- Cruises to the Bahamas are available from New Orleans.cruise ship image by Roy from Fotolia.com
For Gulf Coast travelers looking for a getaway, a cruise to the Bahamas could be just the ticket. A cruise vacation offers passengers embarking from New Orleans seven days of abundant food, entertainment and tropical destinations. For out-of-towners, the chance to spend a few days in New Orleans, itself a major tourist destination, provides two vacation adventures in one. Travelers can book their vacations on one of two Carnival Cruise Lines cruise ships. - There's plenty to do for the whole family on Carnival Triumph.cruise ship forward pool area image by Wimbledon from Fotolia.com
As of October 2010, the majority of cruises leaving New Orleans bound for the Bahamas are on Carnival Cruise Lines. The Carnival Triumph cruise is a seven-day voyage that departs from New Orleans and visits Key West, Florida; Freeport, Bahamas; and Nassau, Bahamas.This floating vacation includes a trip on one of Carnival's newest ships in the fleet, and boasts some of the cruise line's newest amenities.
Fire up your nights at Ocean Plaza, the ship's nightclub. Or take a relaxing dip in the thalassotherapy pool, Carnival's signature pool that features soothing massage jets to melt your cares away. Taking the kids? Drop them off at Camp Carnival for a day of fun. Send the teens to O2, where they can interact with their friends in a Wii tournament, watch full-length movies and enjoy teen-only parties.
The party doesn't end on the ship, however. Check out all the Bahamas has to offer, from snorkeling in Freeport to parasailing in Nassau. Don't forget to pick up a rum cake and a conch fritter while you're there.
Carnival Cruise Lines
3655 NW 87th Ave.
Miami, FL 33178
888-227-6482
carnival.com - The Atlantis resort offers visitors an unusual activity: swimming with sharks.atlantis,bahamas,island,coast,ocean,inlet,harbor,d image by Earl Robbins from Fotolia.com
The Carnival Conquest sails from New Orleans and, as of October 2010, offers a seven-day tour of the Eastern Caribbean, making stops in Key West, Florida; Freeport, Bahamas; and Nassau, Bahamas.
After travelers board the ship, they can take in a movie poolside at the ship's 12-foot outdoor movie screen. Is golf your thing? Check out the City Sports Park, which features a nine-hole golf course, a running track and basketball court. If you're hungry, whet your appetite at The Point Steakhouse, one of the Conquest's specialty restaurants. After dinner, take in a Las Vegas-style show in the Toulouse-Lautrec Lounge.
Continue your adventure onshore in Freeport with the island's signature excursion -- horseback riding on the beach. Catch a sunset in Key West as you stroll along the city's boardwalk. Finally, check out the Atlantis Resort in Nassau. Observe the multicolored marine life in the aquarium or swim with sharks. When you're ready to wind down, check out the sidewalk cafes, live jazz and shopping at Paradise Island's Marina Village.
Atlantis Paradise Island
One Casino Drive
Paradise Island, Bahamas
242-363-3000
800-285-2684
atlantis.com - The French Quarter is one of New Orleans' many attractions.usa image by TEMISTOCLE LUCARELLI from Fotolia.com
There's plenty to do in New Orleans while you wait to embark on your voyage. Treat your tastebuds to authentic jambalaya from real New Orleans chefs. Or check out the French Quarter for the authentic New Orleans experience. For a "cruise before the cruise," take a ride on the Mississippi on a paddleboat cruise. Take a few days after your cruise to unwind and try your luck at the Harrah's hotel and casino.
Music lovers can check out the vast array of clubs offering everything from zydeco to jazz to blues and funk. Or take in one of the many outdoor festivals that the area has to offer.
Harrah's New Orleans
228 Poydras St.
New Orleans, LA 70130
Phone: 504-533-6000
Toll Free: 800-847-5299
harrahsneworleans.com
New Orleans Metropolitan Convention & Visitors Bureau
2020 St. Charles Ave.
New Orleans, LA 70130
504-566-5011
800-672-6124
www.neworleanscvb.com/
internet@neworleanscvb.com
Carnival Triumph
Carnival Conquest
Before and After Your Cruise
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