best cruise to bahamas

• Cruise Destinations
• The Bahamas

Cruises to The Bahamas

• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Venezia

* Coming Soon

VOTED BEST PRIVATE ISLAND

20 YEARS IN A ROW *

• Ports of Call

You know the name, the laid-back attitude and where to find them, but you’ll just have to visit The Bahamas to truly appreciate this classic cruise destination. On this 700-strong string of sun-splashed islands dotting the blue Atlantic, the living’s easy. (And it’s not bad on a Bahamas cruise either!) The central port of Nassau is the bustling capital of the country — “bustling” is a relative term, of course — while Freeport is all chill, all the time. And then there’s Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays: pure private-destination paradise, the likes of which could put a smile on the face of someone who really loves frowning. Enjoy sailing, snorkeling, strolling pearly pink-sand beaches, and swimming through crystalline turquoise seas on a Bahamas cruise.

• Swim and splash in sparkling waters.
• Taste the private destination life on Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays.
• Explore the expansive Atlantis resort.

YOU WANT WHERE? WE GO THERE.

No results found.

Jacksonville

Port Canaveral (Orlando)

Celebration Key

Half Moon Cay

Princess Cays

THINKING ABOUT THE BAHAMAS?

We've got some daydream options for you.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person.

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Bahamas Tourism
• Bahamas Hotels
• Bahamas Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Bahamas
• Bahamas Restaurants
• Things to Do in Bahamas
• Bahamas Travel Forum
• Bahamas Photos
• Bahamas Map
• All Bahamas Hotels
• Last Minute Hotels in Bahamas
• Sandals Hotels in Bahamas
• Marriott Hotels in Bahamas
• Atlantis Hotels in Bahamas
• Hilton Hotels in Bahamas
• Hotels near (NAS) Nassau Intl Airport
• Excellence Oyster Bay
• Barcelo Bavaro Palace All Inclusive Resort
• Royalton Riviera Cancun
• The Town's Inn
• Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort
• Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
• Ross Lake Resort
• Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana
• Riolavitas Resort & Spa
• Hyatt Ziva Cancun
• Excellence Playa Mujeres
• Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
• Hilton Grand Vacations Club on the Las Vegas Strip
• The LINQ Hotel + Experience
• Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa
• Popular All-Inclusive Resorts
• Popular Beach Resorts
• Popular Family Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Hotels
• Popular Hotels With Waterparks
• Popular Honeymoon Resorts
• Popular Luxury Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Family Resorts
• Popular Golf Resorts
• Popular Spa Resorts
• Popular Cheap Resorts
• Bahamas Cruises
• Cruises from Florida to Bahamas
• Cruises from Texas to Bahamas
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas
• Cruises from Miami to Bahamas
• Cruises from Port Canaveral to Bahamas
• Cruises from Tampa to Bahamas
• Cruises from Bayonne to Bahamas
• Cruises from Charleston to Bahamas
• Cruises from Galveston to Bahamas
• Cruises from Norfolk to Bahamas
• Cruises from New York City to Bahamas
• Cruises from Jacksonville to Bahamas
• Cruises from Baltimore to Bahamas
• Cruises from New Orleans to Bahamas
• Cruises from San Juan to Bahamas
• Carnival Cruises to Bahamas
• Celebrity Cruises to Bahamas
• Disney Cruises to Bahamas
• Norwegian (NCL) Cruises to Bahamas
• Royal Caribbean Cruises to Bahamas
• MSC Cruises to Bahamas
• 3 to 5 Day Bahamas Cruises
• 6 to 9 Day Bahamas Cruises
• 10 to 14 Day Bahamas Cruises
• Bahamas Family Cruises
• GreenLeaders
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Cheap Bahamas Cruises - Cruises to Bahamas

• Caribbean    

Featured Bahamas cruise deals

Cruising guide, why cruise to the bahamas.

The Bahamas is a collection of islands in the Atlantic, and home to the famous Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island. If you take a cruise from Miami, chances are good you'll end up spending some time here.

The Bahamas is a great option for travelers short on time; three- and four-night sailings are offered by multiple cruise lines for anyone looking for a quick getaway.

Another neat feature of The Bahamas are the private islands scattered throughout; many cruise lines own and operate these slices of paradise as additional stops on a Bahamas cruise.

What are Popular Activities in the Bahamas?

Visitors to The Bahamas can spend a day getting in the water, taking a tour by ATV or doing a little duty-free shopping.

Interacting with the abundant marine life is a popular activity for families in The Bahamas; the Blue Lagoon Dolphin Encounter in Nassau is one of the few dolphin experiences certified by the Humane Society for animal welfare standards. For a more offbeat animal encounter, look into a swimming-with-pigs (yes, resident pigs) excursion, mainly accessible from private islands Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian Cruise Line) and CocoCay (Royal Caribbean International).

Speaking of private islands, popular activites on them range from reserving a private cabana (complete with drink and food delivery services) and relaxing near (or swimming) in a lagoon to zip-lining, snorkeling, riding a personal water craft (Jets Skis) and more.

Pirates left their mark on The Bahamas, and guided tours and museums go into the history of the golden age of piracy, including notable local legends like Blackbeard and Calico Jack.

For as much as there is to do, many guests may opt to simply spend the day at a resort or on the beach.

When is a Good Time to Cruise to the Bahamas?

June through November is hurricane season, which means the best time to visit the Bahamas is actually in the winter, though weather is warm year-round. Travel during hurricane season is totally possible albeit potentially rockier, but stay flexible and consider insurance in case stormy conditions arise and affect itineraries.

What are Popular Ports in the Bahamas?

Nassau and Freeport are the two main cruise ports in The Bahamas. Nassau is the capital, located on New Providence Island, while Freeport is on Grand Bahama Island.

A number of cruise lines own private islands in the Bahamas, including Disney Cruise Line (Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point), MSC Cruises (Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve), Royal Caribbean International (Perfect Day at CocoCay), Holland America Line (Half Moon Cay), Princess Cruises (Princess Cays) and Norwegian Cruise Line (Great Stirrup Cay). Here, guests can rent cabanas, careen down waterslides or drink rum punch by the pitcher with nothing more than their cruise card.

Where do Bahamas cruises depart from?

Due to Florida's close proximity to The Bahamas (just 50 miles off the coast), Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral near Orlando are common departure points for a Bahamas cruise -- sometimes Jacksonville.

Baltimore, New York and Norfolk are examples of other East Coast ports that also offer the occasional Bahamas sailing.

What are Tips to Find Cruise deals to Bahamas?

Here are our best tips for finding a inexpensive cruise or cruise deal to Bahamas. If you book a “guaranteed cabin” (they choose for you), a cabin on a lower deck or sail on an older ship from a brand you like, then you can get the best price for a specific cruise to Bahamas. Last-minute cruise specials to Bahamas appear as you get closer to the sail date, usually four weeks in advance. Taking a cruise to Bahamas in the shoulder season (before or after the peak season), or during hurricane season, can also be a great way to find a good cruise deal.

