Carnival Cruise Line has provided a major update on its plan on restarting operations out of the U.S., including further cancellations across the fleet. It comes as the cruise line continues to work on a possible restart in July.
Carnival Cruise Line Update
There is no doubt that resuming operations out of the U.S. is tricky, including for “America’s Cruise Line,” Carnival Cruise Line. The Miami-based cruise line now aims to restart with just three ships from Florida and Texas in July, which was hinted at after most bookings were removed from bookings earlier in May.
The cruise line will start with Carnival Breeze on July 15 and Carnival Vista on July 3 out of Galveston in Texas, and Carnival Horizon out of PortMiami in Florida on July 4. These will be the first three Carnival ships to resume operations in July.
For Carnival Horizon, it does depend on whether sailings longer than 7-days will be permitted. If that is not the case, then 6- and 8-day sailings after and including July 10 will be modified to week-long cruises instead. Guests will be notified of any changes.
It does mean that all other departures from the U.S. are now canceled through July 2021. The other ships won’t restart until August at the very earliest and a lot does also depends on the US Centers for Disease Control and its Conditional Sailing Order.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said:
“We continue to have constructive discussions with the CDC but still have many questions that remain unanswered. We are working diligently to resume sailing in the U.S. and meet the CDC guidelines.”
“We sincerely appreciate the continued patience and understanding of our guests and travel advisor partners and will share additional information as quickly as we can.”
There is still hope to save the Alaska season, and Carnival is looking for a solution for ships to visit the region. If this is the case, Carnival Miracle will assume some sailings from Carnival Freedom’s departures out of Seattle, Washington.
Is Mardi Gras Canceled Again?
The further cancellations include the Mardi Gras, the first Excel-class ship in the fleet and still waiting to make her debut since being delivered towards the end of 2020. We’ve reported extensively constant setbacks for the ship, originally scheduled to start sailing on August 31, 2020.
The largest-ever ship constructed for Carnival Cruise Line was previously scheduled to kickstart her service on July 3, 2021, as one of the first ships in the fleet to resume operations. At the moment, the earliest Mardi Gras cruise is showing only for October 2 out of Port Canaveral. With the ship in huge demand, it could just be that those earlier departures are sold out.
Carnival had previously suspended all U.S. operations through June 2021. Much now depends on the CDC if the three Carnival cruise ships will actually resume in July.
Carnival Cruise Line Plans Return
This news comes as the cruise line plans its service return, and things are already starting to happen. Recently Carnival Breeze and Carnival Vista returned to Galveston to begin crew vaccinations. Even though Carnival Sensation is not among the earliest ships to resume, she’s also set to arrive in Galveston today. On Friday, she will arrive in Mobile, Alabama, for crew vaccinations.
A lot still needs to be resolved on guest requirements with the health and safety measures that have not yet been announced. Cruise lines are still working with the CDC on a safe return and the hope is that this could happen in July.
If you’re cruising from Nassau, you’ll probably want to stay in one of the Nassau Bahamas hotels close to the cruise port. Cruise lines now use popular destination as their homeport so we’ve checked out all the best hotels in Nassau to provide you with a one-stop resource to find the best accommodation to suit your needs.
Most guests arrive and depart from the island by plane. It makes sense to arrive a day or two before your cruise departs to make sure nothing can delay your boarding.
Some cruisers like to extend their Bahamas cruise by spending a few post-cruise beach days in Nassau hotels. Why not turn a 7-day luxury cruise into a 10-day vacation experience without it costing a fortune?
We cover luxury and boutique hotels in Nassau, top beach resorts with water parks, hotels near Nassau cruise port, and the best budget hotels Nassau Bahamas has to offer. We also offer tips on Nassau hotels that offer day passes for non-guests to use their waterparks and beach amenities.
To help you make quick comparisons, we provide full details of all the best Nassau hotels in an easy-to-read format. You’ll find invaluable details for each handpicked hotel including the address, proximity to the port, hotel shuttle and distance to the beach.
Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find all the best Nassau hotels listed below.
The capital city of the Bahamas archipelago. It is located on the island of New Providence, about 185 miles east of Miami on mainland Florida. Covering 80 square miles, it is one of the larger islands.
As well as being a popular port of call for Caribbean cruises, the island is a tourist destination in its own right so there are plenty of hotels in Nassau to choose from.
How to Get to Nassau Bahamas Hotels
The easiest way to reach Nassau Bahamas is by air from Miami (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL) Airport. The flight takes 2 hours 40 minutes and prices start from around $140. From the airport, use a hotel shuttle or taxi.
There is a car ferry from Fort Lauderdale four times a week. It sails to Freeport and then to Nassau on a 23-hour journey, but it is not a practical option for cruisers.
Why Cruise From Nassau?
While mainland US ports were still affected by Covid restrictions, many cruise lines moved their home port to Nassau, Bahamas so they could be the first to start cruising again. However, cruising from the Bahamas has many other advantages too.
Booking a post-cruise break in Nassau hotels allows you to extend your Caribbean vacation in the sun for a few more days.
While cruises offer short stops at ports of call for a few hours, staying in Nassau provides the chance to explore the island’s historic attractions, markets, beaches, and restaurants in more depth.
Nassau is 185 miles east of Miami and there are regular daily flights between the two airports at competitive prices. Flying in a small plane over the Bahamas archipelago with its clear waters and colorful reefs is a spectacular sight that adds to your Caribbean cruise experience.
Finally, many cruises from Nassau include a stay on a private island as part of the itinerary making it a great reason to book a cruise from Nassau, Bahamas.
Nassau Hotels with Day Passes
Even if you’re staying in a budget hotel, you can still enjoy the amenities provided by luxury hotels and resorts in Nassau. Paying for a day pass is much cheaper than staying overnight! Imagine a day at Atlantis Resort, swimming with dolphins, enjoying the 11 amazing pools in the water park or just relax on the beach soaking up the luxurious ambience.
Atlantis day passes start from $70 per person for a beach day, rising to $166 for a full water park experience. Other beachfront hotels in Nassau offer all-inclusive day passes including unlimited food and drink!
Best Nassau Bahamas Hotels for Cruise Visitors
Atlantis Hotel, Bahamas
Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas
Journey to another world with a stay at the world-class Atlantis Resort. It is situated on Paradise Island which is joined to downtown Nassau by bridge and ferry. This luxury four-star resort in Nassau goes beyond luxury hotel rooms to include a casino, golf course, spa, and world-class restaurants.
The thrilling 141-acre water park has 11 pools, water slides, cascades, river rides, dolphin encounters, kayaking, sea turtle excursions, snorkeling, diving, and the Royal Stingray and Shark Lagoon. It’s the ultimate hotel in Nassau, Bahamas for pre and post-cruise vacations and a neat place to enjoy a day pass.
Distance from port: 1.9 miles
Address: One Casino Drive, Paradise Island, Bahamas
Phone number: (242 ) 363-3000
Shuttle? Yes
Beach nearby? Yes
Comfort Suites Paradise Island
Three-star Comfort Suites offers guests a free breakfast buffet, Wi-Fi, parking, and most importantly, complimentary access to Atlantis Resort water park and amenities.
Air-conditioned rooms at this Nassau hotel are tastefully decorated and comfortably furnished, some with pool views. Onsite restaurant and exceptional staff make this chain hotel excellent value for money in a superb location.
Distance from port: 1.8 miles
Address: Paradise Island Dr, Nassau
Phone number: (242) 363 3680
Beach nearby? Yes walk
Shuttle? Yes
Melia Nassau Beach
Melia Nassau Beach is a gorgeous beach resort with a white sandy beach, blue ocean for swimming, and gorgeous pools for relaxing and working on your tan. Non-guests can purchase a day pass for $139 ($60 for children aged 5-11) and this includes beach access, towels, lounge chairs, pools, snorkel equipment, and unlimited food and drink.
