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Atlantis Bahamas Review: The Good and Bad for Families

For years, the Atlantis Bahamas advertising, which seems ubiquitous here in the Northeast in the winter months, enticed me to book a family vacation, but I always hesitated because of the price tag. Yet that marketing kept taunting me, so when my in-laws brought up taking the whole extended family on a Caribbean vacation, the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island near Nassua seemed like the perfect choice, offering something for everyone. I barely even glanced at the Atlantis Bahamas reviews before booking rooms for our extended family of fourteen.

Well, spoiler alert — we were really disappointed. The advertising and all those paid influencers do an amazing job selling this megaresort as the ultimate winter getaway destination with “great deals” that sound like a dream come true. The water slides, pools, dolphin encounters, casinos, restaurants — it had to be worth the price, right? Wrong.

Since I know so many people save for years to splurge on this “luxury” destination, I wanted to write an honest Atlantis Bahamas review about our experience so you can think twice before booking and consider some alternatives instead.

Atlantis Bahamas Review — No Holds Barred

Our multi-generational family vacation was made up of four families, with ages ranging from four to 70 years old. We stayed for four nights in February, during a school break, which probably made the resort a little extra crowded.

Since my in-laws were paying, it was up to them to choose which of the “hotels within a hotel” to stay in. We are all accustomed to staying at luxury or upscale properties on our family vacations — nothing over the top like overwater bungalows in the Maldives, but we have enjoyed the Four Seasons Costa Rica, the Grand Velas Riviera Maya , and the Ritz Carlton Aruba, for example.

Yet even my father-in-law, who would do anything to have the whole family gathered together, balked at the price of the Atlantis Bahamas . We ended up staying in the Coral Towers, which is part of the “cheaper” part of the resort.

Accommodations at the Atlantis Bahamas Resort

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As I alluded to, there are actually six different places to stay within the Atlantis Bahamas resort:

• Harborside Resort – this waterfront property is outside of the actual Atlantis resort and offers villas for families and groups, with room to spread out and full kitchens if you want to be self-sufficient. One-bedroom villas start at around $500 per night and two-bedrooms start at over $1,000.
• The Beach – these are super basic rooms for the “budget conscious” traveler and often sell out.
• The Coral – the Coral Towers are just to one side of the central Royal Towers and are home to the CRUSH teen nightclub and the Sun & Ice ice cream shop. These rooms start around $500 per night in high season.
• The Royal – the iconic Royal Towers are what you see in all the Atlantis advertising. They are centrally located and are home to The Dig open-air marine habitat and the famous Atlantis Casino. Rooms start around $600 per night in the high season, but big spenders could always splurge for the “Michael Jackson” suite between the two towers which is rumored to go for $25,000 a night.
• The Cove – this is the upscale, luxury hotel within the resort and I swear this is where they must put all the influencers who rave about the hotel. Rooms start at $800 a night in high season and while families are welcome to stay there, you need to be 18+ to use the Cove Pool, which makes a big perk of staying there unavailable to you if traveling with kids.
• The Reef – these are residential-style suites and studios with access to a private pool and a private strip of Paradise Beach. Studios start around $600 per night.

Keep in mind that, at least during high season, the Atlantis Bahamas Resort requires a four-night minimum stay. Also, these rates are not all-inclusive. Food is a whole other ballgame. But I’ll get into that more later.

We stayed in rooms at the Coral Towers, and while the resort markets these as centrally-located, it is still at least a 10-minute walk to get to most things within the resort. This meant our in-laws with limited mobility hung out at the Coral Pool, while the rest of us shuttled the grandkids to and from the waterpark while stopping to check on the grandparents — not exactly the together time we had envisioned.

The rooms themselves were very basic and, at the time, in need of a refurb. I’ve heard these rooms have since been renovated but overall reports indicate that the resort continues to be poorly maintained. When we opened the door to our room, I expected luxury or at least upscale furnishings and decor, but I was quite disappointed.

The room looked similar to what you would find in a standard Marriott or Hilton in any city. In fact, since we didn’t spring for the ocean view, when we looked out our window at night, it felt like we were in a city. Looking out at the other towers and lights of the resort, I felt like I was in Las Vegas. Far from the laid-back Bahamian vibe I had hoped for.

Is the Atlantis Bahamas Resort Worth It?

To be honest, my main complaint against the Atlantis Bahamas is the lack of character. Maybe this has to do with the size, but it feels like a giant resort, plopped on a random island because it is is easy to get there from the East Coast of the United States. Outside of a very performative show in the marina village, it didn’t seem to reflect the local culture at all.

I’m sure part of this was the size, but I’ve stayed at Beaches Resorts that are also huge, but still feel like a Caribbean island resort. I’ll lay out the good and the bad in this Atlantis Bahamas review below, and I’m not going to bash the property with an overly negative review, but the adults all agreed that we wished we spent our money elsewhere.

And we aren’t just being cheap, we have spent more at other resorts, but at least there we felt we received the value back in return. For us, the money we spent at the Atlantis Bahamas just wasn’t worth it.

Just because we didn’t fall in love with the Atlantis Bahamas doesn’t mean it isn’t the right choice for YOU. However, if you are looking for a relaxing, laid-back, authentic Caribbean experience, don’t go to the Atlantis.  If you love cruises , mega-resorts, water parks , and gambling then MAYBE the Atlantis might be for you. Or, if you like all of that and have the budget to try The Cove, you might enjoy it more. Read on to find out.

Atlantis Bahamas Review: The Good

I have done my best in this review to lay out the good and the bad about the resort, at least from our collective perspective. Of course, these are our opinions and others may feel differently, so please take a look and make a choice for yourself. The comments below may also prove helpful in making your decision.

The Aquaventure Waterpark

Included in a stay at the Atlantis is admission to their massive Aquaventure waterpark , which covers 141-acres with Atlantean-themed towers, water slides, a mile-long rapid river ride, 20 swimming areas, a kids water-play fort, and 11 swimming pools.  There is so much to do that you can stay busy all day for multiple days.

You can float down the less-than lazy river, shoot through tubes underwater surrounded by sharks, slide through the dark, or splash down the baby slides. There were quite a few little ones in our group so we staked out chairs near the splash area, but close enough to the more thrilling slides to satisfy the older kids (and adults).

Everyone loved the time we spent at the waterpark, especially the thrill-seekers. Although my daughter still holds a grudge about not getting to do Leap of Faith because she wasn’t tall enough (measured at home before we left she seemed to meet the height requirement.) The downside to the waterpark is the sheer size.

If you are traveling with younger kids, it is really hard to keep track of everyone. It is a lush environment, with pockets of chairs tucked into various areas around the different attractions. It makes for a much more pleasant environment than large rows of chairs, but it can make it more challenging for large groups to find chairs near each other (unless you get out there early or pay extra for reserved chairs with lock boxes).

It is very hard to keep eyes on multiple kids at once. It is even challenging to keep your eye on kids when you accompany them to various attractions. For example, I took my young nephew to a smaller waterslide and watched as he waited his turn on the slide, but then had to run around to find where the slide emptied out and tried to find him in the crowd.

Because of the layout, it can be very easy to get lost. This is something to be aware of to make a plan on where to meet, how to handle if kids can’t find you, and how they deal with strangers before you go.

Maybe sometime they will implement a location app like they have introduced at the H2O Live water park at the Margaritaville Orlando, but I will say I had some scary moments not being able to find all of the kids. And when this happens in a busy place around water, I get a little freaked out. This is another reason why I would also highly recommend life jackets for younger children.

Marine Habitat

I think one of the reasons why the Atlantis is so expensive is to pay for the upkeep of their marine habitat.  The resort offers 14 lagoons, eight million gallons of saltwater, and more than 50,000 aquatic animals representing over 250 marine species.

These exhibits are spread throughout the grounds with displays like The Dig (a pseudo-underwater archeological discovery featuring giant manta rays and other sea life), the predator tunnel (where you walk surrounded by the sea’s scariest creatures), and a number of different lagoons offering stingray feedings and dolphin encounters.

It is like having an aquarium built into your hotel. The Atlantis Bahamas also offers many types of marine experiences from hands-on stingray encounters, snorkeling in the ruins lagoon, walking with the sharks, and touch encounters for little kids. These experiences are add-on premium experiences, but great for animal lovers and adventure seekers.

The Marine Habitat is definitely fascinating for young kids, but from an adult perspective, it also has some drawbacks. First, some of these animals, like the sharks, are swimming around in a very small area. Now I’m no lover of sharks, but I’m also not cool with putting a bunch of giant predators in a small confined area for our pleasure.

Second, I’m not sure how good of a job they do with the upkeep. Even my daughter would call the Predator Tunnel the “stinky tunnel.”

Dolphin Cay

I have very mixed feelings about dolphin encounters. After all, it is a dream come true to get to interact with dolphins. However, many of these habitats cage in their animals and animal cruelty experts have brought attention to the ethics of these types of experiences.

Dolphin Cay (prounced key) at least is committed to conservation, rehabilitation, and education. Plus, the first residents of Dolphin Cay were 17 stranded dolphins and 10 sea lions whose home in Gulfport, Mississippi was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina and they focus on marine animal rehabilitation.

Visits support the  Atlantis Blue Project Foundation , with a focus on coral reef and habitat conservation, and Atlantis tries to keep interactions educational.

So you need to be your own judge and think about the impacts before you book. If you do decide to book an experience, prepare to pay through the nose, have less time than you hope for, and be totally ripped off if you want to purchase the pictures…but…the smile on your and your child’s face is truly priceless.

There are a number of in-water experiences in both shallow and deeper water, as well as behind-the-scenes tours available. If you do want to swim with the dolphins, be sure to book early as this is a very popular cruise-line excursion and fills up early.

Something for everyone

The Atlantis is a lot like a cruise ship on land…just much bigger.  You really can find something for everyone…teen dance clubs, cooking classes, swimming, waterpark, gambling, kids clubs, game room, water sports, spa, and more. There is even a pottery studio, theater, fitness center, tennis courts, and day trips and excursions.

In the evenings, guests can enjoy fine dining, laugh at a comedy club, dance at a nightclub, hit the casino, or take in one of the many live events. Just keep in mind that all this is spread out across multiple towers so it might feel like you have to walk a mile or more from your room to your selected activity.

But all of these activities and options really do make it great for a multigenerational trip, if you are the type of family to take advantage of all these resources.

Atlantis Bahamas Review: The Bad

Food & Dining Options at the Atlantis Bahamas

Theoretically, the Atlantis offers great food options, including restaurants from celebrity chefs Jose Andres and Nobu Matsuhisa. However, since you will probably only splurge for one meal at these fine dining establishments (unless you win big at the casino), the rest of the food is overpriced and just mediocre. The Atlantis Bahamas is not an all-inclusive resort, however, you can purchase a dining meal plan in advance or when you arrive (before your first meal.)

Since we were going with a large group of 14, we opted to try the meal plan, since it seemed like it offered cost savings.  What we weren’t told was that not all of the casual dining options were included and that room service also wasn’t included in the meal plan. Since sometimes those options are just easier when traveling with kids (especially when they get sick), we ended up double paying for certain meals.

The other options, like the Chinese restaurant and steakhouse, were just average and quite overpriced with mediocre service. The buffets were not really enjoyable. I admit that I’m not a big fan of buffets, but we have seen some good ones, but as they say “these were not them.”

The other downside about the food was the lack of Bahamian or Caribbean flair.  Out by the waterpark, all the snack bars offered the same fare.  It was very generic theme park food with hamburgers, hot dogs, veggie wraps, etc.

I left craving conch fritters or something authentic. I understand that now there is a Bahamian cuisine fine dining restaurant. However, I wish more Bahamian cuisine was wrapped into the other dining options instead of just creating familiar dining experiences that make U.S. guests comfortable.

I know when you go to a resort like the Atlantis, mosts guests tend to just stay on property, especially when you have a big group like we did. But if I did return, I’d opt to head into town for some more authentic and less over-priced meals.

The Atlantis is big, really big. Looking out my window at night was disconcerting. I was in the Caribbean right? Why was I looking out and seeing hotel towers lighting up the sky? Was this Las Vegas?

But while the Atlantis can hold thousands of people, what you don’t realize at first is that the Atlantis is packed not just with people staying there, but it is also filled with cruise ship passengers or those staying nearby that have bought a day pass to enjoy the Atlantis waterpark and facilities.

Scores of cruise ship passengers and visitors from neighboring hotels fill the Atlantis. This is something I really wish I knew ahead of time as it really would have made me think twice. I don’t know why I assumed those awesome water park rides would be just for guests of the hotel and therefore there wouldn’t be any lines or crowds.

Atlantis day passes range from $95 for kids under 13 to to $190 for a full-day adult Atlantis and water park pass.

Even with the amazing “deals” the Atlantis offers, the rooms were still over $500 per night in the non-centrally located Coral Towers. For that price, we expected something more. We knew we weren’t getting a beach view, but as I described above, I expected a much nicer room.

If you stay in the Cove or the Reef, at least your rooms are going to be nicer. The question would be, are they nice enough to make it worth it to you? Frankly if I was going to spend $800 a night, I can think of many nicer hotels I’d rather spend that on.

The  Beach 

There are certainly more pools than you can swim in during your vacation but if you come to the Caribbean, you probably would also like to spend some time at the beach. There are three ocean beaches at the Atlantis — the Cove Beach, Atlantis Beach, and Paradise Beach. There is also a Lagoon beach on the manmade lagoon in the center of the property.

There are apparently five miles of beaches, but we found the Atlantis beach to be quite small and under-serviced at the time that we visited. However, I have heard that the Cove beach is very nice and that it is restricted to only hotel guests (no day guests), so that would be where to go if you decide to book an Atlantis vacation. But, if a gorgeous beach is your priority, I would pick Beaches Resort Turks & Caicos over Atlantis.

The Bottom Line about the Atlantis Bahamas

The kids absolutely loved the Atlantis — especially the water park — actually mostly because of the water park. Now that our group is made up of teens and tweens, I think they also would have been a bit more discerning about some of the other aspects of the resort. But in general, whenever the cousins have time to play and relax together they are happy.

The eight adults of the group all felt that the Atlantis Bahamas was overpriced for what you got, too big, and too commercial for our tastes. My in-laws have since returned to the Bahamas and they fell in love with the service and atmosphere at the Rosewood Baha Mar .

Pro Money Savings Tip

Do all the activities and amenities of the Atlantis Bahamas appeal to you but you are still turned off by the price tag? There are other options. For example, you can stay nearby at the Comfort Suites Paradise Island and still get access to the Atlantis and waterpark, plus you can use your room key to pay at the restaurants and gift shops.

The Comfort Suites is one block away and all rooms are suites, which include a pull-out couch and small refrigerator — perfect for families. The hotel also includes free breakfast each morning and there is even a swim up pool bar.

Looking for other family-friendly resorts in the Caribbean?

Be sure to check out our review of Beaches Turks and Caicos , Club Med Martinique , Eden Roc at Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic, and the Grand Velas in Riviera Maya .

You may also want to consider alternates like Bermuda or Hawk’s Cay in the Florida Keys .

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: February 17, 2022

44 thoughts on “Atlantis Bahamas Review: The Good and Bad for Families”

I think Atlantis is my family’s favorite vacation ever! We travel to quite a few places each year and this is by far the only one we make an annual trip. It helps that we don’t pay for rooms due to us using the Casino discount. If you are part of Total Rewards (Harrah’s Casino/Caesar’s Palace/Paris Casino, etc), Atlantis is a partner and offers casino rates. We didn’t know this before and were excited to find this out. There is something for everyone to do and I find the food prices are the same as any other vacation destination you will go to. Very large portions too that can be split.

I am not sure why people get so upset about the Atlantis. If you don’t want a huge resort with high food prices why the hell did you pick the Atlantis????? We have been twice and are going back again this year. If you want small and authentic then book that! The Atlantis is a playground, resort. If you don’t want it just go somewhere else and probably end up complaining about that also.

