Cruise Worker Visits ‘World’s Worst Rated’ Port And Says It’s Actually Brilliant

They say you should never judge a place by its TripAdvisor reviews, but when a port keeps being called “the worst in the world,” you can’t help but wonder what makes it so bad.

Crowds, chaos, and the kind of sales pitches that make you clutch your wallet a little tighter… that’s what most cruisers expect when they pull in here.

But one cruise ship crew member, who visits this spot more than a hundred times a year, reckons the internet’s got it all wrong.

A large cruise ship with bright orange lifeboats is docked beside a long pier extending toward a tropical island lined with tall palm trees. The turquoise water shifts to lighter shades near the sandy beach under a sunny blue sky.

The Port

Turns out, the so-called “worst” port is none other than Nassau, Bahamas – a place that appears on more Caribbean cruise itineraries than just about anywhere else.

On paper, it should be paradise: turquoise water, golden beaches, and a postcard-perfect backdrop. But ask around and you’ll hear the same gripes – pushy vendors, overpriced drinks, packed beaches, and a feeling that you’ve wandered into one big tourist trap.

Bryan James, a crew member on Utopia of the Seas, has been here over 100 times in the past year alone. And rather than roll his eyes every time the ship docks, he’s learned exactly how to skip the hassle and make Nassau worth your time.

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas cruise ship sailing at dusk, with vibrant lighting accentuating its multiple decks and leisure amenities against a backdrop of a purple-tinged sky and calm sea. — Utopia of the Seas

A Calmer First Impression

Bryan points out that Nassau’s welcome has changed for the better in recent years. He remembers when stepping off the ship meant being thrown straight into a wall of noise, with people shouting offers for taxis, tours, and souvenirs the moment you hit the street.

Now, the arrival is much more relaxed. The port entrance has been transformed into a landscaped, tourist-friendly zone with shops, bars, and even attractions like the Junkanoo Museum before you reach the busy streets beyond. It’s still lively, but for first-time visitors worried by Nassau’s reputation, the initial experience is far more welcoming than it used to be.

Know the Walk Before You Go

One of the first things Bryan points out is something most first-time visitors don’t realise until they’re halfway down the pier: if you’re on one of the bigger cruise ships, you’re likely docked at the far end of the harbour. That means a solid walk, up to half a mile, just to reach the port gates.

It’s not exactly a hardship if you’re able-bodied, but in Nassau’s midday heat it can feel longer than it sounds. If mobility is a concern, the port does have small electric shuttles that can take passengers from the ship to the entrance – these are mainly intended for those with mobility needs, so availability may vary.

Otherwise, wear comfortable shoes, pace yourself, and factor the extra distance into your schedule so you’re not rushing back to the ship later.

Walk Past the First Beach You See

Once you make it through the port area, the lure of the nearest stretch of sand can be strong, especially after that walk. Bryan says this is where many visitors go wrong. The closest beach might be convenient, but it’s usually crowded, lined with bars pushing pricey drinks, and doesn’t deliver the postcard-perfect Bahamas vibe most people are after.

Instead, keep going. From the port gates, it’s roughly a 20–25 minute walk to Bryan’s preferred beach if you’re coming from one of the larger ships. The extra effort gets you cleaner sand, fewer crowds, and calmer, clearer water that’s much better for swimming. You’ll also find more space to lay out a towel for free, rather than being hemmed into rows of paid loungers.

One trade-off is that the quieter beaches have fewer shaded spots and limited food or drink options, so it’s worth grabbing snacks or water on your way. But if you’re after a relaxed atmosphere, space to spread out, and optional extras like jet ski rentals without the constant sales pitches, walking past that first patch of sand is the smartest move you can make.

Visit the Straw Market (But Look for the Real Gems)

The Nassau Straw Market building features a clock tower with white columns and tan brick walls, set against a bright blue sky with scattered fluffy clouds. A small hanging sign marks the entrance to the popular Bahamian craft market.

