Days 3 and 4 of our Carnival Cruise on Carnival Freedom, we went to princess cays, Bahamas and Grand Turk. These are both beautiful ports of call. And despite it being Hurricane season, the weather was tropical and beautiful. Grateful for safe travels to and from Port Canaveral Florida and a good trip with friends overall. Nobody got left by the boat! lol
Princess Cays is a private resort located on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. It is owned and operated by Princess Cruises, one of the world's leading cruise lines. This exclusive destination is a popular port of call for many Princess Cruises itineraries in the Caribbean, particularly those departing from Florida.
Here's some key information about Princess Cays:
Location: Princess Cays is situated on the southern tip of the island of Eleuthera, which is part of the Out Islands of the Bahamas. It offers a beautiful and tranquil tropical setting for cruise passengers to enjoy.
Beaches: The highlight of Princess Cays is its stunning beaches. The resort boasts a pristine, half-mile-long sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Water Sports and Activities: Visitors to Princess Cays can engage in a variety of water activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and floating on inflatable water mats. Equipment rentals are available on-site.
Lagoon: In addition to the main beach, Princess Cays features a lagoon area, perfect for wading and relaxation. It provides a safe and shallow swimming environment, making it suitable for families with children.
Food and Dining: A complimentary beachside barbecue is typically offered to cruise passengers visiting Princess Cays. Enjoy a delicious meal featuring grilled fare, salads, and other Bahamian and international dishes. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.
Shopping: The resort has a variety of shops and market stalls where you can purchase souvenirs, local crafts, clothing, and jewelry.
Activities and Entertainment: Princess Cays offers a range of activities and entertainment options, including live music, beachside games, and a playground for kids.
Private Cabanas: For an enhanced experience, you can rent private cabanas at Princess Cays. These cabanas provide shade, comfortable seating, and privacy, making them perfect for families or couples looking for a more exclusive beach experience.
Natural Beauty: The island of Eleuthera, where Princess Cays is located, is known for its natural beauty. Beyond the resort, you can explore the island's lush vegetation, unique rock formations, and charming local villages if you have sufficient time during your visit.
Tendering: To reach Princess Cays, cruise ships typically anchor offshore, and passengers are transported to the island via tender boats. This process is well-organized, and the ride offers scenic views of the resort and surrounding waters.
Princess Cays provides a relaxing and enjoyable beach day for cruise passengers, and it's an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty and hospitality of the Bahamas during your cruise vacation. Keep in mind that specific amenities and services may vary depending on your cruise line's arrangements and the day of the week you visit.
Grand Turk is the capital of the Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean. It's a popular cruise ship destination known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. The Grand Turk Cruise Center, operated by Carnival Corporation, is the primary port of call for cruise ships visiting the island.
The Grand Turk Cruise Center is a well-developed facility offering a range of amenities for cruise passengers. Upon disembarking, visitors are greeted by a lively atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and bars. The center features a large swimming pool with a swim-up bar, providing an excellent opportunity for relaxation and refreshment.
One of the main attractions on Grand Turk is Governor's Beach, a picturesque stretch of coastline with soft, white sand and calm turquoise waters. It's an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, with coral reefs located just offshore.
For those interested in history, the island also boasts historic sites such as the Grand Turk Lighthouse and the Turks and Caicos National Museum, where you can learn about the island's rich maritime heritage and explore artifacts from shipwrecks.
Additionally, Grand Turk is renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities, with some of the world's most incredible coral reefs easily accessible from the shore or by boat. Popular dive sites include the Columbus Landfall Marine National Park and the famous "Wall," a dramatic underwater drop-off.
Overall, Grand Turk is a tropical paradise offering a mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, making it a favorite stop for cruise travelers seeking a taste of Caribbean island life.
