Written by a AAA cruise expert...

The itinerary wasn’t all that thrilling -   a day in Nassau, and an out island experience at the cruise line’s “private island”… a total of three days on Holland America’s new Eurodam.  But I looked forward to checking out the ship and that awesome view from the balcony as it made its way up the channel between Paradise Island and the bustling port at downtown Nassau. Once in port, we were off the ship in minutes, making a beeline for the heart of Bay Street and a favorite little place one flight up called The Café Athena.  Fresh hummus, crisp Greek salads, and the coldest bottles of  Kalik beer we’ve ever enjoyed, all on the table within 15 minutes of leaving the ship.  It’s what we remembered from a half dozen visits, and still a favorite. Enjoy the scene of a few thousand cruise ship shoppers wandering below while you share a lovely lunch with an affable Greek host. Opah! 

     New place to check out – The Marley Resort and Spa. 18 rooms from the Marley family right next to a house that Ziggy owns. Check out the nice retail and get a little reggae fix. Recommended: Compass Point Resort - Best bet for a nice lunch on the best waterfront restaurant on the Island, far away from the crowds. If you don’t want to pay the $29 cab ride to the west end of the island, take the local bus for just $1. It’s worth the wandering trip past Cable Beach with a few new local friends. Compass Point was completely refurbished after the 2004 hurricanes, and is equal to its former glory under Chris Blackwell (Island Outpost Resorts and formerly of Island Records). Quaint, colorful junkanoo huts looking out on turquoise water with an oceanside pool where you don’t have to fight over lounge chairs. Would be great for a few relaxing days on its own.

     Back to the Eurodam. Nice because it’s new, very cool design and several restaurants that get you away from the mass dining experience. The Pinnacle Grill is a place you might frequent regularly if it was in your home town. The fitness center had some nice glass and a great view while running off those pounds that try to creep on after so many nice meals.  It’s not a megaship, but it’s a nice size with all the amenities, carrying about 2100 passengers. The private out island is a manufactured experience to give you a beach, a meal, and some pricey cocktails for about 3-4 hours.  Still, the water’s blue, and you’re in the Bahamas! Any other thoughts on the Eurodam or Nassau experiences?