departs: 4:00PM

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Mon, Jun 24, 2024

Docked: 7:00AM to 4:30PM

At Sea - Cruising

Tue, Jun 25, 2024

George Town, Grand Cayman

Wed, Jun 26, 2024

Tendered: 10:00AM to 5:00PM

Thu, Jun 27, 2024

Bimini, Bahamas

Fri, Jun 28, 2024

Docked: 9:30AM to 6:00PM

Sat, Jun 29, 2024

Arrival: 7:00AM

See Full Itinerary

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About This Ship

The third ship in our revolutionary Edge ® Series, Celebrity Beyond℠ takes our innovative outward-facing design further than ever, creating an even closer connection between you, the sea, and every exciting place on the horizon. Soak up the sun, salt breezes, and stunning scenery in newly expanded open-air spaces. Savor fine dining that rivals anything you’d find on land. And discover even more ways to relax and renew.

Onboard Features

The Grand Plaza

The Grand Plaza is a transformational place that offers a different experience every time you visit. From day to night, the lighting changes from warm and inviting to bright and dramatic.

Rooftop Garden

What better place could there be to gaze at the sea than float pools that are cantilevered over the open ocean? This feat is one of the highlights of our redesigned Rooftop Garden, which now extends right over the water’s edge.

Resort Deck

Find endless ways to connect with the sea, including the Rooftop Garden, the adults-only Solarium pool, and the Main Pool—an asymmetrical space surrounded by an outward-facing, terraced pool deck.

The Solarium

On the Resort Deck, you’ll find the adults-only Solarium. Celebrity Beyond continues the tradition of offering this glass dome-covered pool area where adults can unwind in luxurious style. The Solarium features a pool and hot tubs for liquid relaxation. Grab a light bite for breakfast or lunch at The Spa Café and Juice Bar or order your favorite beverage or cocktail.

The sheer size of Eden will amaze you. In fact, Eden has more outward-facing glass than any other venue at sea, so here you’ll feel more connected to the sea—and the stunning destinations beyond. With Eden Café, Eden restaurant, and Eden Bar, three levels of cozy nooks, lounge seating, and lively entertainment, no matter what time of day or night you visit Eden, it will leave you intrigued and wanting more.

The Magic Carpet

The Magic Carpet® is a cantilevered, floating platform that reaches heights of 13 stories above sea level. Majestically situated on the starboard side of the ship, it makes Celebrity Beyond’s sleek profile recognizable from miles away. Enjoy comfortable seating, a full bar, and space for live music performances.

The Theatre on Beyond

The entertainment aboard Beyond raises the bar on vacations to even greater heights with experiences that are just as revolutionary, just as technologically mind-blowing, and just as carefully crafted as Celebrity Beyond itself.

This Vegas-style casino rivals the biggest and best land-based casinos. With a variety of games in a smoke-free environment.

Whether you’re joining the excitement of the daily activities that take place here or popping in at night for the cutting-edge entertainment experiences, The Club offers hours of entertainment—with a completely new look.

The Destination Gateway

A multi-purpose area that brings our destinations to life. When not in use as a luxury embarkation station, the space is transformed into an intimate setting for programming centered on shore excursions and more.

The Celebrity Shops

A carefully curated collection of upscale and sustainable products from world-famous brands that represent the ultimate in luxury.

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Price is per person and applies to selected sailing, lowest available fare stateroom category, based on double-occupancy, reflects any promotional savings, and is subject to change and availability until booked. Additional terms and conditions apply to offers. Full deposit must be paid by deposit payment required due date. Standard full deposit penalty is applied if booking is cancelled within final payment period; see Celebrity’s cancellation policy for details. Non-Refundable Deposit Bookings (“NRDB”): To qualify for the lowest available cruise fare, guest must choose a non-refundable deposit. All deposit payments for NRDB made after 03/02/23 are non-refundable from the time of booking. NRDB are applicable to groups at prevailing rates. Not applicable to incentive, contract, or charter groups. Nonrefundable deposit offers are applicable to sailings within final payment, however full deposit is due at time of booking. 

Celebrity Edge® Series Iconic Suites, Edge Villas, Penthouse Suites, Royal Suites, Celebrity Suites, AquaClass® Sky Suites, and Sky Suites (and Family Suites during Holiday sailings) require double the deposit amounts listed.

