This guide was rebuilt against current port, cruise-line and tourism sources on September 26, 2026. Berths, opening hours, day-pass rules, prices, weather and excursion availability can change; your cruise line's sailing-day instructions control.
Arrival and getting around
Port / landing: Princess Cays is reached by ship's tender to the Eleuthera private-destination landing.
Getting around: The developed destination is walkable. Excursions farther into Eleuthera use organized ground transportation.
Money and local time
- Local currency
- Bahamian dollar (BSD)
- Exchange reference
- B$1 = US$1 (fixed parity)
- Do they take USD?
- Yes. U.S. and Bahamian dollars circulate at par; clarify which currency a posted price uses.
- Local time
- Eastern Time (EST/EDT); The Bahamas observes daylight saving time. Always use the ship's stated time for all-aboard.
Beach, pool and facilities
- Pool
- There is no large public resort-style pool at the core Princess Cays destination; the main water experience is the beach/ocean.
- Free / public beach
- Yes. Beach access is part of the port call; loungers are available, while upgraded seating, bungalows and premium areas cost extra.
- Water access
- Yes. Swimming, snorkeling and water-sports rentals are available in designated areas when conditions permit.
- Restrooms
- Restrooms and changing/guest facilities are provided in the developed destination area.
- Day pass / beach club
- Private bungalows and adults-focused premium areas are paid upgrades; availability and inclusions vary by sailing.
“Free/public beach” means beach entry or public shoreline access — not necessarily free transportation, loungers, umbrellas, food, showers or restrooms. Sea conditions, sargassum and temporary closures can change the practical beach experience.
Standout excursion types
- Beach and barbecue day.
- Snorkeling/kayak/paddle or other water-sport rentals.
- Eleuthera cultural/island excursions or a private bungalow upgrade.
Low-logistics day: Use the ship tender, choose a beach section near the main facilities, enjoy the included destination without adding a complicated off-site excursion.
Cruise lines and terminal notes
Princess Cays is operated for Princess Cruises and is used primarily by Princess itineraries, with some other Carnival Corporation itineraries also visiting.
Cruise-line patterns are useful for planning, but no guide should override your actual itinerary. Always confirm the ship name, date, terminal/berth, tender instructions and all-aboard time in the cruise line's app or daily program.
Practical port-day tips
- Tender lines can build near all-aboard time; return earlier than the final tender if you want less stress.
- The destination is on Eleuthera, but a normal Princess Cays day is concentrated in the private beach facility.
- Paid bungalow/premium-zone terms should be checked in the cruise planner.
- Keep a return buffer that reflects traffic, tender queues or boat transfers — not just map distance.
- For accessibility, confirm gangway/tender rules, vehicle loading, beach access and excursion physical requirements with the cruise line or operator.
- Carry photo ID and any ship-required documents exactly as instructed onboard; entry and reboarding requirements vary by itinerary.
Sources and updates
Audited September 26, 2026. Port Perfect Travel summarizes sources for cruise-day planning; conditions can change without notice. Send a correction or updated local detail.