Nassau, Bahamas: An Honest Cruise Port Review

The Nassau Reputation Problem Nassau is one of the most visited cruise ports in the world — dozens of ships call here every week — and it has a reputation that ranges from "disappointing" to "amazing" depending almost entirely on what you did with your time there. Cruisers who walked off the ship and wandered Bay Street typically come away unimpressed: too many souvenir shops, too many timeshare pitches, too much tourist-trap energy. Cruisers who planned ahead and got out of town typically have a completely different experience. Getting Out of the Port Area The pier area around Prince George Wharf and Bay Street is the Nassau that most cruisers see — and it's the least interesting part of the island. Taxis, jitneys (local buses for $1.25), and water taxis are all available just outside the port gates. Use them to get to the real Nassau. Cable Beach Cable Beach is Nassau's primary beach resort area — a long stretch of white sand with clear water, beach chairs available for rent, and fu…