Epic and Nassau

[oliverweagle]

I see that our itinerary (July 31) shows that we can disembark at Nassau at 12 noon, and the Epic departs at 7 PM that evening. Our son would REALLY like to go to the waterpark at Atlantis - how much time do you think we would have and what time would we need to be back on the Epic?

 

Thanks

 

Ollie!

[InTheCruisingYearsOfLife]

I see that our itinerary (July 31) shows that we can disembark at Nassau at 12 noon, and the Epic departs at 7 PM that evening. Our son would REALLY like to go to the waterpark at Atlantis - how much time do you think we would have and what time would we need to be back on the Epic?

 

Thanks

 

Ollie!

 

 

Unless you keep a tight reign on your son, I'd estimate he'll have eight hours at the waterpark.:eek:

 

InThe

[ugh07]

Depends on the time of year, the water park can close as early as 5pm. I was there Jan 2nd and got in at noon raced over to atlantis by 12:40ish and my daughter had till 5. Whether it is worth the price is debatable.

[ugh07]

Unless you keep a tight reign on your son, I'd estimate he'll have eight hours at the waterpark.:eek:

 

InThe

 

hehe...8 hours would leave them 1 hr late for the boat.:p

[negc]

I see that our itinerary (July 31) shows that we can disembark at Nassau at 12 noon, and the Epic departs at 7 PM that evening. Our son would REALLY like to go to the waterpark at Atlantis - how much time do you think we would have and what time would we need to be back on the Epic?

 

Thanks

 

Ollie!

It is usually required that all guests be back onboard the ship no later than one half hour before the scheduled sailaway. Do the math and you will see that, if you are off the ship by noon or 12:15, you will have a little more than six hours to get to and from Atlantis and enjoy the waterpark. It is certainly doable.

[InTheCruisingYearsOfLife]

hehe...8 hours would leave them 1 hr late for the boat.:p

 

hehe...you did the math.:D

[Cruisin'cockney]

If I am correct, the Epic itinerary gets you into Nassau at 12.00. There are 3 other ships in Nassau that day, including the 6000 passenger megaboat, Oasis of the Seas. The good news is that it does not arrive until 13.00 so there is a real opportunity to get off the boat and onto dry land before it docks. However, I would suggest early booking as Atlantis has a daily limit and, once reached, no further day passes will be issued. Of the 2 other boats, Disney Wonder is in first at 09.30 followed by Epic and Carnival Sensation @ 12.00. Mickey's friends will therefore be well ahead of the rest and have the pick of the non-booked attractions, including any walk-up availability at Atlantis. There will be 15,000 eager cruise ship passengers in Nassau that day and it is one of the ports with less to do so anything decent really must be pre-booked. Even the very eager taxis will be very busy!

 

Some people like to book a room at Comfort Suites which includes a day pass to the water park but these are also limited so need to be quick.

 

Good luck.

[david_sobe]

Ollie

I noticed that too. I quickly looked and I did not see the Atlantis waterpark excursion on the Excurision list for this Epic stop at Nassau. I thought this was strange because the waterpark is usually the most common excursion on any Nassau stop. I went there last month on the Sky. Maybe the ship tours leave early and they dont have them. But I imagine you can still go by taxi. In fact, it is probably better anyway. The ship excurisions put you on a water ferry and then give you a quick tour of Atlantis before letting you enjoy the park. If you read the excurions reviews of Atlantis, most say skip the ship and take a taxi and go on your own. But it is always good to stay with people on your ship so you dont get lost.

If you have kids, this is a MUST stop. How old is your son? These slides are not just for kids. I dont want to ruin any surprises but there was one that scared the hell out of me. I dont scare easy and I was screaming like a girl. This park is not just little water slides. They are very very intense and very very fun. So I suggest you take your son. You guys will have a blast. But you may have to go on your own. Read all the reviews on the NCL excursion list for Atlantis Nassau. I did a quick review of this stop on my Sky review here.