It’s a great place to stay and is one of the best hotels in Nassau Bahamas to offer all-inclusive accommodation.
Distance from port: 5.2 miles
Address: West Bay Street, Nassau
Phone number: (242) 327 6000
Beach nearby? yes
Shuttle? no
Cheapest Nassau Bahamas Hotels
Golden Palm B&B
Hotels in Nassau Bahamas can be pricey but this Golden Palm B&B is a good alternative place to stay for those on a tight budget. Close to the airport (2 miles away) it offers shuttle transport for $12 each way.
Rooms are clean and comfortable and breakfast is included in the no-frills price. Restaurants are within walking distance.
Distance from port: 11.7 miles
Address: 896 West Bay Street, Palm Shores, Nassau
Phone number: (242) 327 7129
Shuttle? Yes
Beach nearby? Yes – walk
El Greco Hotel
Well located close to the cruise port and Straw Market, El Greco Hotel Nassau is a small private Nassau hotel with simply furnished rooms and a small pool for cooling off. This budget two-star hotel in Nassau is within easy strolling distance of shops, bars, and restaurants.
Distance from port: 0.9 miles
Address: Augusta/ West Bay St, Nassau
Phone number: (242) 325 1121
Shuttle? No
Beach nearby? No
Nassau Bahamas Hotels with Free Cruise Shuttle
Photo Credit: my_ photos / Shutterstock.com
Sandals Royal Bahamian
The luxury Sandals Royal Bahamian resort Nassau is an all-inclusive couples-only resort on a beautiful white sandy beach lapped by aquamarine waters. Gourmet dining at this 5-star hideaway is served at 11 specialty restaurants. For the ultimate stay, book a Swim-Up Suite with butler service!
Distance from port: 5.8 miles
Address: West Bay St, Cable Beach
Phone number: (844 ) 871-0604
Shuttle? Yes
Beach nearby? Yes
Seaview Boutique Inn/Hostel
Seaview Boutique Inn is a popular Nassau hotel and is one of the few to offer a free airport shuttle. It has hostel dorms with shared bathrooms and private rooms with ensuites.
It has air-con, an outdoor pool, a communal kitchen with a refrigerator, and complimentary Wi-Fi. This property offers low-cost hostel accommodation but reviews are poor.
Distance from port: 2.8 miles
Address: West Bay St, Cable Beach
Phone number: (242) 556-7360
Shuttle? Yes
Beach nearby? Yes – 3 mins walk
Nassau Hotels with Cruise Shuttle for a Fee
Photo Credit: byvalet / Shutterstock.com
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
Grand Hyatt Baha Mar represents excellent value for money with its luxury rooms, superb beachfront location at Cable Beach, show fountains, a huge casino, fitness room, and 6 heated pools with a swim-up bar. Rooms and suites are immaculate and some have a balcony with ocean views.
Distance from port: 5.2 miles
Address: 1 Baha Mar Blvd, Nassau
Phone number: (242) 788 1234
Shuttle? Yes
Beach nearby? Yes
Courtyard Nassau Downtown Junkanoo Beach
Courtyard Nassau Junkanoo Beach is a mid-range Nassau hotel right on the beach with spacious guest rooms and suites decorated with a Caribbean flair. On-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, bar, and fitness center. This 3-star oceanfront hotel also offers shuttle transport for a fee.
Distance from port: 1.0 miles
Address: West Bay Street, Nassau
Phone number: (242) 302 2975
Shuttle? Yes
Beach nearby? Yes
Best Luxury Hotels in Nassau Bahamas
Photo By: Russell Otway
The Island House
The Island House is one of the top boutique Nassau Bahamas hotels with 30 rooms, 6 private apartments, and private beach access. There is a cafe and two onsite restaurants, a wine market, Bamford Spa, fitness center, pool, and Wi-Fi, Air-conditioned rooms include a kitchenette, mini bar, and safe.
This charming four-star hotel is located just 3 miles from the airport and offers a shuttle service for guests.
Distance from port: 13.5 miles
Address: Mahogany Hill, Nassau
Phone number: (242 ) 698 6300
Shuttle? Yes
Beach nearby? Yes
Hotel Riu Palace Paradise Island
Hotel Riu on Paradise Island is another luxury adults-only all-inclusive hotel in Nassau Bahamas. Right next to Atlantis Resort, it has 2 miles of white sandy beach, fitness center, spa, lounge bar, and infinity-edge pool with swim-up bar.
There are 379 elegant rooms that meet the highest standards for sophisticated elegance. Dine well at themed buffet nights with live cooking stations as well as a Steakhouse, Japanese and Indian restaurants and an ice cream parlor.
Distance from port: 5.2 miles
Address: 6307 Casino Drive, Nassau
Phone number: (242) 363 3500
Shuttle? Yes
Beach nearby? Yes
The Ocean Club
The Ocean Club is a Four Seasons Resort in Nassau with upscale service, stunning rooms and suites and a sought-after resort experience. Enjoy the restaurants, spa and children’s activities or relax at the poolside bar before dinner. There’s an infinity edge, yoga classes and tennis courts all just steps from the white sandy beach.
Distance from port: 2.1 miles
Address: One Ocean Drive, Nassau
Phone number: (242) 363 2501
Shuttle? Yes
Beach nearby? Yes
Closest Hotels to Nassau Cruise Port
Photo Credit: Yevgen Belich / Shutterstock.com
Graycliff Hotel Nassau
Upscale Graycliff Hotel is a colonial mansion located right next to Government House. It offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the old town. Four-star comforts are evident in 20 guest chambers and pool cottage suites and guests.
It is home to the Caribbean’s first 5-star restaurant with gourmet cuisine guaranteed. Rooms display a blend of old and new with quality antique furnishings and upscale bathrooms. Rooms have tea/coffee makers, refrigerators and bathrobes and include a sitting area, air-con and breakfast. Definitely one of the best luxury hotels in Nassau Bahamas.
Distance from port: 0.9 miles
Address: West Hill St, Nassau
Phone number: (242 ) 302 9150
Shuttle? No
Beach nearby? Yes – walk
British Colonial Hilton Nassau
A popular hotel for cruise visitors located in downtown Nassau, the British Colonial Hilton offers all the expected amenities. The Wi-Fi is especially popular and crew members from the nearby docked cruise ships often spend the day at the hotel not just to take advantage of the Wi-Fi but also the stunning private beach and pool with views of the port. The hotel is within walking distance from the port.
Distance from port 0.4
Address: One Bay Street
Phone number: (242) 302 9000
Beach nearby? Yes
Holiday Inn Express and Suites Nassau
Holiday Inn Express delivers its usual mid-range but comfortable family-friendly hotel accommodation in Nassau. Clean air-conditioned rooms have air-con and refrigerators and room rates include a free breakfast. This is one of the closest and best hotels in Nassau Bahamas for cruisers with a pool and fitness center in a central location.
Distance from port: 0.9 miles
Address: West Bay Street
Phone number: (242) 322 1515
Shuttle? No
Beach nearby? Yes
FAQs
Is Atlantis hotel in Nassau, Bahamas?
Yes. Atlantis Resort is on Paradise Island which is 1.9 miles from the centre of Nassau and connected to New Providence Island by a bridge and ferry.
Is Nassau a safe place to stay?
There is considerable poverty in Nassau which is reflected in the elevated crime rate. There are robberies and some violent crime on New Providence Island, but most is in the “Over the Hill” area of Nassau, away from the tourist area. It is wise to take precautions against purse snatching and petty theft. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables and use a taxi to get around after dark.
What’s the best hotel near the Nassau cruise port?
