Nassau: ATV Island Tour with Bahamian Lunch & Fort Stops

Summary

Ride Nassau’s streets on an ATV taste Bahamian tea and lunch see forts

You’ll ride an ATV through Nassau’s lively streets with a local guide, sample fresh Bahamian teas, climb historic forts for sweeping views, and share lunch at Arawak Cay. Expect laughter, salty breezes, hands-on moments—and memories that feel real long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to be so nervous about driving an ATV through Nassau’s streets — but there I was, helmet a little crooked, trying to look cool while our guide, Marcus, grinned at me like he’d seen it all before. The first thing that hit me was the smell: exhaust mixed with salt air and something sweet drifting from a street vendor. We zipped off in a line, and I kept glancing sideways at the pastel houses and people waving (some of them probably laughing at my wobbly start). The city felt alive in a way you can’t get from a bus window.

Our first stop was this tea place — genuinely local, not some tourist trap. Inside it was cool and smelled like dried fruit and ginger. We tried sips of hibiscus tea (I spilled mine, classic) while the owner explained how they blend everything right there. Marcus translated when I got lost in the flavors — I remember him teasing me about my “tea face.” After that we rolled over to Arawak Cay where music thumped from somewhere nearby and the colors were so bright it kind of made my eyes water for a second. Lunch came later — fried fish, rice, plantains — eaten outside with fingers sticky from sauce.

The forts were next: Fort Charlotte first (massive stone walls, cannons pointed out to sea), then Fort Fincastle up on this hill where you could see half of Nassau laid out below. There were vendors selling little wooden animals and jewelry; I bought a carved flamingo that’s now chipped but still sits on my desk. At one point I just stood there, sweating in my helmet, thinking about how old these stones are compared to the shiny cruise ships down in the harbor. It’s weird what sticks with you.

If you’re looking for a day trip in Nassau that’s more than just sitting on a beach, this ATV tour is wild in all the right ways. You get picked up at the cruise terminal (which is good because I would’ve gotten lost otherwise), and Marcus made sure nobody got left behind or went too fast — even when I stalled out at a stoplight. So yeah, you’ll need your driver’s license (and to be 25), but honestly? Worth it for that feeling of wind and sun and seeing Nassau up close instead of through glass.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Nassau by ATV with lunch

• Visit Bahamian tea facility
• Sample tropical teas and juices
• Pass by Arawak Cay cultural site
• Pass by Government House
• Tour Fort Charlotte and take photos
• Photo stop at scenic location
• Pass by Fort Fincastle viewpoint

Top questions

How old do you have to be to drive an ATV on this tour?

Drivers must be between 25-69 years old with a valid physical driver’s license.

Is pickup included for this Nassau ATV tour?

Yes, round trip transportation is included from the Nassau Cruise Terminal only.

What attractions are visited during the tour?

The tour stops at Fort Fincastle, Fort Charlotte, Government House area, Arawak Cay, plus a local tea facility.

Is lunch provided on this day trip?

Yes, Bahamian lunch and beverage are included as part of the tour.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?

Yes—please advise at time of booking if required.

Can two people share one ATV?

The maximum is two per ATV but price is per person—not per vehicle.

Do I need previous experience riding ATVs?

No prior experience required—just moderate fitness and valid license for drivers.

Is public transportation nearby if I’m not coming from the cruise terminal?

Yes—public transportation options are available nearby Bowcar rentals.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation from the Nassau Cruise Terminal (so no stress finding your way), all necessary safety gear like helmets and earphones for the ride itself, guided stops at historical sites including both Fort Charlotte and Fort Fincastle as well as Government House area and Arawak Cay; plus tastings at a local tea facility. Lunch is provided—with vegetarian or vegan options if you ask ahead—and water is always available along with your Bahamian meal before heading back to port together.