Nassau, a popular cruise ship destination in the Bahamas capable of accommodating seven vessels simultaneously, has faced growing challenges in recent years. Many frequent cruisers have become disenchanted with the port, citing repetitive experiences and increasingly aggressive vendors in the area. While Nassau offers free beach access and quality dining and shopping options, numerous passengers now opt to remain aboard their ships during stops at this destination.
Royal Caribbean International has developed an innovative solution to revitalize the Nassau experience. The cruise line plans to launch its Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in December 2025, introducing a fresh concept in cruise destinations. This 17-acre development will merge Nassau’s Paradise Island beaches with Royal Caribbean’s signature amenities to create a comprehensive beach club experience.
The new facility will feature distinct zones designed to cater to different preferences. The Family Beach area will include a zero-entry pool called The Shallow End, along with various beach games such as jumbo tumbling tower, cornhole, and paddleball. A highlight of this section will be the Ultimate Family Cabana, a two-story structure featuring a slide, whirlpool, and frozen drink machine.
For those seeking a more vibrant atmosphere, Party Cove will house what’s being promoted as the world’s largest swim-up bar, dubbed The Floating Flamingo. This zone will also feature an infinity pool, live DJ entertainment, and a VIP section. Meanwhile, Chill Beach will offer a more relaxed environment where guests can unwind by the beach or at The Deep End pool.
The facility will be equipped with three seaside Paradise Grills serving local-inspired cuisine, over 40 rental cabanas, and convenient water taxi transportation. Additional amenities include loungers, towel stations, and local artisan shops, all incorporating Bahamian design elements.
This development represents the first installment in Royal Caribbean’s expanding Beach Club Collection. The cruise line’s destination portfolio already includes Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas and Labadee, Haiti. Following the Nassau project, Royal Caribbean plans to expand with Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026 and Perfect Day Mexico in Quintana Roo in 2027.
The concept builds upon the success of Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, where the company previously transformed its private island by adding a dock to eliminate tender boats, installing a large pool, and creating premium experiences like a waterpark, beach club, and adults-only area. While CocoCay maintains free beach access options alongside premium features, the new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will operate as an all-inclusive, premium destination.
The introduction of this new beach club aims to address the “stay on the ship” phenomenon that has become increasingly common in Nassau. While the port currently offers attractions like the Atlantis resort and various shopping opportunities, many cruise passengers have grown weary of the traditional Nassau experience. The aggressive vendor culture, particularly in the straw market and surrounding areas, has contributed to this sentiment, with some vendors even pursuing illegal sales activities.
This development signals Royal Caribbean’s commitment to enhancing the cruise experience by creating controlled, premium environments that offer diverse activities and amenities while maintaining the local character of the destination. By combining the natural beauty of Paradise Island with carefully curated attractions and services, the cruise line hopes to rejuvenate Nassau’s appeal to both new and returning cruise passengers.