Find cruise vacation on popular cruise ships View all

• Adventure of the Seas
• Allure of the Seas
• Anthem of the Seas
• Enchantment of the Seas
• Freedom of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas
• Mariner of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Valor
• Carnival Vista
• Regal Princess
• Royal Princess
• Ruby Princess
• Celebrity Equinox
• Disney Dream
• MSC Seaside
• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Getaway

Explore Bahamas

The 3 Best Bahamas Cruises of 2024

Cruise to the Bahamas for clear waters, sandy beaches, and stunning coral reefs.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

• Best Activities: Carnival
• Best Extended Cruise: Royal Caribbean
• Best Cruise Experience: Princess Cruises
• Our Top Picks
• Royal Caribbean

Princess Cruises

Final Verdict

Best activities : carnival.

AWSeebaran/ Getty Images

• Sails from: Charleston
• Duration: 4 nights
• Ship Name: Carnival Sunshine
• Itinerary: Princess Cays, Bahamas 

Get a full dose of the Bahamas in a short amount of time aboard the 3,002-passenger, Carnival Sunshine . Known for a festive atmosphere onboard, Sunshine hosts comedy shows, lip sync battles, deck parties, karaoke, and live theater performances. When it’s time to relax, there’s Cloud 9 Spa or Serenity adults-only retreat. Expect a variety of dining options including Guy’s Burger Joint (from television restaurant personality Guy Fieri), as well as the BlueIguana Cantina — Carnival’s signature Mexican restaurant. The cruise calls on the private island Princess Cays and includes kayaking, eco tours, and more. Sunshine sails round-trip from Charleston.

Best Extended Cruise : Royal Caribbean

Corey Seeman/ Flickr

• Sails from: Baltimore
• Duration: 7-8 nights
• Ship Name: Grandeur of the Seas
• Itinerary: Port Canaveral, Florida; CocoCay, Bahamas; Nassau, Bahamas; Baltimore, Maryland

Combine the pink-sand beaches of Bermuda with a trip to the Bahamas onboard Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas for a longer, sun-soaked getaway. The cruise sails from Baltimore and overnights in Port Canaveral, for even more time exploring. Then, it continues to Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas for private cabanas, gigantic water slides, and swim-up bars. Onboard Grandeur , passengers can watch movies under the stars, watch a tango show, take culinary or sushi classes, and learn some new dance moves. Sample excellent cuisine at one of Royal Caribbean’s signature restaurants, like Chops Grille steakhouse or Giovanni’s Table.

Best Cruise Experience : Princess Cruises

• Sails from: Fort Lauderdale
• Ship Name: Caribbean Princess
• Itinerary: Princess Cays, Bahamas; Fort Lauderdale

Many cruises on Princess tend to have longer itineraries, but you can escape to a private port in the Bahamas on a short, four-night jaunt aboard 3,140-passenger, Caribbean Princess . While sailing to a private port in Eleuthera, passengers can spend time at sea exploring the newly refurbished ship or participate in a roster of daily activities ranging from trivia, scavenger hunts, and pub crawls to spa seminars and sports contests. In the evenings, catch “Movies Under the Stars,” the “Voice of the Ocean” (a live show), or head over to the Club Fusion dance club. The private, 40-acre resort in the Bahamas has white-sand beaches, a craft market, volleyball and water sports, and a beach party complete with a barbecue lunch. 

Still can't find what you're looking for? Check out our roundup of the best cruises for adults .

For families who hope to have enough to keep everyone entertained, while also staying on a budget, the Carnival Cruises are great options. There are a variety of shows, access to parks for kids, and adults-only retreats for parents to wind down. Royal Caribbean Cruises are great options if you're looking for both short and long trips, while Princess provides a great all-around cruise experience.

Getty Images / Rawpixel

Carnival Cruise Lines' Cruise Ships, Build Dates, and Itineraries

13 New Ocean Cruise Ships in 2018

The Best Alaska Cruises

Your Trip to the Bahamas: The Complete Guide

Disney Magic - Tour and Profile

8 Disney Cruise Hacks for Grown-Ups

Nassau: Cruise Ship Port of Call in the Bahamas

Caribbean Cruise Itineraries

Carnival Vista for Families

Carnival Liberty Outdoor Deck Areas and Exteriors

Disney's New Cruise Ship Is Setting Sail In June 2022—See Inside

The Best Cruise Lines for Couples

Most Popular Family Cruise Lines

Top Cruise Ports in the Eastern Caribbean

Halloween on the High Seas With Disney Cruise Line

Carnival Freedom Cruise Ship Profile and Tour

The 6 Best Cruises for Exploring the Bahamas

Only 110 miles off the florida coast, the bahamas is one of the easiest caribbean destinations to reach on a cruise. these are our top picks for sailings among this island paradise..

• Copy Link copied

With hundreds of islands to visit, Bahamas cruises are filled with beautiful scenery, mesmerizing marine life, and relaxing beach escapes.

Courtesy of Fernando Jorge Unsplash

Cruises to the Bahamas are filled with sun, soft sands, and the opportunity to dip your toes in a warm and seductive crystal blue sea. The 700-island archipelago is the kind of oasis you dream of when, in my case at least, you’re indoors on a cold and dark day in Cleveland. Exploring the islands is tricky by air, but much easier via ship. Bahamas cruises to take right now include quick jaunts from easy-to-get-to Florida ports as well as one-week and longer cruises that explore more deeply. You can sail there in less than a day from Florida (cruises tend to embark in the early evening and hang out at sea until the next morning ashore), which makes it both an easy escape for a quick getaway or somewhere to linger for even more rest and relaxation.

What to expect on a Bahamas cruise

The main places cruise ships visit in the Bahamas are Nassau, the capital city, and some of the islands and beaches that are affiliated with cruise lines, such as Disney’s private family wonderland Castaway Cay, off Great Abaco Island. There are small ships that explore further, including to the southern reaches of the archipelago.

Cruise passengers will find opportunities to hike in national parks, enjoy nearly deserted beaches, and explore many small churches—the Bahamas boasts more churches per capita than anywhere else in the world.

In the Bahamian capital of Nassau on New Providence Island, visitors can get a better understanding of the nation’s British colonial and West African slave history as well as of the Junkanoo culture and festivals at wonderful museums. Most day visitors, though, are typically focused on water attractions: heading off on diving or snorkeling excursions, boarding party boats with free-flowing rum punch, experiencing the beaches, swimming pools, and waterslides at the Atlantis Bahamas resort on Paradise Island, or trying to catch the big one on fishing charters.

On small ship itineraries, you may stop at San Salvador Island, where Christopher Columbus may or may not have made his first landing in the New World. (Historians quibble on the exact landing spot.) A white cross memorializes the supposed landing spot. Long Island, which stretches some 80 miles, has both rugged and sandy coasts and the natural attraction of Dean’s Blue Hole, one of the deepest sinkholes in the world at 663 feet, a place where divers and snorkelers can mingle with turtles and tarpons. The small island of Bimini is known for its clean beaches and rich marine life—hanging out at beach clubs, seeking quiet escapes in the land, and watching for dolphins and other sea creatures are prime activities.