Holiday Inn Express and Suites is one of the closest hotels to Nassau cruise port, just 0.9 miles away. It offers comfortable rooms and a pool, close to the port and beach.
Carnival Cruise Line has introduced a new Family Feud board game which comes in anticipation of the Family Feud Live show that will debut on the cruise line’s new Mardi Gras cruise ship later in the year.
Family Feud: Carnival Edition
The Miami-based cruise line has launched a new board game inspired by the hit television show Family Feud. The new Carnival Edition board game brings a themed version of the game that can be played at home.
The game has more than 150 questions to test the knowledge on one of the world’s largest cruise lines such as “Name a Famous Captain”. The questions also include general cruise vacations too such as “Name Something You’d Hate to Forget When Packing for a Cruise.”
Image Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line
As expected, the Carnival Family Feud board game includes features like “Fast Money,” “Pass or Play,” “What Ifs” and “Face Offs.” players of the game can also download a free app from the App Store or Google Play to turn their phones into a real Family Feud buzzer.
The game can be purchased on Carnival’s online store and it currently costs $24.95. It can also be bundled along with the new Carnival Monopoly board game.
Image: Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line
The Family Feud game show will be part of the entertainment offerings once the Mardi Gras begins sailings. The ship remains in Barcelona, Spain, until Carnival Cruise Line can resume operations in the United States. The ship has been delayed six times but hopefully, she will finally begin Caribbean cruises out of the new Terminal 3 at Port Canaveral in July 2021.
Carnival’s Family Feud Game comes after the cruise line also recently introduced its new Carnival Themed Monopoly game. It features 28 popular Carnival Cruise Line attractions and features and iconic landing spots such as Mardi Gras’ BOLT roller coast, and the Lido Marketplace.
The Carnival cruise news everyone was pretty much expecting is now a reality, with the cruise line extending its suspension through June 30, 2021. This comes as the cruise industry is fighting for survival and feels mistreated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).
Carnival Cruise Line Cancels Sailings
The Miami-based cruise line has decided to extend its hold on U.S. operations through June 30, 2021. This now means that the first cruises won’t resume until July at the very earliest.
Carnival’s new Mardi Gras cruise ship will also have to wait even longer until her much-anticipated debut out of the new Port Canaveral Terminal 3. The vessel’s maiden voyage is now scheduled to depart on an eastern Caribbean voyage on July 3, 2021.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said:
“We know that this is very disappointing to our guests who continue to be eager to sail, and we remain committed to working with the Administration and the CDC to find a workable solution that best serves the interest of public health. We are asking that the cruise industry be treated on par with the approach being taken with other travel and tourism sectors, as well as U.S. society at large.”
It seriously puts into question if Carnival Cruise Line made the right choice by staying committed to U.S. ports and not finding alternative solutions outside the country. The new round of cancellations impacts most of the fleet.
Impacted Guests
The new round of cancellations will be hugely disappointing for guests hoping that their June voyage would go ahead. The cruise line is notifying all guests about their compensation options and why their voyage will no longer occur. In the letter, Carnival states:
“While we were hoping to resume service as early as June 2021, the information released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not provide the clarity we need to proceed. Consequently, we must notify you that we have extended our pause through June 30, 2021. Regrettably, this means your cruise has been cancelled and we sincerely apologize for this disappointing new”
Guests can choose from a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) plus onboard credit or a full refund. Carnival also provides further flexibility by extending final payment deadlines for all July sailings to May 31, 2021. Guests can also choose to cancel their voyage without penalty.
Photo: Just dance / Shutterstock.com
Carnival May Change its Approach
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy has also said that the cruise line may have to change its approach to resume operations which have been on hold for more than a year:
“While we have not made plans to move Carnival Cruise Line ships outside of our U.S. homeports, we may have no choice but to do so in order to resume our operations which have been on ‘pause’ for over a year. We appreciate the continued patience and support from our loyal guests, travel advisors and business partners as we work on a return-to-service solution.”
She had already said that Carnival is America’s cruise line and remained committed to U.S. ports. However, with the CDC not budging by lifting its Conditional Sailing Order, Carnival could be forced to follow Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line by shifting ships to new homeports outside the United States.
Labadee, Haiti is Royal Caribbean’s private cruise resort with all the beach attractions, watersports, and fun activities that cruisers look forward to. Private island destinations are popular ports of call for cruises in the Caribbean but Labadee, Haiti is a little different. This 260-acre resort is actually on a coastal peninsula rather than a private island.
One of the advantages of visiting Labadee is that even the largest Oasis-class ships can moor at the pier, avoiding the need for tenders. The secure gated resort is just over 800 meters long and 400m wide and is very easy to walk around.
Paved trails make it wheelchair-friendly and easy to navigate on foot. Alternatively, you can take the free tender to quieter Columbus Cove for the day. There’s also a free tram around Labadee with stops at the Dragon Zipline Station near the pier and at Barefoot Station and Town Square. Why not just hop aboard for a quick ride around Labadee!
Labadee is a thrilling place to spend a day. It has four beautiful white sandy beaches and the warm Caribbean waters are perfect for swimming and a host of watersports. Labadee also has some adrenalin rides including an alpine roller coaster and one of the longest zip-lines over water anywhere in the world.
Other things to do in Labadee include the massive Arawak Aqua Park with Dragon’s Splash water-slide, cabana rentals, parasailing, jet-skiing, fishing, speed boat adventures, catamaran trips, cultural experiences, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, cafés, bars, and children’s play areas. Prepare for some serious fun!
Labadee is located on a peninsula on the north coast of Haiti in the Greater Antilles archipelago of the Caribbean Sea. Haiti occupies the western end of the island of Hispaniola while neighboring Dominican Republic covers the central and eastern end of the island. The two countries are separated by a very high mountain range.
Allure of the Seas at Labadee (Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean)
Labadee is 32 miles west of the border with the Dominican Republic and 134 miles south of Grand Turk, the nearest island. It is 567 miles from Miami, the main departure point for Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises.
A little history about Labadee, Haiti
The island of Hispaniola was originally inhabited by indigenous Taino people before being “discovered” by Christoper Columbus on his first Voyage of Discovery in 1492.
In 1697, the western end of the island (now Haiti) was ceded to France and the lucrative sugar plantations made it one of the richest colonies in the world. During the 17th century, the Marquis de La Badie settled in the area and it became known as “Labadee”. Then, in 1804 Haiti gained independence.
Labadee is currently leased to Royal Caribbean as a private resort destination until 2050.
Who owns Labadee, Haiti?
Labadee is a 260-acre private resort that was leased to Royal Caribbean Cruises in 1986. In 2009, RCI upgraded the facilities at a cost of $55 million which included building a deep-water dock for visiting cruise ships. The lease runs until 2050.
Labadee is a popular port of call for Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Azamara. This single port contributes the largest amount of tourist revenue to Haiti, employing 300 local people and allowing others to sell their merchandise and services to cruise visitors in the flea market.
Photo Credit: Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock.com
In 2019, 160 cruise ships spent a day at Labadee with 720,000 passengers (and crew) enjoying the resort facilities.
What’s the Weather Like in Labadee, Haiti?
Labadee is in the Caribbean and has beautiful warm weather all year round. The average temperature is 80°F with a variance of around 10 degrees.
It has a dry season with almost no rainfall between December and March, which is the main cruise season in the Caribbean. The wet season is during the summer when it is also the hottest.
It has more chance of rain and tropical storms between August and October. The hottest month is July.
How to Visit Labadee
Labadee, Haiti is privately owned and the only way to visit is by booking a cruise with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity or Azamara cruise ships that include Labadee in their itinerary.
Labadee Map (Photo Credit: Matt C/Creative Commons)
Ships berth at the 400-metre-long pier in Buccaneer Bay and only one cruise ship can berth at any time.
