I've been lurking the Freeport threads for awhile now assuming that this place is just a parking spot for Carnival - not too mention my mother whose been on various cruises has visited Freeport with a "not to mention" statement: "I'm sorry to tell you hon, but it's pretty boring there, nothing really to do" ----- even though I'm hearing and reading all of the negative feedback, we all have NO CHOICE but to be prepared to park in Freeport whether we go off the ship or not...so with that, I'm going into the mindset of "making the best of it" before I judge anything...I've always been that kind of person...with that stated, I viewed the Carnival Excursion section of the website and saw that they have about 4 new excursions...I'll make the best of it by doing SOMETHING out there..

Bahamas Party Bus & Beach Break
Description: Hop aboard the open air ?island-style? party bus as it travels rhythmically in search of sights to see and fun to have. Full Details 

Duration: 3 Hours Pricing From: Adult: $60 Child: $36

Bahamian ATV Experience
Description: Add some excitement to your day in Freeport with an ATV adventure! Full Details 

Duration: 2 Hours Pricing: Adult: Sold Onboard Only Child: Sold Onboard Only

Blue Water Snorkeling & Beach
Description: Ocean spray and Caribbean breezes are the ingredients for a relaxing jaunt aboard a spacious catamaran. Full Details 

Duration: 3.5 Hours Pricing From: Adult: $60 Child: $40

Bottom Fishing
Description: Go bottom fishing -- aboard a 47ft. custom fishing boat -- in the turquoise waters of Grand Bahama Island. Full Details 

Duration: 4.5 Hours Pricing From: Adult: $70 Child: $70

Deluxe Beach Break & Shopping
Description: Enjoy the sand, surf, and shopping on this beach getaway. Full Details 

Duration: 4 Hours Pricing From: Adult: $60 Child: $50

Hi Millyj,

I just wanted to tell you that I really enjoy Islands.  I have gone with my family from the time they were babies up until last month and they are now all adults. They Love it, we actually did Nassua this time.

I went to Freeport Last year. We had gone to Port Lucaya (not sure if I spelled that right) last time, they have rebuilt this one resort area it's really nice.

We went to this really nice Casino and for the family who did not want to gamble they went shopping and sat on the beach. It was about a 10-15min cab ride and it's like $3 a person, I did not do a tour. My sister did a swimming with the Dolphins when she went, I am not sure I think  she found that on her own.

My boys rented Jet ski's and hung out on the Beach and then shopped

We had lots of good authentic food!! If you like Conch Fritters or The chowder is so good. 

I am glad your giving ot a chance. There is lots to do and never would consider it a parking space,, My best Friend since 2nd grade goes on her own boat all the time to Visit Freeport and all the other Beautiful Islands.  I have to say I love going by ship because I feel it's my floating resort.

Have Fun and Enjoy the food amd the Island!

Thanks for the insight Mary! I'm glad I'm reading this from someone whose been there and took the time to venture and do something...I'm just SO ready to go now, I really need this vacation!

You and I are of the same mindset! I have also read so many negative remarks about Freeport and it makes me sad. I try to find the beauty in every place I travel to. I'll be in paradise on the beach with my hubby- I won't be at work, no phones, chores, laundry, etc.How could life get better?

 That being said, are you choosing any of the excursions you listed? I was looking at the ATV one. I wish they'd give a price though.

Have fun!

My wife and I are looking at doing the Bicycle tour of the island.  That way we get to see the island and not just sit at the port.  The only thing that concerns me is I've not really gotten any input from anyone who's actually done this tour.  Anyone out there do this one?  Thoughts, comments, considerations or otherwise are greatly appreciated!

I am one of those negative reviews you have probably read.  I have been to this island numerous times and it is not that there is nothing to do or that it is horrible, I just feel it is definately not one of the better ones.  I personally will not stay on the ship in any port...I get my sea days for that.  Once you get to Lucaya, the beaches are actually nice, I just like having the ability to walk around and look at things on your own and you don't have that here unless you just shop their few shops at the pier. 

Once you take an excursion or a cab you have plenty of options...I just think there are islands that offer a bit more and more variety.  It is just such an industrial area when you pull up and it is more desert than tropical oasis, I enjoy seeing lots of palm trees and pretty flowers and most of this island is rock and desert.  I don't hate it, I just think there is a better option.  I would personally rather have the ship stay over in Nassau and do 2 days there, I just think there is more to do there.  I also am a big fan of the private island and wish they would offer this more but that is a whole different thread!

Enjoy yourself, we will make the best of it and we will have a great time, I am just going to have to book another cruise when I get back so I can go to the private island.  I tend to book more around the ships and dates that I want rather then the itinerary.