8 Best Nassau Shore Excursions: How to Spend Your Port of Call

Cruising to Nassau and wondering which shore excursions are actually worth your time? We’ve rounded up the very best!

Whether you’re visiting the Bahamas for the first time or returning for another cruise, Nassau has far more to offer than its famous beaches. From swimming with pigs (yes, really!) to food tours, island-hopping adventures, and off-road sightseeing, there’s something here for every type of traveler.

With so many amazing adventures on offer, it can be difficult to pick just one! That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the tours that we think are truly worth your valuable time in port, so that you can pick your favorite. Let’s get into it! 

Why We Book Shore Excursions Independently

We almost always book our shore excursions independently. We’ve used Viator many times for cruise ship tours, and we’ve never had an issue! The key is to choose tours specifically designed for cruise passengers, like the ones we’ve listed below.

These tours are built around cruise schedules, with start times and pick-up locations that align with ship arrivals in port. They’re also typically much more affordable than booking directly through the cruise line, while offering many of the same experiences. Plus, if a ship-sponsored tour is sold out, you can usually find a very similar option independently.

Another big advantage is the experience itself. Independent tours often run in smaller groups, which makes things feel more relaxed and personal. You’re not stuck moving around in a huge crowd and competing to get the best views and shots!

There’s also less risk involved than you might think. Many tours offer guarantees to get you back to the ship on time, and full refunds if your ship is late or misses the port altogether, so you can enjoy peace of mind while saving money. When booking, you’ll be asked for your cruise details so operators can plan accordingly and make sure you’re back well before all-aboard. If anything feels tight, it’s always worth double-checking with the tour provider before booking.

Best Nassau Shore Excursions

1. See Nassau’s highlights on a minibus

First time visiting Nassau? This sightseeing tour is one of the easiest ways to see the city’s biggest attractions without having to worry about transport or planning your own itinerary.

Traveling by comfortable, air-conditioned minibus, you’ll explore both Nassau and Paradise Island while your local guide shares stories about the island’s history and famous landmarks. Along the way, you’ll visit highlights including the iconic Atlantis Resort, the historic Queen’s Staircase, the Graycliff Chocolate Factory, and John Watling’s Distillery, with plenty of opportunities to hop off for photos and explore.

One of the things we love most about this excursion is how much variety it packs into just two and a half hours. You’ll experience Nassau’s history, sample local treats, admire beautiful colonial architecture, and see some of the island’s most famous sights, all without feeling rushed.

Unlike larger coach tours, this experience is run by a family-owned company and keeps group sizes small, creating a much more personal atmosphere. This makes such a difference when it comes to a sightseeing tour, because nothing beats exploring with someone who genuinely loves sharing their hometown. And at around two and a half hours, it’s also ideal for cruise passengers! 

All in all, if you’re looking for a relaxed and informative introduction to Nassau that covers all the must-see sights, we think that this tour is an excellent place to start. 

2. Swim with Rose Island’s pigs and relax at a private beach club 

Swimming with pigs is one of the Bahamas’ most iconic experiences, and this Rose Island excursion combines that bucket-list moment with a relaxing tropical beach day. The meeting point is conveniently located close to Nassau’s cruise port, and there’s also an option to include pickup and drop-off if you prefer.

Your adventure begins with a scenic boat ride across the crystal-clear waters to Rose Island, where you’ll meet the island’s famous swimming pigs. You’ll have plenty of time to feed them, pose for photos, and even join them in the water – how amazing is that? This experience is completely unique to the Bahamas, which is why this is our favorite Nassau excursion!

But the experience doesn’t end there. After your pig encounter, you’ll have time to unwind at a private beach club, where you can enjoy the postcard-perfect scenery and even go snorkeling or paddleboarding. A traditional Bahamian lunch is also included, so there’s no need to worry about finding somewhere to eat.

We love that this excursion strikes such a nice balance between adventure and relaxation. Rather than rushing from one stop to the next, you’ll have plenty of free time to enjoy the beach and soak up that laid-back island atmosphere. 