Thanks for the review. Suspicions confirmed. We travel often with three golden rules. Never all inclusive, no cruises and never the same place twice. Disney and similar have never been in our plans either.

I admit to giving Atlantis consideration at one point when I just wasn’t up for all the vacation logistics planning, but similar reviews turned me away.

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Atlantis Bahamas Review 2024 + Travel Guide

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through the link, I earn a small commission without any extra cost to you. This helps keep my content free, thank you!

We recently spent a week in The Bahamas to celebrate our baby girl’s second birthday and it was nothing short of spectacular! The famous Atlantis Bahamas is the first place that came to my mind when we considered vacationing in The Bahamas. We are not resort people but this trip was all about relaxing and giving fun experiences for our baby girl and I knew that Atlantis Bahamas would be a perfect choice.

Atlantis Bahamas is a huge resort (even for resort standards) with several hotels to choose from, numerous restaurants to dine at, multiple activities to do while there and took a lot of planning. I did a lot of research to plan this trip and was not disappointed! Here is an honest review of our week long stay at Atlantis Bahamas and a comprehensive travel guide to help you decide which hotel/tower to stay at Atlantis Bahamas , where to eat in and around Atlantis Bahamas, activities for kids and adults at Atlantis and some useful tips and recommendations to make your stay eventful and stress free!

Table of Contents

An honest review – ATLANTIS BAHAMAS

Atlantis is a world-class resort located on Paradise Island in Bahamas and is known for its famous Aquaventure waterpark, white sand beaches, turquoise waters, amazing restaurants, casino and more. It was built in 1998 (25 years ago) and cost an estimated $900 million dollars to build. Atlantis Bahamas has everything you can think of (and more) and is a city in itself. In fact, you do not need to venture off the island! I have included as much information as I could in this guide to help you choose the best hotel, save on food, activities and finally my review of Atlantis Bahamas and if it is worth staying.

Is Atlantis Bahamas worth staying?

THE COVE AT ATLANTIS

If you ask me if ATLANTIS BAHAMAS is worth staying – my answer is absolutely, yes!! Atlantis Bahamas is worth staying if you are looking for a relaxing vacation with lots of activities for kids and adults. There is something to do for every age group at ATLANTIS BAHAMAS and I think it is perfect vacation spot whether you are looking for fun family time, a couples getaway or a group trip with friends. The aquapark, beaches, casino, shopping, golf course, fine dining, marine habitat and Marina Village make it an absolutely fun place to stay and we (especially our two year old) had the best time for her birthday!

I highly recommend staying at ATLANTIS BAHAMAS . I would advise you to set your expectations regarding the food, expenses and choose your hotel wisely. Be prepared to spend a bit more than expected as I mentioned above and you will have a blast! 

Tips and recommendations for your stay at Atlantis Bahamas

• Make sure you book your accommodation and activities well in advance as they are quite popular and can get sold out quickly.
• The resort is quite large and can be overwhelming to get around for first timers. Download a map of Atlantis or the app to orient yourselves. 
• The food is EXPENSIVE! If you plan to dine three times a day or have kids who need snacks and are hungry often, I highly recommend a trip to the grocery store and liquor store to save some $$.
• Make use of the free shuttles that run every 5-10 minutes between various hotels, the Marina Village and The Four Seasons. Taxis are also available at each hotel/tower if you would like to take a trip to Nassau Downtown or elsewhere. 
• Pack all the summer essentials – sunscreen, hat, tote bag, flip flops and sun dresses.
• US dollars are accepted everywhere and the Bahamian dollar is the same value as USD. Carry change or exchange notes either at the airport. Atlantis Bahamas is a cash free resort and you cannot get cash or change at the resort. And you would need enough cash to tip the staff and for taxi fares.
• The Bahamas in general and Atlantis are very expensive as they import most of the goods. Be prepared to spend top $$$ on everything.
• There are many free activities to do at Atlantis Bahamas. Take advantage of all the fun and free things to do before indulging in other experiences.
• If you are a hotel guest, you get a wristband for the duration of your stay that allows you access to the waterpark, pools and other facilities.
• There are sundries available at each of the hotels to buy snacks, sunscreen and other essentials.
• Your keycard not only gives you access to your room but can also be used at the casino and restaurants as a credit card. Keep it handy and you don’t have to carry your credit cards.

Getting to and around Atlantis Bahamas

Atlantis is about 30 min drive away from the closest airport – Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau. You have an option to either take a taxi or shuttle to Atlantis. You can also take a ferry from Nassau Downtown to Paradise Island. After the long flight, I recommend a taxi and the fare usually ranges from $40 – $60 USD.

Getting around Atlantis Bahamas

Don’t worry about getting around the resort. The resort offers multiple shuttles between the different towers/hotels, to/from The Marina Village, Golf Course and The Four Seasons resort. The shuttles are convenient and fun and our whole family enjoyed riding in them!

Taxis are readily available if you would like to venture off of Paradise Island to Nassau Downtown or elsewhere. Make sure you have enough cash for the fare plus tip.

You could take a fun ferry ride from Paradise Island to Nassau Downtown as well. Boat tours are also available to other islands like Exumas and Blue Lagoon.

Which hotel to stay in Atlantis Bahamas?

The reef at atlantis.

Choosing the right hotel to stay at Atlantis Bahamas can get overwhelming but also the most important step to make your stay enjoyable. There are 5 different hotels to choose from with different amenities. The choice of the hotel is based on your preferences whether you are looking for a romantic couples’ only space or a family friendly one with a kitchenette. This section breaks down the different hotel options and amenities available and a review of the hotels at Atlantis Bahamas.

The Royal at Atlantis Bahamas

This is the flagship tower of Atlantis Bahamas that is featured in all the photos of Atlantis Bahamas. It is central to all the main attractions including the aquaventure park, casino, and has multiple restaurants like Nobu, Olives to name a few. The Royal as the name suggests makes you feel like royalty but it is also one of the oldest and quite dated. We noticed that there is no bell service at The Royal and it can get quite crowded and noisy.

The Cove at Atlantis Bahamas

The cove is the most luxurious of all the hotels at Atlantis Bahamas and offers chic, contemporary accommodations with ocean views, private balconies, and access to an exclusive pool. The hotel also has a large adults only pool and has a small casino. There are several restaurants including The Fish, Sea Glass and Fresca. The lobby and the views from The Cove are incredible and this is an ideal hotel for a romantic couples stay. This was also my favorite hotel at Atlantis and it is the most expensive of all.

The Reef at Atlantis Bahamas

This is where we stayed as it came with sweeping views of the ocean similar to The Cove but also a kitchenette. As we traveled with a toddler, we wanted a kitchenette for a quick early breakfast or snack before heading out and The Reef was perfect for that. I also liked that they have bell service and the elevators are a quick walk from the lobby unlike The Royal towers. The Reef has a couple of pools (including a kids pool) and a private beach shared with The Cove guests. There is a Starbucks which gets super busy in the morning. I also liked that there is no Casino at the Reef and is perfect for families.

The Coral at Atlantis Bahamas

The Coral is an updated mid-range hotel and has its own pool and a lazy river. It is quite close to The Marina Village and the multiple restaurants there. It is a great choice if you’d like to stay close to The Marina Village.

Harborside Resort at Atlantis Bahamas

The Harborside comprises residential style villas with fully equipped kitchen, laundry and faces the Marina. These villas would be perfect for families with multiple kids and intending to cook or looking for spacious accommodation.

Activities to do in Atlantis Bahamas for kids and adults

• Beaches:  The beaches here are something else! Staying at Atlantis gives you access to stunning private as well as public beaches. The turquoise waters and white sand will make you feel right at paradise. The guests at The Reef and The Cove have exclusive access to Cove beach. I found it to be more peaceful and pleasant.

Aquaventure Waterpark:  This famous waterpark is one of the main reasons people visit Atlantis. It is one of the biggest and most exciting water parks in the world offering thrilling water slides, a not-so-lazy river, splash pools for kids and a replica of a Mayan temple. We had a lot of fun here exploring the waterpark and participating in the rides. Access to waterpark is free for resort guests.

• Relax by the pools:  What better way to spend your holiday morning than reading a book by the pool and watching your baby girl play in the water? That was what we did every day. 🙂 There are multiple pools at each hotel and are accompanied by restaurants and shacks to order food.
• Walk and Explore: I suggest taking the shuttle bus to each hotel and walk around to orient yourselves first. There is so much to see and do at the resort and the best way to explore is to walk.
• Marine Habitat: Explore an underwater world with more than 50,000 sea creatures, including sharks, rays, and exotic fish. You will find many of these at The Dig and scattered all around the resort. Pay good attention to water bodies wherever you find them as you may find turtles or manta rays. 🙂 They also let you feed different dish during different times of the day.

The Dig: The Dig is the highlight of our trip to Atlantis Bahamas. It is a large marine exhibit at The Royal and runs through the Aquaventure Water Park. My little one had lots of fun watching the stingrays, fish, lobsters and other sea creatures swim. We went there every day to watch the fish.

• Paradise Lagoon water sports: The paradise lagoon at The Royal tower offers many different water activities like SUP, kayaking, pedal boating. You need to pay for the rental though.
• Snorkel/Scuba diving the ruins: One can also snorkel or scuba dive the ruins at Atlantis. We’ve seen some kids and adults snorkeling and scuba diving. I had considered snorkeling but after seeing how cloudy the water was, I decided to give it a pass. Please bear that in mind if you plan to take kids snorkeling.

Marina Village: Marina Village is an outdoor shopping area with local stores, restaurants, ice cream shops and more. It is bustling with people and music at night and fun for every age group. We found that the restaurants here are less expensive and tastier than the ones at the resort. This was our spot every evening and you MUST try to conch salad at McKenzie’s Conch Shack and the seafood at Anthony’s.

• Dolphin Cay: You can swim with dolphins in a natural lagoon and learn about these intelligent creatures. Make sure you reserve ahead of time.
• Casino: Try your luck at gambling at one of the slot machines or gaming tables at the casino.
• Golf: Enjoy a round of golf at the Ocean Club Golf Course.

Dune at The Ocean Club: Take advantage of the shuttle bus that goes to The Four Seasons to enjoy a brunch or lunch at  The Dune. Make sure you reserve way ahead for lunch or dinner. The property and the grounds are beautiful to walk around. 

• Spa time at Mandara: Enjoy a relaxing massage or facial at Mandara Spa. Make sure you schedule ahead of your arrival!
• Shopping: If you are itching to spend more money, you are welcome to shop at the high end stores at The Royal or Marina Village. 😉
• Cooking classes/fun activities for kids (without parents): Atlantis offers cooking classes, fun activities and arcades for kids. Parents can enjoy a romantic dinner while kids have fun at the play centers.
• Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife at Atlantis, with live music, DJs, and a range of bars and nightclubs.

Where to eat in and around Atlantis Bahamas?

Atlantis Bahamas offers over 20 restaurants and dining options in multiple price ranges and tastes. Some of the most popular dining options include Nobu, Fish by José Andrés, Olives and Café Martinique. There are multiple restaurants at Marina Village as well.

A few things to note about dining at Atlantis Bahamas 

• If you are planning to indulge in fine dining, make sure you make the reservations well in advance (like at least a month)! I did not do that and all the fine dining restaurants were booked! Fortunately, some restaurants like Nobu allow walk-ins in the lounge and patio areas. Thanks to my husband, we were able to dine at Nobu (twice!) even without a reservation. 
• Try restaurants at The Marina Village for better food options.
• Head to Fish Fry if you would like to eat where the locals eat!
• One good thing about Atlantis Bahamas is that drinking water is free! Water canisters are provided and one can refill at the multiple stations throughout the resort.

Is food at Altantis expensive and worth the price?

• If you wish to save some $$$ on food, get some groceries and liquor at a local store.
• We found the food at the poolside restaurants and mid-range ones at Atlantis Bahamas to be mediocre at best. Avoid them and take your snacks with you. The food at fine restaurants like Nobu, Olives and Fish was delicious!!
• Seafood entrees range between $40-$70 and breakfast fare was $20-40. 15% gratuity is added to the bill.

Atlantis Bahamas -A review of our favorite restaurants

What’s not to like about the famous Nobu chain of restaurants? We went there twice during our stay and the food did not disappoint. The service was fast as well. Our favorites were the miso black cod, wagyu, tuna with crispy rice and rock shrimp tempura. I loved the sake but the cocktails were meh! We absolutely loved the lava cake and green tea dessert! As I wrote above, if you cannot find reservations, go directly at 5pm and check for availability at the lounge or patio. It worked both times for us!

This was another hit and a favorite. The focaccia and olive combo that was complimentary was delicious! We loved the garlic spinach, the caprese and the seafood entrees. 

Fish by José Andrés  

We dined here for breakfast multiple times and it was so good! We loved the benedicts and my favorite was the Bahamian boiled fish. It was so simple yet delicious – a must try in The Bahamas!

Other mid-range restaurants at Altantis Bahamas

Fresca, Lagoon bar and grill, Murray’s Deli.

There is a Starbucks at The Reef for a quick coffee or breakfast. 

Marina Village restaurants to try 

If you visit Marina Village, you MUST try the conch salad (both traditional and tropical) at McKenzie’s Conch Shack. Anthony’s across from Marina Village is great for seafood. There is also a Dunkin’ Donuts right next to it.

Other restaurants in Marina Village that we found to be busy were Carmine’s, Cafe Martinique, Burger Shack, Marina Pizza and Ben and Jerry’s.

LOCAL DELICACIES of The Bahamas that you must try!

Conch salad.

Conch is an edible sea creature that is unique to The Caribbean Islands and famous in The Bahamas, Turk and Caicos. It is loaded with vitamins and nutrients. The first time we had the conch salad was in Providenciales in Turks and Caicos and loved it so much. We were so glad to have found it again in The Bahamas. The conch salad at McKenzie’s Conch Shack in Marina Village was incredible and a must try. Even our toddler loved the salad.

Conch fritters

Conch fritters are another delicacy made with conch and a great option if you’d like to try conch but not the raw version.

Bahamian boiled fish

A local said that Bahamians eat stewed/boiled fish for breakfast and fried/grilled for lunch and dinner. We had the boiled Bahamian grouper with grits and it was so delicious. It looks simple but tastes heavenly!

Restaurants at Fish Fry

This is an area with multiple restaurants frequented by locals and the food here is delicious and much less expensive. We had the conch fritters, fish fry (obivously!) and grilled fish at Oh! Andros and they were all yum. All the entrees were accompanied by peas and rice, plantains, cole slaw and other sides that were equally good.

Local beer like Kalik and Sands are popular in The Bahamas and are worth a try.

Final thoughts and Review – Bahamas Atlantis

Atlantis Bahamas is a great hotel for visitors seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. With its world-class amenities, including the iconic waterpark, diverse dining options, and stunning beaches, Atlantis offers an experience that caters to all ages and interests. If you are looking for family friendly hotel, choose your stay at The Reef or Harborside . If you are looking for a romantic stay, I highly recommend The Cove . Atlantis Bahamas is not just a vacation; it’s an adventure into a world of wonders, making it a truly worthwhile stay. 

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I am Aswani Kurra. I am an engineer, dreamer and part-time wanderlust, writer and wine lover. I always had an urge to write, create and travel. So I created this space to satisfy my creative itch and combine all my skills to help you plan your Charming Escape.

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Gorgeous photos! From your article the Atlantis Bahamas sounds like a lovely place to stay. As a foodie I love how you discussed the local delicacies. Thanks for sharing your experience!

Hi there. We also have a little one that just turned two. Can you share more about the babysitting or kids club options that they have? I noticed you went to dinner a few times. That sounds wonderful!!