Other cruise destinations include Eleuthera, with its inviting pink sands and protected park areas. In addition to beaches, the 365-island chain known as the Exumas are famous for swimming pigs (though they also live elsewhere in the Bahamas).

Even a standard stateroom on the Celebrity Summit won’t disappoint thanks to chic interior design details.

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises’ “Nassau & Bimini” itinerary

• Best for: Upscale big ship experience
• To book: 4-nights round-trip from Miami , from $473 per person for a veranda stateroom; from $801 per person for AquaClass; and from $2,245 per person for the Retreat
• Islands: Nassau (New Providence), Bimini, plus Key West

Celebrity Cruises sails to Nassau and Bimini in style, and if time or money is tight, you don’t have to invest too much in your Bahamas getaway. You can book, for instance, an easy, breezy four-night trip on the 2,158-passenger Celebrity Summit from under $500 per person. That said, if you splurge on a suite in the Retreat, you’ll have your own sundeck with hot tub, enjoy private lounge access, and dine at the exclusive restaurant Luminae, where signature dishes by Celebrity’s culinary ambassador, Daniel Boulud, are featured on the rotating menu—such as creamy carrot and ginger velouté and Moroccan chicken tagine with saffron couscous. Spa lovers might want to book the AquaClass staterooms, with complimentary access to a Persian Garden with infrared sauna and sensory showers and exclusive dining at health focused Blu, where the wine list features sustainable and biodynamic wines. While in Bimini, you might try your hand at sport-fishing, a year-round pastime from the island.

If you’re traveling with younger cruisers, Disney has you covered.

Courtesy of Kent Phillips/Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line’s Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

• Best for: Families and Disney fans of all ages
• To book: 5-night Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale on the 2,700-passenger Disney Magic , from $6,299 for four guests
• Islands: Castaway Cay, Nassau (New Providence), Eleuthera

Disney Cruise Line has ships in the Bahamas year-round, starting with quick three- and four-night sailings from Florida ports. Ever since it first opened 1998, the highlight of any Disney cruise in the Bahamas has been Castaway Cay, a picture-perfect white-sand island paradise, complete with pirate attractions and Disney character appearances. What has Disney fans all atwitter is the opening in summer 2024 of a second exclusive for Disney Bahamas destination, Lighthouse Point, on the island of Eleuthera. There, Disney promises a celebration of Bahamian culture, including Junkanoo parades, characters from Bahamas folklore, and performances by local artists. An accompanying commitment to conservation at Lighthouse Point includes a solar installation that will provide at least 90 percent of the destination’s required electricity (Castaway Cay also has a solar installation). Family-friendly attractions abound but grown-ups can also drop the kids off in a supervised activity program and head to the adults-only beach to sip cocktails while lounging in private cabanas.

For a luxurious yacht-style cruise in the Bahamas, book a suite on the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s recently launched Evrima .

Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s round-trip sailing from Fort Lauderdale

• Best for: Top-of-the-line luxury experience
• To book: 7-night cruise from Fort Lauderdale on the 298-passenger Evrima , from $6,100 per person
• Islands: Nassau (New Providence), Bimini, San Salvador, Long Island, plus Key West

On the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s 298-passenger Evrima , you can head to the secluded dipping pool and pretend you are on your own private yacht, luxuriate in your resort-like suite, or join an intimate dance party on the Marina Terrace, located just above the sea. A seven-night itinerary in December 2023 gets you from Fort Lauderdale to Nassau, Bimini, San Salvador, and Long Island, Bahamas, with the bonus of some additional time built in to enjoy the Hemingway House & Museum and other attractions in Key West, Florida. Optional small group shore excursions in the Bahamas include an “Eco-Marine Safari” on Long Island, that combines small boat exploration of a mangrove channel and sandbars with a visit to see swimming pigs in a quiet cay. With both the cruise line and the Royal at Atlantis on Paradise Island affiliated with Marriott International , there’s also a hotel tie-in—you can book a daybed at the resort’s chic adults-only pool area, the Cove .

Explora the island of Exuma on a Scenic cruise in the Bahamas.

Courtesy of Pritam Pebam/Unsplash

Scenic’s “Island Odyssey: Bahamas to the Grenadines” cruise

• Best for: Underwater and air exploration
• To book: 12-night sailing in fall 2024 from $9,963 per person
• Islands: Compass Cay, Great Exuma Island, San Salvador Island, Long Island, Great Inagua Island in the Bahamas. Also, Virgin Gorda, St. Bart’s, Monserrat, Iles des Saintes (Guadeloupe), Tobago Cays (St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

The luxurious 228-passenger Scenic Eclipse features some of the best exploration toys in the industry. An expedition team runs excursions including with two helicopters and a submarine, which will enhance your Bahamas views from both over and under the sea. Or borrow paddleboards and kayaks from the ship’s marina for your own solo exploration. A 12-night sailing from Nassau to Bridgetown, Barbados, starts with six days in the Bahamas, before following the yachting crowd south. Stops include Compass Cay in the Exuma Cays, where in the clear water you might see nurse sharks even from the ship. Bird lovers will enjoy a rare visit to the southernmost island in the Bahamas, Great Inagua Island, with its resident population of some 80,000 flamingos. Whiskey lovers will want to check out the ship’s collection of more than 110 varieties.

SeaDream Yacht Club’s forthcoming 2025 Bahamas cruise will be worth the wait for this viewpoint from the whirlpools.

Courtesy of Greg Ceo/SeaDream Yacht Clube

SeaDream Yacht Club’s “Bountiful Bahamas” cruise

• Best for: Low-key luxury
• To book: 7-night cruise in April 2025 , from $4,399 per person
• Islands: Nassau (New Providence), Staniel Cay, Great Exuma, San Salvador, Salt Cay

You’ll have to wait until 2025, but small-ship line SeaDream has an intriguing pair of upcoming round-trip cruises to the Bahamas from tony Palm Beach, Florida, on the 112-passenger SeaDream II . The “Bountiful Bahamas” itinerary lingers in the Exumas and around Long Island, with the opportunity to explore pristine beaches, hang out at beach shack bars, and snorkel in the clear sea. There’s also an unusual visit to the uninhabited Bahamas island Salt Cay (also known as Cay Sal), only accessible by boat and some 50 miles from Marathon, Florida. In between kayaking quiet bays, try the yacht’s newest attraction, an inflatable slide running from the pool deck into the water. SeaDream prides itself on cuisine and was the first cruise line with a full vegan raw food menu in addition to such indulgences as a signature l’oeuf poule au caviar (egg with caviar), grilled lobster, and filet mignon.