This is one of Nassau’s most popular tours and often books up well in advance, especially during peak cruise season. If swimming with the famous pigs is on your bucket list, we’d recommend securing your spot as early as possible.

3. Get off the beaten path on a jeep sightseeing adventure 

If you’re looking to see a different side of Nassau, this private Jeep adventure is perfect! It takes you beyond the typical tourist route to discover hidden corners of the island, all while learning about its fascinating history and pirate past.

This private Jeep adventure is such a fun way to see a different side of Nassau. Instead of piling onto a big coach, you’ll zip around the island in a pirate-themed Jeep with your own local guide, which makes the day feel a lot more personal.

The tour still covers plenty of Nassau’s biggest sights, including the Queen’s Staircase, Graycliff Chocolatier, John Watling’s Distillery, and the Caves of New Providence. However, the smaller vehicle also means you can sneak off the main tourist route and visit quieter spots that larger buses can’t easily reach.

Along the way, your guide will share stories about Nassau’s colonial past, local culture, and, of course, its legendary pirates. The theme keeps things lighthearted without turning the whole tour into a gimmick, and we also love that this is a private excursion. You won’t waste time waiting for a huge group at every stop, and the guide can shape the experience around what interests you most. 

4. Taste Nassau’s best food and rum

If you ask us, one of the best ways to get to know a new destination is through its food, and this walking tour is the perfect introduction to Nassau’s vibrant culinary scene. Rather than wandering from one tourist restaurant to another, you’ll visit a collection of locally loved spots and sample authentic Bahamian flavors while learning the stories behind each dish and drink. 

Along the way, you’ll enjoy everything from crispy conch fritters and locally inspired appetizers to delicious rum cake, paired with plenty of Caribbean rum, plus wine and even a little moonshine!

One of the highlights is a visit to the historic John Watling’s Distillery, where you’ll learn how traditional Bahamian rum is produced before taking part in a fun rum mixology session to create your own cocktail. You’ll also stop at Graycliff Heritage Village and finish the experience in a hidden speakeasy – cheers! 

As you stroll through downtown Nassau, your guide will also bring the city’s fascinating history to life. They’ll share stories of pirates and rum runners as you check out the historic buildings that once played a role in the island’s booming trade. 

This is a friendly and personal tour with a maximum of just 12 guests per group, and we think it’s one of the most fun ways to explore Nassau during your port day. But don’t just take our word for it, because you can read over a thousand 5-star reviews here! 

5. Go island hopping, snorkeling, and swim with wildlife

If you can’t decide which Bahamas adventure to book, no worries! This tour lets you experience a little bit of everything, making it one of the best value shore excursions in Nassau.

You’ll spend the day cruising between beautiful islands, stopping to snorkel over colorful coral reefs and swim with sea turtles. And of course, you’ll get to meet the Bahamas’ famous swimming pigs! It’s a fantastic mix of wildlife encounters and time on the water, all wrapped up into one unforgettable excursion.

One of the things we love most about this tour is that it never feels rushed. Between the wildlife experiences, you’ll have time to relax on board with a drink in hand and soak up the incredible turquoise waters that make the Bahamas so famous. There’s even a live conch demonstration, giving you a fun introduction to one of the country’s most iconic local delicacies.

With a maximum of just 12 guests, the experience feels much more personal than many of the larger catamaran cruises. The crew are super friendly and go out of their way to make everyone feel welcome while creating a fun atmosphere throughout the trip. 

This excursion is also ideal for cruise passengers, with round-trip transportation included and a manageable three-and-a-half-hour itinerary that fits comfortably into most port schedules. If you’re looking for one shore excursion that captures everything people love about the Bahamas, this is it. 

6. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV excursion 

Want to add a little adrenaline to your sightseeing? This ATV tour lets you explore Nassau and Paradise Island in a much more exciting way than a traditional coach excursion! 