Have fun. You will get a delay getting to the park which means you dont beat the lines. But this is a must if you have kids. You will love it too. I did notice they have the dolphin adventure at Atlantis on the Epic excurision list so there is a boat going. It is also possilbe it is a typo that the Epic does not have an excurision to the water park. Since you wont be alone and so many are going to want to go. Bring comfortable walking shoes this day. The park is HUGE and it is easy to be lost with everything they offer. Get a locker too. If you go in the summer, the concrete is hot so get beach shoes.

Have fun!

[david_sobe]

Cruisin'Cockney brings up some great points. Boy you guys really do your research and know the ships. What Cruisin says is probably true since there are so many ships in dock that day, the park could have its limit especially since I see you are going in the summer. Remember there are hotels there and these people use the park first. I would call NCL and ask them if they offer this excursion. If they say no because the park will be full, I would call Atlantis. Maybe they can sell you a ticket now and you can book now and then take a taxi to the park with your tickets. It would be a shame that such a nice boat with some kids and adults do not get to enjoy this park because of timing. But you have so much time to do your research now. Good dad you are!

[time2cruise1]

Cruisin'Cockney brings up some great points. Boy you guys really do your research and know the ships. What Cruisin says is probably true since there are so many ships in dock that day, the park could have its limit especially since I see you are going in the summer. !

 

 

Start with the 5-6000 from the Oasis of the Seas that will join the Epic everytime in Nassau. :eek:

[familyof4cruising]

Depends on the time of year, the water park can close as early as 5pm. I was there Jan 2nd and got in at noon raced over to atlantis by 12:40ish and my daughter had till 5. Whether it is worth the price is debatable.

 

You are absolutely right! We only do the water park if we have all day. Arriving at 12:00 ( like you said 12:40ish) to be told to leave at 5:00 IMO is not worth the cost. I think the park is open later depending on the time of year.

 

http://www.atlantis.com/thingstodo/waterpark.aspx

 

It really is a great water park. If you have never done it maybe the 4 or 5 hours is worth it for the experience.

 

You would have to be back at 6:30 if they depart at 7:00. Being in a taxi at 6:00 will be enough time.

[sandancer]

If you are tight for time do NOT take a water taxi. We did and the rotten old tub ran out of fuel on the way back. We bobbed about in the harbour for almost an hour before they got another out to us. We then had to climb from one to the other. Now I am not a big fan of clambering across from one bobbing boat to another in mid stream and had we been near time to reboard I would have been hyperventilating. Also remember that in Nassau you have to proceed through security (and yes, they do want photo id) along with several 1000 other people and the lines get long. Take a taxi and make sure you leave enough time to get through the line and be back at the gangway 30 mins before sailaway. Hope this helps.

[david_sobe]

That cuts it pretty close

There is no way the whole ship will be off the dock at 12:15 I sailed on the small Sky and we were supposed to meet at 9 am but until all passengers got there, we did not start to move until 930. By the time we got to the park off the ferry and tour, it was almost 11. With this in mind, make it a quick stop at the water park. I would take a taxi and not spend more than 3 1/2 hours there to make sure you get back in time. These 2 GIANT ships docking next to eachother is going to slow down the excursion process in Nassau. I thought it would be crowded when I was there on the Sky and a RCCL ship was also there. I cant imagine triple crowds. LOOK OUT

[pokeypoke]

One must also remember that the OOTS leaves Nassau at the same time the Epic does which means allowing even MORE extra time to return back to the ship. Waiting for a taxi could be a nightmare:eek:!

[ocdb8r]

I agree that I don't think it's really worth the cost. Given the likely crowds and the lack of time you will have, I wouldn't spend the money.

 

I am in a similar position though...trying to figure out what would be a good thing to do in Nassau. We don't have an interest in shopping and given the 12-7 hours we'll be in port I wonder what would be a fun activity.