It wouldn’t be a Virgin Voyages Bahamas cruise without some time spent chilling at the Bimini Beach Club.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages’ “Fire & Sunset Soirées” cruise

• Best for: Fun-seeking adults
• To book: 4-night “Fire & Sunset Soirées” on the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady or Valiant Lady from $1,920 for two in a Sea Terrace cabin
• Islands: Bimini, plus Key West

For pure adult fun you can’t beat Virgin Voyages , which is limited to those age 18 and up. During a beach day at the Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini, private to Virgin guests when their ships visit, enjoy cocktails at the pool or a beach bonfire. Or book an activity such as a watercolor painting class, a “Views-n-Blues Mid-Afternoon Cruise” on a pontoon, an open-air tram tour of the island, or scuba dive with hammerheads. On the ship, partake in dance parties, take advantage of complimentary yoga, meditation sessions, and intense cardio HIIT classes, peruse vinyl selections on sale at the record shop, and get a tattoo or piercing when not indulging in treats at the “Lick Me Till  . . .  Ice Cream” shop. There are also six restaurants onboard, including a highly creative “Test Kitchen” where dishes smoke and sizzle, and a super-fun Korean barbecue experience, Gunbae, complete with drinking games.

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

• Pre-Cruise FAQ
• Onboard FAQ
• Post-Cruise FAQ
• Cruisetours FAQ
• Special Offers Sign Up
• Cruise Deals

You have been logged out

Your window will update in 5 secs

Bahamas Cruises

Relax and recharge on the caribbean’s most iconic beaches.

Top 5 Cruise Line Private Island

(Princess Cays)

Cruise Critic

Float through crystal-clear waters and sunbathe on palm tree-lined beaches during a Bahamas cruise with Princess®. This vibrant destination is home to Princess Cays, our private island resort that is truly relaxation defined. Spend the day relaxing beachside or snorkeling just off the shore. Find cruises to the Bahamas that fit just about any schedule with options of a short getaway or a week long Caribbean vacation with the family.

Bahamas cruise overview

Surf, sand and sun await on a Bahamas cruise. Indulge in rest and relaxation while lounging on unspoiled beaches that offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a dip in the water, and ride in a paddle wheeler with your loved ones. Or revel in the laid-back atmosphere of island time while floating along the shoreline. Experience the best of the Bahamas and the Caribbean with Princess.

Princess Cays, relaxation defined

On a Bahamas cruise, visit the dazzling port of Princess Cays, Princess’ Private Island Resort. Relax in a beachside sanctuary bungalow, ride on a banana boat or paddle through the turquoise waters on a kayak with friends and family. Experience this quintessential Bahamas port on most of our Caribbean cruise itineraries, and indulge in the best of both worlds as you sail on to explore other nearby destinations.

Cruise to the Bahamas on These Featured Caribbean Cruises

Caribbean Getaways

Relaxation and ocean exploration

Caribbean Getaways offer short cruises to the Bahamas for a dose of relaxation on a quick weekend trip or a mid-week recharge. From kayaks and paddleboards to noodles and floats, frolic through the water and refuel with a complimentary beach barbecue. Then embark on a leisurely glass-bottom boat ride around the island, or unwind in a private bungalow and enjoy access to Princess MedallionNet® right from your beach chair.

Week-Long Caribbean Cruises

Caribbean Sun and aquatic fun

Take a week-long vacation on a Bahamas cruise with more to love, calling on additional Caribbean ports. Visit Princess Cays for a day in the sun, sand and surf. Then have more time to explore Trunk Bay – one of the “Cruise Wonders of the World” – during a late-night stay in St. Thomas on Eastern Caribbean itineraries. From relaxation to adventure, experience cruises to the Bahamas that have more range with Princess.

Southern Caribbean Cruises

Where Traditions Abound

Get a taste of traditional Caribbean culture as you sail to ports like Bonaire and Aruba. Relive Curacao's colorful past, and discover Bonaire's pristine coral reefs. Or explore Aruba’s underwater "Antilla" shipwreck, home to a variety of exotic sea life. Whether sailing to a specific region or embarking on a comprehensive cruise, cruise to the Bahamas and unwind at Princess Cays before heading to your next destination.

Cruises to the Bahamas by Season

Cruise to Princess Cays and onward to exciting Caribbean ports any time of the year.

Fall Bahamas cruises

Get a taste of the Caribbean while savoring tropical delights on each of the islands. Enjoy jerk chicken in Jamaica, coconut bread pudding in St. Kitts, or a beach barbecue in Princess Cays. Or indulge in conch — the national food of The Bahamas. Cruises to the Bahamas also come complete with island-inspired cocktails and cuisine on board.

Spring Bahamas cruises

On Bahamas cruises, embark on diverse adventures no matter the destination. Explore the Mayan Ruins in the Western Caribbean, snorkel past coral reefs in the Southern Caribbean, and sail on a catamaran in the Eastern Caribbean. Find activities for the family during a spring break vacation that feels like summer.

Summer Bahamas cruises

Nothing says summer quite like the Caribbean, especially when you spend the day playing in the Caribbean Sea. On cruises to the Bahamas, snorkel alongside tropical fish, and paddle through the waters in a tandem kayak with family or friends. Or float in the clear blue Caribbean Sea in an inner tube.

Winter Bahamas cruises

Spice up your holiday season on a Bahamas cruise and immerse yourself in the best of each destination with our exclusive Local Connections Program. Sample Blue Curacao on a distillery tour, snorkel alongside friendly stingrays in Antigua or discover St. Lucia’s Creole traditions from a master craftsman.

Caribbean Cruise Articles and Videos

Read about colorful cultures, breathtaking landscapes, must-see attractions and preparation advice for cruising the Caribbean.

2024-2025 Caribbean Cruises

There’s no better way to truly experience the laid-back Caribbean than with Princess.

Caribbean Cruise Weather by Month

From radiant sunshine to turquoise waters, enjoy the best Caribbean cruise weather all year round when you sail to these tropical lands with Princess.

Top Five Caribbean Cruise Destinations

Whether you’re a history-lover, adventure-seeker or laid-back traveler, discover the best Caribbean cruise destinations for any guest with Princess.

Best Caribbean Cruises

Visit the best Caribbean cruise destinations with Princess and relax on white-sand beaches or embark on adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Top Things to Do in Grand Cayman

From relaxing on the shores of Seven Mile Beach to feeding majestic sea creatures at Stingray City, discover the top things to do in Grand Cayman with Princess.

Best Time for a Caribbean Cruise

Discover the best time for a Caribbean cruise. From the offseason to the sunniest months to festival season, anytime is the best time to travel to the Caribbean.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Princess EZair® Flights

Stress-free airfare

Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time, and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty, and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling, and the representative’s services.

Need help planning?

Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. The best part is, their services are completely FREE!

Cruise deals & promotions

Find our top sales, deals, partnerships and promotions for our destinations all in one place. We run promotions throughout the year and sometimes run sweepstakes where you can win prizes!

#PrincessCruises Caribbean Connections

See the Caribbean through our guests' eyes.

You May Also Like

Caribbean cruise destinations.

Walk along sun-kissed beaches in a laid-back style.

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Top-Rated Beaches and Water Play

Western Caribbean Cruises

Historic Spots and Natural Wonders

Best Bahamas Deals

U.S. News has identified the best cruise deals in the Bahamas by taking into account prices, cruise line ratings and cruise ship reviews. Use the list below to find your next cruise vacation.