All Included  pricing applies to sailings booked and departing on or after October 4, 2023, excluding Galapagos cruises, in an inside, ocean view, veranda, Concierge Class, or AquaClass stateroom (“Eligible Bookings”). All guests within an Eligible Booking who choose “All Included” pricing, will receive a Classic Drinks Package and an unlimited Basic Wi-Fi package. All guests in the same stateroom must choose the same rate.  Please visit www.celebritycruises.com/things-to-do-onboard/onboard-packages/beverage-packages for further information on available beverages and full restrictions and www.celebritycruises.com/things-to-do-onboard/onboard-packages/internet-and-phone-packages for further information on wi-fi.

All Included pricing applies to new individual bookings only. Changes to booking may result in removal of Offer. Prices and Offers are subject to availability and change without notice, may be withdrawn at any time, and not applicable to charters or contracted groups. All Included pricing is non-transferable and not combinable with certain rates including, Travel Agent, Interline, Net, Exciting Deals, or worker cabins.  Single occupancy guests paying 200% cruise fare are eligible for All Included pricing. Refer to celebritycruises.com and the Cruise Ticket Contract for additional terms and conditions. Celebrity Cruises reserves the right to cancel offer at any time, correct any errors, inaccuracies, or omissions, and change or update fares, fees, and surcharges at any time without prior notice.

Imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice.

*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.

Departing Jun 23, 2024

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Disney World | First look: Disney Cruise Line’s new port is…

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Theme parks, disney world, disney world | first look: disney cruise line’s new port is big on bahamas, passengers out of port canaveral now experience new stop with cultural themes, natural beauty.

Mickey and Minnie join in with Junkanoo performers in RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The colorful parade of dancing and Bahamian music goes through Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy join in with Junkanoo performers in RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024, a colorful parade of dancing and Bahamian music that goes through Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Junkanoo performers at the Goombay Cultural Center during "Rush! A Junkanoo Celebration" at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Junkanoo performers parade through Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point during RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The colorful parade features dancing and Bahamian music that goes through Disney's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

A walkway leads out to the beach at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas on Saturday, June 8, 2024. Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features pink sand beaches and crystal-clear water, with areas that cater to families and adult-exclusive areas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features pink sand beaches and clear turquoise water, with areas that cater to families and adult-exclusive areas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Guests at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, enjoy the clear turquoise water on the island retreat on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Rush Out, Gush Out Water Play, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, is a water play area for all ages featuring slides and various water features to cool off in while at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Rush Out, Gush Out Water Play, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, is a water play area for all ages featuring slides and various water features to cool off in while at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Guests explore Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The island retreat, built to feature Bahamian culture into the design, has nature trails, a water play area and beaches for families and adults. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Watering Hole Bar, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, is one of four bars at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Mickey and Minnie join in with Junkanoo performers in RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024, a colorful parade of dancing and Bahamian music that goes through Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Junkanoo performers at the Goombay Cultural Center during RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration at Disney Lookout Cay on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The colorful parade features dancing and Bahamian music that goes through Disney's newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

The Nature Trail at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, takes guests to the easternmost end of Eleuthera, where the Lighthouse, that Disney's newest destination in the Bahamas, is named for. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

The Nature Trail at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, takes guests to Lighthouse on the easternmost end of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

True-True BBQ is one of the main dining areas at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, with Bahamian-inspired menu items such as Bahamian pigeon peas and rice and Bahamian-style lime-marinated grilled snapper. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

An open-air dining pavilion, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, outside of True-True BBQ, one of the main dining areas at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, offers a spot in the shade to have lunch while at Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line guests make their way from the Disney Magic to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on Saturday, June 8, 2024, Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line guests make their way from the Disney Magic to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on Saturday, June 8, 2024, Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Family Beach Cabanas at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, offer private spaces that can be rented at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Serenity Bay Cabanas, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, offer private spaces that can be reserved adjacent to the adult-exclusive beach at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line guests have their picture taken at the entrance of the main beach and visitor area of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features a chance for young guests to interact with Disney characters with activities like Goofy’s Good Day Limbo at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features a chance for young guests to interact with Disney characters with activities like Pluto’s Pineapple Ring Toss at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

The Play-Play Pavilion at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest exclusive destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, on Saturday, June 8, 2024. The pavilion is home to the Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, featuring a chance for young guests to interact with Disney characters with activities and games. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Sebastian’s Cove, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features a Little Mermaid-themed water play area at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line guests board a tram that will take them to the main beach and visitor area of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, on Saturday, June 8, 2024.(Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Disney T’ings, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, is the primary store where guests can get Disney island-inspired merchandise and souvenirs on Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Turbot Berth, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, is where Disney Cruise Line guests can check in for a charter boat reservation at the entrance of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Guests at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, snorkel to take a glimpse below the clear turquoise water at the island retreat on Saturday, June 8, 2024. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

