With little more than 180 miles separating the southern tip of Florida and the closest Bahamas island, it’s little wonder that it is a well-beaten path. In fact, many Floridians will pop over to the Bahamas for a weekend, so easy is it to get to.
For travellers from further afield, a cruise may be a more suitable way to visit the Bahamas from Miami, so we’ve picked out three of the best for you to choose from, based on price, duration and previous guest reviews. We hope you find our selection useful.
Family fun is the order of the day on this well-reviewed cruise, with a dedicated teens club, a waterslide and a 24-hour pizzeria just some of the on-board amenities that are loved by kids. As for the itinerary, you’ll start your cruise in the port of Jacksonville and after two nights at sea your introduction to the Bahamas will arrive in the shape of Freeport on Grand Bahamas Island. Here you can enjoy a day of snorkeling, diving, kayaking and nature trails – whatever takes your fancy. The next morning offers the chance to explore Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, before another couple of nights at sea to ensure you really get the most out of the ship’s facilities. On the morning of day 6, you’ll return to Jacksonville, equipped with amazing memories that you’ll never forget.
If you’re tight for time, but would like to enjoy a quick taste of the Bahamas, then this cruise could be perfect for you. From Fort Lauderdale, your ship will make the short journey across to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, where you’ll get to enjoy a full day of exploring all it has to offer, such as exceptional shopping and world class water sports opportunities. The following day you’ll be transported to Half Moon Cay, a stunning private island where you can experience the true meaning of seclusion. One more overnight stay onboard gives you the chance to sample the ship’s amazing facilities, including several restaurants, a culinary arts centre and a theatre, before your return to Fort Lauderdale the next day.
Another great choice for families, this cruise offers a fun-packed children’s programme along with plenty of adult-friendly amenities, including high-end dining venues that are perfect for intimate meals once the kids are tucked up in bed. After departing from Port Canaveral in Orlando, you’ll arrive in the Bahamian capital of Nassau for a day of fun and adventure. The following day you’ll spend on Castaway Cay, a private island which serves as an exclusive port for the Disney Cruise Line ships, where you can enjoy endless activities such as bicycle rides, watercraft rental, massages overlooking the ocean, snorkelling and parasailing – whatever your tastes, there’ll be something for you. After a couple of night at sea you’ll make the return journey to Florida where you’ll disembark back in Port Canaveral.