Just Back - Nassau - Sandals Day Pass Review

[CaribbeanBound]

Nassau, Bahamas

 

Having been to Nassau a couple times before, we opted for a new experience by jumping on the #10 Jitney ($1.00 each way, payable when exiting) to Cable Beach. The drivers are really friendly. Greet them with a hearty “Good Morning” as you board. You can catch the #10 near the British Colonial Hilton (a few blocks to your right after you leave the pier). The trip took about 20 minutes. We got off at Sandals, the all-inclusive "adult couples only" resort. . It was a good thing we had brought our email confirmation of the Day Pass option as there was some confusion at the gate and upon check-in. A Day Pass (9am to 6pm) costs $220 per person, or $50 per person if you view a 10-minute presentation and go on a 30-minute site inspection tour. We opted for the tour.

 

Sandals: the property itself is undergoing what appears to be the final phases of a hurricane repair. Lots of painting, and some reconstruction. The property should look great come the holiday season. Everyone was quite friendly. They make no effort to differentiate someone on a Day Pass from an overnight guest. You have free reign of the property. We took a speedboat out to Sandals Cay --- their semi-private island --- which includes a pool with swim-up bar, hot tub, hammocks, chairs, and a restaurant. There was less than 12 guests on the island for the first hour --- 24 by the time we left after two hours. The speedboat operators are real pros and a joy to watch in action as they secure the boat to the docks in high wave conditions. We enjoyed a couple of drinks on a hammock as waves crashed nearby. Atlantis could be seen in the distance. Very relaxing. They don’t skimp on the liquor here. All quality, branded names, and local beers. Back at the main property we enjoyed a few more drinks, the hot tub, and a conch fritter lunch. Nice laidback day. We would look forward to visiting Sandals again on a Day Pass.

 

A complete review of our Eastern Caribbean cruise can be found at: http://www.lavasurfer.com/info/easterncaribbean.html

[cocoaparis]

sounds interesting, i'll be in nassau sat. We've been there b4, and seen just about everything, so this would be great to do.

Once u pay the $50, do u have to pay for like drinks and food and all??

 

Also where can I sign up for the tour option of the day pass?

[CaribbeanBound]

Once you pay the $50 pp (we paid by credit card) and check into Sandals, EVERYTHING is included: Booze, food, tips, towels, boating, etc.

 

Suggest you go to www.sandals.com and send them an email asking about their day pass. Be sure to take the email reply with you or you may find it difficult to get past the gate guard. They do not get many day guests there.

 

As for the "tour" option, when checking in just tell the front desk you want the tour option. They will charge you $100 ($50 per person = $100 per couple) and direct you to the sales office for the tour.

[nannyny]

Caribbeanbound,

 

We are planning on staying for a 1/2 (ship leaves at 2:00 - bummer) but

might you tell me how to get from the pier to the Resort? and how much might the cost be?

 

Back in Dec. of 03 we did the St. Lucia's Grande and it was fantastic!

 

Thanks very much!

 

Nan