A Perfect Mini-Getaway
A three-day cruise to the Bahamas can be the perfect mini-getaway and an easy way to get a taste of paradise. It’s also a great way to find out if you’re a “cruise person” or not, without a long-term commitment.
The Cruise That Never Happened
Our family almost went on a one-week Caribbean Cruise once. “Almost” means planning, booking, and paying for the cruise, but then life happens. Mathias injured his knee playing soccer and had surgery a few weeks before our vacation. We canceled the cruise and did the next best thing: a road trip along the coast to Santa Monica and Hearst Castle.
For a 10- and 13-year-old, this was a poor substitute for a cruise ship. No pools, waterslides, magic shows, musicals, movies, arcades, dance parties, and all-you-can-eat-buffets. I’m sure the kids are still traumatized by the fact that every time we turned on the TV during this time, there was a commercial for a Disney Cruise.
Cruise ships docked in Nassau – We’re on the MSC Divina
For some unknown reason, we never booked another cruise. That is until Allan and I stayed in Cocoa Beach, Florida, during our midlife journey. Sorry kids!
Read more about our time in Cocoa Beach.
“Cruise People”
One of the reasons for never rebooking a cruise was probably because we don’t really consider ourselves “cruise people.” I see cruising as a more luxurious or indulgent way to travel – fancy dinners, spas, and entertainment. Definitely nothing wrong with that! However, we both prefer a more minimalist, authentic, and adventure-driven travel style. Allan, in particular, gets stressed out if he thinks there is “nothing to do” for more than two days.
Luxury Overkill?
We had come to the conclusion of not being “cruise people” by confirming these questions:
- Will a cruise feel like “luxury overkill” if you prefer a more “barefoot” style of travel?
- Will the days at sea with little to do beyond sunbathing, eating, and watching shows feel boring if you like to hike, explore new cities, or do adventurous things when you’re on vacation?
- Will sharing relatively small spaces like the pool deck, dining rooms, and entertainment venues with thousands of strangers feel overwhelming and stressful?
- Will a cruise feel too restrictive if you like to immerse yourself in a destination and travel at your own pace?
- How will guided tours and shopping for souvenirs in a “tourist bubble” feel if you like to explore the local culture and prefer a more authentic experience?
However, we decided to give “The Suite Life on Deck” a chance.
The Bahamas
A three-day cruise to Nassau, with a stop at a private Bahamian island, seemed like the perfect mini-getaway. Just enough time to relax, explore, and enjoy a mix of fun and tropical sights onboard. It would also be the perfect way to celebrate our 22nd anniversary. We were excited to finally get a chance to dip our toes into the world of cruises.
Seaguls and pink conch on the beach
Post Covid
Since Covid “just happened,” cruise lines had recently started operating again, and we were a little skeptical about what to expect. Would we have to wear a mask? Would there be special precautions? We all heard horrible stories about cruise ships, where passengers were confined to their cabins for several weeks. However, it turned out that it was pretty much business as usual. Except the ship wasn’t nearly at full capacity, which we didn’t mind at all.
Pictur perfect beach in the Bahamas
Day 1: Setting Sail
A Melting pot
As we boarded the cruise ship, MSC Divina, we met a fascinating mix of travelers ready for their mini adventure. Go on a cruise If you want a glimpse into human behavior, social dynamics, and cultural intersections in a controlled, isolated environment. It’s a melting pot of different personalities, backgrounds, and interests that can be “categorize” roughly like below..
Just for fun
- The First-Timers: filled with excitement and curiosity. Participating in as many activities as possible to get the full cruise experience.
- The Seasoned Cruisers: knows the best places to eat, the quietest spots on deck, and how to navigate the port excursions without getting caught up in tourist traps.
- Families: kids, teens, parents, and even grandparents – because cruises offer something for everyone.
- The Adventure Seekers: are all about shore excursions. Whether it’s snorkeling with stingrays, zip-lining through the jungle, hiking glaciers, or exploring ancient ruins.