Hi, thanks for reading and hope you enjoy your stay! Regarding your question, we didn’t take advantage of any of the babysitting services. The kids club I believe is only for kids aged 3 or above. We wanted to send her there but couldn’t. Our daughter loves going to restaurants so didn’t really look for any babysitting services. Although we didn’t use it, one of the guests we talked to mentioned that they had a good experience. Make sure you ask questions and also state your requirements beforehand. Little ones love it there. 🙂

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Your Trip to the Bahamas: The Complete Guide

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How to Take a Day Trip to Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas

The Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island is an entire tropical world unto itself. This Bahamian resort boasts casinos, underwater shark walks, and frolicking dolphins. As one of the most famous hotels in the Bahamas , the Atlantis also boasts multiple hotel towers and specific resort sections to accommodate a wide variety of guests' every wish. But, you don’t need to be a guest at the resort to visit this mega-resort. In fact, millions of visitors to Nassau take a quick taxi or water-shuttle ride to experience the resort's casinos and restaurants. From information on the top attractions to details about how to get there (and which day pass to reserve), read on for your ultimate guide to day-tripping to Atlantis Paradise Island.

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Attractions and Things to Do at Atlantis Paradise Island

There are 85 gaming tables, 21 restaurants, and 19 bars and lounges at Atlantis Paradise Island. However, while throwing down some cash on the craps tables or roulette wheel may satisfy some visitors, others—especially families—are drawn to the Atlantis' aquatic allure; specifically the resort's spectacular "lost world" themed water park, dolphin encounter program, beaches, and the underground mysteries of The Dig, a walk-through exploration of the Lost City of Atlantis. Day tickets for all of these activities can be purchased at Discover Atlantis Sales Centers located throughout the property.

Given the hordes of visitors to the Atlantis daily, it's not surprising that the resort limits access to some of these attractions—notably the Aquaventure pool and water park area—to preserve a premier experience for hotel guests. However, that does not mean that day-trippers can't visit the Atlantis attractions, including Aquaventure; you'll have to pay a bit for the privilege (and expect a significant markup on these prices if you buy through a cruise line).

• Dolphin Cay at Atlantis: Day visitors can swim and play with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins at the state-of-the-art, 14-acre habitat.
• Discover Atlantis Tour: This tour is best known to day-trippers, in part because it is sold as an excursion on cruise ships. Expert "Navigators" guide visitors through the ancient city streets of Atlantis during a visit to "The Dig," a faux-but-believable archaeological exploration of an 11,000-year-old lost continent. The attraction is full of interesting artifacts, along with great water effects and glimpses of exotic sea life, including piranha, moon jellyfish, venomous lionfish, and a resident manta ray. A Discover Atlantis Tour wristband allows visitors to explore The Dig and its exhibits as well as the Ruins, Predator, and Water’s Edge Lagoons—but not the waterpark.
• Atlantis Beach Day: The Atlantis Beach Day program provides all-day access to the Atlantis resort's exclusive white sandy beaches, with lounge chairs and towels provided. It also includes access to marine habitats and lunch at an outside venue.
• Atlantis Aquaventure Package : Day-trippers can purchase an Atlantis Aquaventure package that provides all-day access to pools, beaches, and Aquaventure, a 141-acre waterscape containing over 20 million gallons of water with water slides, and a mile-long river ride with high-intensity rapids and wave surges. The passes are only available to guests staying at partners of the Atlantis Resort. They can be purchased (on a restricted basis) at the Atlantis Adventures Desk at the clock tower in front of The Coral.

How to Get There

Paradise Island (formerly Hog Island) is a 685-acre island off the northern coast of Nassau, the capital of the island of New Providence. There is no public transport to take you to Paradise Island—the local bus system, the "jitney," will only take you as far as the ferry terminal, so your best bet is either to take a ferry or a taxi.

To access Paradise Island by water, hop aboard a 15-minute ferry ride from Nassau to Paradise Island. The ferry departs from Nassau Cruise Port from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and costs $3 for a one-way ticket. On your boat ride to Paradise Island, a guide will also give you a brief history lesson of the island and its many attractions. Once you've arrived on Paradise Island, it's a 10-minute walk from the ferry dock to Marina Village in Atlantis.

If you decide to rent a car, note that there is limited free parking available on Paradise Island (and limited spots are found near the public beach). The best alternative is to valet your vehicle at the cost of $16.75 per day. Whether you're driving or opting for a taxi, be prepared to pay the northbound one-way $1 bridge toll. In taxis, this will be on top of your metered fare—and the average cost for a one-way trip from Lynden Pindling International Airport to Paradise Island is about $35. Another alternative is to be dropped off along the coast of New Providence to walk across the bridge (an activity that is toll-free). Once you've arrived on the island, there's no need to rent a car, as visitors can easily walk the grounds and explore everything the hotel has to offer on foot.

Day passes are mandatory for all non-hotel guests at the Atlantis to experience Dolphin Cay, the waterpark, the marine habitat, and the beaches. The passes can be purchased (on a restricted basis) at the Atlantis Adventures desk, situated at the clock tower at The Coral. These passes have been known to sell out, so it's imperative to book online in advance. World Travel Holdings also sells day passes to Aquaventure, Atlantis Dolphin Cay, and the iconic British Colonial Hilton. These passes are marketed primarily to cruise visitors but can be an excellent add-on for anyone visiting Nassau.

• The Aquaventure pass includes admission to Aquaventure and The Dig, lounge chairs, and towels.
• Dolphin Cay experiences include a shallow-water interaction with dolphins.
• The British Colonial Hilton pass includes all-day access to the resort's pristine private beach and pool, snorkeling and kayaking, lounge chairs and towels, and a food and beverage credit.

Tips for Visitors

• There's more to Paradise Island than just the Atlantis, so be sure to explore the rest of the island. We suggest hiking to the Nassau lighthouse for gorgeous seaside views along the coast. Of all the waterpark attractions, the underwater shark walk is not to be missed—imagine a turquoise tunnel full of predators. (It's as scary and thrilling as it sounds).
• There is no visitor information center in Paradise Island, so make sure to consult downtown the tourist information available for visitors in downtown Nassau.
• If you're planning on staying for dinnertime, make a reservation in advance, as restaurants can become busy, especially in the colder months. Additionally, the resort will limit attractions during the peak busy season to preserve hotel guests' experience—a hindrance that won't be an issue for you if you're visiting during the off-season. If you're visiting in the off-season (summer and fall), expect fewer crowds—for the waterslides and the bars and restaurants, alike.
• If you're taking the ferry to Paradise Island, remember to bring cash. Although exact change isn't necessary, it's helpful as you will be expected to tip your tour guides, who provide colorful commentary and historical insight into the past and present-day iterations of Nassau and Paradise Island.

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• March 16, 2022

Is the Atlantis Bahamas resort worth it?

The Atlantis on Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas was on my travel bucket list for years so I was ecstatic to finally have the opportunity to stay here and write this Atlantis Bahamas review for you. I had an amazing vacation at Atlantis.

If you just want me to cut to the chase, yes booking Atlantis Bahamas is worth it! Even though the price point is high, we made amazing bucket list memories that we’ll remember forever. It was worth every penny. After all, that’s what bucket list trips are – expensive but worth it!

Ready to book your trip to Atlantis ? Let’s go! 🐬

In this Atlantis Bahamas Resort review, I will provide my experience staying at The Cove , which is the most expensive hotel at the Atlantis Bahamas resort.

Staying at The Cove at Atlantis was spectacular. The experience was absolutely worth it. I wish the food had been a bit better, but overall we had an amazing vacation. It’s hard to have a bad day when you wake up to these views…

Atlantis Bahamas Review – The Cove Hotel

We stayed at The Cove because it was just the two of us and we wanted a luxury vacation. It was absolutely stunning. While pricey, I highly recommend staying at The Cove. The entrance, hallways, service, and our room were all excellent.

We had a suite with two queen beds and a sunken living room with a sofa and a desk. The beds were very comfortable, and so were the pillows. I don’t know about you, but cloud-like pillows make all the difference for me!

When we arrived, we found a beach bag, water bottles and flip-flops waiting for us in our room. We were immediately thrilled with our decision to spoil ourselves.

These goodies were a nice surprise and they made for great souvenirs I still use today. Every time I grab my Cove water bottle, I am reminded of our fantastic vacation.

The best part of the room was our patio and its sweeping views of the ocean and resort. I enjoyed our patio views every single day. There’s nothing better than ocean views of the blue Caribbean waters to make you feel like you’re on vacation.

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Which is the best hotel at Atlantis Bahamas?

Atlantis Paradise Island Nassau Bahamas resort has five hotels and one resort where you can stay on Paradise Island. They are: The Royal , The Coral , The Cove , The Reef , and the Harborside Resort . If you are arriving on a boat for your family vacation, you can drop anchor at the Atlantis Marina.

This decision regarding where to stay will largely be based on whether or not you are travelling with young kids and how much money you wish to spend. They all look amazing so I’m sure no matter which one you pick, you’ll be happy.

If you are travelling as a family or larger group, I would recommend that you stay at the Harborside Resort . These rooms are spacious and they come with your own complete kitchen and have available laundry facilities.

Since we were travelling without kids, we wanted a luxury experience as well as an adults-only pool environment where we could relax. Being able to lounge at The Cove’s exclusive pool and listen to the DJ spin without hearing children screaming was worth every penny.

When you stay at The Cove, your wristbands are a different colour, signifying that you are guests of The Cove. This allows you to use their private adults-only pool. This pool also has a private bar, reserved only for Cove guests.

If you are travelling with kids, I would suggest staying at The Royal . The Royal Towers is the famous pink building and it is centrally located as it is the epicentre of the resort. We went into The Royal Towers area every day. There is a lot to see and do inside The Royal Hotel.

Many of the restaurants, bars and casinos are located inside the Royal Towers building. The interior even houses a giant aquarium. Kids could easily be entertained for hours inside this hotel. We didn’t venture into any of the other hotels, but you can compare them here .

Atlantis Paradise Island Nassau Bahamas Review – The Food

The best meal we had at Atlantis was at Nobu. Their sushi was so decadent that we went back a second night. Their Bahama sushi roll is a must-try!

As someone who lives in the coastal city of Vancouver, I enjoy fine seafood and sushi and Nobu certainly delivered. It is pricey, but if you can do it, definitely dine at Nobu.

A close second was our dinner at Seafire Steakhouse. The bone-in ribeye I had was spectacular. And that says a lot because I am a bit of a steak snob. I love my steak 😉

The portions at Seafire were perfect, as you can see below. The asparagus tasted fresh and was cooked to perfection. They also have a fantastic wine list to accompany your steak.

We also enjoyed dinner inside at Olives, which was yummy. We went back the following day to enjoy lunch on the patio at Olives overlooking the superyachts. I am all about patio dining whenever possible.

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The views from the Olives’ patio are quite spectacular. Some of the yachts are massive and an incredible sight to watch while dining. I enjoyed a Lobster Roll with an Aperol Spritz and it hit the spot.

Nobu and Olives aside, the rest of their restaurants were okay. This is fairly common at resorts so not that surprising. My Atlantis Bahamas Resort review is entirely positive, except where the food is concerned. Overall though, we enjoyed the majority of our meals.

The food was very expensive, yet the quality was not reflective of the high prices. Although that could be said for most hotel restaurants, lol! I will mention that due to Covid not all of the restaurants were open. In fact, many of the Atlantis Paradise Island Nassau Bahamas restaurants were closed when we visited. This was rather disappointing.

One exception was Carmines Restaurant. As you can see below, the portions are massive. We could have easily shared one dish. If you are visiting Atlantis as a family, I would recommend checking out Carmine’s, as long as your kids are willing to share. You would get excellent value for your dollar here. Especially if you are staying in a room with a kitchenette and could reheat leftovers.

Reservations must be made to dine at the restaurants so be sure to book well in advance of your arrival. Our trip was last-minute but we were still able to book many of our dinners online before we arrived.

I’m glad we did because most restaurants were fully booked when we arrived. Had we not made reservations before we left on our trip, we would have surely missed out on some of their fine dining establishments.

Pro Tip: use the app Open Table for your bookings before your trip. It’s fast and efficient and it syncs with your phone’s calendar so you won’t forget which restaurant you booked for what night.

I’d also suggest that when you stay at Atlantis Paradise Island Nassau Bahamas, you also get off the resort to experience the true Bahamian culture by dining where the locals do. The Fish Fry is a short taxi ride away and a very popular restaurant. We walked off the resort and hopped on a water taxi to get into town. It was a fun way to see Nassau.

What is there to do at Atlantis Bahamas?

You could easily spend a week at Atlantis and never have to leave. There are beautiful beaches, 11 pools, a lazy river, lots of waterslides, lagoons filled with stingrays and sharks, golf, tennis, a fitness center, a spa, and so on. Many water activities are included, but they also offer a wide variety of marine activities at additional costs.

You can easily spend a day exploring the grounds and checking out all of the Instagram-worthy spots, such as the heart swing and rope bridge. It’s an incredibly insta-worthy resort with loads of photo-ops.

There is so much to see and do without leaving the Atlantis resort. In fact, we only left the resort twice. Once to explore the town of Nassau, and the second time for a Swimming with the pigs excursion. It’s a thing and it was a really fun day!

During our excursion, we were out on the water all day long and we visited 5 different islands, including Pig Island. If you’re interested, check out my review and 10 pro tips for swimming The Bahamas’ pigs . This excursion met up in the lobby of The Royal so it was very convenient for hotel guests.

The marine adventures they offer include swimming with the dolphins, scuba diving, snuba, snorkelling and more. We found these activities to be extremely expensive so we did not do any of them. However, if I hadn’t already swam with dolphins in Mexico, I likely would have paid for that one.

Regardless of which hotel you decide to stay in, you have access to the entire resort. We ventured into The Royal every day to explore its attractions, check out the casino and dine in several of the restaurants. My Atlantis Bahamas review of the facility itself is extremely positive. You will not be bored here with all of the activities they offer.

Is Atlantis Bahamas all-inclusive?

No, Atlantis is not an all-inclusive resort . They call themselves a full-service resort. While staying at Atlantis, access to the Aquaventure water park is included, but food and drinks are not. All meals will cost you extra.

You simply charge everything to the room and receive a bill at check-out. This is very convenient because you never have to worry about carrying around your wallet.

We spent quite a lot of money on food and drinks. To give you an idea, we could have stayed at a Sandals 5-star luxury all-inclusive resort for a week for less than what we ended up spending on food and drinks at Atlantis in a week.

Having said this, we were not on a tight budget and we did splurge on what we wanted to eat and drink. But I will say that the higher-end, nicer restaurants like Nobu are quite expensive. $300 dinners every night add up fast!

Atlantis Bahamas Restaurants Dining Plans

Atlantis is not all-inclusive. In the past, they used to offer dining plans, however, they currently do not. Their website does not state whether or not they plan on offering dining plans again in the future. My guess is no, but we will have to wait and see.

If Atlantis does offer its dining plans again, it would certainly make a difference in the amount of money spent on food. Dining plans aren’t the same as being all-inclusive, but they certainly do help with food costs on a vacation.

Is the Atlantis Day Pass worth it?

If you are staying at the resort, you don’t need one because it’s FREE! You have access to the entire Aquaventure waterpark. This is included with your stay so you do not need to purchase a day pass.

Atlantis’ Aquaventure Waterpark

Aquaventure is the 141-acre water park that encompasses the Atlantis Bahamas resort. It includes numerous water slides, tube slides, river raft rides, lagoons and more.

We thoroughly enjoyed exploring all the water park has to offer. Even as adults, it is highly entertaining and a ton of fun! You could easily spend several days enjoying the Aquaventure waterpark and all of its activities.

There are lots of activities to experience at Aquaventure and guests staying at the resort have access to all of it. However, even if you decide to stay at a different hotel in the Bahamas, you can visit Aquaventure for the day. Day passes to Aquaventure can be purchased for those who are not staying at the resort. To find out if purchasing a day pass to Atlantis is worth it , check out this detailed post.

The basic day pass starts at $95 for kids and $190 for adults and provides access to the Aquaventure park, water slides, beach etc. The Leap of Faith waterslide is pictured below where you zoom through a shark tank. And yes, I did it. It was an exhilarating ride!

