From pristine sandy beaches to endless shopping, the Bahamas is one of the most popular cruise destinations. So, you might be wondering: how much is a cruise to the Bahamas? The cost of a cruise to the Bahamas depends on many factors, such as the cruise line, length of your cruise, type of cabin selected, and destinations visited.
Many people don’t realize that the base fare is just the starting cost. You’ll need to factor in additional expenses such as transportation, shore excursions, onboard spending, and gratuities. Also, the price of a Bahamas cruise can fluctuate based on the time of year, with peak seasons often resulting in higher prices.
What Is the Average Cost of a Cruise to the Bahamas?
The average cost for a 6- to 7-day Bahamas cruise on mainstream lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean is approximately $576 per person, with an average price per night of around $96. These cruise prices generally range from $500 to $700, though this can vary by cruise line.
Keep in mind that the prices listed in the comparison are just the starting prices. Cruises are rarely all-inclusive, so you’ll need to budget for things such as gratuities, port fees, taxes, onboard spending, and Wi-Fi. Additionally, the prices listed are for basic interior cabins. If you prefer an ocean view or balcony, it will cost you more. So, while the comparison provides a helpful starting point, the actual cost of your cruise will be higher once you add in all these extras.
| Cruise line | Itinerary | Length | Starting price |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSC Cruises | New York to Nassau | 6 days | $500 |
| Carnival | Jacksonville to Nassau | 6 days | $514 |
| Celebrity Cruises | Baltimore to Nassau and Freeport | 7 days | $639 |
| Royal Caribbean | Tampa to Nassau and Bimini | 6 days | $765 |
Cruises to the Bahamas are typically cheaper than those to other destinations. This is mostly due to its close proximity to popular US ports (Nassau is only 186 mi/296 km from Miami) and the larger number of cruise lines competing in the region.
The timing of your cruise will also affect the price. Cruises to the Bahamas are usually more affordable during the hurricane season, which runs from June to November. This is because there’s a higher risk of storms, and fewer travelers are willing to book their trips during this time. As a result, cruise lines lower their prices to attract more guests. While you can save money by traveling during this period, it’s also a good idea to be prepared for any changes in your cruise itinerary due to bad weather.
Prices Differ Between Cruise Lines
Mainstream, premium, and luxury cruise lines
Cruise lines fall into three basic tiers: mainstream, premium, and luxury. Each tier provides a different level of service, features, and as a result, comes with different price tags.
Mainstream cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruises, P&O, Holland America Line, and MSC, are the most budget-friendly options and appeal to a wide range of people. They are especially great for families due to the wide range of activities for kids onboard. The cost of these cruises usually falls between $50 and $500 per night.
Premium cruise lines, like Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Virgin Voyages, and Celebrity Cruises, offer a more upscale experience with extra attention to food, service, and cabin quality, which means they are pricier. The price for these cruises typically ranges from $300 to $800 per night.
Luxury cruise lines, such as Silversea, Viking Cruises, Oceania Cruises, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, represent the highest tier, providing an all-encompassing experience with individualized service and exclusive features, leading to the highest prices. These cruises generally cost between $550 to $1,200 per night.
What does the cruise fare cover?
One aspect that differs across cruise lines is what’s included in the cruise fare price. Typically, mainstream cruise lines offer lower initial prices, but you’ll find yourself paying more for amenities such as drinks, internet access, and shore excursions.
On the other hand, premium cruise lines are usually all-inclusive, meaning gourmet dining, premium beverages, shore excursions, and gratuities are included in the price. While this greatly improves the experience, these cruises usually have a higher initial cost.
Factor in the cruise ship age
The cruise ship’s age also plays a role in how much a cruise will cost. Newer ships, equipped with the latest features and technology, usually charge more. For instance, a 7-night Bahamas cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas (launched in 2017) starts at $851. However, a similar itinerary on Radiance of the Seas (launched in 2000) has a much lower price of around $600.
Cabin Selection Impacts Pricing
The cost of your cruise can greatly depend on the type of cabin you pick. Cruise ships offer a range of cabins, from inside cabins (with no windows) to ocean view cabins (with a window or small porthole), balcony cabins, and suites (bigger rooms with more perks). Naturally, the fancier the room, the more you’ll pay. The most budget-friendly cabins are the inside and ocean view cabins, while suites will set you back the most.
