Nassau is one of the easiest Caribbean ports to step off a ship and explore immediately. The pier puts you steps from the waterfront, the currency is the US dollar, and almost every shore day activity is within a short walk or taxi ride. What you bring determines how comfortable that day is. This guide covers everything worth packing, organized by how much it actually matters.
Sun Protection — The Non-Negotiable
The Bahamian sun is intense year-round, and SPF 30 is the minimum worth packing. SPF 50 is the practical choice for a full shore day. Reef-safe sunscreen is strongly encouraged throughout the Bahamas, particularly near any coral reef or snorkeling area — chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate found in conventional sunscreens are harmful to coral ecosystems. The Bahamas has no formal ban, but using reef-safe products is the right call and is consistent with Nassau's approach to sun safety.
Pack more than you think you need. Reapplication after swimming matters as much as the first application. A hat with a brim and polarized sunglasses complete the setup and are worth carrying even for a short walk through downtown.
What to Wear
Nassau rewards light fabrics. Breathable linen or moisture-wicking shorts and a t-shirt cover the vast majority of shore day activities. Pack at least one swimsuit even if swimming is not the plan — the opportunity tends to appear unexpectedly.
Water shoes are worth the bag space if you are planning snorkeling, kayaking, or any activity involving rocky shorelines. Sandals work for the Straw Market, Bay Street, and restaurants near the port. Flip flops are fine for the beach but uncomfortable for anything beyond a short walk.
Cash, Cards and How Much to Bring
The Bahamian dollar is pegged 1:1 with the US dollar and both are accepted everywhere in Nassau. You do not need to exchange currency before arriving. According to the Nassau Bahamas currency guide, the practical approach is to bring $50 to $100 USD in small bills and carry a credit card for larger purchases at established restaurants and tour operators.
Small bills matter. Market vendors, beach operators, and taxi drivers may not have change for large denominations. Break any large bills on the ship before you disembark. Tips should always be paid in cash directly — this ensures the driver or server receives it immediately. Credit cards are accepted at most waterfront restaurants and tour operators. Some Straw Market vendors and smaller stalls are cash only. All prices are current as of 2026 — verify current rates before your trip.
The Gear That Makes the Day Better
A waterproof phone case or dry bag is worth having if you are planning any water activity. Nassau's afternoon sun reflects off the water and off Bay Street's white limestone buildings with equal intensity, so a reusable water bottle keeps you hydrated without relying on single-use plastic throughout the day. Insect repellent is worth packing for any evening activity or eco-tour through mangrove areas.
What to Leave on the Ship
Anything valuable that is not essential for your specific shore day plan stays on the ship. Nassau is a safe destination for tourists, but there is no reason to carry more than you need. Passports are not required for US citizens arriving by cruise — a government-issued photo ID and your cruise card are sufficient for re-boarding. Check your entry requirements in advance if you are traveling from outside the US.
Pack for the Shore Day You Are Actually Planning
The right packing list depends on what your Nassau day looks like. A snorkeling excursion needs water shoes and reef-safe sunscreen above everything else. A walking tour of downtown needs comfortable shoes and small bills. A pool club day needs almost nothing beyond a swimsuit and a credit card. Decide your itinerary before you pack, and the list writes itself.