Other activities are available at additional costs, including swimming with the dolphins or sea lions, paddleboarding, snorkelling and much more. The dolphins were rescued from Hurricane Katrina. We didn’t swim with them, but we did visit Dolphin Cay to watch them swim around. With access to Aquaventure, you can also visit the dolphins at no extra cost.

Do I need a visa to travel to the Bahamas?

The Bahamas’ entry requirements vary. You can check to see if you need a visa here as it depends on which country you are travelling from. Currently, all visitors to the Bahamas are required to have a health declaration . You must have this completed and available to show at customs upon arrival.

Conclusion – Honest Atlantis Bahamas Review

Honestly, in my opinion, yes Atlantis Bahamas is absolutely worth it. My Atlantis Bahamas Resort review is overall very positive and I would recommend visiting Atlantis. For me, it was a bucket list trip and it lived up to the hype. If you’ve been thinking about a trip to Atlantis, you won’t regret it!

I hope you found this detailed and honest review of the Atlantis Bahamas Resort helpful. If you are excited and ready to book, check rates and availabilities now.

And finally, should you decide to enjoy a visit to the Atlantis Bahamas resort, check out these 15 epic day trips in Nassau you could enjoy during your vacation as well as my ultimate packing list for what to bring to Atlantis Bahamas . I guarantee that it will be the trip of a lifetime!

Got a question or a comment on this article? Join the conversation on  Facebook ,  Instagram , or  X  and share your thoughts!

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Bahamas Atlantis Review: Is Paradise Island Worth It?

Are you looking for a Bahamas Atlantis review before your Caribbean vacation?

Atlantis is a popular resort, but does it hold up to the hype? Is Atlantis worth it?

Or maybe you booked your trip already and want to know what Atlantis Hotel amenities you should focus on. There is so much to choose from! My husband and I stayed at the Atlantis Resort for our honeymoon. He had been to the Bahamas before, but it was a new tropical vacation destination for me. We’re both certified, so we focused a lot on SCUBA diving (I’ll tell you more about the shark dive later!), but we also just enjoyed exploring Paradise Island.

It was a trip to remember from winning at the casino to a surprise swim with the Dolphins.

Let me explain what the Bahamas Atlantis Resort offers and my personal experience staying there to help you plan your vacation.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Atlantis Bahamas Hotel Options

Atlantis Resort has five hotel towers. Each one has a different theme and location on Paradise Island.

Paradise Island is a private island the resort is located on with a road connecting it to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas.

Which hotel you stay at depends on who you are traveling with and what type of vacation you want.

The Cove is the most expensive Atlantis Hotel. Some may say it’s for adults only, but families are also welcome to stay here for a more oasis vacation vibe.

There is an adult-only pool area with cabanas, a private bar, and outdoor games. Nearby, you have the Cascades Pool for any age, but only for Cove and Reef guests.

The Reef is next to the Cove and offers high-end studios and suites. There are either kitchenettes or full kitchens, and you can get groceries delivered.

This hotel tower is perfect for extended vacation stays, families, or large groups. It’s got a great location and a playground! A Starbucks is conveniently located in the lobby. You can get your coffee anytime!

You’re right by a shuttle that can take you to other locations within the Atlantis resort.

The Royal is the iconic pink hotel in the middle of the Atlantis resort.

Even though we didn’t stay here, we explored the area. Chances are you will visit the Royal quite often no matter what hotel tower you book.

Many food choices and the casino are in the Royal Tower, but my favorite part was the indoor aquarium!

It's a beautiful spot to walk around and enjoy the ocean-themed designs. The Royal Hotel is centrally located, so you can easily walk to the water park, Atlantis Marina, or anywhere else on Paradise Island.

The Coral is perfect for any age but is the best choice for families. 

The Coral Pool has a swim-up bar and family cabanas. This pool is between the hammerhead shark habitat and the crown nose rays lagoon.

If you have a teenager, the Coral Tower is where Atlantis has CRUSH, their teens-only night club.

It’s a perfect location for food and shopping at the Royal or the Marina and is close to the Aquaventure water park.

Harborside Resort

My husband and I stayed at the Harborside Resort through his parents’ timeshare.

You don’t need a timeshare to stay at Harborside, but it is very convenient if you own a timeshare or rent points from someone who does.

It’s a facade of colorful houses of villas with full kitchens and laundry.

I enjoyed leaving the busy hotel areas for this quiet corner of the Atlantis Resort. We stayed about 10 days and used the kitchen and laundry perks.

The pool was fun and relaxing, and you have a stunning view of the ocean, Atlantis Marina, and Royal Tower.

Things to Do at Atlantis Bahamas

There are a lot of activities, amenities, and experiences at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas.

I love having so many options all in one place.

When you stay at Atlantis, your vacation has marine animals, waterslides, beach time, lounging poolside, shopping, and much more.

Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park

Your stay at the Bahamas Atlantis Resort includes the Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park.

There are a lot of water slides to choose from, but the most notable are the Serpent Slide and the Leap of Faith.

The Serpent Slide is an enclosed water slide where you ride on an inflatable tube with a 2-person tube option. This slide takes you through the 5-stories of the Mayan Temple and then a see-through tunnel going through the aquarium.

You have a stunning panoramic view of the Caribbean Ocean and the Atlantis Resort from the top of the Mayan Temple. The view is worth the stairs to get to the top.

The Leap of Faith is a steep 60-foot water slide going down a different side of the Mayan Temple. This slide also goes through a see-through tunnel through the Aquaventure aquarium.

These and many other thrill water slides have a 48” height requirement. Poseidon's Playground is a kid-centered water area next to the Ripples Kids Slide.

Marine Habitat and Dolphin Cay

Atlantis has over a dozen marine habitats throughout the Bahamas Atlantis Paradise Island, and over 50,000 marine mammals.

The Water’s Edge Lagoon has crown nose rays, and there is a hammerhead shark exhibit.

Discover multiple indoor and outdoor aquariums just by walking around the resort. Half the fun is not knowing what you might see next.

My Bahamas Atlantis review isn’t complete without explaining Dolphin Cay where you can swim or kayak with dolphins in their 14-acre habitat.

This dolphin habitat isn’t just a spot where you can watch dolphins from a sandy beach, but you can reserve an encounter where you swim with the dolphins.

Knowing that dolphins are my favorite animal, my husband surprised me with the swimming with dolphins experience. 

It was such a unique experience, especially with the dolphin’s rostrum pushing your feet while you hold onto a boogie board. 

You can buy photographer pictures of your encounter. My photo looks like the dolphin’s tail is my own!

If you're passionate about animals and nature, Atlantis on Paradise Island is the perfect destination.

Pools and Beaches

We spent a lot of time in the pool, except when a thunderstorm started. At least it didn’t last long! 

General rule of thumb: don’t be in the water when there’s lightning.

The benefit of going to the Caribbean in June is that you’re enjoying the islands right before hurricane season.

Each Atlantis Hotel has its pool area. The Harborside Pool has a mini splash pad in the shallow end. You can see the Royal Tower and the boats in the marina from the jacuzzi.

Drinks are available poolside, and there is a billiards table. I won our game of billiards, of course!

The Cascades Pool is only for the Cove and Reef guests, but there are plenty of pool options in the Aquaventure water park if you want to explore more.

Paradise Beach is only for Cove and Reef guests, while Royal Beach and Atlantis Beach are for any hotel guests.

Other fun things to do include renting jet skis, snorkel equipment, kayaks, or paddleboards at the beach. 

Kayaking is fun with tons of benefits , but the last time I kayaked in the Caribbean Sea, my husband tipped us over on purpose. It was quite the event turning the kayak back over and climbing back in.

Atlantis Marina

You can dock your boat at the  Atlantis Marina. We enjoyed looking at all the fancy yachts, especially lit up at night.

There are also small shops in the Atlantis Marina. My husband had to get Kalik, a Bahamian beer, with his pizza at the Marina Pizzeria.

The Tortuga rum cake shop was the perfect souvenir, and I enjoyed the Oh Sugar Candy shop.

Ben & Jerry’s was delicious, although we did prefer Bernie’s all-natural Bahamian homemade ice cream. Get the coconut and pineapple!

You can catch live music playing throughout the day and in the evenings. The marina is beautiful when the lights go on at night.

Bahama Tours and Marine Adventures

There are a lot of things to do in the Bahamas, and heading off-site gives you even more adventure options. The tours are easy to book online or through the Bahamas Atlantis Resort.

We did a boat tour of Nassau and some SCUBA diving. If you’re not SCUBA certified, you can get a temporary certification or choose snorkeling.

We dove by an authentic shipwreck and a shipwreck created for a movie set (I think it was for a James Bond movie). I love being surrounded by colorful schools of fish!

The real highlight is the Shark Dive offered by Stuart Coves Dive Bahamas . 

We were all on our knees on the sand about 40 feet underwater, and a diver in a chainmail suit was in the middle with a chum bucket. 

The Caribbean Reef Sharks zoomed past us to get the chum, and some bumped into me! It was surreal and one of the best dives ever.

Next time we go, I want to visit the pigs. The swimming pigs live on Rose Island, but many people call it “Pig Island.”

There’s a 4-hour Swimming with the Pigs tour . The tour includes snorkeling over a coral reef and shipwreck at Atholl Island, followed by sightseeing in Green Cay where you can see sea turtles, and ending with a pig-filled adventure on Rose Island.

The tour includes snacks, water, soda, snorkel equipment for Atholl Island, and optional kayaks or paddleboards at Rose Island. Meals and alcoholic beverages are an additional cost.

You get picked up by a boat near Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville on Paradise Island, so it’s convenient for resort guests.

Additional Atlantis Amenities

The Atlantis Hotel Casino in the Royal Tower has fun slot machines and casino game tables. 

I won over $100 on one of the machines! Not that I could do it again if I tried, but it was exciting. My husband lost, so it was a wash anyway. That’s how gambling goes, right?

Atlantis also has the Ocean Club Golf Course on Paradise Island. The golf course has beautiful ocean views and an 18-hole par over 7,100 yards.

Other hotel amenities are the Mandara Spa, fitness centers, and theatrical performances.

Shops are everywhere in the hotels, at the golf course, and throughout the Marina. You can buy souvenirs or enjoy boutique shops for the fun of shopping.

The Aura Nightclub has a dancing nightlife for adults, and Atlantis has a Kids Club full of activities for the little ones.

Atlantis Bahamas has a little bit of everything you could want for a Caribbean vacation, so pack for fun in the sun and more formal attire.

Atlantis Bahamas Resort Food

Before I discuss the food options on Paradise Island, I need to give you a food recommendation off-site.

The Twin Brothers restaurant in Nassau is a must. You can’t give a Bahamas Atlantis Review without mentioning this field trip.

The restaurant is a quick 10-minute taxi ride from Atlantis. They are famous for their seafood and conch fritters.

No matter where you eat, make sure to try the local food. I think the food in Puerto Rico and the Bahamian food are my favorites in the Caribbean.

Signature Dining

Nobu is the most popular signature dining restaurant in Atlantis. The menu is Japanese cuisine with Peruvian and European influences.

It's the perfect sit-down formal dining option for families or couples. Kids under 6 are allowed if your family’s reservation is before 7 pm.

Other signature dining options include French, Bahamian, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine.

Make a reservation if you plan on a special occasion dinner or prefer fine dining on vacation.

Casual Dining

There are several casual dining restaurants available for sit-down meals without a reservation.

Seafire Steakhouse has delicious steak and plenty of surf and turf options. The restaurant is family-friendly, but Seafire Steakhouse does require smart casual attire.

A more casual option is Bimini Road. It offers authentic Bahamian cuisine and has a colorful design with booth-style seating.

Atlantis has plenty of fast dining and grab-and-go options like snack carts and Starbucks throughout the resort. I enjoyed the pizza from Marina Pizzaria, and the outdoor tables were the perfect spot to eat while looking at the boats in the Marina.

Burger Shack has milkshakes, but you need to try the Goombay Punch. It’s a sugary, carbonated, tropical fruit punch made in the Bahamas.

Dining Plans

A great way to save some money on dining is to purchase a dining plan . 

This does not include the fancier signature restaurants, but it does include two casual meals and one snack per day.

Non-alcoholic beverages are included, such as water, coffee, tea, soda, and lemonade.

You choose what you want your two included meals to be. There are participating dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

You can still eat anywhere on Paradise Island, but it is an additional charge and not included in your dining package.

Day Pass to Atlantis Resort

You do not need a day pass if you’re a resort guest at any of the Atlantis hotels.

If you are a local or staying off-site, you do need to purchase a day pass to enjoy any of the resort amenities or book a tour like swimming with dolphins experience at Dolphin Cay.

The day pass gets you access to the Aquaventure water park, the beaches, shopping, dining, the casino, and the marine life habitats.

Atlantis is not a cheap resort, but the Bahamas is one of the cheaper islands in the Caribbean . Depending on your budget, you could stay off-site and get the day pass for one day during your visit.

There are multiple ways to save money in the Caribbean , and resort day passes are one of them.

Is the Bahamas Atlantis Resort all-inclusive?

No, the Bahamas Atlantis Resort is not all-inclusive. 

It may seem that way, because there is so much to do at no additional cost, but the food is not included in resort fees.

You can purchase a dining pass to help make it more of an “all-inclusive” vacation, but you will still be limited on how much food you get with the pass. Alcoholic beverages are also not included in the dining pass.

Even though it’s not all-inclusive, it’s a popular destination because of the water park and other amenities that are included. Plus the Bahamas is one of the islands in the Caribbean that don’t require a US passport .

Bahamas Atlantis Review Summary

My Bahamas Atlantis review is yes, the Atlantis resort is worth it.

The price tag can add up, but if you budget for the resort, you will have the time of your life. Atlantis has a full-on resort atmosphere which lets you sink into vacation mode.

Even without swimming with the dolphins or SCUBA diving, just walking around the marine habitats, soaking up beach time, and lounging at the pool is worth your vacation days. 

Remember, the Aquaventure water park is included for hotel guests, too!

You get the benefits of a tourist resort and fun experiences. The best part? You are in the Bahamas and can easily explore more of Nassau.

What do you think? Are you ready to book a Caribbean vacation for some ice cream, poolside drinks, waterslides, and aquariums? I know I’m ready to head back!

Best Things to Do at Atlantis Bahamas: 23 Attractions and Activities

Atlantis Bahamas offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. Located on Paradise Island in The Bahamas, this destination features natural beauty, vibrant culture, and an array of attractions and activities to suit every traveler. From families seeking an immersive educational experience to couples searching for some relaxation – there’s something here for everyone! Explore marine life encounters at Dolphin Cay or take a dip in the incredible Aquaventure waterpark – it’s easy to find your own corner of paradise here! So read on to explore the 23 best things to do at Atlantis Bahamas resort.

1. Aquaventure Water Park

One of the best attractions at Atlantis Bahamas is Aquaventure, a 141-acre waterscape teeming with exciting water rides and activities. Lazy River Ride offers an easygoing, family-friendly tube ride through lush landscaping and tropical scenery. The Current offers more adrenaline with its fast-paced water escalators, rolling waves, and rapids. With 20 swimming areas, 18 water slides, and kiddie splash areas, this is the biggest water park in the Caribbean, the fourth largest in the world, and clearly one of the best things to do at Atlantis Bahamas. Even better, the water park is free for guests staying overnight!

A guest takes the plunge on Leap of Faith | Image © Atlantis

2. The Beaches

Atlantis Bahamas boasts 5 miles of white sand beaches and turquoise waters that are perfect for a relaxing vacation. From strolls along the expansive sandy beaches to swimming, splashing, and sunbathing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the four distinct beach areas. Whether it’s the private Cove Beach , perfect for a tranquil dip in the shallows, or Paradise Lagoon Beach offering an array of exhilarating watersports, there’s something for everyone. If you prefer more action, head to Atlantis Beach, where vendors will show you their wares. Lastly, guests of The Cove and The Reef can relax and unwind on Paradise Beach , which offers beautiful white sand and turquoise waters. Whatever you choose, you can find the best attractions at Atlantis Bahamas!