Nassau’s Straw Market is hard to miss — a bustling maze of stalls selling everything from sun hats to fridge magnets. For many cruise passengers, it’s a quick browse before heading elsewhere, but Bryan’s first proper visit proved it’s worth slowing down for.

Among the mass-produced souvenirs, you’ll find genuine handmade crafts, especially if you wander deeper inside. Bryan met JR, a local woodcarver who chatted about his process and proudly showed off his work — a reminder that some stalls are run by skilled artisans rather than just resellers.

If you’re looking for a meaningful memento, seek out these one-of-a-kind items and be ready to bargain politely. Not only will you go home with something unique, but you’ll also be supporting local talent instead of mass imports.

Support Local Vendors for the Best Snacks

If you want a taste of the real Nassau without sitting down for a full meal, look out for the small roadside stalls run by locals. Bryan’s favourite stop is Kendall’s coconut stand near Junkanoo Beach, where fresh coconuts are chopped open on the spot and filled to the brim with what he calls “life water.”

A drink here will usually set you back around $5–6, and some vendors even offer a splash of rum for a little extra. Go earlier in the day for the coldest coconuts and the best selection, by mid-afternoon, supplies can run low and the heat can warm them up.

Even if you’re not usually a fan of coconut water, the fresh version is sweeter, colder, and far more refreshing than the bottled kind you’ll find in shops. Vendors are often happy for you to take photos or videos as they prepare it, and once you’ve finished drinking, they can cut the shell open so you can scoop out the soft coconut meat. It’s a snack, a drink, and a slice of local culture in one — all without a scrap of plastic packaging.

Pick Your Portside Hangouts Wisely

Colorful buildings with teal roofs line the waterfront at Nassau Port, dominated by a tall yellow clock tower. The harbor sits in front of pastel-colored homes and lush greenery under a bright, partly cloudy sky. — Nassau Port

Right near the port you’ll find a cluster of lively bars, with Señor Frogs being the most famous — or infamous, depending on your mood. It’s loud, colourful, and heavy on audience participation, serving up typical American-style bar food like burgers, nachos, and wings. Drinks here are fun but pricey, often in the $10–$15 USD range, and the party atmosphere peaks in the afternoon when most cruise passengers have finished exploring.

If you’re after a more relaxed Nassau experience, Bryan suggests walking past these high-energy spots. The further you get from the port, the calmer (and often cheaper) the bars and cafés become. Head toward the quieter beaches and you’ll find smaller venues where you can sip a drink with an ocean view for nearly half the price.

For something more local, the Fish Fry at Arawak Cay is a short taxi ride away and offers Bahamian dishes like conch fritters and fried snapper in a laid-back setting. Wherever you go, keep an eye on your belongings in busy bars, and watch out for “buy one, get one” drink deals that can inflate your tab faster than you expect.

You can watch Bryan’s whole video here:

The Famous Swimming Pigs

One of Nassau’s most talked-about excursions is the chance to swim with pigs. Yes, actual pigs. Bryan hasn’t tried it himself, he’s not sold on getting in the water with them, but says plenty of friends have gone and loved the experience.

If you’re tempted, book early as it’s one of the most popular day trips from Nassau. Expect a short boat ride, plenty of photo opportunities, and the kind of story you’ll be telling long after your cruise ends. Just be prepared for a slightly surreal moment when you realise you’re bobbing around in the ocean with farm animals.

A brown pig, in the Bahamas, with coarse fur wades in crystal clear turquoise water under a bright blue sky. Boats float in the distance, highlighting the tropical beach setting.

Why Nassau Deserves a Second Chance

Nassau might never shake its reputation with some cruisers, but Bryan’s take is simple, it’s only a “bad” port if you stick to the most obvious, crowded spots. Walk a little further, seek out authentic local vendors, and be selective about where you spend your time, and you’ll find pockets of the Bahamas that feel worlds away from the tourist trap stereotype.

It’s not perfect, the walk from the ship can be long, and yes, you’ll still encounter the occasional pushy vendor, but if you know where you’re going, Nassau can deliver a relaxed beach day, unique shopping finds, and a taste of true island hospitality.