All you must know about the he Pearl Island shore excursion (Shorex) on a cruise to Nassau: overview, highlights, cruise line price comparison, how to book, map and video.
The most recently developed private island close to Nassau, Pearl Island is now offering a number of tours and experiences that allow the cruise traveler to spend a memorable day in port.
Photo Courtesy of Pearl Island Management
If you wish to relax on a secluded beach far from the madding crowd in Nassau, the Pearl Island is just a 30-minute boat ride away. Besides a relaxing day on any of two sugar white sanded beaches, sipping umbrella drinks, the cruise traveler can also choose to explore other spotless islands and cays or enjoy a fishing tour. At the island itself, there are a few water sports activities to be enjoyed: snorkel, kayaks, stand-up Paddle-boards and a water-park with mats and trampolines. Salt Cay is the official geographical name of Pearl Island.
Pearl Island (Salt Cay) - Map
Only Royal Caribbean and Celebrity offer this shore excursion. If cruising with any other cruise line you can book directly with Pearl Island or with Online Shorex Services.
Check the Official Website of the Pearl Island
Pearl Island - Highlights
This shore excursion includes a harbor cruise of Nassau on the way to Pearl Island, a welcome Cocktail (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), shaded decks, beach chairs & umbrellas (based on availability), a Bahamian served buffet lunch with soft drink, restroom facilities with fresh-water showers and Wi-Fi Internet service. The beverages at the bars and grills are not included and the locker rental costs $10 for the day.
Pearl Island Video
Watch the under 2-minute video below to have a preview of what the Pearl Island experience looks like.
Good To Know
Activity Level: Easy | Active Adventures
Must Take: Sun protection, Towel, Swimsuit under cover-up or light clothing, Flip-flops or sandals, Hat and sunglasses, Cash and/or credit cards, Camera, and an extra set of clothes (just in case)
Optional: Guided Snorkel Tour and Fishing Expeditions
Duration: Around 5 hours
Restrictions: Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by one paying adult on the island
Cruise Line Price* Comparison
| Celebrity: | $79.00 USD (Adult) | $44.00 USD (Child) - Includes lunch. |
|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean: | 79.00 USD (Adult) | 44.00 USD (Child) - Includes lunch. |
| * Read paragraph below and check links. | |
Considering that the prices above may vary by sailing, it is advisable to check updates and specific cruises. Click on the following cruise lines links to check for updates: Celebrity | Royal Caribbean.
Shorex and Online Bookings or On Your Own
Although you may process direct bookings on the Pearl Island website, this is not possible for cruise travelers on Celebrity and Royal Caribbean. Those cruising on these lines will have to book onboard your cruise ship with the Shore Excursions Desk or online with the Cruise Line.
Online Shorex Services
Like most shore excursions, a sightseeing tour of the top highlights and landmarks of Nassau is offered by the many services that offer tours online. Prices vary and it is advisable to check what is offered on each shore excursion.
The following online services are well-established companies that guarantee the returning of cruise travelers in good time prior to the departure of the ship. IQCruising does not endorse or get paid to mention any of these services. IQCruising is just providing the information and you should be aware that you are solely responsible for booking excursions online with these third-party services. Viator | Shore Trips | Shore Excursions Group | Cruising Excursions | Shore Excursioneer.
Direct Booking
Before deciding which is the best excursion for you and your cruising companions, whether it is better to book onboard or with an online service, it is strongly advisable to check first the prices offered on a direct booking with Pearl Island. Check the Booking Page of the Pearl Island
Getting There
The Pearl Island is a private property and only way to access it with their own boats. Naturally, only those booked on excursions are allowed to travel to the island. The boats to Pearl island depart from the Harbor View Marina, on East Bay Street, behind the Rubis Gas Station, less than 2 miles from the Cruise Terminal - see map below.
