Lois : 𝙽𝚘 𝙲𝚛𝚞𝚒𝚜𝚎 𝙲𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚛𝚘𝚕

One of the best parts of arriving in Nassau is seeing which ships are in port that day. It’s a bit of a ship-spotter’s dream — and on my recent visit, five very different vessels were docked nearby. Here’s a look at the ships I spotted and a few facts about each one.

1. Vision of the Seas – A Classic Touch

Vision of the Seas, part of Royal Caribbean’s Vision-class, is one of the more classic-looking ships you’ll find in port these days. She launched in 1998 and carries just over 2,000 passengers. While she might not have the newest tech or biggest thrills, there’s something appealing about her smaller size and traditional style — especially for those who prefer a quieter cruise experience.

2. Disney Wish – Fairytale Fun at Sea

This was the only ship I’d actually been on, so I couldn’t help but give her an extra glance. Disney Wish, launched in 2022, blends storytelling with cruise innovation beautifully. From the AquaMouse water ride to the imaginative dining experiences themed around Marvel and Frozen, it’s like stepping into a floating storybook. Even if you’re not travelling with kids, there’s a lot to appreciate about the detail and design.

3. Carnival Glory – Bright and Bold

Carnival Glory was unmistakable with her bold livery and upbeat vibe. She launched in 2003 and carries close to 3,000 guests. Known for lively entertainment and Carnival favourites like Guy’s Burger Joint and the RedFrog Rum Bar, she gives off that unmistakable Carnival energy even from the dock.

4. Independence of the Seas – Big and Feature-Packed

Independence of the Seas is hard to miss. She’s part of Royal Caribbean’s Freedom-class, launched in 2008 and packed with active attractions — think surf simulators, water slides and even glow-in-the-dark laser tag. After a 2018 refurbishment, she’s had a refresh that added even more options for fun. A good one for families and thrill-seekers.

5. Carnival Pride – Stylish and Understated

Carnival Pride had a slightly more understated presence, but still a distinctive look. She’s a Spirit-class ship from 2002, with Art Deco interiors and a more compact layout compared to some of her bigger sisters. It’s the kind of ship many seasoned Carnival cruisers speak highly of for its relaxed pace and ease of getting around.

Spotting this mix of ships was a great reminder of how different cruise holidays can be — from fairytale magic to all-out fun and more classic vibes. Even just seeing them lined up gave a sense of what each might offer on board.