Where your room is located on the ship can also change the price. Rooms on the higher floors or in preferred spots, like the center of the ship, usually cost more. Think about what’s most important to you in your cruise experience—like comfort, ocean views, or extra amenities—and how much you’re willing to spend on those. While some individuals may find it worthwhile to splurge a bit, others may not see the value in doing so.
If you’re cruising alone, you should know about the single supplement fee. This charge comes into play because cruise prices are typically calculated for two people sharing a room. If only one person stays in a room, the cruise line misses out on money they would have made from a second guest. To make up for this, they add a single supplement fee, which could be up to 80% to 100% of the rate. This means solo travelers might pay as much as two people would for the same room.
Transportation Will Impact the Overall Cost
When budgeting your cruise, an important factor to consider is the cost of transportation to the port. Opting to drive to a nearby port can result in substantial savings compared to purchasing plane tickets and covering other travel expenses. While driving is typically more economical, it’s important to factor in expenses such as fuel and port parking fees, which can contribute to overall costs.
For travelers flying to the port, ticket prices can vary widely. Cruises to the Bahamas often depart from east coast cities such as Miami, New York, Orlando, and Fort Lauderdale. In the United States, a flight to Miami may range from $200 to $500, while international travelers can expect higher costs. Upon arrival, additional expenses include transportation from the airport to the port, with options like shuttles, taxis, or rideshare services like Uber offering varying price points. For example, a shuttle from Miami airport to the port typically costs around $17, a taxi approximately $30, and an Uber close to $20.
It’s advisable to arrive at the departure city at least a day before the cruise to avoid any travel delays. This means you’ll also need to factor in the cost of an overnight hotel stay, which could be around $150 for a moderate hotel in Miami. Overall, before setting foot on the cruise, anticipate spending between $500 and $800 for travel and accommodation expenses.
Factor in Onboard Expenses to the Cost
While cruises offer many activities to keep you busy and entertained, it’s important to remember that some experiences come with an extra cost. Extras such as specialty restaurants, beverages, and internet access will require an additional fee. Planning for these onboard expenses in advance can help you manage your budget better and ensure you enjoy your cruise without financial stress or unexpected surprises.
Drink packages
A common extra expense comes from drink packages. These packages can add a lot to the total cost of your cruise trip. For instance, some cruise lines offer soda plans, and others have more expensive packages that cover alcoholic drinks. Keep in mind that most cruise lines (such as Royal Caribbean) have a policy requiring all adults in the same cabin to purchase a drink package. This rule is in place to discourage sharing.
Typically, alcoholic drink packages are priced at around $50-75 per day, and have a limit of up to 15 drinks daily. Soda plans are more budget-friendly, costing about $10 per day. To cut costs, you might consider bringing your own beverages onboard, though some cruise lines, like NCL, might not allow this or have certain limitations.
Specialty restaurants
You’ll find many places to eat on your cruise ship, including some specialty restaurants that provide a fancier dining experience than the main dining rooms, but for an extra fee.
When sailing with Royal Caribbean, besides the main dining area, you can experience different kinds of food at specialty restaurants for an extra charge, depending on the ship. These restaurants, like “Chops Grille” with its top-notch steaks and seafood, “Giovanni’s Table” for a real Italian meal, and “Izumi” for fresh sushi and Japanese dishes, offer a more private and exclusive atmosphere.
Onboard activities and entertainment
While your cruise ticket will include a lot of fun activities and entertainment, some special activities will cost extra. This might mean paying for wine tastings, cooking lessons, unique attractions like Royal Caribbean’s FlowRider, or private tours that show you how things work behind the scenes. These special onboard activities typically cost between $20 and $100 per person.
Gratuities
Gratuities are another cost you might run into on your cruise. Often, cruise lines will automatically add a service charge to your bill as a way of tipping the crew for their service. Gratuities can vary from $14 to $20 for each person, each day, based on which cruise you choose and the type of room you stay in.