A view of the bridge that leads to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point from the Disney Magic, while docked at Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. (Rich Pope, Orlando Sentinel)

Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, pictured on Saturday, June 8, 2024, features plenty of space for guests to spread out and enjoy a day at the island retreat. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel)

Its location on Eleuthera  — a long, thin island in the Bahamas east of Nassau — provided an obvious start, and Disney leaned into the theme with the resort’s architecture, art, music, food, conservation efforts, cultural touchstones and entertainment options — including a raucous, cowbell-heavy celebration on the beach.

“We’re not putting you into a fictitious place. We’re not setting you into a different time. It’s here and now,” said Kevin Thomas, Walt Disney Imagineering creative director on the project.

Lookout Cay opened this month and is being visited primarily by DCL ships sailing out of Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale and Galveston, Texas.

“We thought about how many people are going to be experiencing the Bahamas for the first time, coming from around the world, the journey here and what can they take back,” Thomas said. “Not only that group but also those that have experienced the Bahamas and other destinations prior to this visit … We wanted to give a very unique experience to that.”

Central to the planning was a junkanoo — a year-end Bahamian celebration with music, dancing and bright, hand-crafted costumes. The Disney version includes Mickey Mouse and friends in new island wear created by Bahamian designer Theo Elyett.

Performers for “Rush! A Junkanoo Celebration” parade to a beat from near the resort entrance, through the mini marketplace and to the beach-facing Goombay Cultural Center for a bouncy performance before reversing their course.

The space is also a spot where kids can create junkanoo headpieces.

“We had an entire team dedicated to understanding what is junkanoo? What does it mean to the locals? What does it mean to the Bahamian culture?” said Rachel Quinn, vice president entertainment operations.

“The word authenticity is used a lot, but this was our north star,” she said.

“Junkanoo is a celebration of our tradition,” said Warren Andrew Pinder of the National Junkanoo Committee. “Our culture is colorful, is expressed through music, dance, a vibrancy led by the beat — that beat that we really cherish.”

The junkanoo show’s sounds waft across the pinkish sands and piercing blue waters of the beach. The site also includes an adults-only section, water-play areas, a nature trail and clusters of private cabanas.

There are multiple bars and a trio of restaurants with menus that include grilled spiced mahi-mahi with mango and pan-served Bahamian pigeon peas and rice.

An entertainment option on the southern end of the beach is the Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, a character-driven family games session accompanied by Disney music with Caribbean remixes. Music producer Victor Johnson fashioned these renditions.

“I actually watched a lot of the cartoons and put kind of my own Caribbean beat to it just watching cartoons on mute,” he said. “I kind of came up with a few genres, like subgenres, because our original genre of the Bahamas is goombay, and that includes junkanoo, rake and scrape and calypso and stuff like that. I came up with a rake and scrape arrangement for the Chip ‘n’ Dale song as well as a little Soka goombay arrangement.”

The task was daunting at first, because the original versions were classics, Johnson said.

“When I got the project, I was very intimidated because these are amazing songs already. But I went to sleep dreaming ‘Ch-Ch-Ch-Chip and Dale,’” he said.

An original song for the experience — “Everything Cool” — was written and performed by Bahamian musicians and recorded on Eleuthera.

The beach elements of Lookout Cay are connected by a curvy, elevated boardwalk.

“We wanted to minimize our impact on the natural environment and also make it accessible to all of our guests,” Thomas said. They also play off the multilevel terrain of the area, a contrast to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island that has been in use by the cruise line since 1998.

“Unlike Castaway, which is pretty flat terrain … this offered a little bit of a variety to that,” Thomas said.

Structures along this stretch have a high, curved roofline and provide shade, particularly in dining areas.

“The architecture is not traditional, but it has been inspired by the organic nature of what we can find here. With rooftops, the upper portions of all of these are inspired by shell patterns, shells that are bound along the Bahamian shores. … Once you get underneath that you really start to experience man’s touch on this,” Thomas said.

“I think Disney, in particular, gets more cruisers that aren’t necessarily from Florida than maybe some other cruise lines do and therefore if you’ve never been to the Bahamas, it’s a great introduction,” said Matt Roseboom, editor and publisher of Orlando-based Attractions Magazine. “Most people probably don’t know what junkanoo is.”