- The Party Crowd: hits the bars, dances at the deck parties, and stays up late enjoying the nightclub or casino.
- The Relaxation Seekers: spend most of their time lounging by the pool, reading a book on deck, or sipping cocktails while gazing at the ocean. Maybe an occasional spa treatment.
- The Senior Cruisers: participate in activities like trivia, lectures, and afternoon tea. Or just take in the scenic views at a slow pace.
- Solo Travelers: look for some quiet time or eager to meet new people at the ship’s mixers, bars, or group excursions.
- The Couples: spend more time focused on each other and less on the group activities, preferring a romantic, intimate experience.
- The Fitness Enthusiasts: get up early in the morning, hit the ship’s gym, jog on the deck, and attend fitness classes like yoga, spinning, or Pilates. Sign up for active shore excursions like hiking, snorkeling, or kayaking.
- The Foodies: plan their day around meals. Trying out specialty restaurants, tasting menus, and themed dinners. Attend cooking classes or wine tastings.
- The Cultural Enthusiasts: attend lectures, history talks, or cultural performances – it’s all about learning and cultural experiences.
- The Luxury Travelers: stay in suites, dine in specialty restaurants, and enjoy personalized service. Enjoy exclusive shore excursions, and high-end amenities like private pools, butlers, and spa services.
- The Group Travelers: bring an extra layer of energy and fun to the ship for reunions, celebrations, or special interests.
Exploring the Ship
Once we were settled into our cabin, we started exploring the ship. The pool deck filled up quickly. We located the fitness room, the spa, the theater, the casino, the formal dining room, and a more casual place with an impressive buffet. The buffet was popular for lunch and snacks, with pretty much anything on the menu. Yes, it was busy, and we had to stand in line for a little bit, but overall, it wasn’t crazily crowded.
Our cruise included a drink package. However, we learned a valuable lesson when we joined our fellow cruisers for a fruity cocktail. If you dream of a tropical cocktail with a colorful umbrella that tastes like a little bit of paradise and not some watered-down drink in a plastic cup, you must upgrade to a top-tier drink package. Most people seemed to know that.
Aboard the cruise ship MSC Divina
The Cruise Experience
As the ship departed from Port Canaveral, we found a spot at a smaller more secluded pool. Watching the sun dip below the horizon is when we had our first “wow, we’re on a cruise” moment.
Most people had dressed up for dinner in the main dining room on the first night. The definition of “dressing up” ranged from a diverse and interesting spectrum. I think we landed comfortably somewhere in the middle. I was annoyed to learn that we were seated with four strangers, but this is apparently part of the cruise experience. Two cruisers fell into the same category as we did: First-Timers/Couples and the other two: Seasoned Cruisers/Couples. They were all super nice. We learned a few tips and tricks from the seasoned cruisers and got an extensive overview of the activities from the first-timers.
We were served a multi-course meal, meaning we could order as many courses as we liked. I think there is a saying about food always tasting better at sea, nevertheless, thumbs up for the food. After dinner, we attended a show in the theater, listened to live music in one of the bars, and watched people of all ages and talents sing karaoke.
Back in our cabin, we spent some time on our small balcony. The darkness of the ocean stretched before us and the soothing sound of the waves lapped against the ship. There was a gentle breeze and the moon reflected on the water. If nothing else, this was enough to make me a “cruise person”.
Day 2: Exploring Nassau
Picture Perfect
The next morning, we docked in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. The white sandy beaches and turquoise water looked stunning from the deck. Several small islands and cays created a picturesque backdrop and there was an exotic whiff in the air.
Entering the harbor in Nassau with a view of the cays and Atlantis Resort
We wanted to leave the ship quickly to get as much time as possible ashore, and I was prepared to fight off other cruisers for a spot in front of the line. However, everything went peacefully and we had plenty of time to explore Nassau.
Nassau
Nassau is a mix of vibrant Bahamian culture and touristy glitz. There’s plenty to see and do for one day, no matter what you prefer. The cruise ships offer a variety of excursions, but you can easily create your own itinerary for the day.