Internet packages
In today’s world, everyone wants to stay connected, even while on a cruise to the Bahamas. Royal Caribbean’s internet package, known as VOOM, will set you back about $20 per day, whereas Carnival has internet packages starting at $13 per day, with faster options costing about $21. The cost might vary depending on how many people are using the internet, how many devices are connected, and how much data you use. Also, expect that the internet might be slower than what you’re used to at home.
Factor in Bahamas Shore Excursion Costs
When planning a cruise to the Bahamas, it’s important to consider how much you’ll spend on shore excursions. Unlike other cruise destinations, such as Alaska or the Mediterranean, the Bahamas isn’t known for its shore excursions. This means that if you’re cruising to the Bahamas, you probably won’t end up spending as much on these extra activities. Shore excursions can really add to the overall cost of a cruise, so this could be good news for your budget.
Cruises to the Bahamas often include stops at private islands like CocoCay, Princess Cays, or Half Moon Cay. While these destinations do offer activities like snorkeling and horseback riding, most visitors are content with simply relaxing and enjoying the Caribbean sun on the beautiful beaches. In the Bahamas, the focus is more on relaxation than packing your schedule with excursions. This laid-back approach helps keep your expenses down since you’re not constantly paying for additional activities.
In Nassau, one of the most popular shore excursions is a visit to the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island, especially its famous waterpark. Prices for a day pass to the waterpark can vary, but expect to spend around $120 to $150 per person. Another popular option is the Nassau historical sightseeing tours, which are more affordable, generally costing about $45 to $60 per person. These tours give you a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Bahamas without breaking the bank.
Freeport offers a different vibe with its own set of popular excursions. Here, nature tours and beach outings are common choices. For example, a half-day tour to Lucayan National Park, where you can explore one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world, will cost around $50 to $70 per person. Beach excursions, where you can relax on pristine beaches or engage in watersports, typically range from $35 to $55 per person, making for a reasonably priced day out.
Bimini, being one of the less popular stops on Bahamian ports, is famous for its snorkeling excursions. Prices for such snorkeling adventures can range from $90 to $120 per person. Another option is a guided tour of the island itself, showcasing its history, culture, and natural beauty, usually costing between $40 and $60 per person.
Overall, while the Bahamas may not be as excursion-centric as other cruise destinations, there are still plenty of things to do. Usually, shore excursions offered directly from the cruise line are more expensive, though you’re guaranteed to get back on the ship, and they’re usually more reliable. If you decide you want to relax, you can spend the remaining money you’d otherwise spend on shore excursions on other things, such as spa treatments or fine dining experiences.
When You Book Affects the Cost
Book early to save money
Reserving your Bahamas cruise well before the departure date can usually get you lower prices. It’s commonly advised to book your trip between 50 and 90 days before it begins to snag the best rates. This strategy works since cruise lines want to ensure their rooms are filled long before setting sail, so they offer enticing discounts to those who book early. By doing so, you not only cut down on your expenses but also have a better choice of rooms and spots on the ship.
Book last-minute to save money
If you’re flexible with your travel plans, you’re likely to cut costs by reserving your Bahamas cruise close to the departure date. As the time to set sail nears and cruise lines aim to book all the empty rooms, they might lower the prices. But remember, while booking at the last minute can save you money, it usually means you have fewer options for room types. You could also end up in a spot on the ship that’s not as nice.
Cruise ship ticket prices increase over time
Keep in mind that the cost of cruise tickets usually increases as the date of departure gets closer. This happens because of the basic rule of supply and demand; as more cabins get booked and there are fewer available, the prices rise. So, if you wait too long hoping for a discount, you might end up paying more or not getting a spot on the cruise if it fills up. To steer clear of these increases in price, book your Bahamas cruise early or very close to the departure date.
Season Affects the Cost
When planning a cruise to the Bahamas, the season or time of year can significantly impact the overall cost of your trip. Certain times of the year see reduced demand, resulting in lower prices, while peak vacation times drive prices up.
