Bahamas & Perfect Day Cruise 7 Nights • Tampa, Florida • Grandeur of the Seas

When it comes to seaside cities in Florida, Miami and Fort Lauderdale often steal the spotlight. But nestled along Florida’s beautiful western coast sits Tampa, a metropolitan oasis that’s been on the up and up for years now. This sunny Florida city offers plenty of wonders to fill a few days ahead of your cruise from Tampa. Mornings here are best spent savoring a steaming mug of café con leche in the historic Cuban-Spanish neighborhood of Ybor City. After you’ve had your pick-me-up, hop on the TECO Line Streetcar and ride into the Channel District, where you can explore the SS American Victory, a World War II ship that’s been transformed into a museum. Among the best of Tampa’s attractions are its many art and culture exhibits — head to the Tampa Riverwalk for some educational fun at the Tampa Bay History Center, or try the Tampa Museum of Art, home to both ancient and modern masterpieces.

Your ship departs promptly at 4:00 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Find yourself right in the middle of the vibrant Junkanoo culture, bustling straw markets and glitzy casinos of Nassau. Here you can march to the beat of your own goombay drum, surrounded by swaying palm trees, white-sand beaches and the crystal-clear turquoise waters that make the islands of The Bahamas famous.

Grand Bahama Island captures an authentic portrait of Bahamian life. Unwind on sand that shimmers like pearls, fronting waters in every hue of blue. Hike Rand Nature Center’s forest-lined trails. Discover waterfalls at the Garden of the Groves. Dive deep into underwater worlds offshore. Or gamble, golf and even join in a wildly festive junkanoo parade in Freeport and Lucaya.

Key West is the very definition of laid-back living. Closer to Havana than to Miami, this colorful island at the end of the Florida peninsula marches to the beat of its own steel drum. Pedal past charming pastel-colored porches, paddleboard through thick mangroves, or join a sunset block party in Mallory Square. And if the locals don’t charm you, the key lime pie will.

This isn’t vacation days spent. This is bragging rights earned. Conquer the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean and snap a shot from up to 450 feet up in a helium balloon. Grab a drink at the swim-up bar and soak up the scene in the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas. Or get a taste of Bora Bora with your own Overwater Cabana.

Perfect Day at CocoCay is split into 10 unique neighborhoods, each with its own activities. There are plenty of free things to do around the island, as well as premium experiences available for purchase. Seven of the neighborhoods are free admission, and three require a paid admission: Thrill Waterpark, Coco Beach Club, and Hideaway Beach (adults-only beach).

Pirates once plundered the shores of Tampa Bay, but today this swashbuckling city attracts beach seekers, outdoor enthusiasts and museum lovers alike. Its low-key beach vibe blends seamlessly with its glistening downtown atmosphere— and there’s no shortage of thrills for all ages. Explore Ybor City’s cigar-rolling history or brave rollercoasters at Busch Gardens. Kayak along the Hillsborough River past sunning alligators, and see the elusive Florida panther at the Lowry Park Zoo. Geek out at the Museum of Science & Industry’s domed IMAX Theater— or browse Florida Cracker exhibits at Tampa Bay History Center. Tampa cruises allow you to discover a treasure trove of adventures, from the beach to the bay.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.