A Tale of Two Bahamas: Nassau and the Private Islands

Sailing into the Bahamas cruise port offers two distinctly different experiences depending on where your ship docks. One brings you into the colorful and lively city of Nassau, while the other drops anchor near a quiet stretch of sand at a private island like Princess Cays.

Nassau (Nassau – Pronounced NAH-saw) has a long and layered history, once a pirate stronghold and later a British colonial outpost. Today, it balances its deep cultural roots with a modern cruise port atmosphere full of shops, excursions, and vivid island life.

By contrast, the private islands are designed for leisure and rest. Often leased or owned by the cruise lines themselves, these islands highlight the postcard version of the Bahamas with turquoise waters, barbecue lunches, and palm trees swaying in the breeze.

I’ve visited the Bahamas many times across different seasons, and every visit seems to fall into one of two categories: exploring the streets and history of Nassau, or spending a laid-back day on a private beach. In Nassau, I’ve walked the city on my own, joined quick tours to local landmarks, and even tried my luck at the Atlantis casino. One stop that stood out was Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre, where I got to see marching flamingos and hold a lorikeet during a quiet moment in the aviary.

The vibe in Nassau always feels a little bit lived-in, and while it’s definitely shaped around cruise tourism, there’s still a lot of personality if you look past the gift shops. The architecture shifts between British colonial and Caribbean casual, and there’s something refreshing about just walking around with no set plan.

Then there’s Princess Cays, where the energy slows to a crawl. I’ve spent hours lounging under shade canopies, watching the breeze ripple through the palms, or taking a quick paddle out on a glass-bottom kayak. The beach lunch is usually some mix of burgers, ribs, and grilled chicken, not gourmet, but satisfying. When the weather cooperates, these islands feel like your own private slice of paradise