After a quick safety briefing, you’ll hop onto your ATV and set off with your guide to discover some of Nassau’s best-known landmarks. Along the way, you’ll visit highlights including the historic Queen’s Staircase, Fort Montagu, and other points of interest, with plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and learn about the island’s history and culture.

We love that you’re not just sitting back and watching the sights roll by. Driving your own ATV makes the whole experience feel much more interactive and gives you a real sense of adventure as you cruise through the colorful streets of Nassau.

This excursion is ideal for couples and groups of friends looking for something a little different, as you can choose to ride solo or share an ATV. It’s also a great option if you’ve visited Nassau before and want a more exciting way to see the city than another sightseeing bus tour! So if you want a healthy dose of adventure on your shore excursion, we think that this ATV tour is well worth booking. 

7. Explore Nassau by Segway 

Exploring Nassau on this Segway tour is so much more fun than simply walking from sight to sight. It’s a unique way to cover plenty of ground while still enjoying the sunshine and stopping whenever something catches your eye.

Don’t worry if you’ve never ridden a Segway before. You’ll start with a quick training session, and most people pick it up within a few minutes. Before long, you’ll be gliding through Nassau with confidence as your guide leads you to some of the city’s most interesting landmarks.

Along the way, you’ll visit historic Fort Charlotte, cruise past Junkanoo Beach and Nassau Harbor, and stop at Arawak Cay, one of the island’s best-known spots for authentic Bahamian food. A traditional lunch is included, giving you the chance to refuel while sampling some local flavors before continuing the tour.

One of the things we love most about this excursion is how personal it feels. With a maximum of just 11 guests, there’s plenty of opportunity to chat with your guide, ask questions, and learn more about Nassau’s fascinating history and culture. 

Segway tours are such a great way to explore when you’re short on time because you can cover so much ground whilst enjoying being out in the open air, and it’s not physically demanding either! The novelty factor of zooming around on a Segway definitely adds a lot to this experience, and this tour is sure to put a smile on your face.

8. Go sea kayaking

If your idea of paradise involves crystal-clear water and quiet beaches, this sea kayaking adventure is the perfect Nassau shore excursion! We don’t know about you, but we just love the idea of paddling across calm turquoise waters to a secluded stretch of coastline that feels a world away from the busy cruise port. 

Once you reach the reef, you’ll swap your paddle for a snorkel and discover the colorful marine life below the surface. Afterward, you can stretch out in a hammock on the beautiful beach, sipping on fresh coconut water or tropical cocktails. If that’s not Bahamian bliss, then we don’t know what is! 

One of the things we love most about this experience is how personal it feels. With a maximum of just six guests, it’s a world away from the larger boat tours. It actually feels a lot less like a guided tour and more like an adventure with local friends. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience a quieter, more authentic side of the Bahamas, this hidden gem is hard to beat. 

Related Read: Spending more time in paradise? Check out our Bahamas itinerary for the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for planning your trip!

Where to Stay Before or After your Cruise

If you’re cruising to Nassau, there’s a good chance your trip will start from either Miami or Ft Lauderdale, and we recommend arriving a night or two before setting sail. This gives you some extra time to explore, relax, and avoid the stress of traveling to the port on the same day as your cruise.

In Miami, Downtown is our top pick since you’ll be close to PortMiami, Bayside Marketplace, and plenty of restaurants and attractions. If you’re sailing from Ft Lauderdale, we recommend staying near Las Olas Boulevard or Fort Lauderdale Beach, where you’ll be close to great restaurants, the waterfront, and just a short drive from Port Everglades.

Here are some of our favorite Downtown Miami and Ft Lauderdale hotels for every budget:

Downtown Miami

Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area – $$$ 

Courtyard Miami Downtown Brickell Area is a great option if you want something comfortable and well-located for a short stay. It sits right between Downtown and Brickell, so you’ve got easy access to both areas, plus you’re only a short drive from the cruise port.

The hotel has a modern, business-style feel, with spacious rooms and a reliable setup that works well for a quick stop in the city. There’s also a pool and on-site dining, which is handy if you don’t feel like heading out after a long travel day.