Roseboom previewed the destination last week.

“I think Castaway Cay is all about story and you might not know you’re in the Bahamas necessarily or on Disney’s stranded island,” he said.

“With this new island, it’s a little bit different, and they’re going all in on the Bahamas theme. … There’s really no Disney story to it, just the fact that you were in the Bahamas and here’s some information about Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, where you are.” he said.

Another obvious difference between Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay, which is about 130 miles to the northeast, is seen from the beginning of the visit. As ships approach the new destination, they dock at the end of a long, curved pier.

Passengers leave the ship, then travel the length of that connection — it’s a 10-15 minute walk — to catch a tram that connects to the bulk of Disney’s beach offerings after about 10 more minutes. But Castaway visitors are on that island right off the ship.

“We chose a pier because it had the least impact on the marine habitats in that area between the shore and where the ship had access,” said Bradley Watson, conservation program manager.

“The ship can only dock in a certain depth of water and, alternatively, some people might have dredged and made that so that the ship can come directly into shore. … Logistically, that would have been easier in the long run. But we chose the hard road,” he said.

The pier has an open-trestle design to minimize the effect on sea life, Disney officials said.

“Beyond just building the pier to go over that area, we relocated over 800 coral from that path to another spot on our site to ensure that they would continue to thrive as we put in that pier,” Watson said. “I think that it’s kind of a marvelous way that we put together infrastructure and nature.”

But for human visitors, the bridge to Lookout is “unusually long,” Roseboom said. “It needs shade; it needs seating. Hopefully, those will be added at some point. … They’re going to have issues with thunderstorms and trying to get back to the ship.”

The new destination includes a nature trail that showcases native species and leads to the namesake lighthouse.

“One of the best things we did is everything we didn’t do. We’re at less than 16% [development] of the site. It’s perfect, in my opinion,” Watson said.

“I’m really excited that Lookout Cay is now a gateway for so many other people to understand what it’s like to be a Bahamian,” he said.

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Delta Announces Exciting New Routes, Including Aruba, Orlando, London, and More

Going from Florida to London just got easier.

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Delta Airlines recently announced the start of new services around the world, including Aruba, London, Orlando, Salt Lake City, and more. Floridians seeking a European getaway will now have an easier route. Travelers will be able to fly from Orlando, Florida , to London's Heathrow Airport directly on Delta. The flight will operate as a seasonal, winter service from October 26, 2024 through March 29, 2025. Delta will operate the flight four times weekly on an Airbus A330-900neo which features the Delta One Suites and Delta Premium Select cabins, according to a release .  This is the latest expansion of Delta's Europe to Florida connection, as the airline previously announced a new route from both Tampa Airport and Orlando Airport to Amsterdam. Amsterdam serves as a major hub for KLM Airlines, which along with Delta, is a partner in the Sky Team Alliance.  “Our new route between Orlando and London seamlessly connects two diverse destinations, offering customers a wealth of experiences on both sides of the Atlantic Floridians can explore London’s historic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and enjoy world-class dining, while Londoners can escape to the sunny beaches and world-famous attractions of Orlando,” Delta’s Senior Vice President for Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and India Matteo Curcio shared in a statement to T+L.  Delta also announced an expansion of flights from the airline’s hub at Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport (MSP). The airline will fly its "largest-ever winter Latin schedule" with new flights to Aruba and St. Maarten. The airline will operate new direct flights to Aruba on Friday and Sunday from MSP, and new flights to St. Maarten (SXM) on Thursdays and Saturdays. As part of the updated schedule, the airline increased service to Grand Cayman and San Juan, Puerto Rico .  Delta also shared with T+L that the airline would be expanding service to and from their hub in Salt Lake City, Utah. The airline will also begin a new weekly Saturday-only service from New York's LaGuardia Airport to SLC from December 21, 2024 through May 3, 2025.

"These new routes will make it even easier for travelers to experience our effortless access to world-class outdoor recreation, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning landscapes. We look forward to welcoming more visitors and showcasing everything our beautiful destination has to offer," Visit Salt Lake's President & CEO Kaitlin Eskelson shared with T+L.

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Where can I cruise without a passport?

At TPG, we always recommend cruising with a passport, but there are many reasons why you might want to set sail without one.

What if an opportunity pops up on short notice, and you don't have a passport yet? Or what if you forgot to renew yours when it expired? What if it's only a three-night cruise to the Bahamas, and the passport application fee is almost as much as the cruise fare? Or, maybe you have children nearing age 16 and can't justify paying for passports that will only be good for five years.

