Nassau 12pm-6pm Melia vs BCH

Hi all. I'm thinking of either the BCH or the Melia. I want to be able to either snorkel or kayak. I know that the BCH has kayaks available, but the cut-off line for where you can go is so close to shore kayaking would be a joke if I couldn't go past the line. Can I? Alternatively, the Melia would be much more up my alley, but we don't disembark until 12 and we leave at 6. From reviews and friends' past experiences, there is a long line to get your wristband, plus it takes a while to get to the hotel itself. Is it even worth it? How much time would we have on the beach itself? Thanks!

You could probably get on the beach at Melia around 1 but you'd need to leave around 4 to ensure plenty of time to get back. That only gives you about 3 hours beach time.

Our group of 13 did BCH in April. It took forever for all of us to check in, and service was super slow. I think because our ship itinerary changed, they allowed more day pass guests than normal, but did not provide adequate staffing. I don't think you can kayak past the barriers. I'd be ok if I didn't go back there. I've never done Melia, so cannot offer an opinion.