The Lollipop Road

You can read more about this topic, as well as many other family cruising topics, in our new book–Cruising With Kids: A Guide To The Perfect Family Cruise Vacation. Visit our dedicated Cruising With Kids website for more details.

We’re back from our 4 night cruise on the Carnival Sensation and it’s amazing to me that more and more families are cruising with young kids during the off-season.  With that comes lots of questions about the family friendliness of excursions that have traditionally been geared toward adults.  As a matter of fact, in my interview with the Guest Services Manager onboard, he pointed out that the number one question from families is regarding the “family friendly” nature of their tour offerings.

Well, we’ve put together a recap for the port of Freeport on Grand Bahama Island by category, so hopefully you’ll have one less question to ask next time you cruise.

Beaches

The number one activity for families in Freeport is to enjoy one of the many beaches around the island.  These excursions are appropriate for children of any age and are considered easy.  Here are the top three beach destinations:

1. Gold Rock Beach, located at Lucayan National Park is our top pick due to it’s quiet and secluded location, along with the shallow water and beach combing potential at low tide.  Check out our article on Lucayan National Park for more information.
2. The Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach Resort, located on the southern coast offers an expansive white sand beach located on a 26 acre resort that is ideal for families.  The great part about the day pass (and why it earns a #2 spot) is that it includes meals, drinks and activities.  At over $300 for a family of four, however, it is a bit steep for a beach outing.
3. The main draw on Grand Bahama Island for beach goers is Port Lucaya.  The area surrounding the Our Lucaya resort area offers lots of beach opportunities as well as entertainment and activities.  An easy taxi ride from the port, you can enjoy this beach experience for under $100 for the entire family and shop at the nearby Port Lucaya Marketplace before or after your dip.

Sightseeing

Sightseeing around Grand Bahama is probably the second most popular activity for families.  Whether by land or sea, this a safe activity for all ages.  We recommend only one “island” or “city” tour for kids in Freeport as there isn’t much that will hold their interest.  Here are our three most family friendly sightseeing picks:

1. Take a Glass Bottom Boat tour.  There are several available either from the cruise line or by booking directly with the tour operator.  Departing from Port Lucaya, the Seaworld Explorer is a semi-sub that sits partly below the water and allows great viewing of the coral and sea life.  Prices are $45 for adults and $25 for children 2-12.  During transport, you’ll also get to see some of the island.
2. A bit sightseeing, a bit snorkeling and lots of onboard fun, the Fantasia leaves Port Lucaya for a 2 hour cruise with onboard water slide that puts you right into the ocean.  In order to snorkel, you must be at least 10 years of age.  However, this mini-cruise can be a destination in itself.
3. The Garden of the Groves Tour, which includes a visit to the 11 acre botanical nature conservancy, a pass through Millionaire’s Row and a stop at Port Lucaya Marketplace is just enough sightseeing for most kids.  This 4 hour tour costs about $40 for adults and a little less for kids.  If you’re looking to visit the gardens, admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children.

Active Adventures

These adventures are reserved mostly for kids age 6 and over as they involve more strenuous activities requiring certain skills and attention to safety.  Snorkeling is included above in Sightseeing or may be added to almost any beach excursion.  On to the top three adventures for families visiting Freeport:

1. The Freeport Kayak and Nature Experience is an awesome tour that combines physical activity with exploration and a visit to pristine Gold Rock Beach.  This 6 hour tour is just around $100 per person (cheaper if you book direct) and is open to all age groups (the kayaks even have a 3rd seat for infants).  However, due to the length of kayaking (90 minutes) and the safety issues, we do not recommend this tour for anyone under 6 (although I do kayak with my 4 year old).  This tour also includes lunch.  Read my article on Lucayan National Park for more information.
2. How about a Biking Adventure?  This 12 1/2 mile leisurely peddle will take you along the shoreline, through a native settlement and on to Sanctuary Bay to watch the dolphins.  You will also have time to take a relaxing dip into the ocean before you are shuttled to Port Lucaya to do some shopping before heading back to the ship.  Minimum age is 12 (4’11″) and the cost is around $90 per person (cheaper if you book direct).
3. Take a trip over to Sanctuary Bay to enjoy one of many Dolphin Encounter programs offered by UNEXSO.  From simple encounters to open ocean swims, there is something for all ages, although we don’t recommend this particular tour for anyone under 6.  Swim tours require children to be at least 55 inches.  Prices start at over $100 per person.  If you book direct, you may save some money, but you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to Port Lucaya.

Before you reserve any shore excursion, be sure to read our article comparing on your own and cruise line tours.  Whatever you decide to do, remember to have fun! 

You can read more about this topic, as well as many other family cruising topics, in our new book–Cruising With Kids: A Guide To The Perfect Family Cruise Vacation. Visit our dedicated Cruising With Kids website for more details.

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