No visit to the Bahamas is complete without at least one encounter with underwater creatures, and dolphins are among the most loveable ocean dwellers. This company offers a variety of ways to visit with these splendid animals in their Sanctuary Bay home. The Close Encounter (US$75) allows guests to take pictures from a ferry's observation deck or venture into waist-deep water where a few dolphins are sure to visit. More extensive programs are also available. Make reservations well ahead of time for this very popular attraction.
Sip cocktails and watch the vivid Bahamian sunset aboard the islands' largest catamaran. The Sunset Cruise includes unlimited cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and a live show. Guests can dine on steak and lobster before drinking and dancing the night away. Both cruises last three hours and take guests on a journey along the coast. This unique entertainment experience combines all of Grand Bahama's best features. No wonder it tops many people's "Must Do" list! Cruises are operated by Superior Watersports.
This stunning natural reserve is replete with exquisite underwater caves, the pristine waters swirling in the chasms which make for quite a sight. Encompassing about 40 acres of land area, the Lucayan National Park has established itself as a popular hot-spot, with visitors constantly flocking to admire the allure of the lush forest area. The various trails and walkways lead to groves of pine trees, mangrove swamps and large caves. A gorgeous beach complete with picnic facilities offers guests plenty of space to relax after a long hike. Kayaking is a popular activity here.
Take a guided tour through a lush tropical forest, replete with hanging vines, serene pools and unusual wild animals. In addition to being the regional headquarters of the Bahamas National Trust, this 100-acre property is also home to the island's only flock of West Indian flamingos. Visits to this renowned national park are sure to include numerous picture-perfect moments. Admission costs US$5 for adults over age 13 and US$3 for children ages 5-12.
Located at the Castaways Resort, this spot features one the finest displays of 'native' dancing and Grand Bahamian culture. Steel drum rhythms and maracas provide the musical backdrop for calyspo, limbo and fire dancers six nights a week. After imbibing a few of the tropical drinks or Kalik beers, many of the guests are inclined to get a little footloose themselves. Tickets cost US$20 for the show only, US$32 the show, dinner and drinks. This spot is open at 9p from Mondays To Saturdays.
Lucaya Watersports offers a large variety of watersport and fun activities for the whole family. You may choice between sightseeing, snorkeling, a romantic sunset cruise, fishing activities or exploring the island yourself by renting a bike, scooter, wave runner, etc. The company is located directly in the Taino Beach Resort, as well as in Port Lucaya.
Imagine yourself on horseback, galloping along the shoreline and splashing in the crystalline Caribbean surf, a wildly romantic vision, isn't it? Here's where you can make it happen. At Pinetree, you'll have a chance to explore winding wooded trails through Pinetree Forest, pass Cooper's Castle and ride along a secluded beach. Tours are guided and are geared for novice to expert.Reservations are necessary, as space fills up. Check the website or call for timings
Pat and Diane's Snorkeling & Cruises, located across from the International Bazaar at Port Lucuya, offers four separate aquatic itineraries that cater to both adults and children. All four fun-filled and educational journeys get their start here. The "Fun for All Ages" tour involves a host of natural wonders and manmade activities including choices of: an underwater submarine tour, snorkeling, two waterslides, a 20-foot climbing wall, swinging boom, jet ski, parasail flight, lunch, cocktails, souvenirs, and more. Each three-hour trip departs twice daily, except Mondays, at 9:30a and 1:30p. The price for adults is US$36; children 6-11 US$18; and toddlers five or under, US$9.00. Five-hour, open-bar party cruises also sail daily at 11a, April-October. Prices start at US$30. The company also caters private events.
Located just east of Port Lucaya, this beach is one of the most secluded beach spots on Grand Bahama. The vendors and water sports operators have yet to claim this area. Named after a shipwreck discovered here worth millions of dollars, the beach is an excellent spot for private group outings, sunbathing, snorkeling and beachcombing. The nearby Banana Bay restaurant serves terrific seafood and steaks along with a delectable version of a local favorite, the conch salad.
Located near the Sunrise Shopping Centre, Pastor Ronald O. Heinze conducts Lutheran services weekly. Tourists are especially welcome to join for Sunday services. Our Savior is a multi-national congregation with worshippers and members from the Bahamas, USA, England, Jamaica, Guyana, Canada, Norway, Denmark, and others. The church will even provide transportation for your group. Sunday morning worship is at 11am, while the church opens at 9a.
Due to their British ancestry, most locals in Freeport are animal lovers. The Grand Bahama Humane Society was founded in 1924 to look after the welfare of all animals on the island. Throughout the year it runs a shelter and clinic with veterinary services as well as a public education campaign and humane law enforcement. Their annual pet show is light-hearted fun, where potcakes (Bahamian born dogs), local cats and other exotic pets strut their stuff.
Hop on a motorized bicycle and tour the island in a whole new way. Start at Port Lucaya Marketplace then take a guided tour Freeport, including a live conch demonstration, and then arrive at a beach just in time for lunch. Along the way you'll be able to admire beautiful sights, learn about the island's history, and you might even see dolphins. Make sure you bring your swimsuit, you can take a dip in the ocean when you've reached the beach.