Generally, during the hurricane season, spanning from June 1st to November 30th, Bahamas cruise prices are much lower. Cruise lines lower prices to attract more travelers who might be deterred by the possibility of storms and rain, providing a more budget-friendly vacation alternative. While this can result in considerable savings, be prepared for possible itinerary changes, occasional downpours, and rough waters.
The peak season, lasting from mid-December to April, sees a spike in cruise prices. This increase is driven by higher demand, as many travelers seek to escape colder climates or take advantage of school breaks. Prices tend to peak around major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, when families are more likely to travel together.
For a good deal, consider booking your Bahamas cruise during the shoulder season. The shoulder season occurs between the peak and off seasons, when demand is lower. Opting for a cruise during the shoulder season can offer a more cost-effective way to enjoy the beauty of the Bahamas without the hefty price tag associated with peak travel times.
Keep in Mind Special Offers and Discounts
Discounts for kids
Families can save money when they take advantage of special discounts for kids. Sometimes, children can even cruise without any charge. For example, MSC Cruises frequently has special deals that let kids under 12 cruise for free when sharing a cabin with two paying adults. Additionally, NCL sometimes has special deals where kids can cruise for free as part of their “Free at Sea” promotions, which helps make vacations more budget-friendly for families. These deals can change depending on the cruise and what’s available, so it’s a good idea to check with the cruise line or talk to a travel agent to get the most recent information.
Loyalty programs offer frequent discounts
Joining loyalty programs offered by cruise lines like Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society or Carnival’s VIFP Club is a great choice for people who often go on cruises. Being a member of these programs can get you discounts, credits to use on the ship, and other bonuses as you move up in levels, which can help you save money over time.
Special discounts for military, seniors, and police officers
Some cruise lines offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, teachers, emergency service workers, and more. It’s a good idea to ask about these discounts when you’re planning your cruise because they can help you save a fair amount of money.
For example, Royal Caribbean has discounts for seniors (55 years and above), police, firefighters, and military personnel on some cruises. Carnival also has discounts for seniors (55 years and above) and those in the military. Plus, Princess Cruises has deals for teachers, military personnel, and emergency/medical workers.
Ways to Save on a Bahamas Cruise
Keep your eyes out for discounts and special offers
A great way to cut down on Bahamas cruise costs is to keep an eye out for discounts and deals. Cruise lines frequently run promotions that can lower the price of your vacation significantly. These deals might include last-minute offers, reduced rates during the quieter seasons, or bundled packages that give you things like meals, tours, or extra onboard credit for a cheaper price than buying them all separately.
To save money on a cruise, another simple strategy is to track price changes for cruise fares. The cost of cruises can change depending on how many people are booking, the season, and current sales, so snagging a fare when it’s lower can make your trip a lot more affordable. To catch these price changes, you can use apps and websites (like CruisePlum) that keep an eye on cruise prices and alert you when the price of a cruise you’re interested in goes down.
Use a travel agent
Booking your cruise to the Bahamas through a travel agent can be a wise choice if you’re looking to save some cash. Travel agents often have special deals, promotions, and prices that you won’t find openly available. They’re in close contact with cruise lines and tend to hear about discounts, short-term offers, and possible upgrades before anyone else.
A good travel agent brings more to the table than just savings. They can guide you in picking the right cruise line, ship, and route that fits your taste and budget, ensuring you get the best value. They’re also handy for making sense of the many choices you’ll face, like picking a cabin, deciding on meal plans, and planning outings while ashore, which can help you steer clear of spending more than necessary or making decisions you might regret.
Limit the amount of onboard spending
Keeping your cruise affordable goes beyond just the booking phase. Your spending while on the ship can significantly impact your overall budget. Here are some strategies to keep onboard expenses in check:
Pre-purchase packages: Before your cruise begins, you can often buy packages for drinks, meals, and internet access at lower prices than you’d find on the ship.
Take Royal Caribbean as an example: they offer beverage packages like the Soda Package, the Refreshment Package, and the Deluxe Beverage Package for alcoholic drinks. They also have a photo package available, which can save you money compared to purchasing photos one by one during your cruise.
Maintain a daily spending limit: It’s very easy to overspend due to the excitement and convenience onboard. To prevent this, decide on a daily spending limit for yourself and stick to it.