Things to Do in Labadee, Haiti
At the end of the pier/walkway, one of the first things you’ll see is the Trading Post. There’s a desk where you can book tours, rides and experiences if you have not already done so. This is also the place to enjoy a little shopping and help support the local economy.
Photo By: Royal Caribbean
There is a First Aid Station near the tram stops. The resort also has several dedicated smoking zones in an otherwise smoke-free environment.
From this central point you’ll find lots of things to do while visiting Labadee and many activities are free.
Shopping in Labadee
There are 3 Trading Posts selling beachwear, hats, T-shirts etc.
There’s also a covered Artisan’s Market with excellent shopping opportunities at 70 different booths. Look out for Rum of Haiti for purchasing local alcoholic treats and browse the goods at Carlos which sells beautiful hand-decorated skirts and clothing.
Artisan Market Place (photo Credit: Creative Commons)
The Artisan’s Village is an open-air market with many local traders and artisans selling wood carvings, paintings, jewelry and unique souvenirs. You can see them working on their crafts and there’s the chance to haggle a little.
Beaches
All Labadee beaches have complimentary beach chairs and hammocks available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The largest is Adrenalin Beach and has a swim-up floating bar!
Home of the Arawak Water Park, Columbus Cove is the furthest beach from the pier. Getting there is easy aboard the free tram, the Columbus Cove Express. Hop aboard at the Dragon Tram Station near the pier.
Nellie’s Beach is on the south shore of the bay and is a little rocky in places. Small and secluded, it has gorgeous cabana rentals.
Barefoot Beach is exclusively for cruisers staying in Grand Suites.
Main Labadee Beach (Photo Credit: Dale Morton/Creative Commons)
Cabana Rentals
For a romantic escape or to enjoy some quality time with family and friends, rent a private beach bungalow or luxury cabana for the day. Prices range from $263 for a beach bungalow for 8 guests up to an over-the-water cabana at Nellie’s Beach for $579.
Cabanas Overlook the Beach (Photo Credit: Chris/Creative Commons)
You can also rent shady beach loungers from $48 for two and the ultimate couple’s four-poster beach beds from $175.
Watersports
Labadee is a haven for all types of watersports including kayaking, snorkeling, parasailing over the bay, paddleboarding or just relax on a floating mat.
The Arawak Water Park at Columbus Cove offers the chance to hop on cooling icebergs, navigate obstacles, water trampolines, slides and more. For youngsters there’s a smaller scale water park called Adventure Ocean Oasis with water toys, buckets and fountains.
Waverunners Parked in Labadee (Photo Credit: Dixon Tam / Creative Commons)
If want to enjoy the calm clear waters, floating mat rentals are available at Nellie’s Beach and Columbus Cove for around $19.
There’s a 300-foot-long Dragon’s Splash twisting water-slide at Columbus Cove ending in a big splash!
Walking
If you want to stretch your legs, the resort has paved trails that are color coded. There’s a Leisure walk (green), Moderate walk (amber) and Strenuous Walk (red).
Food and Drink in Labadee
All the food and drink is prepared onboard your cruise ship and then transported ashore. This ensures the same standard and quality that you are used to onboard.
Lunch is complimentary and served at three locations: The Dragon’s Café near the pier, Café Labadee at Adrenalin Beach and Columbus Cove Café. All venues offer a selection of tasty barbecue meats, hot dogs, burgers, chicken, salads and tropical fruit served buffet-style.
There are five bars dotted around the resort including Dragon’s Breath Pub near the pier, the Floating Bar and Schooner Bar on Adrenalin Beach, Nellie’s Tavern and Columbus Cove Barr.
They all serve signature cocktails (try the frozen Labadoozie!), virgin mocktails, sodas and beers. Drinks are typically charged to your account by scanning your stateroom pass. If you have a drinks package as part of your cruise package, it will also be honored at all the bars and restaurants while in Labadee. Hurray!
Cruise Excursions in Labadee, Haiti
Cruisers are required to stay within the secure fenced resort area so there are no land excursions around the island.
Tours boats Leaving at Labadee (Photo Credit: Brian Holland/Creative Commons)
However, you can book some amazing experiences in Labadee such as:
Sport fishing charters
3-hour cruise experience aboard a luxury sailboat
A trip to Paradise Cove and the chance to learn about everyday life with a Haitian Village Cultural Experience
Half-day snorkeling trip to nearby Amiga Island from $69
Catamaran trips along the coast from $54 seeing fishing villages, a fortress and a shipwreck
Add-on Experiences in Labadee
There’s plenty of free things to do in Labadee, but you might want to take the opportunity to do a once-in-a-lifetime experience while you’re here. Don’t forget to book early to avoid disappointment!
Dragon’s Breath Zipline
The thrilling Dragon’s Breath Zipline is Labadee’s main claim to fame. When it was constructed, it was the longest over-water zipline in the world. It stretches across the shoreline for 2,600 feet (almost half a mile!).
The zipline starts 450 feet up the hillside and the speedy ride lasts for two exhilarating minutes at speeds of around 35mph. The cost is currently around $89.
Climb the steps and ride the Little Dragon training ride then hop aboard an open shuttle to transport you to the zipline launch platform. You’ll be zipping right across the curving bay so keep your eyes open if you dare as the views are absolutely amazing! Book your time slot well ahead of time as places are limited.
Dragon’s Tail Coaster
Those who enjoy thrilling Alpine coaster rides can spend the whole day riding the Dragon’s Tail roller coaster with an all-day pass.
The 2-person coaster cars wind along the hillside above the beach and drivers can slow down or control the speed of the cars with a brake pedal for the perfect ride. Best time ride and to avoid the lines is as soon as you reach the resort.
Tips When Visiting Labadee, Haiti
Use the locker (around $10) to secure your valuables when riding the Dragon’s Breath Zipline. You can keep the locker for the whole day which is useful when swimming and doing watersports too!
You will need cash (US dollars) when shopping at the Artisan’s Market and the Artisan Village. It’s also useful for tipping local beach staff and watersports assistants who greatly appreciate the extra income.
The best months to visit weather-wise are between December and April.
Avoid the lines at the Dragon’s Tail Coaster by heading there as soon as you arrive.
Hop aboard the free tram and see the highlights of Labadee. It stops at Barefoot Station, the Dragon Zipline Station and Town Square.
Take an insulated drinks bottle ashore. You can refill it free at the buffet area and stay hydrated at the beach. NB. Water in the restrooms is not safe to drink.
Don’t forget to take your beach towel ashore as there are no towel stations in Labadee.
Labadee FAQs
Where is Labadee?
Labadee is located on the north coast of Haiti, on the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago of the Caribbean Sea. Labadee is 32 miles west of the border with the Dominican Republic and 134 miles south of Grand Turk, the nearest island.
How long is the zipline in Labadee, Haiti?
The Dragon’s Breath Zipline in Labadee stretches across the bay for 2,600 feet (almost half a mile!). When it was constructed it was the longest over-water zipline in the world.
Who owns Labadee?
Labadee is a 260-acre private resort which is leased to Royal Caribbean Cruises. The lease runs until 2050.
Following up on the removal of all June sailings over the weekend, Norwegian Cruise Line has now made it official that operations are suspended through June 2021. This now means that cruises won’t resume until July at the very earliest.
NCL Extends Suspension Further Into Summer
Norwegian Cruise Line has now officially extended its suspension well into the summer. This impacts all the brands that NCLH owns, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas.
All cruises are now canceled through June 30, 2021, and the earliest sailings won’t start to resume until early July 2021. The cruise company had previously suspended operations through May, and that remains the case for rivals Carnival and Royal Caribbean.