3. Marine Exhibits

Atlantis Bahamas is a remarkable and unique destination with an incredible collection of marine exhibits. In fact, it is home to the world’s largest open-air marine habitat ! Visitors will have the chance to see over 50,000 diverse aquatic creatures and over 250 marine species, including piranha, sharks, rays, eels, barracuda, and endangered alligator gar. The Fish Feedings will give everyone an even closer look at marine life. There are also fascinating exhibits packed with marine life and engaging touch tanks, including the underwater aquarium The Dig, the Lobster Exhibit, Lionfish Exhibit, Seahorse Exhibits, Clownfish Exhibit, the Ruins Lagoon, the Predator Lagoon, the Mayan Temple Shark Lagoon, the Reef Lagoon, the Stingray Lagoon, and more! Be sure to pick up the kid-friendly scavenger hunt map.

4. Dolphin Cay

Nature lovers can explore the world’s largest open-air marine habitat at Dolphin Cay. In addition to swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding with dolphins , you can take an “Ultimate Trainer for a Day” class and learn how animal behaviorists interact with dolphins. All animal interactions are led by trained experts, which ensures a safe and memorable experience for everyone. These activities offer some of the most engaging and educational experiences at the Atlantis Bahamas resort. Participating guests will receive complimentary wet suit and storage locker rentals as part of the fee.

Are you ready to enjoy lazy rivers, stroll along the Bahamas’ white sand beaches, experience one of the most beautiful marine habitats in the world, and swim with dolphins? Contact The Vacationeer to find out how. They are available to assist you with planning and booking your Atlantis Bahamas vacation – free of charge! Request a free, no-obligation quote and learn how much an Atlantis Bahamas vacation will cost .

5. Atlantis Theatre

Although staying at the Atlantis Bahamas is not all-inclusive , the resort provides several ways to save money without sacrificing family fun. One way is by enjoying a movie at Atlantis Theatre near the Convention Center Rotunda. This movie theater offers Hollywood blockbusters that are just a few months old, with frequent showings for everyone to enjoy. The best part is that admission to the theatre is free for all resort guests ! A concession stand offers affordable snacks and drinks that guests can enjoy during the movie. Take advantage of this great activity at Atlantis Bahamas without breaking the bank!

6. Atlantis Casino

Atlantis Bahamas Resort is well known for its Atlantis Casino , the second-largest casino in the Caribbean! Guests can try their luck at the 85 gaming tables featuring Craps, Roulette, Blackjack, Baccarat, and Texas Hold Em. Complimentary gaming lessons are offered daily for those looking to brush up on their skills. And for slot fans, there are over 700 slot machines with exciting games and big jackpots. Even non-gamblers will enjoy this experience due to the resort’s amazing Dale Chihuly glass sculptures. To gain entry into Atlantis Casino, guests must be 21 or older.

7. Ocean Club Golf Course

There is no better place in the Bahamas to golf than at the Atlantis Bahamas resort. The Ocean Club Golf Course is an 18-hole par 72 championship course offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Nassau Harbor. Crafted by renowned architect Tom Weiskopf, it challenges even the most experienced players with its 7,100 yards and crosswinds. Also available are private lessons, group clinics, on-course playing lessons through PGA-certified instructors, and golf club rentals. If you’re looking to stay longer, there’s also a special golf getaway package for 5+ night stays. The Ocean Club Golf Course is the perfect Bahamas location for perfecting your game, learning new skills, or taking an extended golfing vacation.

Lush greens nestled along the shores of crystal blue waters | Image © Atlantis

8. Stingray Experience

The popular Stingray Experience offers visitors the chance to get up close and personal with a school of cownose stingrays and vibrant tropical fish . After an informative introduction, participants are encouraged to feed these gentle creatures from the shallow lagoon, then take the plunge into their world as they snorkel alongside them. It’s a fun and memorable experience that will delight all ages (five years or older) while supporting a wonderful cause. Proceeds from this remarkable encounter benefit the Atlantis Blue Project Foundation , which works hard to protect and preserve marine life and its habitats in the Bahamas and beyond.

9. Playtime with Sea Lions

Playtime with Sea lions is an unforgettable experience at the famous Atlantis Bahamas resort. Not only do you get to meet some of the planet’s most adorable marine mammals, but you also get to learn about their lives and how marine life experts care for them. Taking things a step further, you can take a dip with one of the sea lions in an extraordinary adventure. The experience begins with an orientation and then 30 minutes of enjoying the water with your new friends . While Playtime with Sea Lions is open to all ages, an adult or guardian must accompany kids under ten. Complimentary beach towel, locker, and wetsuit rentals are available.

10. Fitness Center

Staying at the Atlantis Bahamas Resort is an excellent option for anyone looking for an active vacation. The resort provides a 10,000 sq. ft. Fitness Center with state-of-the-art equipment , such as cardio and strength machines, free weights, and movement studios designed specifically for spinning and yoga classes. Atlantis Bahamas Fitness Center is complimentary for up to two resort guests per room per day, and wellness seminars are also free. Additionally, there are fee-based offerings like personal trainers who help tailor an individualized fitness plan based on your goals and group fitness classes like yoga, cycling, and boot camps.

11. Mandara Spa

The award-winning Mandara Spa at Atlantis Bahamas Resort is one of the best attractions at Atlantis Bahamas. Ancient Balinese healing touches and traditional European therapies come together with natural elements indigenous to The Bahamas, creating an incomparable atmosphere of relaxation. Guests can pamper themselves in steam rooms, saunas, and warm and cold plunge pools. An extensive list of services is available, including body treatments, facials, messages, and a full-service salon . Additionally, couples can enjoy a special spa suite while a women’s area offers a relaxing aromatherapy room.

You can learn more about the best things to do at Atlantis Bahamas by contacting The Vacationeer . It’s one of the many reasons you should book Atlantis with a travel agent . In addition to handling your hotel reservations and dining plans, they can also handle minor (but important) details like making your spa, golf, and activity reservations. Even better news: The Vacationeer’s hassle-free planning and booking services are entirely free!

12. Jokers Wild Comedy Club

The Jokers Wild Comedy Club at Atlantis Bahamas is an excellent way to spend the night, whether you’re on a romantic getaway or with the whole family. Catch hysterical comedians who will make you laugh until your sides hurt. Laugh out loud as local comics and those flown in from Hollywood provide side-splitting hijinks that will leave you breathless. Head over to this one-of-a-kind comedy club and enjoy a night of laughter and lighthearted fun. Just check the details in advance, as shows are often 18+ and require reservations.

13. Cabana Rentals

Treat yourself to an unforgettable day by renting a private cabana at the Atlantis Bahamas resort. Whether beachfront or poolside , these cabanas provide the ultimate in luxury , offering amenities such as an exclusive changing area, ceiling fan, refrigerator, personal safes, and dedicated pool access. The seating areas are shaded, and some are equipped with electricity so you can easily charge your devices. Even more, pampering includes upgrades for WiFi access as well as delivery of food and drinks right to your private oasis. Cabanas can accommodate up to 10 people, so gather up a few friends and make it a day you won’t soon forget!

14. Snorkel the Ruins of Atlantis

Exploring the sunken ruins of Atlantis is one of the most amazing experiences available at Atlantis Bahamas Resort. Snorkel the Ruins of Atlantis offers guests a unique opportunity to explore one of the largest saltwater lagoons in the world and come face-to-face with an incredible array of sea life . The 60-minute program includes a 30-minute adventure in a monitored and secure enclosed environment, perfect for beginner to expert snorkelers.

15. Atlantis Live Entertainment

Atlantis Paradise Island provides the perfect setting for an incredible range of events, from music concerts to top sporting events. One of their most popular offerings is the Atlantis Live concert series , featuring artists from many genres. Throughout the year, guests can look forward to enjoying exceptional performances from fascinating acts such as Jerry Seinfeld, Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, Jennifer Hudson, The Chainsmokers, and The Jonas Brothers. It’s no wonder that a night at Atlantis is truly something special.

16. Shopping

Shopping is one of the best things to do at Atlantis Bahamas resort. Luxury shopping awaits guests in the onsite Crystal Court Shops, Escape at the Cove, Atlantis Logo Stores, Marina Village, and Pro Shop . All these locations offer top Bahamian, Italian, and French fashion trends, plus genuine Havana cigars, trendy handbags, beach attire, and children’s clothing at world-class standards. Not only that, but items are available duty-free , making them even more attractive to shopaholics. Resort guests don’t have to worry about going to Rodeo Drive or 5th Avenue when they visit Atlantis – the luxury shopping is right outside their door!

Atlantis Bahamas Resort boasts 21 restaurants offering a culinary experience like no other. The resort provides a range of dining options , from sophisticated seafood dishes to innovative sushi, quick bites, and favorite recipes from around the globe – truly something for everyone! Home to some of the most renowned celebrity chefs, guests can explore a gourmet world of flavor without ever leaving the resort. Just remember to book your reservations in advance. When you book with The Vacationeer , they will handle all the reservation hassle on your behalf.

Frezca – Poke Bowl | Image © Atlantis

18. Bars & Lounges

Bars and lounges at Atlantis Bahamas resort offer something for everyone. From vibrant, social hotspots to relaxing hideaways, you’ll find the perfect spot to fit your mood on your trip. Enjoy signature martinis, relax with a single-malt scotch, or go all out with VIP bottle service. You can also experience live DJs and great music while soaking up stunning views of crystal blue waters. No matter what type of atmosphere you’re looking for, Atlantis’ bars and lounges provide a fantastic selection of drinks and a truly unique experience.

19. Scuba Adventures Off Paradise Island

Scuba diving is one of the best things to do at Atlantis Bahamas for any adventure enthusiast. With stunning reefs teeming with life, the opportunity to explore an underwater paradise is just a few steps away. Certified divers can enjoy two-tank dives and half-day snorkel trips while exploring the coral walls, wrecks, and incredible biodiversity in the ocean around Nassau. Guests will have the unique experience of diving in The Lost Blue Hole or investigating The Fish Hotel, both of which are part of a network of dive sites that have earned the Bahamas recognition as “The Best Place to Dive” for over ten years. Every trip supports Atlantis Blue Project Foundation, making each snorkeling adventure doubly rewarding.

20. Pieces of 8 Tours

Exploring the exotic beauty of Atlantis Bahamas’ nearby islands is easy and convenient with Pieces of 8 Tours . These experienced guides provide exciting charter boat excursions to iconic locales such as Rose Island and Exuma, allowing for a memorable adventure to explore otherwise inaccessible places. Furthermore, Pieces of 8 luxury boats effortlessly transport guests to Norman’s Cay in Northern Exuma, where they can enjoy some of the best snorkeling known to man. Whether swimming with pigs in Exuma or just lounging on picturesque beaches, Pieces of 8 Tours offers something for everyone looking to experience one-of-a-kind beauty at its fullest capacity.

21. Boat Charters

A boat charter from Atlantis Bahamas Resort is a luxury experience like no other! Cruise on your own private yacht, work on your tan and explore some of the most stunning beaches and fishing spots in the Bahamas. Whether you want to take a leisurely snorkeling trip, try your luck at deep sea fishing or enjoy an Island-style lunch while watching the waves, Atlantis boat charters have something for everyone.

22. Nassau City Seeker Tour

Discover all Nassau has to offer with the Nassau City Seeker Tour . This unique activity will let you explore downtown Nassau while competing against friends or strangers. When playing this action-packed game, you’ll be placed in teams of three or more and given a map of the city that details where all the interesting attractions are located. Once at each spot, you’ll learn about Bahamian art, culture, history, and heritage. The team who completes the most stops before time runs out will be rewarded with prizes at the finish line, so don’t delay! If you’re looking for adventure from your next trip to Atlantis Bahamas resort, then Nassau City Seeker is your perfect activity!

23. Tennis Center

Atlantis Bahamas Resort offers an unbeatable experience with its Tennis Center : six world-class courts, private lessons staffed by some of the world’s best tennis pros, clinics to develop the skills of players of all ages and levels, and tournaments and social events. Whatever your level of play, the Tennis Center at Atlantis has something for you, so come on over and join in the fun at Atlantis – make it your home court for a day!

Are you ready to plan your Atlantis Bahamas vacation?

The Vacationeer travel agency is your go-to source for planning hassle-free Atlantis Bahamas travel. Their experienced agents will help you book the trip of your dreams by picking the best on-site hotel for your family and provide invaluable planning advice to make sure you get the most out of your experience. From Atlantis Bahamas statistics to helping you decide which activities are worth it – from Atlantis Day Pass information to deciding the best time to visit Atlantis Bahamas – you can rely on The Vacationeer to make planning your trip easier. They will also ensure that you get the best rates on your vacation package.

And suppose Atlantis isn’t just what you’re looking for and you would rather consider the best Sandals resorts or best Beaches resorts . In that case, your dedicated Vacationeer can readily assist you in those destinations. With their dedicated staff handling all reservations and deals for you, there’s no worry about having a successful trip; The Vacationeer has you covered!

You have nothing to lose by contacting The Vacationeer , as their service is free and very useful.

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REVIEW: Atlantis Bahamas Review – The Good and the VERY Bad

Our family had been wanting to visit Atlantis for years and we finally saved up enough to visit this world-famous resort. We were so excited to stay at this well-known resort and experience all the waterslides and pools.

But we were disappointed to find that this outdated hotel was not worth the money, in my opinion. So to save your family the heartache we experienced, I’ll tell you exactly why… and where to stay in Nassau, Bahamas instead.

Are you thinking about visiting the Atlantis Resort on your vacation to the Bahamas? I would think again!

Review of Atlantis Bahamas

Staying at the Atlantis Bahamas was a huge disappointment for our family. So I wanted to give an honest review of Atlantis so you can decide if it’s worth it for your family.

It’s not often that I have to write about a hotel that I DIDN’T like. When I plan a vacation, I am very thorough. I go through every review I can, and I read Pinterest, and YouTube… all to make sure I am spending my money wisely and making every vacation the best I can.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Because to be honest, I can only take (or afford) so many vacations a year. And I’m guessing it’s no different for you!

See Related: What You Need To Know Before Flying With Kids

(This Atlantis Bahamas Review is my honest opinion, I was not compensated in any way by either the Atlantis Resort of Baha Mar)

Is It Worth It To Stay At The Atlantis, Bahamas?

I’ve been wanting to visit The Bahamas mostly due to the famous swimming pigs. And I’ve known about Atlantis for a long time. To me, it always seemed like something that was out of my financial reach. Until this last spring, when I decided if I was going to be in The Bahamas, I needed to stay at the Atlantis. Right?!?!

Wrong! The Atlantis turned out to be one of the worst resorts I’ve stayed at in a really long time. Even the kids didn’t like it.

And when I write reviews, I always give honest ones and this review of Atlantis is no different.

PS – You can book your tour with the Swimming Pigs HERE! It was by far the best thing we did in the Bahamas!

The Atlantis Resort

Atlantis Bahamas opened in 1994 and it’s pretty obvious that it has not been updated since then. It looks like they haven’t done much upkeep at all, to be honest.

The main lobby is amazing. I will give it that. First walking in, really took our breath away. The wide, open decor made us feel like we were in another world. I was truly impressed with the main entrance of the Atlantis.

However, the rooms are VERY basic. We opted for the middle of the pack, the Royal Towers. The price and luxury of the 5 towers rank like this (cheapest to most expensive):

• The Beach – very basic and furthest away
• The Coral – somewhat upgraded and near most of the food and shops
• The Royal – the iconic towers
• The Cove – upgraded suites
• The Reef – super luxury suits and penthouses

The Royal is the middle, and main, tower at Atlantis. It’s also the most iconic tower so we decided to upgrade our room and pay extra to not only stay in the Royal Towers but to have an ocean view as well. You only live once, right?

The only nice thing about our room was the view. In hindsight, I wish we would have saved the money and stayed at the Coral Towers. The Royal was not worth the extra money.