Many cruise lines provide apps or have kiosks on the ship that let you monitor your spending as it happens. Use these tools to stay aware of your expenditures. If you’re cruising with your family, make sure everyone knows the budget so that you’re all working together to stay within limits.
Choose the right time to cruise
Picking the right time to cruise to the Bahamas can greatly affect how much you spend. Cruising outside the busiest times can mean much cheaper fares. Usually, the cheapest time to cruise the Bahamas is during the hurricane season (lasting from June to November). Another great time to cruise is during the shoulder season, which is the time between the peak and off seasons.
Set a budget
Planning a budget for your Bahamas cruise can help you steer clear of surprise costs and make your holiday more enjoyable. To manage your money well, think about all the possible expenses, including costs before the cruise (like plane tickets and hotel stays), the price of the cruise itself (which includes taxes and fees), money spent on the ship, trips when you’re on shore, and additional expenses such as travel insurance. Here’s a simple guide to follow:
Pre-cruise expenses: Set aside 10-15% of your budget for flights, hotel rooms, and any activities before your cruise starts. This ensures you have enough to enjoy the places you’re leaving from without worrying about money before your cruise begins.
Base cruise fare: Set aside 50-60% of your budget here since this is what your cruise primarily costs. This part pays for your place to stay on the ship, most of your meals, and a lot of the entertainment and activities included in your cruise price.
Onboard spending: Set aside 10-15% of your budget for extra things like specialty dining, spa treatments, internet access, and shopping on the ship. Although many activities are covered by your cruise price, it’s common to spend a bit on these extras.
Shore excursions: Set aside 10-20% of your budget for exploring the places you visit with tours or activities. Since the cost of these can vary a lot, think about booking some through the cruise and doing some on your own to cut costs.
Additional expenses: Set aside 5-10% of your budget for travel insurance, getting back home, and any unexpected costs. This ensures you have a cushion for any surprises and can end your trip without financial stress.
Booking an interior cabin can save you money
Choosing an interior cabin is an easy way to cut costs on a cruise. These rooms, found along the inner hallways of the ship with no ocean view, are usually the least expensive options. Although you won’t have the experience of waking up to views of the sea, you’ll save a lot of money that can go towards enjoying different aspects of your vacation.
For instance, on Royal Caribbean’s 7-night Bahamas & Perfect Day Cruise, an interior cabin is priced at $589, while a room with an ocean view goes for $719, a balcony for $999, and a suite jumps to $2,009. Choosing an interior cabin could mean saving more than $400 compared to a balcony, freeing up a large amount of your budget for other vacation pleasures.
Compare different cruise lines: from mainstream to luxury
Cruise lines can be grouped into three categories: mainstream, premium, and luxury. If you want to keep costs down, consider cruising with a mainstream line such as Carnival or Royal Caribbean. These cruises provide a great range of facilities and activities without breaking the bank, making them ideal for families and budget-conscious travelers.
Alternatively, upscale and high-end cruises, like Princess Cruises and Regent Seven Seas, deliver more tailored services, better food options, and larger living spaces, but they come with a steeper price tag. Your decision should be based on what’s most important to you during your holiday—whether that’s sticking to a budget or treating yourself to a more lavish experience.
Free Bahamas Cruises: Scam or Legit?
In Florida and other parts of the US, you might find advertisements or fliers offering a chance to win a free cruise to the Bahamas. People often wonder if this is real or a scam.
It’s a bit of both. After you enter the raffle, you’ll likely get a message saying you’ve won. So, it’s not a true sweepstakes since everyone seems to win, which can make it feel scammy.
Even though the cruise is advertised as being ‘free,’ you’ll still have to pay for port fees and taxes, costing about $40-$60 per person. Don’t forget to consider the travel costs to the port as well.
Once on the cruise, you’ll find it’s very basic. The rooms are small, and the ship doesn’t offer as many amenities compared to other lines like Royal Caribbean. You’ll get many offers to upgrade your room or extend your stay at extra costs.
In reality, this ‘free cruise’ offer is just a sales pitch. So, while it may be a cheap way to go on a cruise, it might not be worth it if you’re looking for a comfortable experience. The final cost might even be higher than a cruise with a well-known company, so make sure to compare prices before deciding.