 

Are there any exceptional free beaches? Does anyone know if the beaches at Atlantis require public access? Anyone have any good suggestions? The Nassau board is like 50% questions about Atlantis!

[oliverweagle]

I was able to book a room at the comfort suites some time ago - not that we will use the room but we will get wrist bands to get us into Atlantis. At this stage it was the only "guaranteed" method I could find to assure us of access, and as others have pointed out, when Atlantis is full - they are full! .. and do not let anyone else in. I could nit imagine getting there and being turned away at the gate.

 

I realise the time is briefer than we would have preferred, but I think it something that would be worthwhile for the family!

 

Thank you all for the substantial help,

 

Ollie:)

[oliverweagle]

sorry - I intended to include this in my previous post - I called atlantis and was told they do not sell tickets in advance.

[david_sobe]

Oliverweagle

I am glad you outsmarted us all. That is a good idea about booking the hotel room. Yes it will be more money but gives you access to the park. I think it will be worth it. I dont know where you are coming from but to go all that way and have the best waterpark in the world at your stop and not be able to go is pretty crazy. You and your son and family will have a blast. The water slides are amazing. Some slides are so fast and so deep that you go so fast I felt like I was going to fly off the slide. It is an amzazing time and I bet it will be the highlight of the trip for your son.

You are a great dad to go to such creative thinking to enjoy your Nassau trip with your son. You guys will have a blast!

[david_sobe]

By the way

Even though you get to Nassau a few hours later than normal, taking the taxi to the park/hotel catches you up with time. Our excurision was to meet outside the boat at 9 but we did not leave unitl 930 By the time we walked to the ferry, got off, and got the tour, it was 11 or after. This way you can get off the boat and take a taxi immediately to the park and take one immediately back. It still will be a shorter time but taking a taxi will allow you extra time. You can still have 4 hours to enjoy the slides. The place is so big that we tried to see all the aquariums but it was too big and too much to see in one day. We tried to see everything but couldnt. So if you stick to the slides, it will be a great day !

[Ontario cruise duo]

Can anyone tell me where to find out how many ships will be in Nassau on the same day we're there? We will be in Nassau on Nov. 12. I hope Oasis isn't in port also on that day. Oh well, I've already booked the Atlantis day pass too! Before booking this cruise I was thinking about booking a vacation to this resort, that was until I saw the prices!!:eek: So instead we'll do the "day pass".:) That will have to satisfy my curosity.

[time2cruise1]

Can anyone tell me where to find out how many ships will be in Nassau on the same day we're there? We will be in Nassau on Nov. 12. I hope Oasis isn't in port also on that day. Oh well, I've already booked the Atlantis day pass too! Before booking this cruise I was thinking about booking a vacation to this resort, that was until I saw the prices!!:eek: So instead we'll do the "day pass".:) That will have to satisfy my curosity.

 

The Oasis will be there every time the Epic is. Same is true in Cozumel on the off week.

[The Klev]

Can anyone tell me where to find out how many ships will be in Nassau on the same day we're there? We will be in Nassau on Nov. 12. I hope Oasis isn't in port also on that day. Oh well, I've already booked the Atlantis day pass too! Before booking this cruise I was thinking about booking a vacation to this resort, that was until I saw the prices!!:eek: So instead we'll do the "day pass".:) That will have to satisfy my curosity.

 

Check out www cruisett dot com (we can't post actual sites, correct?)

(Just google CruiseTT)

 

This will tell you all ships in port on a given day

[oliverweagle]

The lowest room rate I found at Atlantis was $450 + taxes etc per day. CS will cost the three of us about $120 per person.

Again - that you all for your help David and Cruisin Cockney especially! Note new ticker below - we are counting the days!

 

Ollie:)

[oliverweagle]

I thought that the response below may serve as useful information to those trying to plan a trip as it illustrates what options are available ...