It wasn’t really a surprise as the cruise line had already removed sailings from its booking engine over the weekend. When a cruise line does this, it’s usually not long until it’s made official.
Impacted Guests
Those impacted by the further cancellations will receive a full refund that will be paid back by May 4, 2021. Guests will also receive a 10% coupon that will automatically be added to their account if they have not already received one.
The coupon can be used on a future NCL cruise departing through 2022. However, it’s only valid for one year from the date of issue.
Photo Credit: Gary Besinga / Shutterstock.com
Why a Further Suspension?
NCL has said that it will continue to work through the Conditional Sailing Order framework issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. However, we all know that cruise lines are frustrated and waiting on the CDC for more technical details.
Until this comes, Norwegian Cruise Line won’t be able to begin trial sailings to stress test new health protocols. It will take cruise lines 60 days to get regular guest cruises going again once clearance from the CDC is provided. That will take time, and a lot needs to be done, such as bringing the crew back to ships.
NCL already gave a hint on a further extension after hundreds of crew members received letters of being repatriated. This came not long after many crew members returned to the ships in anticipation of an early 2021 restart. The first group of crew members already arrived back in the Phillippines after disembarking the Norwegian Joy in Aruba.
Norwegian Cruise Line could be hoping that the vaccination rollout continues to go well and by the time cruises do restart the majority of guests will already be vaccinated. It all remains very fluid at this time and cruise lines are adapting as the situation develops not just in the United States but around the world too.
Located in the idyllic waters of the Eastern Caribbean, Antigua will quickly steal your heart with its lush beauty, and warm and friendly locals. As a cruise stop, it’s hard to rival Antigua — it’s one of the most popular for many travelers exploring this side of the Caribbean.
Of all the things to do in Antigua, aside from lounging on any one of its many beaches (365 of them to be exact), this island nation has so much to offer in terms of culture, cuisine, and diverse landscapes.
Once your cruise ship docks at Heritage and Redcliffe Quay, the capital of St, John’s is just a five minutes’ walk away and you’ll be spoiled-for-choice when it comes to on-shore excursions…
Once you dock at the port of St. John’s, lace-up with a good pair of walking shoes and take to the streets to explore the island nation’s capital for the day.
All of the city’s iconic landmarks are within walking distance of the cruise terminal. If you don’t feel like straying very far, pop across to Radcliffe Quay, connected to the docking terminal by a boardwalk.
Downtown St. John’s, Antigua (Photo Credit: byvalet / Shutterstock.com)
Otherwise, explore the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda or take your pick from an eclectic mix of restaurants to refuel for lunch.
Don’t miss out on a classic photo opportunity while you’re at the cruise ship port with its many colorful walls — ideal for the Insta feed!
2. Hike to the Summit of Mount Obama
This is the highest and most scenic point on the entire island — originally known as Boggy Peak. It’s a challenging climb, but both beginners and experienced hikers can easily complete the track.
Mount Obama (Photo Credit: tshantz / Creative Commons)
The reward at the summit of Mount Obama is unhindered, panoramic views across Antigua. Bear in mind that the hike takes an average of three hours to the summit, and you’ll be hiking through lush jungle trails.
3. Meet Antigua’s Local Wildlife
While you’re in Antigua, it only makes sense to explore its incredible underwater sea life with a scuba or snorkeling tour.
In specific, the Cades Reef scuba tour. Whether you’re a seasoned scuba diver or prefer snorkeling, this is a family-friendly spot known for its impeccable visibility and a huge diversity of sea creatures.
On a calm day, visibility is about 100-feet (30 meters) and you can expect to see plenty of fish swimming on the coral reef, turtles, the iconic sunken yacht wreck, and more.
4. Mingle Like a Local at Shirley Heights
For yet another spot to take in the beauty of Antigua, Shirley Heights is a must-visit location.
Shirly Heights (Photo Credit: David Stanley / Creative Commons)
With a panoramic lookout across the island, this is also one of the best spots to mingle with the locals and enjoy steel drum music, Caribbean barbeque, and cinnamon-spiced rum. It doesn’t get more authentic than that!
If you prefer things a little more low-key, stick to weekday evening events.
5. Hop Over to the Island of Barbuda
Despite damage by Hurricane Irma, this island is still worth a day-trip. Simply hop on the Barbuda Express which is a high-speed catamaran that will carry you over for a day of exploration of this very untouched Caribbean habitat.
This is a popular day excursion, so make sure to plan your time well and book in advance.
6. Explore Antigua’s Local Cuisine
The Antiguans love all things hot and spicy, so be prepared to have your taste buds fired up.
If you want to delve a little deeper into the local Caribbean cuisine, why not take a local cooking class? One of the most popular options is with Nicole’s Table, based in the capital, St. Johns.
If you’re interested in sampling local delicacies, add conch water or goat water to your list (it’s a type of soup).
There’s also Caribbean barbeque and dumplings, usually made with cod or salt fish, the local favorite Johnny’s Cakes and Bakes, and deliciously sweet Caribbean mango!
7. Discover off-the-Beaten Track Paradise at Half Moon Bay
While some of Antigua’s beaches may be a little overcrowded and busy, there are a few that aren’t, specifically, Half Moon Bay.
Half Moon Bay, Antigua (Photo Credit: Roger Hiscocks / Creative Commons)
Located in a national park, this swath of beach is untouched and protected and sits perfectly off-the-beaten-track. Its sizable waves also make it ideal for windsurfers. Snorkelers can also enjoy their time here with calm waters to explore near the edge of the bay.
Top Tip: Make sure you visit Half Moon Bay in the day — don’t plan this outing for sunset. The winding route to get there (plus the sandflies come dusk) may not offer an equally pleasant experience.
8. Take In the Natural Wonder of Devil’s Bridge
This is a definite must-see when visiting this island nation and is almost a rite-of-passage when exploring Antigua.
Devil’s Bridge is a natural limestone arch located in eastern Antigua — you can find it near Indian Town. The ocean’s power has shaped this natural arch over hundreds of years, giving Devil’s Bridge its fascinating shape. It also marks out the meeting of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
9. Step Back in Time at Betty’s Hope
If you’re interested in learning a little more about Antigua’s heritage, then this is a worthwhile experience. Betty’s Hope is essentially a 17th-century sugar plantation. It is named after the daughter of a former plantation owner and is one of the largest plantation sites in Antigua.
No longer a working sugar mill, but a museum of sorts, a visit to Betty’s Hope gives you a good idea of the role Antigua played in escaping the system of slavery. If you’re a history buff, this spot is for you.
10. Escape the Crowds at Valley Church Beach
If you’re looking to escape to an idyllic beach straight out of a Caribbean postcard, then Valley Church Beach is your go-to. You’ll find this spot south of Jolly Harbour, on the west coast of Antigua.
With its palm-tree-lined coastline, powdery, white sand beach, and a chance of spotting dolphins, this is the Caribbean in a nutshell — without the madding crowds.
11. Get To Know Antigua From a Local Perspective
One of the best ways to explore any new area is with a local. If you want to break away from the crowds and get to know all of the best local gems, who better to show you than someone who actually lives in Antigua?
St. Johns, Antigua (Photo Credit: Adam Reeder / Creative Commons)
There are numerous locally guided tours operating across the island, but it’s important to do your research first and ensure the tour guide you choose is legitimate and verified. For a truly authentic Caribbean experience, this is one of the best (and most affordable) ways to discover Antigua.
12. Try Your Hand at Sailing
If the Caribbean is renowned for anything, it’s the pristine sailing conditions, making it one of the best places in the world to learn how to sail. If this has always been on your bucket list, then there’s no better time to spend a day learning how it’s done while in Antigua.
