Grand Bahama: Garden of the Groves & City Tour with Guide

Summary

Walk shaded trails, meet locals, and taste Grand Bahama’s easy rhythm

On this guided day trip from your cruise ship in Grand Bahama, you’ll explore city sights and stroll through Garden of the Groves’ peaceful trails among birds and waterfalls. Enjoy time at Port Lucaya Marketplace for shopping or people-watching before returning to port — with moments you’ll remember long after your ship sails.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the light shifted as we left the port — one minute all bustle and chatter, then suddenly we’re rolling past pine trees that looked almost out of place against the salty air. Our guide, Miss Denise, pointed out the Tori Gate at the International Bazaar (I’d never even heard of it), and she told us how it used to be the center of everything here. There was a kind of nostalgia in her voice. We passed churches lined up like they were waiting for Sunday, and then — just like that — we were winding through a patchwork of neighborhoods on Sunrise Highway. I kept catching glimpses of bright laundry flapping behind fences.

The Garden of the Groves felt cooler than I expected, maybe because of all those ferns and waterfalls tucked between limestone boulders. There was this hush under the trees — except for birds darting everywhere. At one point I tried to name a butterfly (no idea if I got it right), and a little girl nearby giggled at my attempt. The chapel in the middle is tiny but somehow feels important; you can see why people come here for weddings or just to sit quietly. I wandered off down a path and ended up on this wooden deck called “Lofty Fig,” where someone was selling guava duff and cold drinks. The smell was sweet but not heavy, if that makes sense.

Afterwards, Port Lucaya Marketplace was louder — music from somewhere mixing with shouts from shopkeepers trying to tempt us inside. It’s all bright colors: painted shutters, racks of dresses fluttering in the breeze, jewelry sparkling in shop windows. We had time to wander (I bought something small for my niece), but honestly I mostly just watched people coming and going by the marina. If you want to stay longer here you can, but we headed back with Denise’s group so we wouldn’t risk missing our ship. Still thinking about that quiet moment in the garden though — funny how those stick with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Grand Bahama Island Tour and Garden Visit

• Guided tour through industrial Grand Bahama
• Visit Garden of the Groves
• Explore Port Lucaya Marketplace

Top questions

Is pickup included from my cruise ship for this tour?

Yes, pickup times are matched to your cruise ship porting schedule.

How long do we spend at Garden of the Groves?

The visit allows ample time to walk trails, see wildlife, relax or shop before moving on.

Are entrance fees included in the price?

Yes, all entrance fees are included as part of your guided tour.

Can infants join this Grand Bahama city tour?

Yes, infants can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

What is there to do at Port Lucaya Marketplace?

You can shop at boutiques, enjoy cafes or bars, or simply stroll by the marina.

If I want more time at Port Lucaya Marketplace can I stay longer?

Yes; guests who wish to stay longer are responsible for their own return transport by taxi shuttle.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup timed to your cruise ship arrival, a full guided tour through Grand Bahama’s city highlights and Garden of the Groves with all entry fees covered before returning you comfortably to port when finished.