Which Royal Caribbean cruises go to the Bahamas?

Royal Caribbean and the Bahamas: A Perfect Match for Every Traveler

Before exploring specific ships and itineraries, it's helpful to understand why the Bahamas is such a vital part of Royal Caribbean’s Caribbean operations. There are several reasons why Royal Caribbean features the Bahamas so prominently.

Proximity to Florida Makes Cruises Easy and Convenient

The Bahamas sits just a short distance from Florida’s major cruise ports. This makes it ideal for short 2–4 night cruises, weekend getaways, or longer voyages that combine the Bahamas with Eastern or Western Caribbean destinations.

Easy Access From Multiple U.S. Ports

Many Royal Caribbean Bahamas itineraries depart from:

• Miami

• Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

• Port Canaveral

• Tampa occasionally

• Baltimore

• New York / New Jersey

This wide selection allows both local and international travelers plenty of choices.

Perfect for First-Time Cruisers

Shorter itineraries and smooth seas make Bahamian cruises ideal for:

• Families

• New cruisers

• Group trips

• Romantic getaways

Wide Range of Ships Serving the Bahamas

Royal Caribbean sends some of its most exciting ships to the Bahamas — including Oasis Class, Quantum Class, Voyager Class, and Freedom Class ships. Travelers can choose between:

• Mega-ships filled with thrills

• Mid-size ships with a balanced experience

• Short-cruise ships perfect for weekend escapes

CocoCay: The Crown Jewel of Royal Caribbean Bahamas Cruises

Perfect Day at CocoCay — Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island — is one of the top reasons travelers choose these itineraries.

This private island includes:

• North America’s tallest waterslide

• A massive freshwater pool

• Beach clubs and cabanas

• Overwater bungalows

• Thrill Waterpark

• Snorkeling spots

Many Bahamas-focused cruises include a stop at CocoCay as a highlight.

Major Royal Caribbean Cruises That Go to the Bahamas

Below we break down the main Royal Caribbean cruises traveling to the Bahamas. These itineraries vary depending on ship size, homeport, and season.

1. Short Bahamas Cruises (2–4 Nights) – The Most Popular Option

Short cruises to the Bahamas are among Royal Caribbean’s best-selling itineraries. These quick getaways run year-round and generally include one or two key stops.

Which Ships Offer Short Bahamas Cruises?

Royal Caribbean rotates several ships on these itineraries, including:

Freedom Class & Voyager Class

These ships offer:

• Surf simulators

• Ice skating shows

• Multiple pools

• Themed entertainment

Oasis Class (Occasional Short Sailings)

Some Oasis Class ships offer shorter Bahamas routes seasonally.

These mega-ships include:

• Central Park

• Boardwalk

• AquaTheater shows

• Huge dining variety

Common Ports of Call on Short Cruises

Short Bahamas itineraries often stop at:

• Nassau

• Perfect Day at CocoCay

• CocoCay only (some sailings are private-island focused)

Who Should Choose a Short Bahamas Cruise?

These itineraries are perfect for:

• First-time cruisers

• Short vacations

• Budget-friendly travel

• School holidays

• Couples’ weekend trips

• Bachelor or bachelorette groups

2. Week-Long Bahamas & Caribbean Combination Cruises

For travelers who want a more complete experience, Royal Caribbean offers 7-night sailings that include the Bahamas along with additional stops in the Caribbean.

Which Ships Offer These Cruises?

The longer Bahamas itineraries may include:

• Oasis Class ships

• Quantum Class ships

• Voyager Class ships

Where Do These Itineraries Sail?

Week-long routes may combine the Bahamas with:

• St. Thomas

• St. Maarten

• Puerto Rico

• Belize

• Cozumel

• Labadee

• Jamaica

These itineraries provide a mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure.

Why Choose a Week-Long Bahamian Cruise?

It's ideal for travelers who want:

• Multiple island experiences

• More sea days

• A larger ship experience

• More time to relax onboard

3. Perfect Day at CocoCay Focused Cruises

Perfect Day at CocoCay is a major highlight for Royal Caribbean travelers, and many itineraries are specifically designed around this private island.

CocoCay-Centric Cruises Include:

2-night weekend blasts

These may include:

• One day at sea

• One day at CocoCay

3–4 night itineraries

Often include:

• Nassau

• CocoCay

Special Double-Dip Cruises

These include two full days at CocoCay, offering:

• More time at the beach club

• Extra waterpark adventure

• More relaxation

Best Ships for CocoCay Trips

Voyager and Freedom Class ships frequently host CocoCay-focused itineraries, along with occasional Oasis Class rotations.