Read Best Cruises Methodology

3 Night Bahamas

01/10-01/12/2025

01/03-01/05/2025

01/31-02/02/2025

4 Night Bahamas

09/16-09/19/2024

09/30-10/03/2024

11/11-11/14/2024

09/23-09/26/2024

10/14-10/17/2024

3 Night Key West & Bahamas

3 Night Bahamas & Perfect Day

08/23-08/25/2024

4 Night Key West & Bahamas

08/26-08/29/2024

01/24-01/26/2025

09/09-09/12/2024

12/16-12/19/2024

01/16-01/19/2025

3 Night Perfect Day Getaway

11/29-12/01/2024

Royal Caribbean

01/30-02/02/2025

12/13-12/15/2024

01/16-01/18/2025

01/30-02/01/2025

4 Night Private Island & Bahamas Escape

11/02-11/05/2024

Holland America

8 Night Caribbean & Bahamas

09/15-09/22/2024

Best Bahamas Cruise Deals

If you're looking for a short, inexpensive getaway, a Bahamas cruise is a great option. These cruises often leave from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Miami. Some itineraries last just two or three nights, which makes the Bahamas a popular option for weekend sailings. Short Bahamas cruises often stop in Nassau, and some longer Bahamas itineraries include stops in Key West, Florida, or the cruise lines' private islands.

One of the newest cruise line-owned private islands is Royal Caribbean's CocoCay, which opened in May 2019 and features North America's tallest waterslide, a swim-up bar, and the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. Other Bahamian islands and areas exclusive to cruise passengers include Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Cay, Holland America Line's Half Moon Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line's Great Stirrup Cay, Princess Cruises' Princess Cays and MSC Cruises' Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.

Beyond visits to these private islands, cruisers can expect excursions to nearby beaches, outings to duty-free shops, rum tastings and more. To get the best deal on a Bahamas cruise, consider a cruise line that has plenty of sailings to the Bahamas, such as Carnival Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean International. Still, outliers like MSC Cruises can offer great deals on inside rooms – think: $75 per person, per night – on short Bahamas sailings.

See Other Cruise Deals:

See more Bahamas Cruise Deals » See the Best Caribbean Cruise Deals » See the Best Alaska Cruise Deals » See the Best Hawaii Cruise Deals » See the Best Mexico Cruise Deals » See the Best Europe Cruise Deals » See all Best Cruise Deals »

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

• Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
• Let Us Call You CALL ME
• Drink Packages
• Flights by Celebrity℠
• Hotels by Celebrity
• Manage Reservation
• Shore Excursions
• Upgrade with MoveUp

• My Tier and Points
• Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

• South Korea
• New Zealand
• Grand Cayman
• St. Maarten
• U.S Virgin Islands
• New England & Canada
• Pacific Coast
• Antarctic Ocean
• Panama Canal
• Transatlantic
• Transpacific
• Cruise Ports (+300)
• Mediterranean
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• All Inclusive
• Bucket List Cruises
• Cruise & Land Package
• Groups & Events
• New Cruises
• Popular Cruises
• Specialty Cruises
• Destination Highlights
• Group Excursions
• Private Journeys
• Shore Excursions Overview
• Small Group Discoveries

• 360° Virtual Tours
• Celebrity Apex
• Celebrity Ascent NEW
• Celebrity Beyond
• Celebrity Constellation
• Celebrity Edge
• Celebrity Eclipse
• Celebrity Equinox
• Celebrity Infinity
• Celebrity Millennium
• Celebrity Reflection
• Celebrity Silhouette
• Celebrity Solstice
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Xcel COMING SOON
• Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

• Celebrity Flora
• Celebrity Xpedition
• Celebrity Xploration
• The Retreat
• Suite Life. Elevated.
• Iconic Suite
• Penthouse Suite
• Reflection Suite
• Royal Suite
• Signature Suite
• Celebrity Suite
• Aqua Sky Suite
• Horizon Suite
• Sunset Suite
• View All Suites
• Concierge Class
• Galapagos Accommodations
• Eat & Drink
• Entertainment
• Spa & Wellness

• Cruising 101
• Cruise Fare Options
• Cruise Tips
• First Time on a Cruise
• What is Included on a Cruise
• Future Cruise Vacations
• Accessible Cruising
• Captain's Club Rewards
• Cruise Insurance
• Flights by Celebrity
• Healthy at Sea
• Manage Cruise
• The Celebrity Store
• Travel Documents
• Royal Caribbean International
• Celebrity Cruises

• 75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings
• 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free
• Galapagos 20% Savings + Free Flights
• Resident Rates
• Exciting Deals
• View All Offers
• All Included
• Cruise & Land Packages
• Dining Packages
• Photo Packages
• Wi-Fi Packages
• View All Packages
• Captain's Club Overview
• Join the Club
• Loyalty Exclusive Offers
• Tiers & Benefits
• Loyalty Status Match
• Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200.

Bahamas Cruises from Miami

Enjoy the carefree ambiance of the islands

Tabs View Cruises

• View Cruises

On a Bahamas cruise from Miami, the crystal-clear waters, powder-white sands, and relaxed atmosphere of this island paradise guarantee the ideal vacation. A cruise is the perfect way to downshift from the buzz of South Florida’s largest city to the laid-back culture of New Providence and the surrounding islands.

There’s so much to do and see here. From Nassau, head for Paradise Island to discover the playground of Atlantis and marvel at the sharks circling Predator Lagoon. Take the ferry to Blue Lagoon Island and relax under a palm tree, listening to the waves. From Bimini, swim among reef sharks or learn how conch is harvested. Relax in a private overwater villa on CocoCay, or fly down North America’s tallest waterslide.

Itineraries

View all bahamas cruises from miami, featured ports of call.

When you arrive in the capital of Nassau on your Bahamas cruise, you’ll have the entire day to explore the city and the surrounding islands. Stroll along the buzzing Cable Beach, and shop for local crafts at the Nassau Straw Market. Head for Aquaventure at Atlantis on Paradise Island for a day of thrills on plunging waterslides. Or cruise to neighboring Pearl Island, Blue Lagoon Island, or Balmoral Island for kayaking, snorkeling, and even a chance to swim with friendly pigs.

Relax on the powdery white sand of Bimini’s gorgeous Paradise Beach, or get closer to marine life in the warm, turquoise waters around the islands. Snorkel with reef sharks or hand-feed stingrays at Honeymoon Harbor. Join a snorkeling adventure to admire the vibrant corals and schools of fish that have colonized a shipwreck before relaxing with an ice-cold rum punch. Feeling creative? Then join a painting class and try to capture the astonishing shades of the Caribbean.

The award-winning island paradise of CocoCay is packed with entertainment for all tastes. Fly down Devil’s Peak, North America’s tallest waterslide, and cool off in the region’s biggest freshwater pool. Enjoy mellow DJ tunes at adults-only Hideaway Beach. Or elevate your experience at Coco Beach Club, where you’ll find a sparkling infinity pool, a powder-sand beach, and a cluster of overwater villas. Each one has a slide so you can glide straight into the crystal-clear water below.

You Might Also Like

Last-Minute Cruises from Miami

Cruises from Florida to Bahamas

3-Day Cruises from Florida

Cruises vs. Resorts: Which Is Best?

When Is the Best Time to Go to The Bahamas?

Bahamas vs. Caribbean: Which Should You Cruise To?

