Celebrity Ascent — Caribbean

Cruise ships dock at Prince George Wharf, directly adjacent to downtown Nassau. The main attractions are typically a 5 to 10-minute walk from the gangway. Tendering is uncommon here unless many ships are in port, in which case confirm arrangements with your cruise line.

• Walk5 to 10 minutesfree

  The main shopping areas, restaurants, and historical sites are directly accessible on foot from the pier.

• Taxi5 to 15 minutes, depending on destinationaround $15-25 USD per car for short distances

  Taxis are available at the terminal for destinations further afield, like Paradise Island or other beaches. Prices are per car, not per person.

• Jitney (Public Bus)15 to 30 minutes, depending on routetypically around $1.25-$2.50 USD per person, each way

  Local jitney buses offer an affordable way to explore areas beyond the immediate downtown. They generally require exact cash in Bahamian or US dollars.

Watch out. Always confirm taxi fares with the driver before beginning your journey, as meters are not commonly used and prices should be agreed upon upfront.

Worth doing here

• Relax at Junkanoo Beach

  This beach offers a convenient spot to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the Bahamian sunshine within easy reach of the port.

  It is a short walk, typically around 15-20 minutes, from the cruise terminal; access to the beach is free, though chair rentals might be available for about $10-15 USD for the day.

• Explore Downtown Nassau and the Straw Market

  Travellers can experience local culture, find souvenirs, and enjoy Bahamian food and drinks right near the ship.

  The area is directly adjacent to the cruise port, allowing for a leisurely walk through shops and the market for several hours; browsing the market is free, but any purchases are at your discretion.

• Visit the Queen's Staircase and Fort Fincastle

  These historical sites offer a glimpse into Nassau's past and provide panoramic views of the island after a gentle climb.

  The Queen's Staircase is about a 20-30 minute walk from the port, and Fort Fincastle is at the top; entry to the fort is usually around $1-3 USD per person, so confirm with the site when you arrive.

• Discover Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre

  This unique zoo allows visitors to see flamingos march, interact with friendly Lory parrots, and enjoy tropical gardens.

  A taxi ride from the port typically takes about 10-15 minutes, with fares often around $10-15 USD each way; admission is usually about $20-22 USD for adults and $10-12 USD for children, so confirm current prices on arrival.

Cruise ships typically dock at either Havensight (West Indian Company Dock) or Crown Bay. Havensight is about a 20-30 minute walk to downtown Charlotte Amalie, mostly along a main road, while Crown Bay is further, roughly a 40-50 minute walk, making walking to the town centre generally unrealistic. Occasionally, ships may anchor offshore and tender passengers ashore, usually to the Havensight area.

• Shared Taxi or Safari Bus10-20 minutestypically around $4-8 per person, one way

  These open-air 'safari' buses or shared taxis are common just outside the terminal areas, and often wait until full before departing. Confirm the fare and destination before boarding.

• Private Taxi5-15 minutestypically around $10-15 per car (for 1-2 people), one way

  Private taxis are readily available at both terminals. Fares are usually set per destination, not metered. Confirm the price with the driver before beginning the trip.

Watch out. Always confirm the taxi fare and whether it is per person or per car before starting your journey, as pricing can vary and is not always metered.

Worth doing here

• Magen's Bay Beach

  This famous white-sand beach offers calm waters ideal for swimming and relaxation, suitable for nearly all ages and activity levels.

  A taxi ride is typically needed, taking about 20-30 minutes each way from the cruise terminals. Expect taxi fares around $10-15 per person each way, and an admission fee of about $5-8 per person to enter the beach; confirm all prices with drivers and at the entrance. Plan for 3-4 hours including travel.

• Skyride to Paradise Point

  Enjoy panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie harbor and neighboring islands from a mountaintop vantage point, accessible to most travellers.

  The Skyride is located near the Havensight cruise terminal, often walkable within 15-20 minutes, or a very short taxi ride. Admission is usually around $25-30 for adults; confirm current prices at the ticket booth. Allow 1-2 hours for the ride and time at the top.

• Explore Historic Charlotte Amalie & Duty-Free Shopping

  Wander through historic streets, admire Danish colonial architecture, and browse a wide array of duty-free shops for souvenirs or luxury items.

  From Havensight, a short taxi or open-air safari bus ride into town is available, typically about $4-6 per person each way; confirm current rates with the driver. If docked at Crown Bay, a taxi is generally required. This activity can take 2-4 hours, depending on your interest in shopping and exploring on foot.