It’s not the most exciting stay, but it’s very practical and easy. Rooms here usually start at around $300 USD per night. Check availability and book your stay here!

The Elser Hotel Miami – $$

The Elser Hotel Miami is a solid choice for cruise travelers who want a little extra space before or after setting sail. It’s right in Downtown Miami, close to the waterfront and Bayside Marketplace, with an easy drive to PortMiami.

The rooms here are more like apartments, with full kitchens and living areas, plus floor-to-ceiling windows in some units. We think this is a great option if you’re staying for a few nights or just want somewhere a bit more comfortable to spread out.

There’s also an awesome infinity pool with great views over the bay! Rooms here usually start at around $280 USD per night. Reserve your stay at The Elser Hotel Miami here!

citizenM Miami World Center – $

CitizenM Miami World Center is a great budget-friendly option if you want something modern and central. It’s located near the Worldcenter complex, so you’re close to shops, restaurants, and transport links, plus PortMiami is just a short drive away, making it super convenient for cruise passengers.

The rooms are compact, but they’re very well designed, with a smart layout that makes the most of the space. The hotel also has a fun, tech-forward feel, with self-check-in and a stylish rooftop pool area. It’s a great pick if you’re happy with a smaller room in exchange for a great location and lower price.

Rooms here usually start at around $120 USD per night. Reserve this budget-friendly stay here before rooms are booked!

Choose from even more great stays in Miami, Florida, here!

Related Read: For even more hotel options, check out our guide on the best hotels near Port of Miami for the top areas and hotels for every budget!

Ft Lauderdale

The Lago Mar Beach Resort and Club – $$$

The Lago Mar Beach Resort and Club is a fantastic option for a pre-cruise stay, as it’s just a mile from Port Everglades, so you can enjoy a relaxing beach day before your cruise without being far from the terminal. This resort has a private beach and two swimming pools, as well as tennis and volleyball courts, a spa, and four restaurants.

The rooms range from standard queen or king hotel rooms, or you can upgrade to suite-style rooms or a room with a view. Prices fluctuate by season but range from $275 to $700 USD. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com. 

Tides Inn Hotel – $$

Tides Inn Hotel is a lovely and quaint hotel, overlooking the beach and offering light, airy rooms. It’s a nice option for a pre-cruise stay if you’d rather spend the night somewhere quiet and beachy before heading to Port Everglades the next day. The private beach is just steps from the hotel, and this area is great for snorkeling or diving.

There’s also a pool and garden to enjoy. You can book double, single, or studio hotel rooms with a balcony and ocean views. Rooms are $240 USD on average and can be reserved on Booking.com.

Blue Strawberry by the Sea – $

Blue Strawberry by the Sea is a charming, budget-friendly hotel just one block from the ocean. It’s a great choice for cruisers who want an affordable place to stay before sailing from Port Everglades while still being close to the beach. It’s also just a 5-minute walk to the town square, so you’re close to Fort Lauderdale’s top sights.

The rooms are clean and simple, offering double, king, or apartment-style rooms. Plus, there are two swimming pools onsite! Rooms are available for around $115 USD per night. Check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.

For more options, check out all the hotels in Fort Lauderdale here!

Related Read: If you have extra time in Fort Lauderdale, be sure to check out our Fort Lauderdale itinerary so you can make the most of your time in the city!

Thanks for reading!

There’s no shortage of amazing ways to spend a day in Nassau! You can escape to Rose Island to swim with the famous pigs, snorkel alongside sea turtles, taste your way through downtown, or explore the island by Jeep, ATV, Segway, or kayak. Whether you’re craving a laid-back beach day or an action-packed adventure, we hope this guide helps you make the most of every minute you have in port!

Before your cruise, be sure to check out our other Caribbean blogs for even more travel tips, incredible tours, and dreamy destinations to add to your bucket list. Or keep browsing below for more ideas to inspire your next adventure. Cheers!

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