If I can be honest in this Atlantis Bahamas Review… the rooms were no different than a Motel 6. Outdated and small.

One really cool thing about Atlantis is that the bridge that connects the two main towers is actually a giant suite that rents for $25,000 per night. It’s called the ‘Michael Jackson’ suite due to him visiting there often. Our room was on the same level and we got a great view of this. Too bad it was empty… it’s usually rented by celebrities!

The tower itself was nothing special. It didn’t have a lobby like most hotels do. So if you wanted a snack or even just a cup of coffee (or a strong drink) you had to walk to the other side of the resort. Expect at least a 10-minute walk for even the most basic necessity.

The (very small) lobby doesn’t even have an employee there. So hopefully you don’t have any questions or need any assistance.

We took a few minutes to walk around the casino, but if you are traveling with kids, there really isn’t anything to do here.

The Food at the Atlantis Resort

This Atlantis Bahamas Review wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t mention the food as well!

You’ve probably heard this several times already but the food at the Atlantis is VERY VERY expensive. Everything in the Bahamas is expensive but the Atlantis takes it to a whole new level.

Now take that added expense and put it on some of the blandest food you’ve ever eaten. And that’s what you get at the Atlantis.

We were actually really excited to go to The Bahamas and indulge in a lot of seafood or local authentic cuisine, but we did not find that at the Atlantis. Instead, we ate mostly pizza, burgers, and sandwiches.

Do you know how disappointing it is to travel to the Caribbean in hopes of some good seafood and end up paying $100 for a pizza and some drinks? Yeah… it sucks.

And while lots of people say “Well all of the Bahamas are expensive”, that’s just not true. You can go to any restaurant right outside of the Atlantis for half the price. PLUS, downtown Nassau has amazing authentic cuisine that is super cheap (and supports the locals).

Check Out: How To Eat Like a Local In Nassau

If you have like a gazillion dollars to spend at the Atlantis, then go to a nice restaurant. But if you want to be able to afford another vacation in your lifetime, you’ll probably be stuck eating at some of the smaller restaurants.

Dining at Margaritaville just outside (walking distance) of Atlantis was the most affordable way to eat and had the biggest portions. But I could eat that in the States so, again… disappointing.

The buffet was decent. But again, you’ll find very basic American-type food there. If you do want to check it out, go for brunch. Dinner is almost the same food but twice the price. If you time it right, you can go mid-morning, fill up and then just have a light dinner.

The Service At Atlantis Isn’t Great

The staff at Atlantis weren’t friendly. I’m sorry, but they just weren’t. From the dining staff to employees in the pool area. We always felt like we were annoying to anyone we asked questions to.

When talking to a local taxi driver, he pretty much confirmed this for us. The laws for working in The Bahamas are very strict and you cannot get a visa if you are a foreigner. And the hotels pay locals a really low rate to work and have a huge turnover. So it might be that they just really don enjoy their jobs, and its pretty obvious.

Even the service at restaurants is horrible. Expect to spend at least 2-3 hours at each dinner. Not because it takes that long to get a table. It takes that long to get your food.

Beware if you are traveling with young kids. Bring some snacks and maybe a tablet to keep them occupied. If we walked out of the restaurant in under 3 hours on any given night, it was considered a miracle.

Atlantis is Old and Needs Updating

I know we really wanted to stay at the Atlantis because it had a lot of hype to it. But honestly, that’s all there really is. It was probably a really nice resort 10 years ago. But it’s very clear it hasn’t been kept up very well.

The rock formations are all chipping and have paint missing.

The lazy rivers look a little too green for my liking!

And the aquarium tanks were all really cloudy. The sharks swimming around the Leap of Faith (the most popular water slide) were in a small aquarium with NOTHING inside. Like literally no coral, no plants, no rocks… nothing!

I actually found it very disturbing that so many sharks were in such a small space with nothing but glass around them. I think Atlantis needs to get rid of this attraction. They could easily fill the tank with tons of coral and colorful fish and the ride would be just as fun and exciting.

Lounge chairs were basic plastic. The food was like eating at a strip mall. And the pools were very basic. What I mean by that is… they looked like every other hotel pool. I’ve honestly seen MUCH better pools and decor at local resorts in my area.

The Atlantis needs to take a lesson from Baha Mar on what a resort pool should look like .

Atlantis is Confusing and Not Well Laid Out

Oh, and the layout of the waterpark is really confusing. Like, horribly confusing. Their printed maps don’t make any sense. They show you where each thing is located, but not what path to take to get there. We got lost and turned around several times.

And again, the staff wasn’t much help. Each time I asked how to get somewhere, they would just point and walk away, or not respond at all.

It started to become a game where when we actually found the correct waterslide we were looking for, we would jump up and down and high-five each other.

And don’t forget the dumb wristbands. In order to go on any waterslide, you need to get a wristband from a certain hut. And you need your resort card to get those. So it became like a 3-step process to get the wristbands to even go on the rides in the first place.

And each day is a new wristband. So each day, you have to find the hut to get a wristband before you can go on any rides (and of course, the wristband huts are not near the waterslides).

Atlantis also has a private area you can pay a little extra for that comes with things like a storage locker and reserved chairs. We really considered this for a minute, but then I saw the ‘private’ area and it was basically the same as every other area and just had small storage boxes in between each chair.

Save yourself the hundred dollars this cost and just get yourself a beach chair lockbox . We used this and it worked perfectly.

What We Enjoyed About the Atlantis

The waterslides were a lot of fun… even though there were not too many of them. But the Leap of Faith was really thrilling. And we really enjoyed the not-so-lazy river.

The Dig was done really well and the kids enjoyed walking through this and seeing all the fish and relics from the lost city of Atlantis. There was even a small place where you could pet starfish and sea cucumbers.

But even the Dig only took us about 20 minutes to walk through. Not worth an entire stay at Atlantis.

One positive thing I will say about my review of Atlantis is that the beaches are amazing. We went to several beaches, both public and resort, while in the Bahamas and the Cove beach was particularly the best. The sand was soft and white and really clean. The water was clear and not too deep. The kids actually preferred this beach over any pool at Atlantis.

Get my bathing suit here!

The great thing about Cove beach is that it’s only open to Atlantis guests (cruise ship passengers were not allowed there) but no one checked so I’m not sure how they can say that.

We also really enjoyed Marina Village. You will find lots of shops (too expensive to buy anything from!) but also a lot of food places. The pizza place, deli, Frankie Gone Bananas, and some smaller places to eat are over here.

And each night they have a really cool parade. The kids really loved it. There was lots of dancing and singing and drums going on. But again, you can go to Marina Village without being a guest at Atlantis.

Review of Atlantis Bahamas: What I Wish We Would Have Done Instead

If I could redo the trip and still feel the need to stay at the Atlantis, I would have booked a room at the Coral Towers instead. Not only are they more inexpensive than the Royal Towers, but the coral pool was a hundred times better than any pool around Atlantis.

Find more affordable places to stay in Nassau HERE!

Here are some photos of 2 different pools around Atlantis…

And now here are some images of the Coral pool… such a difference!

I’m not exactly sure why the nicest pool would be next to the cheapest parts of Atlantis… but a lot of things about Atlantis didn’t make sense!

Right by the Coral pool was also a great area to walk around. Probably the nicest on the entire property.

All the cheaper restaurants and movie theatres were in the Coral Towers as well. So we ended up going there every night anyway. The Royal Towers only really have a casino, and we don’t gamble so we had a pretty long walk just to get to the Coral Towers every night.

Even the ice cream parlor was in the coral towers!

Atlantis Bahamas Review: Should You Stay At The Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas?

The Atlantis is an iconic resort and has always been on my bucket list. At the end of the day, I’m glad we had a chance to check it out. But I think it would have been fine to stay for just a day or two.

After the first day, the kids went on every waterslide and tested each pool and they were bored. We ended up booking an excursion to Blue Lagoon Island on our third day, just to have something else to do.

Or consider getting a day pass to check out the Atlantis waterpark, take a few iconic photos, and be on your way. Trust me, you’re not missing anything if you don’t actually stay at the property.

And lesson learned… read the reviews online and always trust them. And hopefully, you’ll listen to this review of Atlantis!

Follow me on PINTEREST for more travel tips!

If you enjoyed this Atlantis Bahamas Review, then don’t forget to check out the following…

You Might Also Enjoy Reading:

• Everything You Need To Know About Visiting Junkanoo Beach
• Full Review of the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar Bahamas
• Visiting the Blue Lagoon in the Bahamas
• How to Visit the Famous Swimming Pigs of Exuma

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65 comments.

Was this Paradisd Island. I was there in the 70’s on the Sea Venture which docked by Paradise Hotel/Casino. We were there I believe for a day. I have been trying to locate someone, so very important to me. Do you have any facts onParadise Island I would appreciate if you can assist me with the information.

What information are you looking for?

For the most part, I agree with your review, but with a caveat. My wife and I have been there twice in the past 6 years. Two completely different experiences. The first was as a childless unmarried couple. We had a blast and recall this trip as one of the most fun we’ve taken together. We stayed at the Cove, which is actually the most luxury hotel on the property, btw. The service for Cove guests is phenomenal. Our most recent trip was with our 4 year old. We again, stayed at the Cove, but spent a lot of time in other parts of the resort more appropriate for his age. In doing so, we experienced a huge difference in service, friendliness, and competence from the staff. So we felt your pain, there. I would recommend anyone who might read this, who can afford to stay at the Cove to do so!

I’m currently staying at the Cove right now (as I’m typing this) and she pretty much nailed the experience for me. The service is more accurately described as apathy for me. They lack care and the details. Multiple times you ask for anything they leave and never come back and just forget about you in anything around the resort.

My partner and I were expecting to pay up decent amount of money for GOOD quality food and experiences but yet none were to be found. The food is.. exorbitantly expensive even to the point where I’m honestly wondering if there’s diamond hidden inside every dish. And we are from New York City – we are surrounded by expensive dining all the time and yet Atlantis somehow found a way to actually exceed the pricing than nyc with a presumptuous “gratuity” embedded in every single receipt you’ll receive on the island regardless of whether there was service or not. And we understand a lot of things need to be imported into Bahamas so they have the high tax and pricing but that does not explain what I can say is some of the worst and bland tasting foods I have ever had. I legit don’t think they have any salt or seasoning in the back. All the foods inside Atlantis, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, American etc., (but for some reason no Authentic Bahamian food lmao – catered HARD towards unsuspecting/uncritical/take-it-face-value white American folks) are what I can describe to be a copy OF a mimic of what they think they should taste like. Absolutely zero authenticity in these foods. OP talks about the breakfast buffet here and tells us to go mid-morning – what I suggest is don’t go to breakfast/brunch buffet at all. Prices are normally $80 (lol what?) per person for a sad SAD excuse for basic motel-5 continental regurgitated-back-alley-leftover-dumpster food.

And why the no authentic Bahamian cuisine inside the resort? Bahamian food is absolutely delicious but yet they include one or two dishes here and there in starters and they can’t even get those right. Like OP was saying here, you gotta go outside and downtown Nassau to really get anything tasty and priced correctly.

One last extremely calm rant as you can see – they charge $165 for a PCR test for you to leave the country.. FOR THE PCRT TEST. Something that people NEED to get out of the country. PCR test is NOT an entertainment expense. Don’t f****** upcharge something that people need in the middle of pandemic.

Y’all just don’t go.

Just got back from our second trip here and you have summed it up perfectly. This place is horrible. Why people go here is beyond me. They accidentally gave me the wrong invoice at check out and one families bill was $5990. I’d rather stay at a best western. We will never go back. I feel bad for anyone duped by their marketing.

I second this review.

Our experience was similar; however, there was a leak near the casino with a bucket catching the drips, the aquarium was not functioning so nothing inside. There was perfect weather with NO ONE swimming in the pool. There was no one sliding down the slide, the food was horrible!!!!! I mean horrible. We found out the economy is based off of tourism and employees get around 2.00 dollars an hour. So they’re looking for tips every two seconds. I just can not believe when you see the commercials it is NOTHING compared to your actual experience. I am ver go with the flow type person, I don’t care about a little paint missing here and there, but amount of repairs needed is unbelievable..

It was the worst resort ever (if you could call it a resort. )

Have you considered renting a villa from an owner at Harborside Resort at Atlantis? You save a lot of money compared to booking on Atlantis website, and get a lot of space, with full kitchen so you don’t have to pay for expensive restaurant meals all the time, and full access to Atlantis.

I think this was an unfair characterization of the the staff to say you didn’t find a friendly face to anywhere. The Atlantis is an amazing place to stay and enjoy with your family especially for the kids. It’s not perfect, no place is and it may be a little pricey but going on a vacation to a gem like the Bahamas usually is. Furthermore it looks as if you enjoyed yourself in those photos. I’m not going to say you have an agenda in this scathing review to promote another hotel like bahamar but please be fair.

I can assure you my reviews are 100% accurate in my descriptions. I was not paid by either resort to promote anything. These are my experiences with my family. Furthermore, we spent several days at Atlantis, and from morning to night, we encountered many staff members. And unfortunately, they were just not very polite. I fully realize everyone has different experiences, but this review was based on my experience and I am always 100% honest with my readers! That’s been my goal from day one and I won’t ever change that.

My husband and I went to Atlantis after winning the trip at work. Our rooms were run down and the AC was motion sensitive- meaning when we fell asleep and weren’t moving it went off. We would wake up sweating, wave our hands in the air so it would come on and repeat for four nights. Also- no one explained the difference between public and private beaches. We wound up on the public beach. Ordered a fruity alcoholic beverage and enjoyed it. Then the vendor walks up and asks if we want another. We declined. He got very close to our face and said “no you will have another and you will pay”. It was scary. After that a lady came by selling dollar tree tshirts and begging that we help her family. After we shoo her away along comes a lady wanting to give us massages. Geeeez. The locals are not allowed to do this on the private beach. Lesson learned. You are right, the staff all acted like they were miserable and avoided us at all cost. The food was outrageous so we ended up snacking on French fries. It’s sad to complain about the free flight and room but we would have enjoyed florida a million times more.

We found the entire staff to be rude and disinterested. It seemed as though the nicer we tried to be, the more dismissive they were to us. The staff clearly hates their job and customers visiting them.

We’ve experienced the same thing each of the previous 3 trips to Atlantis. Resort staff in Aruba, Puerto Rico, and Florida have been warm, friendly, and helpful.

Yes! I tried harder and harder to smile and be nicer but it seemed like they just did not care at all.

I was at the Atlantis years ago and find Jenny’s review spot on. As I’m reading her review, I’m nodding and saying, “yes!…yes!…yes!” until the very end because it was 100% inline with our experience. It ruined our taste for the Bahamas.

All I could do while reading your through review was OMG, she thinks like me.

This was the most thorough review and you have saved me and my Family over $7,000 from staying at Atlantis. We will be looking at other Carribbean islands like Bermuda and The Cayman Islands..

Thank you Thank you Thank you

Cayman Islands are AMAZING! You cant go wrong there. Aruba and Antigua are two that get the best reviews but I haven’t tested those out yet.

I am planning a trip there for my son 16th birthday with a family of 4. Thinking about saying at the coral. What is your advise for me

I highly recommend you check out my article on How to save money at the Atlantis for my best tips!

I stayed at the Comfort Suites across the street and had FULL access to Atlantis. It was a great deal to be able to see Atlantis, but also be outside and see other parts of Nassau. Walk up the street a block past Comfort, take a left at the first street, and watch the hundreds of turtles and birds from the lake deck. Free and fun!

Your kids will have a great time, 11 pools, a full lesson on fish and environnent, a full water park, a clean beaitiful beach and my number ONE ….its very very safe here on Paradise Island, come and enjoy!

