The Countdown Timeline

3 Months Before

• Book excursions: Popular Nassau excursions, like swimming with pigs or snorkeling tours, can sell out, especially during peak season. Book in advance to secure your spot.
• Research and reserve restaurants: If you plan to dine at specific restaurants in Nassau, check their reservation policies. Some may require reservations well in advance.
• Check passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your cruise return date. If not, begin the renewal process immediately.
• Start brainstorming outfits: Consider the activities you plan to do and start planning your outfits. This is a great time to think about coordinating family cruise shirts!
• Monitor flight prices: If you're flying to your cruise departure port, start tracking flight prices to find the best deals.

1 Month Before

• Confirm all reservations: Double-check your excursion, restaurant, and transportation reservations.
• Purchase travel insurance: Ensure you have adequate travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.
• Plan transportation to the port: Arrange transportation from the airport or your hotel to the cruise terminal in Nassau.
• Shop for essentials: Purchase any remaining items on your packing list, such as sunscreen, swimwear, and travel-sized toiletries.
• Download cruise line app: Download the cruise line's app to access your itinerary, make reservations, and stay connected onboard.

1 Week Before

• Start packing: Begin packing your bags, using your packing checklist as a guide. A moisture-wicking cruise tee handles the humidity better than cotton, so pack accordingly.
• Gather travel documents: Collect all your travel documents, including your passport, cruise tickets, and any required visas.
• Inform your bank and credit card companies: Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid any issues using your cards abroad.
• Pack your carry-on bag: Prepare your carry-on bag with essential items, such as medication, swimwear, and a change of clothes, in case your checked luggage is delayed.
• Check the weather forecast: Review the weather forecast for Nassau and adjust your packing list accordingly.

Day Before

• Finalize packing: Double-check your bags to ensure you haven't forgotten anything.
• Print or download boarding passes: Print your boarding passes or download them to your mobile device.
• Attach luggage tags: Attach luggage tags to your checked bags with your name, address, and contact information.
• Charge electronic devices: Fully charge your mobile phones, cameras, and other electronic devices.
• Get a good night's sleep: Relax and get a good night's sleep before your cruise.

Embarkation Day

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast: Start your day with a relaxing breakfast before heading to the cruise terminal.
• Apply sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun by applying sunscreen before leaving your hotel or home.
• Arrive at the cruise terminal: Arrive at the cruise terminal at your designated check-in time.
• Complete the check-in process: Present your travel documents and complete the check-in process.
• Board the ship and enjoy!: Once you've boarded the ship, explore the amenities and start your cruise vacation!

The Packing Checklist

• Documents:
  • Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your cruise return date.
  • Cruise tickets/boarding pass: Printed or digital version.
  • Driver's license or photo ID: For identification purposes.
  • Travel insurance information: Policy number and contact details.
  • Copies of important documents: Keep separate from originals.
• Clothing:
  • Swimsuits: Pack at least two so one can dry.
  • Swimsuit cover-up: For walking around the ship or to and from the beach.
  • Shorts: Several pairs for casual wear.
  • T-shirts: Lightweight and breathable fabrics.
  • Cruise shirts: Show off your cruise spirit!
  • Tank tops: For warm weather.
  • Sundresses or casual dresses: For evenings and shore excursions.
  • Pants or jeans: One pair for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.
  • Light sweater or jacket: For cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.
  • Underwear: Enough for each day of the cruise.
  • Socks: A few pairs.
  • Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear.
  • Formal attire (optional): For formal nights on the cruise. Check the cruise line's dress code.
  • Beach shoes/flip-flops: For the pool and beach.
  • Walking shoes/sandals: Comfortable shoes for exploring Nassau.
  • Water shoes: If you plan on swimming in rocky areas.
• Electronics:
  • Mobile phone: For communication and taking photos.
  • Chargers: For all your electronic devices.
  • Portable power bank: To charge your devices on the go.
  • Camera: To capture memories of your cruise.
  • Waterproof phone case: To protect your phone from water damage.
  • E-reader or tablet: For entertainment.
• Toiletries:
  • Sunscreen: High SPF to protect your skin from the sun.
  • After-sun lotion: To soothe sunburned skin.
  • Insect repellent: To protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
  • Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash: Travel-sized bottles.
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss: For oral hygiene.
  • Deodorant: To stay fresh.
  • Makeup: If desired.
  • Hairbrush and hair ties: To style your hair.
  • Razor and shaving cream: For shaving.
  • Medications: Any prescription or over-the-counter medications you need.
  • Motion sickness remedies: If you are prone to motion sickness.
  • Hand sanitizer: To keep your hands clean.
• Extras:
  • Beach bag: To carry your essentials to the beach.
  • Sunglasses: To protect your eyes from the sun.
  • Hat or visor: To shield your face from the sun.
  • Water bottle: To stay hydrated.
  • Snacks: For between meals.
  • Small backpack: For day trips and excursions.
  • Ziploc bags: For storing wet clothes or snacks.
  • Travel-sized laundry detergent: For washing clothes in your cabin.
  • Dramamine or motion sickness bands: If you're prone to seasickness.
  • Cash: For tipping and small purchases.
  • Credit cards: For larger purchases.
  • Small first-aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers.

Don't Forget These

• Sunscreen: The Bahamian sun is strong! Forgetting sunscreen can lead to painful sunburn and long-term skin damage. Protect yourself with a high SPF, water-resistant formula.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent, especially during dusk and dawn. Insect repellent will help prevent itchy bites and potential diseases.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial in the tropical climate. A reusable water bottle helps you stay refreshed and reduces plastic waste.
• Portable Charger: You'll likely be using your phone for photos, navigation, and communication. A portable charger ensures you don't run out of battery while exploring Nassau.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of clothing is appropriate for Nassau?

Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for Nassau's warm and humid climate. Pack shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and swimwear. Consider a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces. A Bahamas Cruise Shirt from our collection would be perfect!

Are there any specific items I should pack for shore excursions?

For shore excursions, pack comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. If you plan on swimming or snorkeling, bring a swimsuit, a towel, and water shoes. Check our Nassau cruise port guide for excursion ideas: /pages/nassau-caribbean-cruise-port.

What is the dress code on the cruise ship?

The dress code varies depending on the cruise line and the specific evening. Most cruises have casual nights and formal nights. Pack accordingly, checking with your cruise line for specific details. Even on casual nights, swimwear is generally not allowed in the main dining rooms.

How much cash should I bring to Nassau?

While credit cards are widely accepted in Nassau, it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for tipping, small purchases, and taxis. US dollars are accepted everywhere, so no need to exchange currency. Typically, $50-100 per person should be sufficient for a day in port.

What should I do if I forget something important?

Most cruise ships have shops that sell essential items, such as toiletries, sunscreen, and clothing. You can also find these items at stores in Nassau, but they may be more expensive than at home. It's always best to make a thorough packing list and double-check it before you leave.