First of all, do you even need a passport to cruise ? The answer is often but not always. You have options to cruise without a passport because not every sailing requires them. Thanks to an international agreement called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , U.S. citizens can cruise on certain itineraries within North American countries using government-issued identification (like a valid driver's license) and proof of citizenship (like a government-issued birth certificate).

The cruises that you don't need a passport for are closed-loop sailings, which depart from and return to the same port within the U.S. One-way sailings from one U.S. port to another or from a U.S. port to a foreign one would require a passport.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Before we go further, let's clarify that when we talk about cruising without a passport, we're referring to pricey passport books that some travelers do not wish to purchase. Passport cards can also be used for identification when cruising in all the places we are about to discuss; these cards are a low-cost alternative to traveling with your driver's license and birth certificate.

Let's look at the options for where you can cruise without a passport.

Cruising to Alaska is one of the easiest ways to experience all the state offers. You'll have opportunities to see glaciers and wildlife; stroll the streets of charming coastal towns; eat your fill of local crab legs and salmon; and enjoy nature on a kayak, zip line or hike.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska without a passport, look for itineraries that begin (and end) in Seattle , San Francisco or southern California ports, such as Los Angeles or Long Beach, California. The most common length for these closed-loop Alaska cruises operated by the major cruise lines is seven nights. Cruises early or late in the season might be only four or five nights, and trips departing from LA are usually 14 nights.

What if you really want to cruise one-way from Canada to Alaska (or vice versa)? Although Canada prefers U.S. citizens who arrive by sea or land to have a passport book, it is not required as long as they have proper identification and proof of citizenship. The U.S., however, requires one of the following WHTI-approved forms of identification for entries by land or sea: passport card, enhanced driver's license, I-872 American Indian card or trusted traveler program IDs like Nexus, Sentri and Fast.

Technically, if you have one of those forms of ID but not a passport book, you can take a one-way Alaska cruise — as long as you don't have to fly to or from Canada.

More complications arise for non-passport holders who book shore excursions that involve crossing from Alaska to Canada. White Pass and Yukon Route train rides are good examples. White Pass and Yukon Route allows cruise passengers to go on the three-hour train excursion without a passport but doesn't allow them to take any longer routes. That's their policy, not a legal requirement.

This means that Alaska cruises are one instance when the passport card would be a handy alternative to traveling with both an ID card and a birth certificate. It opens up one-way itineraries.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

A cruise to the Caribbean transports you to tropical islands bathed in turquoise waters. Whether you seek warm beaches, cool drinks, water sports or cultural education, you can find a Caribbean cruise to fit the bill.

It's easy to cruise without a passport in the Caribbean: Just book one of the many closed-loop, round-trip sailings departing from a U.S. port. Most major cruise lines offer sailings that range between three and 15 nights from ports like Galveston, Texas; New Orleans; multiple ports in Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale); Charleston, South Carolina; Baltimore; Bayonne, New Jersey; and New York City.

Most Caribbean islands participate in the WHTI, but it's always best to check the details specific to the ports of call included in your itinerary. Don't forget that islands such as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are U.S. territories, so visits never require passports for U.S. citizens.

Related: The best Caribbean cruises for every type of traveler

Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory, lying 643 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Hop on a cruise ship for a direct route to the island's famous beaches and golf courses. Spring and summer are the prime seasons to visit, but cruises are possible throughout the year.

Cruising without a passport to Bermuda is also easy. Apart from a few isolated cruises stopping in Bermuda as they come or go from other destinations, there are no one-way Bermuda cruises to confuse the situation. If you plan to sail without a passport, be wary of any Bermuda cruise longer than 10 nights. Those are likely to be point-to-point cruises that happen to include Bermuda.

Passport-free cruises to Bermuda include ample five- to 10-night sailings from the East Coast ports of Baltimore, Bayonne, Boston and Manhattan. Occasional itineraries also pop up throughout the Bermuda season departing from Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston; and the Florida ports of Miami, Port Canaveral (near Orlando) and Jacksonville.

Related: Does it make sense to take a short cruise to Bermuda?

Long known for delightful strands of beach and access to every imaginable form of water fun under the subtropical sun, the Bahamas are the ideal destination for easy and quick cruise vacations.

Skip the passport on three- to five-night Bahamas cruises sailing round-trip on most major cruise lines from the eastern Florida ports of Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades and Miami.