It’s a shame you didn’t love the Atlantis! Maybe the cloudy weather effected your trip since your photos all looked a little dreary. We’ve been to the Atlantis 18 times and have loved every visit. We have stayed at all the towers over the years and The Reef is our favorite. Maybe you could have stayed in the Royal Tower located closer to their Main Lobby, nothing of which is basic at this property. This is an elaborate hotel at almost every turn. I’ve stayed at resorts in the Caymans and Aruba and none of them come the slightest bit close to the Atlantis and they cost a lot more. Other resorts on the beach usually only have one pool and could never compare to the large property at the Atlantis. Food is expensive at any island resort – at least there are many options at this resort if you do not want fine dining. I wouldn’t want others to think poorly of this resort – it is wonderful !

It was actually only cloudy one day and the rest was sunny but I’m glad you enjoyed it so much! I just remember the staff was not very pleasant and the place looked run down at every turn. You should check out Baha Mar… THAT’S what a pricey resort should look like!

I stayed at Baha Mar last year. The beach doesn’t compare to Paradise Island at all!! It’s rocky and small. The rooms in the main hotel of Baha Mar are laid out terribly!! The furniture is way to big for the space and two of us were literally squeezing to pass each other by.. I even complained to the front desk manager and he agreed! Pools and space are WAYYYY too crowded and soooooo many kids crying everywhere. Ugh- definitely stay in one of the two smaller boutique hotels which will set you back $1000/night. I also got sick from the food one night. Place is pretty and newer- Beware its SUPER Crowded. Won’t be back. We are going to the Cove this time around. Nassau is NOT as nice as paradise Island. I’ve been to The Bahamas 5 times already.

So sorry you had that experience! We stayed at Baha Mar for under $400 a night and the pool are had tons of open seating (and we visited during Spring break!)

Atlantis is my favorite place on earth to vacation. We have been all over. It is difficult that it is not all inclusive at a reasonable rate I totally agree. However I think you know it is unreasonably expensive when you plan to go… so plan for it by stopping on the way in at the grocery and do eat off site for dinner. The grounds/sealife are beyond amazing not to mention the Waterpark. I can not understand how anyone would ever get bored. Right now we are planning a return trip with an upgrade to the Reef. This is simply a strange review probably just a lack of research on a vacation trip or a lack of Caribbean experience.

I appreciate your comments! And to each their own I guess. Yes, it is expensive everywhere in Nassau, I spoke of this in my review of Baha Mar as well. Perhaps you should try some new places to stay when you travel and you will see how resorts are supposed to look. Atlantis just pales in comparison as far as cleanliness and staff service. I’m sorry if you think I have a lack of research or as you say “Caribbean experience” but I can assure you that’s not the case. I actually find that people who enjoy places like Atlantis don’t often travel elsewhere and know what other resorts have to offer. Try expanding your travels and you won’t regret it!

I have to join the dissent. We have gone to this resort every other year for 10 years. First and a married couple and now with our kids. We love it. It’s like home. The water park can turn you around, but you get used to it once you know where things are. The reason the best pool was at the cheapest tower is because that is where the renovations have started. There used to be a lazy river where the pool is now and it was replaced by the much cooler Canyon Ride. There will be updates in the future across the park. As for the service, you find lemons everywhere but whenever we shared a smile, we got one in return. We spend all of our time on the beach. Best beaches around. Can’t wait to go again.

Agreed they have great beaches! We went in March of 2020 so maybe they made some updates since then. I hope so! They just dont compare to newer resorts like Baha Mar.

We had a fabulous time at Atlantis, so fyi to you and yous, we stayed in the timeshare so I did my research and we bought with us frozen cheese and meats like bacon and of course coffee because that is most expensive to buy there. Stopped at a grocery store for a few things like milk and bread and jar spaghetti before checking in. Then each morning we had a protien rich breakfast getting arm bands. Brought cheese and meats and crackers to snack on. Ate out only 1x a day. Usually over at the green parrot. Great seafood reasonable prices for the area. Took the shuttle to town and bought cheap awesome rum, to mix with coke ,in refillable cups that lasted days. The beach is awesome when the stupid cruise ship people make the lines too long. But the slides were so fun. We also took a great ferry to another island to see the dolphins. I did learn that the comfort in which is way cheaper also includes daily armbands with the stay if you dont like the timeshare thing. The slides were so awesome I want to go back before I am too old. If you love waterparks this is the place to go. All you need is swimsuits and sundress and snorkels and fins. All in our carrying on luggage and frozen cheezeslices and meat. Oh ya the most expensive thing there is sunscreen, we joked that if you sold sunscreen that you brought with you, on the beach for half of what they charge you could pay for your trip.

Haha, the sunscreen IS really expensive! We also got the plastic cups and refilled them during our stay. I actually offer that tip and lots more on How to Save Money At the Atlantis . Just click on the link to read that post too!

Is there a free shuttle into Nassau town? or do you need to stay in specific tower

There are no free shuttles but you can take the jitney (their local bus system) very easily and very inexpensively!

Some folks like cruise ships and others private yachts. I would put Atlantis in the cruise ship category.

I’ve stayed there with kids and was fabulous. We stayed in an area where we had baby sharks in the pond outside our room. BTW. You sure look happy.

Thank you for all this info!!!! We are looking at Atlantis and this was exactly my worry. I also find it interesting so many people that LOVE this place and go so often are spending time reading reviews…LOL! I can’t imagine going anywhere over and over again when there is so much in our world to explore! We’re planning a June trip and want to go to Florida, the Keys, or Caribbean somewhere. Think I need to keep looking. Thanks for all the info!

Lol, you took the words right out of my mouth! And yes, some people love Atlantis, I didn’t. That’s my opinion. My goal is to always give honest reviews. Because that’s exactly what I would want to read! And I’m like you, I only go to a place once. I have way too many items on my bucket list to stay at the same place over and over again.

Thank you SO much for this review! We have been to Nassau years ago but stayed south. We visited on a cruise with kids a few years ago but did the blue lagoon excursion so never visited Atlantis. It’s been on my list for a while but my heart sank when I read the review! Yes, to each their own, but you seem to have the same thoughts as I would about several things! I was thinking that by staying at the Royal that I would be “closer” to everything, especially food, etc. With hungry, tired kids, I don’t want to walk long distances and wait hours! I have also stayed at enough resorts to want nice, friendly staff and nice rooms, pools. I had been looking at other resorts that you mentioned and think we will choose elsewhere and just visit Atlantis! Thank you so much for this review!

I justed returned from staying at the Royal in Atlantis and its not worth staying. Atlantis is overrated and overpriced. There’s no service through out the hotel. Save your money and stay someplace else.

We love Atlantis, and not because we haven’t tried anywhere else in the Caribbean (we’ve stayed at least a week in Jamaica, Cayman, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Aruba, along with multiple resorts in Florida and Mexico). It’s amazing that your kids would be bored after a couple of days at a beautiful beach with multiple pools, a variety of water slides, and numerous aquariums.7

There are only a handful (meaning 5) waterslides. How many times a day can you keep going down the same ones? And aquariums? You walk through once and you’re done 20 minutes later. Do you and your family spend countless hours staring at the aquariums? And yes, the beaches are nice. But it’s the Bahamas… the beaches are nice at every resort! 🙂

I’m sure the kids will be less bored at a resort with zero water slides, zero river rides, and zero aquariums …

People pay attention to what she is writing, its all true so travelers beware. I just returned from Atlantis and wish i knew all this beforehand. This was the worst trip for me and my family and the experience was even worse in person. Go elsewhere or just save your money Atlantis is not worth it

I’m so sorry to hear this 🙁

We are planning a trip this coming summer with our 6 year old daughter and 3 year old son. Our main reason for visiting the Atlantis is my daughter’s love of sharks and the sea. We plan on signing her up for the Sea Squirt program. I’ve been reading any blog I can find on this place because the price is so high. Currently, we were looking at the Coral and the Royal. The website claims that all rooms are newly renovated. My worry is that if you were just there a year ago that is not true. (and some even sooner than you). We were expecting to spending a heavy chunk of money on this trip but now I am second guessing it all. In your travel opinion, how many days is sufficient to stay? At first we were thinking a week but I’m worried thats too long but is four days enough to really experience it all? Since our kids are young enough we were going to purchase a dining plan (they will be free with a purchase of an adult). Also, advice on best ways to book? Thank you for your post and all advice afterward.

I think 3-4 days is plenty (have you checked out Baha Mar yet? It’s so much nicer!) And sadly, the best way to book si directly through the website. Atlantis does not like giving away discounts. I hunted long and hard for some and never found any.

Loved the review. I have a question about the wristband. Is this given at checkin? or each day at the park. We are reserving several rooms. Do they look at how many people in each room to get a wristband? I am afraid the kids will just give one room number, etc

Each person has their own wristband and you need a new one each day. The pain in the butt part is, you have to go find the special wristband stand in the waterpark to get one each morning. They do not make them easy to find. We also had no one at check-in tell us this and were in line for a waterslide and turned away on our first day.

I could not agree more! We are here now. The attitudes of people who work here are awful! The locals we have met on the outside of the resort are much nicer. Atlantis has been a bucket list item for me and I brought my kids and grandkids here for a 5 night stay. Ridiculously expensive. Actually everything in your review hits the nail on the head. I guess even if I’d read it before now I would have come just to check it off my list. But, I’ve traveled all over the world and this is definitely not worth the $10000+ expense. My grandchildren are very young and are having a great time thank goodness – but they would have anywhere!

We just got back from there and will be writing almost the same blog write-up you did. We stayed in a suite at The Cove and had the same horrible services, food and experience in spite of what should have been the more upscale section of the resort.

This was once a great property, but the new ownership has turned it into a terrible waste of money.

Thanks for a great post. Safe travels.

August 2021 Tried to get assistance from staff. Very non responsive. Hoped to do a family reunion in the future. The phone conversations and the information above have led me to not plan using Atlantis. Thanks for your personal experiences.

Hi, If staying at Baha Mar can you use Atlantis waterpark or see their aquariums? I assume their is a cost?

Also, any recommendations on an all-inclusive Bahamas/Caribbean vacation for five(three children) Thank you-first timers to the Bahamas

Yes, you can buy a day pass to visit Atlantis waterpark… but beware! Cruise ship passengers do this as well and that’s why it can be overcrowded a lot.

I cannot tell you how spot-on you were about EVERYTHING!! Good for a day trip. NONE I REPEAT NONE of the food is even remotely tasteful.

Thank you so much for this. I just left Atlantis for a week long trio and I wasnt sure if i was being negative or ungrateful. My boyfriend and I had a really nice time but everything you said hit the nail directly on the head, the prices, the service/ attitude of staff and the rooms. Like yourself, it was a bucket list thing for us but I wouldn’t recommend it to people. Thanks for your honest review!!

I agree! My husband had a conference there so we took our whole family. Very outdated rooms. The ridiculous amount of walking for our elderly dad and lack of dining options for small kids were huge negative. The water slide and lazy river were the most entertaining. After a few days we left the resort for great food I will not ever go back or recommend

We are at the Atlantis now, staying at The Cove, on Marriott points. Our suite and view is amazing. We are in our 60’s, have no children or grandchildren with us. The beaches are amazing, the adult pool offers great service, but the prices are insane!! I would hate to be on a budget, and I would hate to have kids here and not have brought a ton of snacks from home. My least favorite thing about the Bahamas, and Atlantis, is the service charge, and VAT tax, on top of the ridiculous prices….then they want an extra tip!?! Seriously? We were in Portugal for 3 weeks in May, and didn’t spend this much. Everything is so reasonable, and the people are unbelievably nice and helpful…possibly the best place I’ve been in Europe.

Wow this was really helpful ! I’m trying to plan a resort trip with my BF and it has been such a feat. I heard Sandals is pretty good as well as Jaguar in Belize. If you can help with any tips on planning or good locations for a great experience I’m so open to it ! Thank you so much !

You are spot on with this review! I stayed at Atlantis years ago and it was beautiful, but I visited last week on a day pass to the water park and was shocked at how they have let the property go. It’s sad to see such a decline. One positive for Atlantis – we had lunch at an outdoor spot at the center of the water park and the lady who waited on us was wonderful. We stayed at Baha Mar and it was amazing…I highly recommend it as an alternative to Atlantis.

I am here at the Atlantis on what was to be a 5 night trip but just changed my flight to go home 2 days early.., I agree with all of the earlier comments concerning the price and quality of food .. and lack of entertainment options for adults. The sad thing is I’m here on a trip where the rooms are free and it’s still not worth it! I travel a lot and don’t mind paying for things I enjoy , but this isn’t it!

Terrible service, terrible attitudes by almost everyone, expensive disgusting food, and a lot of walking. On top of the 15% mandatory tip, there is a 10% VAT tax. The crazy part is they want you to tip more for the worst service imaginable. We stayed somewhere else and I realized Bahamas is a not a place you want to spend your hard earned money. Mostly all have terrible attitudes which is ironic considering they need tourism to survive. Never again…

Try Baha Mar next time… the service there was great!

Well this was my 7th or 8th time there. By far the worst. Never going back. Stayed in the Coral Towers that were updated about 4 years ago and need updating again. Disgusting!!! The front desk service was the worst. My tv kept freezing up to the point where I was complaining several times a day. They said they would reset it but nothing was fixed. The vent air filter was so disgusting I had to call to replace it. Too many issues to where the ceiling was leaking. I have pictures to post if I can upload. Never going back!!! Baha Mar it is next time.

I’m so impressed by the level of detail and research that goes into each post on this blog.

We were thinking of traveling there in September 2023. But after reading this I’m not sure! We don’t get to travel that much so I want to spend my hard earned money on an amazing trip not one I regret! Any recommendations? It will be myself (42 years old) son (5 years old) and my parents (late 60’s early 70’s)

I would do what we did. Stay at the Atlantis for a day or two just to get the experience and say you stayed there. But book at another place for the remainder of your vacation as well.

Comments are closed.

Atlantis Review: Is It Worth It?

By: Author Patrick Davis

Posted on Published: June 30, 2023

When it comes to planning a dream vacation in The Bahamas, Atlantis is a resort that is often suggested. What is so special about Atlantis in The Bahamas? This iconic pink resort on Paradise Island is renowned for its breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and huge array of activities that cater to every type of traveler–including an amazing onsite waterpark.

In this comprehensive Atlantis review, we’ll delve into the various aspects of this resort, including rooms and suites, dining options, beaches, pools, activities, and more. So, let’s embark on a journey through paradise and discover what makes Atlantis Bahamas so popular.

Atlantis Review: Overview

Located on Paradise Island (close to Nassau), Atlantis Bahamas is a sprawling resort that spans across five hotel towers and 150 acres, and features a remarkable giant waterpark. Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of The Bahamas, this resort offers an activity-filled setting for a tropical getaway.

Whether you choose to stay in the Coral Tower, Royal Towers, The Cove, The Reef, or Harborside Resort, you’ll have access to the shared pools, water park, aquarium, golf course, casino, and other amenities that make Atlantis one of the top resorts in The Bahamas.

It’s important to note that anyone can buy a day pass to the Atlantis facilities, and it is very popular with cruise ship passengers, so the resort can be very crowded at peak times.

Atlantis Review: Rooms & Suites

Atlantis Bahamas boasts a huge variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. From the value-oriented Coral Tower to the luxurious suites in The Cove, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the options available:

Atlantis Bahamas Coral Tower

The Coral Tower offers a great value option for guests looking for convenience and proximity to the resort’s main attractions. With a fantastic pool area and easy access to Atlantis Beach, this tower is perfect for travelers on a budget. However, it’s important to note that the Coral Tower is one of the older buildings on the property and may feel a bit dated.

Atlantis Bahamas Royal Towers

The famous pink Royal Towers are often the top choice for first-time visitors to Atlantis Bahamas. With the grand architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and convenient access to the water park, casino, restaurants, and shops, the Royal Towers offers an unforgettable experience. The recently renovated rooms add a touch of modernity to the classic charm of this tower.

Atlantis Bahamas The Cove

For those seeking a more upscale experience, The Cove is the ideal choice. Located on the far side of the property, The Cove offers luxurious suites and access to an exclusive adults-only pool area. Despite its sophisticated ambiance, The Cove remains family-friendly, making it perfect for couples or families looking for a more refined stay.