How Much Is a Cruise to the Bahamas? – FAQ
Do I need a passport for a cruise to the Bahamas?
Typically, as a US citizen, you won’t need a passport for a cruise to the Bahamas. This is because these cruises are often closed-loop, starting and ending at the same port in the US. However, you will still need to carry some form of identification documentation. Make sure to verify specific requirements with your cruise line. Even though it’s not always necessary to carry a passport, it is advisable in case of emergencies.
What is the average cost of a 7 day Bahamas cruise?
After comparing different Bahamas cruises, we’ve found an average price per night of around $96. This means that for a 7-day Bahamas cruise, you’re looking at an average cost of about $672. However, prices can vary widely, and will usually range from $500 to $700, depending on which cruise line you choose.
How much money does the average person spend on a Bahamas cruise?
How much the average person spends on a Bahamas cruise comes down to their shopping habits, cruise length, and what’s included in the base fare. On average, you’re likely to spend extra on things like specialty restaurants, drink packages, and shore excursions, which (unless your cruise is all-inclusive) are not covered by your ticket price.
You could end up spending anywhere from $50 to $200 extra per day for each person. This varies based on how fancy the cruise is and how much you decide to spend. If you’re careful with your money, you might stick to the free stuff and not buy too much, keeping your costs low. But, if you’re in the mood to treat yourself to more of the cruise’s offerings, you might spend more, even beyond the top end of that estimate.
Remember, a lot of cruise lines have deals where you can pay ahead for drink packages, Wi-Fi, and even shore excursions. This can be a good way to save some money instead of paying for each thing separately while you’re there.
What is the cheapest time to cruise the Bahamas?
The cheapest time to cruise the Bahamas is during the hurricane season, which lasts from June to November. During this period, the Atlantic hurricane season makes it less desirable for most travelers, so cruise lines lower their prices. If you don’t mind the chance of bad weather and itinerary changes, you can save money by cruising the Bahamas during this season.
Should I include laundry in my Bahamas cruise budget?
It’s a good idea to think about laundry costs when planning your Bahamas cruise budget. While some of the higher-end cruises might let you wash your clothes for free, most of the regular and even the nicer lines will charge you. How much you’ll pay can change based on which cruise you’re on and what kind of laundry service you pick.
Using the ship’s laundry room yourself is usually cheaper, only costing a few bucks to wash and dry your clothes. And, having the cruise staff do your laundry can get pricey, especially since they charge per piece of clothing. Some cruise lines might offer deals or packages for laundry, which could save you money if you need to wash clothes often during your trip.
If you’re worried about laundry costs, you might want to pack extra clothes so you don’t need to wash as much, or bring clothes that are easy to clean in your room if you have to. But, if you want to relax and not stress about laundry, setting aside some money in your budget for laundry services is a smart move.
How expensive are Bahamas cruises for solo travelers?
It’s generally more expensive for solo travelers to go on Bahamas cruises because of an extra charge called the “single supplement” fee. This fee is added because the pricing is usually based on two people sharing a room. But, there are some cruise lines that have studio rooms, which can help save money by reducing or removing this extra fee.
Do kids save money on Bahamas cruises?
Yes, there are a few ways for kids to save on Bahamas cruise costs. A lot of cruise lines provide discounts for kids when they stay in a room with two adults who are paying full price. In certain cases, children might get to cruise for free or for a much lower price. Cruise ships also often have kids’ clubs and activities included in the fare, which means parents won’t have to spend extra on entertainment for their children.
Final Words
The price of a cruise to the Bahamas depends on many factors, such as the cruise line you pick, onboard spending, shore excursions, and the type of cabin you choose. On average, a Bahamas cruise will cost around $96 per night. For a 6-7 day cruise, you’re likely to spend around $576 in total.
Keep in mind that these figures represent the starting point for the most basic accommodations. Additional costs, including gratuities, port fees, taxes, and any extra activities or services like Wi-Fi, will add to your final bill. It’s wise to factor these into your budget early on to avoid surprises.
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