Bahamas & Florida Cruises: Excursions

Come see dolphins, manatees, and the diversity of life paired with beautiful scenery. Begin with an easy paddle en route to the kayak launch site. Your tour guide will explain the significance of this endangered backwater estuary. Paddle the mangrove as osprey soar overhead, and cross expansive grass flats. Perhaps see the lagoon's top predator- the dolphin- working the flats. Mangroves and sea grass beds create an environment very conducive to the marine life, which supports the osprey, dolphins and other animals. More than 4,000 animal and plant species such as manatees, stingrays, sea turtles, seahorses, 700 species of fish and 310 species of birds, call the Indian River Lagoon "home". Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended. Maximum guest’s combined weight per kayak is 500 lbs. Participants must be able to get in and out of the kayak on their own. A bottle of water will be given to guests. This tour returns to the pier and will not be available for guests disembarking or with a back to back sailing. less

After an approximate 30-minute bus ride from the pier to Port Lucaya, you’ll arrive to world famous Unexso facility for an unforgettable dolphin experience. You’ll receive a complimentary Dolphin Experience reusable shopping tote. Then, take an approximately 20-minute ferry boat ride along the south shore of the island over to the nine-acre Dolphin Experience Lagoon for an interaction with these wonderful creatures. Once at the lagoon, sit on the dock as the dolphins swim by your feet. You’ll then take turns stepping down onto a three-foot submerged platform in waist-high water and stand face-to-face with the dolphins where you’ll be able to touch, kiss and hug them. The staff will present interesting facts about the dolphins and all participants will have the opportunity to ask the animal care staff questions about these wonderful creatures. After your program take a look at several Macaws and Cockatoos or take a dip in the 17-foot deep pool at Unexso. Note: Participants of all ages are welcomed; children 3 years of age and under are free and those 16 years of age and under must be accompanied by a participating parent or guardian. Guests are not permitted to wear tanning oils or excessive amounts of sunscreen. Jewelry should be removed for the safety of the dolphins. Snacks, beverages and photos will be available for purchase upon your return to the facility. Guests must sign a waiver release form. Photographers will be taking photos while you interact with the dolphins, available for purchase after the program. less

Enjoy a narrated bus ride through the industrial area of Grand Bahama Island, passing the International Bazaar with its Tori Gate, along Church Row and the endemic pine forest. Upon arrival at the Botanical Garden of the Groves you have the option of a guided tour or to explore on your own. Interpretive signs will highlight this lush tropical landscape with trees and flowers from the Bahamas and around the world. You’ll find a replica of the original chapel from the early logging days, tranquil lagoons with cascading waterfalls, a spiritual labyrinth for meditation and an open-air cafe deck. Local artisans will display authentic Bahamian arts and crafts. Children will also be able to enjoy a magnificent cedar play set. Walk down into the cool fern grove and marvel at the magnificent limestone boulders that tower to both sides of your trail! You may also want to relax on the 'Lofty Fig' deck where cool Bahamian drinks and local delicacies can be purchased. After your visit to the gardens you’ll be transported to Port Lucaya Marketplace for some shopping before returning to your ship. Note: Sunscreen and insect repellent is recommended. less

Enjoy a relaxing and informative tour of the beautiful reefs around the Grand Bahama aboard the Ocean Wonder, a custom-built 60-foot double-deck glass-bottom boat that offers both sun and shade. The friendly crew will show you multi-colored sea-life and coral formations. Help 'feed the fish' and also view Cooper’s Medieval castle, an island landmark. Afterwards, weather permitting, you’ll travel further offshore to view Brit’s wreck submerged in the waters near Treasure Reef. Before you return to the dock, enjoy a pleasant cruise along the beachfront during which, sites of interest will being pointed out. Soda, bottled water and assorted chips are available for purchase aboard the boat. Tour duration includes one hour round-trip transfer time. Note: Participants must be at least 6 years of age and in good health. Must be able to manage several steps in and out of the boat with minimal assistance. less

Relax and enjoy the sun and the sea while you try your hand at bottom fishing using the light tackle provided. Catches can include varieties of snappers and jacks, porgies, hine and triggerfish (turbot) to name a few. Not experienced? The crew will be glad to assist you. Bait, tackle and ice are included. Soda, bottled water and chips can be purchased. Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age and in good health. Must be able to manage several steps in and out of the boat with minimal assistance. less