Bahamas Cruise

If the thought of enduring another beige Tuesday has you eyeing your office’s emergency fire escape as a viable exit route, then a Bahamas cruise might just be the proverbial emergency break you need. Imagine swapping out those office lighting fluorescents for a flood of sunshine, and your ergonomic desk chair for, well, a sun lounger by an expansive azure sea. Yeah, that sounds about heavenly. Grab your sunglasses, pack your adventure spirit, and let’s dive into the vibrant world that trips to the Bahamas have in store.

Our Favorite Parts

• The Environment: Imagine hues of blue you thought only existed within Instagram filters, beaches that make every postcard jealous, and sunsets that brag as if they were painted by Van Gogh himself. The Bahamas archipelago is a mesmerizing stretch of heaven scattered across the Atlantic, ripe for explorations or simple relaxation under a palm tree.
• The Culture: Infused with African, British, and American influences, Bahamian culture is a delightful cocktail of traditions, music, dance, and art. You’re likely to stumble upon a lively festival, engaging storytelling, and music that makes your body move before you even realize you’re dancing.</ a>
• The History: The Bahamas teem with historical tales from the days of the Lucayan tribes to European colonialism, and stories of pirates which are always good for shaking up dinner conversations. Walking through these stories amidst old forts and recovered artifacts offers a profound sense of stepping back in time.

Famous For

• The Pink Sands of Harbour Island: Not just a creative name, these beaches really are pink and they’re as Instagramable as they sound.
• Swimming Pigs: Yes, you read that right. In the Bahamas, pigs swim, and they’ve become quite the celebrities. A definite must-see.
• Junkanoo Festival: Think Carnaval with a Bahamian twist. Essentially, it’s a street parade with music, dance, and costumes in a myriad of colors that takes place every Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
• The Blue Holes of Andros: Gigantic underwater sinkholes that offer a mysterious and stunning experience for divers. Remember, it’s always bluer in the Bahamas.
• Nassau’s Historical Structures: From forts that overlooked vast oceans to secure territories from invaders to the regal Government House, history buffs wouldn’t want to miss out.

Must-Visit Ports

• Nassau: The capital city, not just a logistical hub but a historical gold mine with tales at every cobblestone turn.
• Grand Bahama: Here, it’s all about nature as you explore national parks, caves, and fabulous beaches.
• Exuma: Water so clear you can play Guess the Fish with your eyes squinted. Plus, it’s the domain of those famed swimming pigs.

Food You Have to Try

• Conch: This marine mollusk makes its way into salads, fritters, and even stews. Fresh, zesty, and the taste of the Bahamas in one bite.
• Rum Cake: Infused with local rum, these cakes are so soaked in spirit goodness, they should come with their own designated driver.
• Guava Duff: A traditional dessert that’s part decadent and part ‘fruity,’ and all parts necessary.

Hidden Gems

• Peter’s Bluff: A rocky climb that pays off with panoramic views that would make even your high-resolution smartphone camera weep with joy.
• The Hermitage on Cat Island: A small stone monastery atop the highest point in the Bahamas, offering not only spiritual solace but also breathtaking views.

Tips You’ll Need

• Bahamas uses the Bahamian dollar, pegged to the US dollar. So, yes, your USD will work just fine here.
• The best time to visit? Try late November through May when the weather is prime and you’re less likely to get caught in tourist traps, or worse, a hurricane!
• Inter-island ferries can be a thrilling and scenic option for hopping between islands. Think of them as local buses, but with much better views.

Beware of

• Sunburns might sound trite until you’re so red you’re being used as a stop sign. Seriously, the Bahamian sun does not play around, so neither should you with your SPF.

Stick with this guide and you’ll navigate the Bahamas like a seasoned mariner, escaping any office-induced ennui with tales of sun, sand, and pigs – yes, the swimming kind.