Head over to the National Sailing Academy in Falmouth Harbour, where they offer short sailing courses. Or, you can hire a dinghy for the day and take it out to Pigeon Point Beach if you already know what you’re doing!
13. Soar Across Antiguan Rainforest
This may be one of the more tourist-driven attractions in Antigua, but it’s ideal if you love a dash of adrenaline and want to explore the island’s lush rainforest, too.
Zipline on the Island (Photo Credit: Trevor Claringbold / Creative Commons)
With Antigua Rainforest Zipline Tours, you can soar across and through the dense rainforest, and choose from a short 45-minute tour, or one that spans 2.5 hours.
The full tour also includes an adventure obstacle course set up within the jungle, including rope swings, bridges, and the 328-foot zipline for the ultimate rush.
14. Get a Taste of Antiguan Heritage at Fort Berkeley
This is another fantastic tour if you’re interested in learning more about Antigua’s naval history. Fort Berkeley was integral to the defense of Antigua during the reign of the British Empire.
Complete with 25 canons across the site, you can hike a trail that starts at the superyacht dock, near Nelson’s dockyard. It’s a relatively quiet and picturesque trail that winds its way along English Harbour.
Fort Berkeley (Photo Credit: David Stanley / Creative Commons)
Don’t miss out on the 200-year old bomb-proof magazine that was capable of holding 300 barrels of gunpowder!
15. Take in the View at Island Beach Bar
For an amazing island dining experience, you want to schedule a visit to the Island Beach Bar. Also known as Turner’s Beach Bar, located on Turner’s beach, it’s the perfect spot for delicious island cuisine. You will get incredible views of the island of Montserrat.
Turner’s Beach Bar and Grill (Photo Credit: loonyhiker / Creative Commons)
If you can only visit during the day due to your cruise schedule, be sure to indulge in the locally caught lobster which is caught, split and grilled right on the beach.
If you visit at night, however, you can catch a glimpse of the active lava glow from the Soufrière Hills volcano on Montserrat Island.
16. Shop Til’ You Drop at Heritage Quay
You may not think that there would be much high-end or duty-free shopping on an island such as Antigua, but au contraire. If you’re keen on a spot of luxury shopping, then add a visit to Heritage Quay to your bucket list. This is one of the best areas to find the best prices on luxury items, too.
Heritage Quay, Downtown St. Johns (Photo Credit: Reinhard Link / Creative Commons)
You can find a plethora of stores selling everything from diamond jewelry to Rolex watches, cigars, liquor, designer clothing, cosmetics, and more.
17. Indulge in a Lobster Lunch Cruise
If you’re feeling particularly indulgent after a spot of luxury shopping, why not embark on a yacht cruise around the island of Antigua? There are several independent cruise charters that operate from the island, but one that is worth mentioning is the family-owned and operated Creole Antigua Tours.
You can expect a beautiful lobster lunch, a spot of island hopping, snorkeling, and plenty of sun, sea, and relaxation.
18. Trek To the Pillars of Hercules
This is a brilliant day out if you’re keen on exploring the natural landscape of Antigua, other than the beach. The Pillars of Hercules are a stunning natural wonder carved by the power of the ocean over thousands of years. From the pillars, you can explore private beaches, plenty of snorkeling opportunities, with sightings of rare fish species.
Pillars of Hercules (Photo Credit: Vanessa Hall / Creative Commons)
You can only reach this site from a hiking trail from Galleon Beach, which is beautiful in itself, littered with cactus and agave.
19. Explore Antigua’s Mangrove System
If you’re a nature lover and want to get your outdoor fix, then a great to do just that is by hiring a kayak for a few hours and exploring the island’s mangroves. During a mangrove kayak tour, you may even get a chance to spot a jellyfish species unique to Antigua — the upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea).
20. Spend the Day on Prickly Pear Island
Island hopping is another great way to get to know Antigua and its gorgeous surroundings — because there’s plenty to see just a short boat ride away on the uninhabited Prickly Pear Island.
Prickly Pear Island (Photo Credit: Pirate_J / Creative Commons)
Set off the northeast corner of Antigua, it’s the ideal day-trip spot for idyllic, quiet beaches, shallow reefs, tropical fish, and plenty of freshly made rum cocktails!
Bonus: Antigua Cruise Port
Since this is a very popular cruise destination. Most major cruise lines such as Carnival, the Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Princess Cruises, cruise to the island regularly.
The cruise port is found in St. John which is the capital city of Antigua. The dock there is large enough to accommodate four ships and soon to be more with the construction of a new pier that’s underway.
Antigua Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Günter Hentschel / Creative commons)
Your ship is likely to dock at either Heritage or Radcliffe quay. The first thing that greets you once you disembark from your ship is the beautiful metallic island tunes, played tirelessly by an island band at the piers exit.
Entering into the beautiful port area one is greeted by a burst of colorful buildings featuring lively outlets. The outlet host eateries, duty-free shopping malls, bars, and gift shops. This neatly organized port area with clean streets and plenty of amenities serves as a nice introduction to Antigua.
Top Traveler’s Tip:
If you want to experience an authentic taste of Caribbean culture, be sure to plan your cruise towards the end of July as this falls right in the middle of Carnival!
Antigua FAQs
We hope this list of some of the best things to do in Antigua has you intrigued. In order to plan your shore excursions well, it’s best to know a few things about Antigua itself, first:
How Close Is the Port To the City of St. Johns?
Your cruise ship will dock at Heritage Quay, which is one of two quays perpendicular to St. Johns.
The exit gates to the city are less than 500-feet from the ship. Basically, it will take you just a few minutes on foot until you enter the city center.
When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Antigua?
Peak season in Antigua falls between the periods of mid-December to mid-April. But if you prefer to visit during the quieter, shoulder season, you may want to consider scheduling a cruise for May or June.
Both of these seasons are the best time to visit the Eastern Caribbean.
What Can I Expect From the Weather?
The Caribbean has a humid, tropical climate, so you can expect Antigua to be relatively warm, year-round. Generally, the temperature hovers around the mid-80s. The rainy season is between July-November.
Discover These Things to Do in Antigua With Cruise Hive
These are just a few of the many things to do in Antigua that will capture your heart and spirit and make you fall in love with the Caribbean. A crucial part of your cruise experience is preparing and booking your trip well in advance.
Half Moon Cay is an idyllic castaway island in the Bahamas with a white sandy beach lapped by calm cerulean blue waters. Privately owned by the Carnival Corporation, this port of call is exclusively used by cruises that include this heavenly hideaway on their itinerary.
Although there’s some steep competition from other private cruise-owned islands, Half Moon Cay is frequently listed #1. This is mainly due to the extensive beach with its super-soft white sand and diverse activities such as horse riding.
Formerly known as Little San Salvador Island, this laid-back island covers 2400 acres (less than 4 square miles) and much of it has been left as a nature preserve with native vegetation for nesting birds and wildlife.
Currently, cruisers are transported ashore in tenders, but a new deep-water dock is planned for the near future. Once ashore, expect to enjoy a beautiful day on the beach with plenty of activities for watersports, boat trips, swimming, snorkeling and relaxing in the sun.
Entrance to Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com)
The island has a Welcome Center with information and excursions, a church for weddings, an ice cream parlour, bar, food pavilion, and restrooms. Look forward to shopping for souvenirs, local crafts, and beachwear at the Straw Market, visit the watersports center, go horse riding on the beach or book a treatment at the Half Moon Salon. Young visitors can enjoy the Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park with slides and pirate ship.
Cruisers can book private cabanas, stingray encounters and water-based adventures ahead of time. It’s the perfect beach day with all the delicious food, cocktails and fun you would expect onboard, but transferred to this beautiful island. So sit back and read on to enjoy a virtual visit to Half Moon Cay!