 

Atlantis offers an exciting opportunity for day guests to take advantage of the many attractions of Atlantis. These packages are not sold in advance but may be purchased from any of the cashier stations located in the Lower Lobby Royal Towers, the Lower Lobby Coral Towers; and the Temple of the Moon in the Casino.

 

Discover Atlantis Aquaventure Package*

? Adult Price: $110.00

? Children (ages 4-12) Price: $80.00

? Included: Access to the Dig and other marine habitats, beaches and water park including: slides, pools, river rapids and private lagoons plus a 6x8 photo from My Atlantis Photos

? Not included: meals

? Availability: limited based on guest occupancy; sold on first come, first serve basis

 

Discover Atlantis Beach Day Package*

? Adult Price: $60.00

? Children (ages 4-12) Price: $35.00

? Included: The Discover Atlantis Aquarium Tour, lunch*, access to west beach and all marine habitats.

? Not Included: access to pools, slides and private lagoons

? Availability: limited based on guest occupancy; sold on first come, first serve basis

*Lunch at one of the following five venues:

 

Riverbend (Located Near Splashers):

Choice of Hamburger, Turkey & Cheese Wrap, Chicken Caesar Wrap, Three Cheese

Flatbread Pizza, Hotdog

Pisces (Located Near Coral Towers):

Choice of Crisp Battered Fish, Fried Chicken, Hotdog, Conch Fritters, Mixed Green or

Caesar Salad

Cave Grill (Located Near Beach Tower):

Choice of Hamburger, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Hotdog, Veggie Burger, Mixed Green or

Caesar Salad.

Breakwater Grill (Located Near The Cove):

Choice of Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Veggie Burger, Conch Fritters, Hotdog, Mixed Green

or Caesar Salad

Dive In (Located Near the Mayan Temple):

Choice of Hamburger, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Veggie Burger, Conch Fritters, Hotdog,

Mixed Green or Caesar Salad

 

All the above are served with Fries and Large Soft Drink

 

Discover Atlantis Tour*

? Adult Price: $35.00

? Children (ages 4-12) Price: $25.00

? Includes: access to Predator Lagoon, the Dig, Ruins Lagoon

? Not included: access to beaches, pools, slides and private lagoons, meals

 

Lockers*

In addition to these packages; guests can also rent lockers at the Day Visitor Centre, located at the rear of the Mayan Temple. Guests will be charged $50 for any unreturned locker key (room charge or credit card only for lockers).

 

? Small Locker: $5.00

? Medium Locker: $7.00

? Large Locker: $10.00

 

*Special pricing options exist throughout the year and these prices are subject to change without notice.

 

Day visitors who choose not to participate in the water attractions or tour are welcome to enjoy our fantastic restaurants, duty free shopping, and world class casino.

 

Taxis are always available at the Port of Nassau to bring cruise passengers to the resort. The 10 minute cab ride should cost no more than $6 per person, each way.

 

Atlantis.com is where the exploration begins. There we have detailed accounts of the Lost City with photos and videos for you to enjoy. Our website offers vacation package options, restaurant details, dining plans, entertainment information and so much more.

 

We look forward to helping you plan your Journey.

 

Your guide to Atlantis,

M. Khan

 

Internet Services

Atlantis, Paradise Island Vacations

 

Reservations@atlantis.com

Resort Reservations Toll free within the USA ~ 1-800-285-2684

Resort Reservations Direct Phone 1-954-809-2100

http://www.atlantis.com

[Donh44]

Don't know whether anyone has responded to your question about the waterpark at Atlantis or not. I was interested in going there a few years ago and was told by the Atlantis people that, unless you are a guest at the Atlantis, you can't go to the waterpark. Needledd to say, i was very disappointed. They told me that the readon for that is that they would be overrun with cruise ship passengers going there for the day and taking up room that their guests, who are paying beaucoup bucks for their accommodations, would want. Let me know if you find out anything different.