The Bahamas -­ Island Cruising on Stunning Sapphire Seas

The Commonwealth of The Bahamas is a country comprising of 29 islands, 661 cays and 2,387 islets. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, the Islands lie above Cuba and Hispaniola, with the Turks and Caicos Islands on the left and below towards the southeast to United States with Florida as the nearest point. The closest island is Bimini known as the gateway to The Bahamas.

Nassau, capital of The Bahamas is situated on New Providence Island. The islands of Abaco, Inagua and Andros are far flung and worth exploring. Other inhabited islands like Eleuthera, Cat Island, Long Island, San Salvador Island, Acklins, Crooked Island, Exuma and Mayaguana offer great tourism attractions drawing cruise ships for wonderful salubrious holidays.

It is nature, culture and water sports that offer perennial appeal for travelers coming to the Bahamas. Tourists enjoy charming palm frond basketry of plaited straw hats and bags. Cultural attractions like Junkanoo - African street parade of music and dance and Regattas are important social events. Traditional festivals associated with crop harvests include "Pineapple Fest" in Gregory Town, Eleuthera and "Crab Fest" on Andros.

The Bahamas are a refuge from harsh Northerly winters offering warm sugar-white beaches. Swim with dolphins and tropical fish in turquoise waters. Enjoy parasailing to explore the islands' thrilling history or simply indulge in island hopping for laid back island fun to relax and unwind. Enjoy Nassau and Freeport for sizzling nightlife or delicious cuisine.

White sand, turquoise waters, gentle surf and exotic marine life are Bahamas unique offerings in a paradise like setting. Few destinations boast as much sunny tropical beauty or cultural diversity. The region has distinctive fusion of cultures amid breathtaking backdrop of tropical jungles, fresh water caves, white-sand beaches, charming ports and ancient ruins offering myriad vacation options. Boat cruises are great for snorkeling, scuba diving, undersea walking, and fishing.