Half Moon Cay is located midway between the islands of Eleuthera and Cat Island in the Bahamas. It is about 100 miles (160km) southeast of Nassau, the Bahamian capital, and 277 miles southeast of Miami.
History of Half Moon Cay
The private island of Half Moon Cay was formerly known by the less romantic-sounding name of “Little San Salvador Island”. The name was changed to reflect the spectacular crescent-shaped beach at the west end of the island which is used by cruisers.
Half Moon was also the name of the ship belonging to 17th century explorer Henry Hudson which features on the Holland America logo, providing a nice connection between the island and the cruise company.
Half Moon Cay Sign
The cay was originally bought by Norwegian Cruise Line and sold in 1996 for $6 million to Holland America Line (HAL) which is part of the Carnival Group. HAL developed around 50 acres as an exclusive private luxury resort for its cruise passengers and manages the remaining 2,400 acres as a natural habitat for wildlife.
The island had no infrastructure so construction involved installing electric generators, reverse osmosis water plants for freshwater, sewer treatment, and incinerators. A marina was dredged and a pier constructed for the tenders and the developed areas were raised by 14 foot to be above the flood plain.
Future Plans to Develop a Port at Half Moon Cay
Future developments include developing a deep-water dock allowing cruise ships to moor right next to a new pier. Currently the shallow waters mean that visiting cruisers must use a tender (motor boat) to transfer from the cruise ship to the island.
However, in 2019, Carnival Corporation signed an agreement with the Bahamas government to construct a new port at Half Moon Cay, at an estimated total cost of $90 million. The work was due to start mid-2020 but has been delayed. The plans exceed the requirements laid down by the USCG in order to withstand even Category 5 hurricanes.
Which Cruise Lines Visit Half Moon Cay?
Half Moon Cay is frequently visited by Holland America cruise ships and some Carnival cruise ships. Not all itineraries include Half Moon Cay as a port of call, so check the details before booking your cruise.
What’s the Weather Like at Half Moon Cay?
Like the rest of the Bahamas, the island enjoys a cool summer Mediterranean climate with daytime temperatures very rarely exceeding 90°F (32°C) in summer. The island enjoys an average of 320 days of sunshine each year and maintains warm seas and balmy temperatures tempered by sea breezes.
Half Moon Cay Beach Before the Guests Arrive!
The island has two seasons: a wet season from May to October and a dry season through winter and spring, which coincides with the main months for Caribbean cruises. The northeast trade winds keep the island pleasantly fresh.
Winters are dry and sunny with temperatures averaging 77°F (25°C). In summer, temperatures reach 87°F (31°C), with some heavy afternoon storms at times.
Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, but tropical storms most likely affect the Bahamas between July and October. The island has been affected by two hurricanes in the past: Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and Hurricane Dorian in 2019.
Getting to Half Moon Cay
Half Moon Cay is surrounded by shallow waters and reefs and there is no currently deep-water dock for the cruise ships. Passengers have to be ferried to and from the cay using tenders (ship’s lifeboats) which takes about 20 minutes.
Tender Boat Between Carnival Cruise ship and Half Moon Cay (Photo Credit: Igor_Koptilin / Shutterstock.com)
It can take a while to get everyone ashore so the best advice is either to get up early and be one of the first in line or hang around enjoying a leisurely breakfast and relaxing until the rush is over.
Plans have been approved by the Bahamian government for a new port and pier to be built. This will allow future cruise ships to dock and passengers can walk ashore.
The advantages are many. It will provide more time for passengers to enjoy the island and supplies can more easily be transferred ashore to stock the bars and eateries. Also, a permanent port will avoid any problems associated with rough seas which can affect ship-to-shore transfers by tender.
Things to Do in Half Moon Cay
Beaches
One of the best features about the private island is the powder-soft white sand stretching around the 2.5-mile-long Half Moon Beach. It is nicer than some other private islands such as Princess Cays which has coarser sand and some rocky areas.
Half Moon Cay Beach (Photo Credit: JIN TAN / Shutterstock.com)
The further you walk from the ship, the quieter the beach will be so if you’re looking for your own private spot, you will find it here.
There are plenty of lounge chairs and hammocks dotted around the island for relaxing, napping and absorbing the gorgeous views.
Watersports
Surrounded by clear warm waters, the cruise line private island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Close to shore there are not much fish due all the visitors but you can join a boat trip to go snorkeling and diving in these clear warm waters.
Sailboats at Half Moon Cay Island
Other watersports activities that you can sign up for include parasailing, fishing, glass-bottom boat rides, jet skiing, sailing Hobie catamarans and sunfish sailboats, stand-up paddle-boarding, and kayaking.
Near the church there’s a sports center where you can rent snorkels, floats and sports equipment or sign up for some team beach sports.
Sailing and Watersports on Half Moon Cay
If you are a lover of watersports and whatever is listed so far doesn’t fit your bill why not sail on a Hobie cat, sunfish sailboat or a windsurfing sailboat? You can hire any of these watercraft from one of the three water sports centers available on the island. Alternatively, hire water bikes for a fun time on the water or go kayaking at Bonefish Lagoon.
Watersports at Half Moon Cay (Igor_Koptilin / Shutterstock.com)
Sports and Games
The cay has volleyball and basketball courts, horseshoes, shuffleboard and walking trails so there’s plenty for active cruisers to enjoy.
Your cruise entertainment crew will organize some team games and fun activities while ashore so get ready to join an impromptu game.
Take a Hike
Half Moon Cay has a contrasting mix of green vegetation, white sand and blue sea. Out of the 2400 acres of natural beauty, only 2% ( about 50 acres) has been developed, leaving at least 2350 acres of indigenous flora and fauna to explore.
There are nature trails all over the island either on hard pavement or sandy trails. These paths lead to some of the island’s shore excursion start points such as Stingray Cove, Bonefish Lagoon and the Pegasus Ranch where they keep the horses.
The cay has nature trails for spotting visiting sea birds and there’s a fitness trail with exercise stations along the way.
Birding
There are numerous native birds and waterfowl species in the Bahamas for birdwatching fans. There are at least 47 different species of birds spotted at Half Moon Cay between 1982-2012, according to a survey by Majestic Feathers.
The most common birds are gulls and waterfowl such as sooty terns, roseate terns, and noody terns. Other birds include wading birds such as egrets, ruddy ducks, herons and Caribbean coots. These can be spotted in the brackish lagoon which has been designated as a bird preserve by the Bahamian National Trust.
Don’t forget those binoculars for watching close up!
Get a Massage
Get a professional massage by a professional therapist in an air-conditioned cabana. The team of beauticians aboard Holland America Line offer professional massage services while on the island.
Island Massage on Half Moon cay, Bahamas (Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock.com)
Hair Braiding
If you like interacting with other cultures then enjoy the diversity of the Bahamians by engaging in some of their cultures such as hair braiding.
Half Moon Cay is uninhabited so locals from the nearby island of Eleuthera ferry across to the island when there are cruise visitors. They teach you their ways, dance culture and also braid your hair to provide a more local look.
Pirate Fun for Youngsters
There’s plenty of fun for young cruisers at Half Moon Cay. There is a special lagoon aqua park with island-themed action fun area where kids can play in the safe shallow water.
They can enjoy being sprayed with water from the pirate ship’s cannons or play on the shark, dolphin, whale and octopus-shaped water toys provided.
There’s also a playground nearby that is fully equipped for climbing and scrambling. You might want to buy or bring your own small beach toys such as a sand bucket and spade for children to make sand castles on the beach.
Get Married!
Getting married as part of your luxury cruise to Half Moon Cay is a great way to have a memorable wedding ceremony without it costing an arm and a leg! When you step off the tender ship and walk towards the island’s welcome center, you will notice a beautiful white church built in Bahamian cultural style.