Bahamas Vs. Bermuda: Which Should You Visit?

Best Beaches in & Around Nassau, The Bahamas

What to Eat in The Bahamas

Where to Go Snorkeling in Nassau

Best Places to Visit in The Bahamas

Best Things to Do in the Bahamas

Best Beaches in The Bahamas

Best Spots for Snorkeling in The Bahamas

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Royal Destinations
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

The best time to cruise to the Bahamas

When is the absolute best time to cruise to the Bahamas? The short answer is that any time you can make it happen is the best time.

The long answer depends on what matters most to you. Are you going to play in the water? Are you averse to the risks of schedule changes or cancellations? Are you cruising to the Bahamas because it's cheap? Do you want a party atmosphere or peace and quiet? The answers to these questions will determine the best month or season for your Bahamas cruise.

Taking weather, price and crowds into consideration, I'm going with November as the best time to cruise to the Bahamas. Here's how I came to that conclusion, though you might decide another month is the best time for you to sail away to the islands.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The best time based on weather

Though I found several blogs promoting January as the best month to cruise to the Bahamas, I personally have experienced chilly weather in the Bahamas in both December and January. Remember, the Bahamas are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean. They're not truly tropical islands, and most are at more northern latitudes than Key West. Winter temperatures aren't always balmy.

I've had two stops at private islands canceled due to strong winds and temperatures in the 50s and 60s. One ship I was on made an alternate stop at Freeport, which was still chilly, but at least it could dock. It was a wasted day for those hoping to enjoy water sports or the beach. Only the shoppers weren't deterred by the chill in the air.

Don't get me wrong, January is usually a wonderful time to cruise to the Bahamas, as long as you are prepared for the relatively rare cold front that blows that far south.

Related: Caribbean vs. Bahamas cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

The months some cruisers tell you to avoid cruising to the Bahamas are during the peak of Atlantic hurricane season, which is August to October. But here's the thing about that – the cruise line isn't going to put you or their ship in harm's way.

Might they cancel your cruise or switch up your itinerary? Sure. But my own experience has been that outside of relatively rare hurricanes and tropical storms, the late summer and early fall months often bring calmer seas. In fact, the calmest seas I have experienced anywhere in the world were on a September cruise to the Bahamas, on which we enjoyed glassy calm waters the entire trip.

The best month to cruise the Bahamas, weather-wise, depends on your travel style. Are you stressed by the possibility of cancellations due to hurricanes or by port changes from unexpected cold fronts? Skip January, December, August, September — and maybe even October.

Are you only going on the cruise for water sports like diving, snorkeling or boating? Then rule out December and January.

Do you avoid high heat and humidity as if it were a plague? Then don't book a cruise to the Bahamas in July, August or September.

The months we haven't mentioned are March, April, May, June and November. If weather is your biggest concern, those are the best months for you to hop on a Bahamas cruise.

The best time based on prices and crowds

It's no secret that cruises to the Bahamas can be cheap — but they are not always so. Here are the averages we found for price per person per night across the mainstream cruise lines along with what kind of crowd you can expect to find on board. Exceptions to these averages are always possible, especially on odd-length cruises like four- and five-night sailings.

The autumn months can be an ideal time to cruise the Bahamas if you're looking for cheaper fares and fewer crowds – especially if you're not bothered by the increased hurricane risk. (September 10 is the official peak of hurricane season.)

October tends to be the lowest-priced month to cruise to the Bahamas, with inside cabins averaging around $60 per person, per night. Ocean-view cabins are yours for an average of $75 per night, while balcony cabins are a bit higher, at around $85 per person per night. Even suites are a good deal. October sailings do not usually include very many children or college-age partiers, but the lower fares do attract working folks looking to let off steam, especially on three-night sailings.

September runs a close second to October, with fares averaging a few dollars higher per night. Expect a similar crowd. The shorter the cruise, the louder the party tends to get.

November before the holidays is perhaps the ideal time to cruise. We found the suites in early to mid-November average only $167 per night, with other categories running just slightly more than hurricane season rates. You can expect few children on board other than home-schoolers and preschoolers. With the holidays right around the corner, the ships often will be a bit emptier than usual, making for a quiet cruise.

Related: TPG's most favorite fall cruise itineraries

Early December cruises cost only slightly more than November. If you love holiday decor (both on board and in the islands) and dressing up in holiday clothes, you can enjoy a relatively quiet cruise early in December. The later it gets, the more the crowd swells.

The absolute most expensive cruises to the Bahamas we found were during the week between Christmas and New Year's, when you can expect to pay upward of $150 per person per night for an inside cabin, $165 for ocean-view cabins, $180 and up per night for balconies, and $400 and up per night for suites. This is max capacity time onboard. The best news for those looking for a floating holiday party is that you will find your people cruising this week.

January and February cruises to the Bahamas are almost always bargains, with inside cabins running around $75 per night, ocean-view cabins are a mere $85 per night, and balconies and suites averaging around $100 and $175 respectively. These are months between the holiday parties and spring break, so you can usually sit back and enjoy smaller, quieter crowds.

In March, April and May, you'll have to shop around for deals or hope for a last-minute special, but you can find lower prices if you look. March cruises will always include spring breakers of all ages, so expect children on board, just not as many as in summer.

You also might find yourself sharing a ship with a spring break party cruise charter in March. Even if your ship is quiet, the ports you visit might be filled with hordes of vacationing college kids, so be prepared for a lively crowd.

June, July and August cruise rates average around $90 per night for inside cabins, $100 per night for ocean-views, $120 and up for balcony cabins and $225 per night and up for suites. Ships will be loaded with families. Expect children of all ages and maxed-out onboard kids clubs. Fares typically start to fall toward the end of August when schools start back up and hurricane season kicks into gear.

Bottom line

The big, mainstream cruise lines sail to the Bahamas year-round, so whichever season or month suits your schedule, you'll find plenty of options departing from multiple ports. (We found eight ports offering Bahamas cruises, including three in Florida, plus Baltimore; New York City; Bayonne, New Jersey; Charleston, South Carolina; and Galveston, Texas.) Even better news is that the abundance of options means an abundance of deals year-round.

The best time to cruise the Bahamas might vary per traveler, but feel confident that you can't go wrong with an island vacation, no matter which month you choose.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

5 Affordable Cruise Vacations to Book — Plus How to Find the Best Deals

Here's what you need to know to save money on your next cruise.

Best Affordable Cruise Lines

How to find the best cruise deals, tips for saving money while on board.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruising has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. This form of travel is incredibly convenient (read: no need to pack and unpack), and everything you need can be found right on board — ultimately taking the stress out of trip planning. Plus, with hundreds of ships at sea across dozens of lines, there’s a cruise out here for every type of traveler. Fortunately, cruising doesn’t have to cost a small fortune, and many budget-conscious travelers may opt to set sail for their next trip. Below, we’ve rounded up the best cruise lines offering affordable fares coupled with value-packed inclusions to stretch your dollar further. We’ve also tapped some expert cruise specialists to share their top tips and tricks to help you save money both on and off the ship.