Why Travelers Choose These Itineraries

Because CocoCay offers:

• Thrill Waterpark

• Overwater cabanas

• Chill Island beaches

• Snorkeling adventures

• High-end dining experiences

These cruises are especially loved by families and thrill-seekers.

4. Bahamas Cruises From Northern U.S. Ports

Many people don’t realize that Royal Caribbean sails to the Bahamas from ports outside Florida. This is great for East Coast travelers who prefer not to fly.

Popular Departure Ports Include:

• Cape Liberty (New Jersey)

• Baltimore

• Norfolk (Seasonal)

What These Cruises Offer

These longer sailings:

• Take 7–12 nights

• Include multiple sea days

• Combine the Bahamas with the Caribbean

Common Ports of Call

• Nassau

• CocoCay

• Port Canaveral

• Miami

Best For

Travelers wanting:

• Longer vacation time

• More onboard entertainment

• A mix of warm-weather ports

5. Exclusive Holiday Cruises to the Bahamas

During festive seasons — Christmas, New Year, Thanksgiving, Spring Break — Royal Caribbean offers themed Bahamas cruises.

Special Features of Holiday Cruises

• Holiday shows

• Seasonal dining menus

• Fireworks at CocoCay (select dates)

• Family-focused activities

Ships Typically Assigned

• Oasis Class

• Quantum Class

• Freedom Class

Holiday cruises sell out quickly because the Bahamas weather is perfect during winter months.

The Most Popular Royal Caribbean Ports in the Bahamas

Royal Caribbean itineraries revolve around the best Bahamian ports. Each destination offers something unique.

Nassau – The Capital of the Bahamas

Nassau is one of the most visited ports in the entire Caribbean.

Why Nassau Is a Top Destination

• Beautiful beaches

• Atlantis Resort

• Snorkeling & scuba spots

• Colorful markets

• Bahamian cuisine

Best Nassau Activities

• Visiting Paradise Island

• Exploring local food tours

• Beach days

• Harbor excursions

Perfect Day at CocoCay – Royal Caribbean’s Private Island

CocoCay is the crown jewel of Royal Caribbean’s Bahamas cruises.

Highlights of CocoCay

• Thrill Waterpark

• Zip lines

• Beach Club with infinity pool

• Floating cabanas

• Swim-up bars

• Chill Island beach

Why CocoCay Stands Out

It’s an island designed exclusively for Royal Caribbean guests, offering unmatched comfort and adventure.

Grand Bahama Island (Occasional Stop)

Some longer itineraries may include Grand Bahama.

What Makes It Special

• Quieter and less commercial

• Nature reserves

• Local markets

• Beachfront adventures

Choosing the Best Royal Caribbean Bahamas Cruise for You

With so many options, the right cruise depends on your preferences.

Choose a Short 2–4 Night Bahamas Cruise If You Want:

• A quick getaway

• Budget-friendly travel

• First-time cruising experience

Choose a Week-Long Bahamas Cruise If You Want:

• Extra destinations

• More time at sea

• Bigger ships and more entertainment

Choose a CocoCay-Focused Cruise If You Want:

• Waterpark adventures

• Private beach clubs

• Family thrills

Choose a Northern Departure Cruise If You Want:

• No flights required

• Longer, relaxing vacations

• Multiple sea days

Why Royal Caribbean Bahamas Cruises Are So Incredibly Popular

Travelers consistently choose Bahamas itineraries because they offer a perfect combination of convenience, beauty, and entertainment.

1. Year-Round Tropical Weather

Perfect sunshine almost every month of the year.

2. Private Island Excellence

CocoCay is unmatched in the cruise industry.

3. Affordable Options

Short itineraries make tropical vacations more accessible.

4. Ships Full of Entertainment

From shows to pools to nightlife, there’s endless fun onboard.

5. Ideal for Families

Activities suit all ages — from toddlers to grandparents.

Which Royal Caribbean cruises go to the Bahamas?

The answer: A large variety of itineraries — from short weekend getaways to week-long Caribbean adventures — offered across multiple ship classes and departing from several U.S. ports. Whether you want to relax on pristine beaches, explore vibrant local culture, or spend a full day at CocoCay’s thrilling attractions, Royal Caribbean makes the Bahamas accessible, memorable, and perfectly tailored to your travel style.

If you're planning a Bahamas cruise, you’re choosing one of the most fun, flexible, and sunshine-filled itineraries in the entire Royal Caribbean lineup — and one that delivers unforgettable memories every single time.