A few longer, seven- to 15-night itineraries stop in the Bahamas on their way into the Caribbean. Departures from Bayonne, Manhattan, Baltimore and Charleston will often get you weeklong Bahamas itineraries, as will sailings from Tampa, Galveston and New Orleans.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

Our southern neighbor boasts two coastlines of cruise fun. Like most tropical cruise destinations, the top draws are the beaches and the ocean; however, cruise ports in Mexico also give you access to ancient Mayan ruins, delicious cuisine and an abundance of land activities.

Mexico's Caribbean and Pacific coasts are both accessible to cruisers who do not hold passports. If you want to visit Mexico's eastern shores, you can find three- to 15-night cruises to Costa Maya, Cozumel and Progreso. Sailings depart Florida from Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral; you can also find itineraries from New Orleans, Galveston and Mobile, Alabama.

Western Mexico, often referred to as the Mexican Riviera, includes the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Ensenada, among others. Cruises with several major lines depart San Diego, San Pedro port in LA and Long Beach for voyages lasting anywhere from three to 10 nights.

Related: The best Mexico cruises for every type of traveler

From water sports to American history and Hawaiian culture, there's a lot to experience on a Hawaii cruise . The best part might be the ability to hop from island to island, sampling the flavors of each as you go.

Closed-loop Hawaii cruises that don't require passports come in two varieties. The short option is to fly to Honolulu and take a seven- or 10-night cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line 's Pride of America. This is the only large cruise ship allowed to operate entirely within the Hawaiian Islands without visiting a foreign port.

Small-ship cruise operator UnCruise Adventures also offers seven-night, inter-island Hawaiian sailings. The American-flagged ships only cruise to and from U.S. ports, so no passport is needed, as would be the case on any domestic trip.

The long-cruise options consist of 14- to 18-night round-trip sailings from San Diego, LA (Long Beach and San Pedro) and San Francisco. You won't need a passport for these closed-loop sailings, but you do need to be prepared for multiple days at sea as you cross the Pacific from California to Hawaii.

Beware of 20-plus-night cruises that are round-trip sailings from the West Coast and would seem to fit the bill for closed-loop cruises that don't require passports. Most of these cruises don't work because they also include stops in French Polynesia, which is outside of the WHTI agreement. Passports are required for the islands in the South Pacific, which means they're required for the entire cruise.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Canada and New England

Cruises up North America's East Coast allow you to take in historical sights of early Americana, stand atop rugged cliffs on the coast of Nova Scotia or revel in the French culture of Quebec.

Mainstream cruise lines operate numerous cruises along the U.S. and Canadian coasts that don't require passports. These depart from the ports of Bayonne, Baltimore, Boston, Manhattan, Brooklyn and occasionally Norfolk. The majority of these New England and Canada cruises are weeklong fall sailings; however, a handful depart at other times of the year or are a touch longer, ranging from eight to 10 nights.

Related: The best cruises to Canada and New England

Some cruise lines also offer one-way cruises in both directions between Canada and New England. These itineraries, like Alaska cruises, might be possible without a passport book. This is the case as long as your plans don't include flying into or out of Canada and your cruise line allows you to cruise with either a passport card or other acceptable form of identification and proof of citizenship.

We checked with a few lines for you. Princess, Holland America and Celebrity all strongly recommend passport books, but they allow one of the WHTI forms of identification. Again, the passport card opens up one-way possibilities, assuming you aren't flying and your cruise only includes Canada and the U.S.

Bottom line

While cruising with a passport is always recommended, it's not required by law in certain circumstances. Closed-loop cruises from U.S. ports that visit Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean and Mexico are part of an international agreement that allows U.S. citizens to cruise without a passport. In these cases, government-issued identification and proof of U.S. citizenship are acceptable alternatives to a passport book.

Passport cards are an affordable and unquestionable alternative to carrying an ID and birth certificate. If you want to go this route, know they are not valid for travel by air into or out of any foreign country, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or Caribbean countries — which is the primary reason most travel advisers urge cruisers to have a passport book.

As we've shown, you have plenty of options for where to cruise without a passport, and many travelers do so without incident. However, anything from engine trouble on your cruise ship to bad weather or an accident in port might necessitate a flight home from a foreign country. This would put you in an awkward position if you didn't have a passport.

Plus, as much fun as simple round-trip cruises are, passports open up additional vacation possibilities in the form of longer, point-to-point and overseas trips. Don't dismiss registering for a passport, even as you consider where you can cruise without one.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.