Here's everything you need to know to book an affordable cruise vacation.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

This adults-only cruise line from Richard Branson — which also happens to be a Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award winner — offers excellent value. In fact, according to T+L A-list cruise advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder and president Rob Clabbers, Virgin Voyages fares “include more than on most mainstream large-ship cruise lines.” For example, he says, “Virgin fares include internet access, gratuities, all meals — there are no cover charges for its restaurants that on most other lines would be considered specialty restaurants.” Beverages like soft drinks, coffee, and tea are also included, as are snacks, mezze at the aft terrace, and group workout classes. Best of all, there are no pricey beverage packages. “Instead,” says Clabbers, cruisers — or, as Virgin calls them, sailors — can buy their own reasonably priced drinks (think: beers from $6, $10 cocktails, and wines by the glass under $11) a la carte. Additionally, with some promotions , the cruise line throws in a “ bar tab ” credit that can be used towards drinks.

Princess Cruises

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Another World’s Best Award winner — and WBA Hall of Fame Honoree, no less — this fan-favorite ocean line is renowned for refined ships, serene ambiance, and exceptional service. Moreover, per Clabbers, passengers can choose from “optional packages to help customize a passenger’s trip that provide savings over buying things separately.” For an extra $60 per day, consider Princess Plus, which offers perks like Wi-Fi for one device per guest, gratuities, fitness classes (two per sailing), and beverages like bottled water, specialty coffee, soft drinks, and juice. Alternatively, for $80 per day, passengers can spring on the Princess Premier package, which features the same beverages plus specialty dining (two per sailing), unlimited fitness classes, premium desserts, reserved theater seating, and Wi-Fi (four devices per guest).

Norwegian Cruise Line 

Norwegian Cruise Line is a favorite among families of all ages for its over-the-top entertainment and activities (think: go-karting, Broadway-caliber productions, and so on). “While Norwegian Cruise Line may price slightly higher than some of its competitors, you need to consider the Free at Sea package,” says travel advisor Jennifer Travis of Marvelous Mouse Travels . She goes on to describe the promotion as a “game-changer when it comes to cruising” since it includes perks like a “free open bar (up to $1,400 in savings), free specialty dining (up to $180 in savings), free Wi-Fi (up to $200 in savings), and a $50 discount on excursions.” Other Free at Sea perks include 70 percent off second guests, free third and fourth guests (on select dates), and free airfare (per the cruise line’s website: “ Pay airfare for one guest, and you'll automatically lock in roundtrip flights for two ”). Also, you can’t go wrong with the Free at Sea Plus package, which includes a wider selection of beverages, more specialty dining, unlimited Wi-Fi, and additional shore excursion credits. Before booking, be sure to check the line’s full selection of deals , which run the gamut from half-off deposits to $150 cruise credits and more.

Royal Caribbean

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Zip lines, water slides, surfing simulators, ice skating, rock climbing walls: Find all this and more aboard (most) Royal Caribbean ships — and, best of all, they’re complimentary! Ideal for fun- and adventure-loving travelers of all ages — read: kids and kids-at-heart alike — it’s pretty much impossible to be bored while cruising on this World’s Best Award-winning mega-ship line . Additionally, according to Travis, Royal Caribbean “offers some of the best short itineraries,” some of which clock in at under $200 per person for two-night sailings. Longer itineraries, including a seven-night Bahamas sailing aboard one of the line’s newest ships, Odyssey of the Seas , clock in at under $600 per person. The line also offers an abundance of deals , including up to $600 off sailings, 60 percent off second guests, and more.

Carnival Cruise Line 

Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

“ Carnival Cruise Line is known for its competitive pricing without cutting back on the onboard activities or various dining options, thus making them an attractive option to budget-conscious cruisers,” explains Travis. For example, many itineraries, including a four-night Bahamas cruise from Miami , clock in at just over $150 per person. Additionally, says the travel advisor, “Carnival sails to a wide variety of destinations from so many local ports that you almost do not need to fly to your cruise ship anymore, which is another huge savings given the cost (and stress) flights can add to any vacation.” Keep an eye out for frequent flash sales for even more savings.

Booking early is an easy way to save on your next cruise vacation . “Typically,” says Travis, “the best pricing on a cruise is when the schedule is first released.” And, while you could wait for a last-minute deal, “you may not get the room category that you want.” Similarly, Clabbers says that flexibility is key when it comes to finding — and scoring — the best cruise deals . For example, he previously told T+L that if you are “very flexible and are looking for a standard room on a large ship on an itinerary that repeats week after week, you are more likely to find a promotional fare.”

Conversely, giving up some of that flexibility sometimes pays off. According to Clabbers, select cruise lines will offer lower fares to those who opt for a nonrefundable deposit instead of a refundable one. Finally, you may also consider cruising in shoulder season or even low season. Sure, the weather won’t be perfect, but the fewer crowds and cheaper fares more than make up for that, especially if you’re on a budget.

While your tab can quickly rack up once on board, there are several savvy ways to save money. For one, consider bringing your own booze. According to Travis, “Many cruise lines allow their guests to bring a specific amount of alcohol or nonalcoholic beverages onboard the ships, which can help save you money while you are on the ship.” Additionally, ​​Michele Benard , another travel advisor at Marvelous Mouse Travels, advises packing your own necessities from home — like Advil, Tums,  motion sickness medicine, and after-sun lotion — as opposed to buying them on board at a much higher price. You’ll also want to skip the souvenirs at the onboard gift shop, which tend to be more expensive than those you’d find in port.

Benard also recommends taking advantage of “all the free activities on the cruise ships,” which can include everything from water slides to trivia game shows. Pro tip: “Stay onboard during a port day, and the lines won’t be as long.” On a similar note, spa treatments tend to be less expensive on port days, so those craving some R&R — that is, sans breaking the bank — may consider booking a service during this time.

Finally, says Clabbers, save money on your next cruise by enlisting the help of an onboard cruise consultant to select your next sailing. “You will typically receive an onboard credit or savings on your next cruise, and your own travel advisor will be alerted so they can help you plan your vacation.”

Related Articles

The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Disney Cruise Line ship

I s a voyage on a Disney Cruise Line ship on your bucket list? You'll find a growing number of options when it comes time to pick an itinerary.

While the cruising arm of Disney has long focused mostly on voyages to the Caribbean and the Bahamas, with year-round sailings to those destinations out of Florida, it also now offers a relatively wide range of seasonal sailings to Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, Bermuda, Europe and Canada.

The family-friendly cruise brand, notably, is expanding its footprint worldwide as it adds four new vessels in quick succession.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Already, the first of those ships, the 2,508-passenger Disney Wish , has arrived, boosting the size of the Disney fleet from four ships to five and allowing for more departures to the Caribbean, Mexico and Europe.

Two more sister vessels to Disney Wish are due to begin sailing in 2024 and 2025, respectively, allowing for further expansion in Disney cruise itineraries. In addition, the line has yet another new vessel coming in 2025 that isn't related to the other three. Called Disney Adventure, it's a one-off vessel originally designed for an Asian line , and it'll sail in Asia (perhaps catering mostly to Asian travelers; Disney has been mum so far on the target audience for it).