This is for those who plan on getting married on the island or perhaps want to renew their vows. You can do this at the church, have your special event captured with professional photographs and then have your reception on the island. The rest of the cruise is the perfect honeymoon!
Note: If you’re planning to get married or renew your vows on the island, you need to book with your cruise prior to sailing. You will be required to provide all necessary documentation as this is a legal wedding ceremony.
Half Moon Cay Cabanas
Cabanas on Half Moon Cay are particularly advantageous with luxury lounge chairs in a prime beachfront location. They include air-conditioning, table and chairs for dining, a refrigerator stocked with snacks and drinks, ceiling fan, misting fans, snorkel equipment and floating mats.
At a cost of around $319 for up to 4 guests, it can be good value for those wanting their own peaceful chunk of paradise.
Upgrade to the Private Oasis Cabana and you’ll get your own two-storey luxury beach shack complete with iPod docking station, grill, showers and misting station.
It comes with a fridge stocked with drinks and a butler to pour them for you! If that doesn’t impress you, perhaps the 8-person hot tub will! You need to pre-book and the cost is around $1500 for up to 12 guests.
Shopping on Half Moon Cay
Shopping is all part of any port of call and Half Moon Cay has some interesting local stores and retail services. There is a small Post Office where you can buy beautiful Bahamian stamps and postcards. You may even want to go the extra mile and mail one to yourself as a memoir of your vacation!
Local Stores at Half Moon Cay (Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock.com)
A convenience store is also located near the Welcome Center, where you can purchase snacks, sunscreen, and other beach essentials.
Souvenirs are a great way to remember your trip and the Straw Market is the place to source them during your visit to Half Moon Cay. You will find some unique gifts, including beachwear and locally made ocean-themed costume jewelry.
You can even purchase clamshells that are farmed nearby and contain natural pearls. Purchase and open your clamshell and have the beautiful pearl made into a ring or pendant while you wait. It’s a unique and lovely way to celebrate your visit to the Bahamas.
Half Moon Cay Cruise Excursions
Part of the fun of cruising is joining in some tours and excursions at ports of call to try something new. Half Moon Cay is no exception. You can sign up for any of these tours and activities ahead of time to ensure you get a place.
Stingray Adventure
This experience takes place at Stingray Cove where you will be given an informative orientation about stingrays from a professional guide.
They will then take you to an area where you can interact with these amazing marine creatures by stroking their velvety wings as they swim by.
Snorkeling Tours
These snorkeling expeditions include use of a snorkel, mask and fins. A boat will take you further offshore where you can visit the coral reef which is bursting with colorful marinelife, fish and anemones.
It has many beautiful corals which are home to a wide variety of sea creatures. A professional snorkeling guide will assist you and help you identify the sea life in their habitat.
Horseback Riding
One of the most unique shore excursions at Half Moon Cay is horseback riding. Explore more of the island along a winding trail to the highest point for panoramic views. On the return trip you can ride the horses through the shallow waters in a thrilling beach ride.
Horse Riding Along Half Moon Cay Beach
Eco Bike Tour
With 2400 acres of beautiful island to explore, what better way to get around than a bike and hike combo? Enjoy scenic views of the island while cycling to Pegasus Ranch before hiking past Bonefish Lagoon and Stingray Park.
Tram Calypso Tour
Join the one-hour tram tour around Half Moon Cay visiting many of the highlights and off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Guided Walk
Join a local guide on a 90-minute walk seeing nature at its best. Learn about the cay’s pirate history and identify different plants, herbs and animals including native sea grapes, tropical sea palms, bananaquit birds and curly-tailed lizards.
Food and Drink on Half Moon Cay
Restaurants, beach barbecues and bars at Half Moon Cay are all run by crew members from the ship. You get the same high-quality dishes and superb choices on the island as you would expect onboard, but the island’s surroundings are particularly special!
Food Pavilion Which is Run by the Ship (Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock.com)
Cruisers can dine free at the Food Pavilion which has open-air seating and serves a range of dishes including burgers, salads, hot dogs and fresh fruit. There’s also a complimentary beach barbecue.
In addition, there’s an ice cream parlor for ordering your favorite sundae and a Lobster Shack, both requiring an additional fee which is charged to your stateroom keycard.
The Lobster Shack has a mouthwatering menu of grilled spiny lobster with rice, Caribbean coconut beans and salsa (pineapple or sofrito), so why not treat yourself? Prepared by chefs from the ship, it’s a great chance to enjoy a magnificent lobster feast for around $20.
Rumrunners bar (Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock.com)
If you fancy a fruity cocktail, icy beer, frosty frozen drink, or soda, there are several bars dotted around the island, including the Rumrunners Bar, Lookout Bar, Bell Bar, and the “I Wish I Could Stay Here Forever” Bar! The traditional Bahamas drink is the rum-based Bahama Mama or the non-alcoholic lemon-lime drink called Switcha.
Be aware that you will have to pay for all drinks while on Half Moon Cay, even if you have purchased an all-inclusive drinks package. This is because the island bars do not have any computers.
Other Cruise-Owned Private Destinations
With the growing popularity for cruises with ports of call on private islands. Other cruise lines also have their own private islands in the Caribbean. These include:
Half Moon Cay is in the Bahamas, midway between Eleuthera and Cat Island. It is about 100 miles (160km) southeast of Nassau and 277 miles southeast of Miami.
Does anyone live on Half Moon Cay?
Half Moon Cay is uninhabited. Developed as a luxury beach resort, it is used as a private port of call for Carnival and Holland America cruisers. About 100 locals work on the island and arrive by ferry from Eleuthera when there are visiting cruise ships.
How large is Half Moon Cay island?
Half Moon Cay is fairly small, covered 2400 acres which is less than 4 square miles. It has a 2.5 mile long crescent beach of white sand which is the main focal point for cruise activities.
Which cruise lines visit Half Moon Cay?
Half Moon Cay is used primarily by Holland America cruise ships and by some Carnival cruises when not required by HAL.
Following Cruise Hive’s report yesterday on Norwegian Cruise Line removing all May sailings from its website, it is now confirmed that the cruise line has suspended operations once again and it comes as no surprise!
NCL Cancels More Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Line has become the first major cruise line to extends its pause on cruise operations until the Summer. On Tuesday morning, the cruise line announced that cruises are cancelled through May 2021.
It does now means that cruises won’t restart until June at the very earliest. The extensions include sailings for Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Oceania Cruises.
On January 19, NCL announced its previous pause extension through April 30, 2021. That impacted three vessels as they were hoping to return to service in that month. Unfortunately, there has been no sign of resuming cruises, and now June has become the month for return.
NCL Notice
What Now for Booked Guest?
Those guests who had an active booking in May will automatically receive a refund that should be completed by March 23, 2021. If a guest has not previously received, then a 10% coupon will be applied for a future cruise. The coupon will be valid for one year and can be used on any future departure through 2022.
Those who had booked using a previously future cruise credit don’t need to worry as it will be reapplied automatically. Those are the options for impacted guests at the moment. The options are not as good as some other major cruise lines.
For other cruise lines owned by the cruise company, guests should check their specific options on what’s being offered.
Photo Credit: NEFLO PHOTO / Shutterstock.com
It Was Expected
This announcement does not come as a surprise, with the cruise line already removing May sailings from its website over the weekend. Many cruisers had already noticed that they could no longer book or search for a voyage in May.
We already know cruise lines, including NCL, are waiting for more guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). Norwegian Cruise Line has said that it continues to work through the Conditional Sailing Order framework to make sure cruises can resume safely.
It’s a very fluid situation with the cruise industry at the moment and things are changing weekly. For now, we’ll just have to wait even longer until Norwegian Cruise Line begins sailings again.
