Nassau Port Guide
The capital of the Bahamas — colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and the legendary Atlantis Resort just across the bridge.
About Nassau
Nassau is the capital and largest city of the Bahamas, located on New Providence Island. The city has a fascinating colonial history — a onetime pirate haven that became a British colonial capital — and that history is visible everywhere in the pastel-colored buildings, historic forts, and cobblestone streets of downtown.
Disney Cruise ships dock at Prince George Wharf in the heart of Nassau, within easy walking distance of downtown attractions. The famous Atlantis Resort and Paradise Island are a short taxi or water taxi ride across the bridge.
Nassau is best enjoyed when you have a plan. It's not a port for wandering aimlessly — have one or two things you want to do and make them happen. It's also worth noting that Nassau is significantly more developed and touristy than Castaway Cay — a very different energy.
What to Do in Nassau
Atlantis Resort Day Pass
Atlantis Paradise Island is Nassau's crown attraction — massive water park, slides, the Aquaventure rapids, a lagoon full of marine life, and beautiful beaches. Day passes give you access to water park facilities. Book in advance as they're limited and sell out.
Cable Beach
A beautiful long stretch of white sand beach on the north shore of New Providence, about a 10-minute taxi from the pier. Calmer than Nassau Harbour and much more relaxed than Atlantis. Beach bars and chair rentals available.
Fort Fincastle & Queen's Staircase
A 10-minute walk from the pier, the Queen's Staircase is a 65-step stairway carved from solid limestone by enslaved Bahamians in the 1790s. Fort Fincastle sits at the top with panoramic views over Nassau. One of the best free things to do in Nassau.
Bay Street Shopping
Bay Street is Nassau's main shopping corridor, running parallel to the waterfront. Duty-free jewelry, perfume, liquor, and local crafts. Prices are negotiable in many shops. Best for: Cuban cigars, rum, local straw market crafts.
Blue Lagoon Island
A smaller private island accessible by ferry from Nassau — beautiful beaches, dolphin encounters, sea lion interactions, and snorkeling. A more relaxed alternative to Atlantis. The dolphin swim is a popular family experience.
Government House & Downtown
The pink colonial Government House and its surrounding streets represent the most photogenic part of Nassau. Parliament Street and the surrounding historic district are worth exploring on foot.
Getting Around Nassau
Downtown Nassau is very walkable from the pier. Bay Street, Government House, Queen's Staircase — all within 20 minutes on foot.
Readily available at the pier. Negotiate fares before entering — most drivers quote in US dollars. Agree on a round-trip price to beach destinations.
Small ferries run between Prince George Wharf and Paradise Island (Atlantis) — faster and cheaper than taxis for getting to Atlantis.
Cheap local buses run throughout Nassau. Not the easiest for tourists to navigate but extremely affordable.