We always try to walk as much as possible to get a feel for the surroundings, nature, culture, and people.
Pastel-colored Colonial and Caribbean-style architecture in Nassau
We followed the Cultural Enthusiasts to a couple of historical landmarks, the Queen’s Staircase and Fort Fincastle, to get a glimpse of the island’s past. Fort Fincastle offers beautiful panoramic views of the island, the harbor area, and Paradise Island. Paradise Island is home to the famous Atlantis Resort. You can grab a day pass to explore the massive water park, visit the casino, or wander through the aquarium at Atlantis if that’s your thing.
Fort Fincastle to the left and an old, colorful building to the right
Chocolate and Cigars
Downtown we passed Parliament Square with its beautiful, pink-colored colonial buildings. The blend of colorful colonial and Caribbean-style architecture gives Nassau a distinct laid-back island vibe and reflects its rich history and cultural influences. We passed the Christ Church Cathedral, an impressive Gothic-style church from the 18th century. Then we explored the smaller backstreets that led us up the hill to the Graycliff Chocolatier, where you can learn to make chocolates, and the Graycliff Cigar Company next door, which offers Cigar Rolling Classes. Even if you’re not into chocolate (like no one) or cigars it’s still worth a visit.
Colorful buildings in the West Hill Street area in Nassau
The Straw Marked
Back on Bay Street, we passed a variety of restaurants and shops on our way to the popular Straw Marked. The Straw Marked is a lively and colorful marketplace that reflects traditional Bahamian craftsmanship. You can buy straw hats, bags, baskets, and any other imaginable woven products, but also souvenirs and local artwork. Remember, bargaining is part of the shopping experience here.
The Straw Marked
Bahamian Cuisine
With all-you-can-eat included on a cruise, you probably don’t want to spend too much money buying food ashore. However, I recommend trying some authentic Bahamian cuisine like conch fritters, conch salad, and fresh seafood. Conches are a significant part of Bahamian culture and cuisine. The meat is tender and has a unique flavor. The large, spiral-shaped conch shells can be seen all over the island. Their outer surface is rough but their inside is smooth and range in colors from pale pink to bright orange. They are fascinating and they taste delicious!
Colorful conch shells and starfish
There are plenty of local spots for food near the Straw Market and along the waterfront. The Fish Fry is another popular destination known for its vibrant atmosphere and fresh seafood. It’s very low-key with colorful stalls, restaurants, live music, and an authentic Caribbean atmosphere.
Relaxation
If you are a Relaxation Seeker, you might want to head to one of the nearby beaches. Junkanoo Beach is close to the cruise port and we made a short stop to enjoy the lively atmosphere and take a dip in the famous turquoise waters. This beach is probably more for the Party Crowd and more tranquil beaches are Cable Beach and Cabbage Beach.
Day 3: One Day In Paradise
We spent the last day at MSC Cruise’ private island Ocean Cay. A picture-perfect tropical island with white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This island was designed for pure relaxation. If you don’t enjoy lounging under a palm tree for an entire day, sipping drinks with your toes in the sand, a cruise is not for you. Let’s not forget about the food though! The ship’s crew set up an amazing buffet on the beach, so that we could indulge in some freshly grilled burgers, salads, and seafood.
MSC Cruises’ private island Ocean Cay
To be honest, there are plenty of activities available on these private islands. You can rent snorkel gear, hop on a paddleboard, or ride a jet ski if you’re feeling adventurous. Some private islands even have water parks with slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones.
By the end of the day, we returned to the ship a little sun-kissed and a little sandy, and we definitely feet the island vibe.
Dipping my toes in the crystal-clear water
MSC Divina at Ocean Cay
As we returned to Cape Canaveral the next morning, we both agreed that a three-day cruise to the Bahamas was the perfect mini-getaway. This trip showed us that anybody can be a “cruise person,” at least for a few days. Who doesn’t want a little taste of paradise, anyway?
Read More
Interested in reading more about our adventures as digital nomads, check out the travel journal
For more about navigating the midlife journey, check out the midlife journal