All these new ships arriving in quick succession will likely mean not just more departures to destinations where Disney Cruise Line is established but also sailings in new regions. For example, Disney has never before offered Asia sailings.

Here are our picks for the five best Disney cruise destinations you can visit with your family.

Caribbean and Bahamas

Disney Cruise Line's top destination has always been the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Since its founding more than two decades ago, the brand has based the bulk of its fleet in Florida to offer sailings to the islands. Port Canaveral, which is just an hour away from Disney's Orlando-area theme parks, has always been its biggest hub.

The line is particularly known for three- and four-night cruises out of Port Canaveral to Castaway Cay and Nassau in the Bahamas. These short getaways let families get a taste of Disney cruising that some Disney fans pair with a stay at Disney World.

The cruise line also regularly offers seven-night sailings out of Port Canaveral that visit Caribbean islands like St. Thomas and Tortola.

Related: First look at Disney Wish in photos

In recent years, Disney has also built up its Caribbean and Bahamas cruise offerings from other ports in Florida — initially Miami and, more recently, Fort Lauderdale. The ships the line has based in these ports typically offer four- and five-night sailings to Castaway Cay and one other port, such as Cozumel or Grand Cayman.

In addition, Disney is offering a growing number of Caribbean sailings out of Galveston, Texas, and New Orleans.

For 2024, the line will have four of its five ships — Disney Wish, Disney Dream, Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy — sailing to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of one of the above ports, with their home bases often shifting between them.

Disney Wish, which is Disney's newest ship, will be based in Port Canaveral year-round to operate the line's classic three- and four-night sailings to the Bahamas. These voyages are designed to be paired with a visit to nearby Disney World for a longer Disney vacation.

Disney Fantasy will also sail out of Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Caribbean year-round, offering longer voyages.

Disney Dream will spend the start and the end of the year sailing short trips to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale, with a stint in the middle of the year (from May to October) sailing in Europe.

Disney Magic will take Disney Dream's place sailing short trips to the Bahamas and Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale from May to October. During the early and late months of the year, it'll sail out of Galveston.

Come 2025, Disney will have four ships — Disney Fantasy, Disney Wish, Disney Dream and Disney Magic — sailing three- to five-night getaways from Florida to the line's Bahamian destinations, including its new private beach destination Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and its long-open private island Disney Castaway Cay. Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will operate the trips from Port Canaveral, while Disney Dream and Disney Magic will sail from Fort Lauderdale.

Before taking up residence in Florida in April 2025, Disney Magic will also offer three months' worth of sailings out of Galveston, Texas, to Progreso and Cozumel in Mexico and Grand Cayman.

All of the 2025 sailings are already open for bookings.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

Disney has cut back on voyages out of San Diego for 2024, after increasing its San Diego departures sharply in 2023. But it still offers several trips to Mexico out of the city on Disney Wonder.

For 2024, the 1,754-passenger vessel will offer a mix of three- to seven-night sailings to Mexico during March and April. Shorter three- and four-night sailings typically feature calls at Ensenada, Mexico, and California's Catalina Island. Seven-night sailings include calls at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico.

Related: 11 ways to save money on a Disney cruise

The big factor driving Disney's cutbacks on sailings out of San Diego in 2024 is its new focus on voyages out of Australian ports. Disney Wonder will spend much of January and February sailing out of Australian ports and then return to the region in October for another season of Australia trips.

Disney offers a wide variety of itineraries in Europe every summer, from Mediterranean voyages out of Barcelona and Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), to Northern Europe sailings out of Southampton, England.

Ranging from seven to 11 nights, Disney's Europe voyages each year typically take place on a single ship that sails from multiple home ports throughout the season. For 2024, that ship will be the 2,500-passenger Disney Dream. The line has yet to announce which of its ships will go to Europe in 2025.

Typical for the shorter itineraries the line offers in Europe are seven-night sailings out of Civitavecchia to the Greek Islands. These sailings stop in Mykonos, Santorini and Crete in Greece, as well as Naples, Italy.

Related: 17 tips for sailing on Disney Cruise Line

A longer, 11-night itinerary starting in Civitavecchia and ending in Barcelona includes calls at Piraeus (the port for Athens), Santorini and Mykonos in Greece; Messina (on the island of Sicily), Naples and Livorno in Italy; and Toulon, France.

Among Northern Europe itineraries, Disney offers focused, weeklong sailings to Norway with calls at the Norwegian ports of Alesund, Nordfjordeid, Eidfjord and Stavanger.

Disney does not have a large presence in Alaska. The line sends just one ship to Alaska each year. Family-friendly cruise rivals Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line, by contrast, each send three ships to Alaska each year, and Norwegian Cruise Line sends five vessels to the destination.

Still, Disney fans won't feel like they're missing out. The one vessel Disney sends to Alaska each year, the 1,754-passenger Disney Wonder, stays for nearly the entire summer season, from late June to mid-September and offers a distinctly Disney take on The Last Frontier.

Always beginning and ending in Vancouver, British Columbia, and lasting seven nights, Disney's Alaska sailings typically include stops at three of these four Alaska ports: Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point (which three vary by departure date). Itineraries also include a visit to Stikine Icecap, which is south of Juneau.

Related: 5 reasons Disney cruises aren't just for kids

These are fairly typical ports for an Alaska cruise. But the (extra-charge) activities that Disney has organized for the ports aren't always the same as what other lines offer.

As one might expect for Disney, the line has crafted some of its shore excursions in Alaska ports with special Disney touches, such as Disney character appearances at the Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp & Salmon Bake tour in Ketchikan. (Having done this one myself, I will say, for the record, that it's a little hokey; but it does get you a Disney character fix if that's your aim.)

Another shore excursion with a Disney touch is the outdoor Family Scavenger Hunt at Icy Strait Point, where participants join a local guide on a hunt for items such as clam shells and native plants, as well as a "special surprise" with a Disney theme.

Unlike many lines, Disney does not offer one-way sailings to Alaska from Vancouver or Seattle that can be paired with add-on land tours to create an extended sea-and-land Alaska vacation — something known as a "cruisetour." If that's what you're looking for, and you want to stick with a family-friendly line, you might want to consider the one-way cruisetour offerings from Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Related: The ultimate Alaska cruise guide

Disney typically offers at least one and sometimes several cruises to Bermuda each fall, ranging from quick, five-night trips to longer, eight-night sailings.

For the year just ending (2023), the line offered four such sailings, and it's offered even more than that in certain years. Alas, for the coming year (2024), Disney currently does not have a single Bermuda sailing scheduled — a bit of an anomaly.

That said, we would expect Disney to bring back its Bermuda sailings for 2025 or 2026. It's been such a mainstay of the brand.

So ... stay tuned.

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Bottom line

Family-friend Disney Cruise Line is a relatively small cruise brand, with just five ships (one of its biggest rivals in the family cruise market, Royal Caribbean, has 26 vessels). But that doesn't mean its itinerary choices are limited. The line offers regular sailings to the Caribbean and Bahamas, Mexican Riviera, Alaska, Bermuda and Europe.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.