Atlantis Bahamas The Reef

If you’re planning an extended stay or traveling with a larger group , The Reef is the perfect option. This section offers upgraded studio-style rooms with kitchenettes as well as larger suites with full kitchens, providing the utmost comfort and convenience. The Reef and The Cove share a private, family-friendly pool area, ensuring that guests have ample space to relax and enjoy their vacation.

Atlantis Bahamas Harborside Resort

Located just outside the main property, Harborside Resort offers apartment-style accommodations that are also perfect for larger families or groups. Although it’s slightly removed from the center of the action, a shuttle service connects it to the main resort. This option provides great value for those traveling with a larger party.

Atlantis Bahamas Comfort Suites

Another option that can save you a few dollars is the suites at Comfort Suites Paradise Island. This is a neighboring hotel that gives access to the Atlantis Bahamas amenities, such as beaches and waterpark. It is less convenient since you’ll have to walk or take a shuttle each day, but if you’re on a budget, this is a great choice.

Atlantis Bahamas Review: Food & Drinks

With over 20 restaurants on the resort property, Atlantis Bahamas is a culinary paradise. From casual bites to gourmet restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every guest–including a location of the famous Nobu restaurant. The only downfall is that some of the restaurants can be kind of pricey, so keep that in mind. Here are a few of the dining options:

If you’re in the mood for Asian cuisine, Chopstix is a must-visit. With delicious dim sum appetizers and flavorful dishes like veggie fried rice, this restaurant delivers a satisfying dining experience.

Marina Pizzeria

Perfect for a casual meal, Marina Pizzeria offers mouthwatering pizzas. It’s a great option for a quick bite, especially if you’re looking to enjoy your meal by the poolside.

Located inside the bustling casino, some guests feel that the dining experience here falls short of its high prices. While the olive tapenade appetizer is a highlight, the overall quality of the seafood dishes may disappoint.

While dining at the resort can be quite expensive, the convenience of having such a large variety of restaurants on-site is hard to beat. There are cheaper bites by the pools, such as Shark Bites, Triton’s, or Pita.

However, if you’re looking to explore more affordable options or local cuisine, nearby restaurants like Margaritaville or The Poop Deck are worth considering.

It would be crazy to go to a resort and not have a cold drink, right!? You’ll have plenty of options, as there are 19 bars in addition to a nightclub. Here’s the problem, though: Atlantis Bahamas Resort is not all-inclusive , and food and drinks tend to have high prices that can add up quickly. Some simple mixed drinks can be upwards of $16!

However, there is a way around this. Atlantis Bahamas reviews and tips recommend going to a local grocery store and stocking up on your favorite drinks, keeping them to your room. You can also do this for snacks so you don’t have to eat out for every meal. And of course, if you’re in a room with kitchen facilities, cooking in will save a ton of money.

Atlantis Review: Beaches

One of the highlights of a visit to Atlantis Bahamas is the opportunity to bask in the beauty of one of its 6 pristine beaches. In total, there are 5 miles of beach to enjoy.

Many guests rave about the beautiful white sand beaches at Atlantis. However, they say that since the resort is so huge, if you want to spend a lot of time at the beach you need to be sure to book a room in a building located close to a beach. Otherwise, it can be up to a 20-minute walk.

The Paradise Beach and Cove Beaches offer powder-soft sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation. Don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear, as the underwater world around these beaches is teeming with vibrant marine life.

It’s important to note that securing a beach chair can be a challenge, especially during peak times. The resort experiences a high volume of guests, including cruise ship passengers who purchase day passes. Arriving early or exploring alternative areas of the resort can help you find a spot to enjoy the beach without the crowds.

Atlantis Review: Pools

Atlantis Bahamas is home to a myriad of pools, each offering its own unique ambiance and features. Whether you’re seeking a lively atmosphere or a serene oasis, there’s a pool for everyone. In total, there are 20 swimming areas and 14 pools to choose from, but here are some that are worth highlighting:

Royal Baths Pool

Royal Baths Pool exudes elegance and tranquility. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun in a sophisticated setting. This is a great place for couples to spend some relaxing time together.

Aquaventure Water Park

The crown jewel of Atlantis Bahamas, Aquaventure is a water park like no other. With thrilling water slides, a rapid river, and numerous pools, it’s an absolute paradise for water enthusiasts of all ages.

Poseidon’s Playground

Designed for younger guests, Poseidon’s Playground offers a safe and entertaining water play area. With its fort-like structure and interactive features, it’s a hit among kids.

While the pools are a highlight of the resort, it’s important to note that they close relatively early, usually around 5 p.m. This can be disappointing for guests who wish to enjoy a swim in the evening. However, the resort offers various evening entertainment options to make up for the lack of nighttime pool access.

Atlantis Review: Activities & Entertainment

When it comes to activities, Atlantis Bahamas leaves no stone unturned. From thrilling water sports to interactive animal encounters to sizzling shows and nightlife, there’s something for every adventurer. There are also kids’ programs. Here are a few activities that shouldn’t be missed:

Marine Habitat

Atlantis Bahamas has more than 150 species of marine life in its open-air habitat, which is the largest in the world. There’s an amazing variety of exhibits, including coral formations, caves, and lagoons. You can even walk through an underwater tunnel and be surrounded by sharks, or get in the water to swim with tropical fish.

The Dig Aquarium

Explore the mythical “Lost City of Atlantis” at The Dig Aquarium. This captivating exhibit features stunning floor-to-ceiling fish tanks showcasing a variety of marine species. Take a stroll through this underwater wonderland and marvel at the intricate theming.

Marina Village

Take a leisurely stroll through Marina Village , where you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants, and even a Ben & Jerry’s ice cream shop. This vibrant area is also home to luxurious yachts, providing a glimpse into the glamorous world of boating.

These are just a couple of activities you and your family can enjoy at the resort. There is also a casino, adult-only nightclubs, teen nightclubs, Atlantis Theatre, concerts, movie nights, comedy clubs, and more.

Atlantis Bahamas Review: Romance Packages

For couples seeking a romantic retreat, Atlantis Bahamas provides a selection of romance packages. From candlelit dinners on the beach to couples’ spa treatments, these packages offer an exclusive and intimate experience for couples looking to reconnect.

It’s important to note, however, that this is a huge resort that is often crowded, so privacy can be hard to come by. Couples who enjoy a lively atmosphere with tons to do will be happiest here.

Atlantis Review: Location

Atlantis Bahamas is located on Paradise Island, a smaller island just offshore from the main island of New Providence. It’s easily accessible from Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, via a short water taxi ride or a quick cab journey from the airport. The resort’s prime location offers stunning ocean views and convenient access to the vibrant culture and attractions of The Bahamas.

Atlantis Bahamas is about 30 minutes from the Nassau airport.

Atlantis Review: What’s Included and What’s Not

While Atlantis Bahamas offers a variety of amenities and activities, it’s important to note that it is not a Caribbean all-inclusive resort , nor is it an adults-only resort, unlike Sandals resorts , Secrets resorts , and Breathless Resorts .

Instead of being all-inclusive, Atlantis Bahamas calls itself a “full-service resort.” Guests have full access to the Atlantis water park, 11 swimming areas, 11 water slides, two Lazy River Rides, Paradise Lagoon, The Dig, The Predator’s Lagoon, all marine life habitats, beach towels , and the beach area.

What’s not included are the Mandara Spa, comedy club, business center, meals, and drinks. However, there are meal plans available to purchase at the resort. While it is an impressive resort, Atlantis Bahamas can get very expensive if you choose to eat all meals at the onsite restaurants and drink much alcohol at the bars and lounges.

Atlantis Review: Conclusion

In conclusion, Atlantis Bahamas is a resort that lives up to its reputation as a paradise destination. With luxurious accommodations, beautiful beaches, a thrilling water park, and an astonishing array of activities, it offers a truly unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages.

While the prices may be steep and the resort can get crowded at times, the overall quality and range of experiences can make Atlantis Bahamas a dream vacation spot.

Many Atlantis Bahamas reviews and tips recommend going to Atlantis when school is in session to avoid peak crowds; the worst time to visit Atlantis is said to be during spring break.

If you’d rather check out all-inclusive resorts, here are some articles to help: Top 15 All-Inclusive Waterpark Resorts , 10 Affordable All-Inclusive Resorts for Adults Only , Sandals Bahamas Resorts , Best Sandals Resorts for Snorkeling , Best Sandals Resorts for Honeymoons , 10 Best Secrets Resorts , 5 Best Secrets Resorts in Mexico , Top 20 All Inclusive Resor ts in Jamaica Perfect for Honeymoons , and 25+ All Inclusive Resorts in Mexico Perfect for a Honeymoon .

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Review & Tips (2024)

Are you wondering if the Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Tour is worth it? You’re in the right place.

I live in Cozumel and recently took the tour. I’ve got the full scoop on what to expect and everything you need to know, including the downsides.

The short answer is, yes, the Atlantis Submarine tour is definitely worth it. It’s not just a cheesy tourist trap. It’s a real submarine that descends to 100 feet underwater. You’ll see some amazing sea life while staying safe and dry.

But let’s take a closer look to make sure it’s right for you. After all, you don’t want to waste your precious vacation time and money on an activity that’s not exactly what you want.

🪸 Ready to book? Get the best price here .

Atlantis Submarine Tour Cozumel Overview

The Atlantis Submarine is Cozumel ‘s only tourist submarine, offering an authentic underwater journey.

Unlike semi-submersible vessels that only give you a partial underwater experience, the Atlantis takes you completely below the surface.

You’ll be among the 1% of the world’s population to venture deeper than 100 feet below the ocean’s surface, making this an excluse adventure.

The Atlantis submarine is the only one of its kind in Mexico , so you really need to experience it while you’re here.

I was a little nervous about going on a submarine. But Atlantis Submarines has a stellar safety record with 24 years of incident-free operations in Cozumel.

The submarine is engineered with fail-safes, including duplicated systems and the capability to surface autonomously in case of power loss.

They conduct rigorous safety audits, complying with American Bureau of Shipping Standards and US Coast Guard requirements.

Getting to Atlantis’ Starting Point

Atlantis’ central location, right in front of the Casa del Mar Hotel, makes it easy to get to from anywhere on the island.

• From Puerta Maya : Head left towards the North for about four blocks.
• From the International Port : A quick two-block walk to the left heading North.
• From Punta Langosta Cruise Pier : Grab a taxi right outside the terminal.
• From the Ferry Terminal : If you’re coming over from Tulum or the Riviera Maya, you’ll find taxis waiting outside the terminal.
• From Anywhere Else in Cozumel : Taxis are readily available to take you to the submarine’s location quickly. Note that there is no Uber or Lyft in Cozumel .

What to Expect on the Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Tour

The entire tour lasts about two hours. However, a lot of that time is going to and from the submarine. You’ll spend about 45 minutes inside the submarine.

Boat Ride to the Submarine

After meeting up at Atlantis’ facilities, you’ll be picked up from their pier. The ride out to the sub is beautiful. If you’re lucky, you may see dolphins. I didn’t see any on my trip, but I’ve heard it sometimes happens so keep your camera handy.

Boarding the Sub

Once you arrive at the submarine, you’ll transfer from the boat. It’s a little rocky sometimes so make sure you’re wearing shoes that are easy to walk in. The crew helps you so it’s not as scary as I expected.

You’ll then climb down the 12-step ladder and find your seat. Don’t worry, all the seats have great views.

Exploring the Ocean

The Atlantis Submarine ride offers an up-close look at Cozumel’s underwater life. As the sub dives, you’ll see a variety of sea creatures and coral formations through your own window.

You even pass by a shipwreck, which was my favorite part.

The ride is smooth, with clear views that make it easy to spot marine life, including fish, sea turtles, and occasionally sharks. Of course, you’ll also see the beautiful coral formations.

It really feels like entering a whole new world. We didn’t see any sharks, which I found to be disappointing. But we saw plenty of other things, including sea turtles and eels.

There are crocodiles in Cozumel , but it’s highly unlikely you’ll see one. Still, it could happen.

Even with the submarine full, I didn’t feel crowded. Maybe because I was so engrossed with the view out the window.

Returning to Shore

I gotta admit, the boat ride back to shore was a letdown. I mean, the ride is fine and the scenery is gorgeous. But after being underwater I didn’t want to return to real life.

Pros and Cons of the Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Tour

Let’s take a look at both the good things and the not-so-good to make sure this is the right tour for you.

• Unique Experience : Diving over 100 feet below the surface in a real submarine is a rare opportunity that few other destinations offer.
• Safety Record : With 24 years of incident-free operations, the safety measures and protocols are top-notch.
• Marine Life : You’ll see an abundance of sea life and coral formations, including the chance to explore famous sites like the Chankanaab Reef.
• Educational Value : The tour provides educational commentary about the marine environment. I loved learning about the things I was seeing.
• Comfort : Every passenger gets their own window, ensuring a personal and unobstructed view of the underwater world.
• Accessibility : It’s located within walking distance from major cruise ports, making it an easy shore excursion for visitors.
• Space Constraints : The submarine’s interior is compact, which might be uncomfortable for those with claustrophobia or a preference for more personal space. I found that people didn’t use deodorant as much as I would have liked.
• Physical Requirements : There are physical requirements for entry and exit, such as the ability to climb a short ladder and fit through the hatch.
• Limited Personal Items : Due to space limitations, you can’t bring much on board; however, lockers are provided for storage.

Tips for Taking the Atlantis Submarine Tour

To make the most of your tour, here are a few tips you should keep in mind:

• Book in Advance: Tours sell out so make sure you book in advance .
• Expecting Mothers : If you’re pregnant and in your first two trimesters without complications, you’re welcome aboard.
• Size Matters : There’s no weight limit, but the entry door is 40 inches wide. Comfortably fitting through this space is necessary to join the tour.
• Dress Smart : Shoes are a must and bathing suits must be covered. Wear practical clothing that won’t get in the way as you climb up and down the submarine’s ladder.
• Less is More : Space is at a premium on the submarine, so pack light. Lockers are available to store your belongings.
• Don’t Forget Your Camera : Photos and videos are encouraged. Just remember to turn off the flash to avoid reflections on the windows.
• Contribution to Conservation : The $6 national park fee is a genuine charge that goes towards the maintenance of Cozumel’s national parks, including the Chankanaab Reef marine park .
• Space and Comfort : The submarine is spacious, but if you’re prone to claustrophobia, the close quarters with fellow passengers might feel a bit snug. It’s worth considering this before booking your tour.
• Bring Cash: It’s optional, but customary to tip the crew after your tour. They’ll accept both U.S. dollars and pesos.

Essential Information About Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Tours

Operating Days and Hours: Tours daily between 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Tour Cost: Currently the tour is $115 for adults and $75 for children. You’ll also have to pay a $6 national park fee.

Tour Duration: The total tour takes about 2 hours. This includes the boat ride to and from the submarine. Time on the sub is about 45 minutes.

Accessibility : Guests must navigate a 12-step ladder backward to enter the submarine.

Dress Code : Bathing suits and bare feet are not permitted.

Minimum Age: Children must be at least 4 years old.

Height Requirements : A minimum height of 3 feet is required.

Weight Limitations: There are no weight limitations. Guests just have to fit through the door, which is 40 inches wide.

Pregnancy : Pregnant women without previous complications can participate up to their 6th month.

Weather Conditions : Tours may be rescheduled in the event of bad weather. Occasionally during the off season the ports are closed due to high winds.

Is Atlantis Submarine Tour Worth It?

For me, it was absolutely worth it . It was a unique experience and I enjoyed every minute. In fact, I plan to go again with my family when they visit me at Christmas.

I’m a huge fan of scuba diving and snorkeling and Cozumel is well-known for it reef system . Being able to see so much of the reef and sea life that deep was especially fun.

It’s also great for families, whether your staying on the island or coming over for a day trip from Riviera Maya .

But deciding whether the tour is worth your time and money comes down to what you value in a vacation experience.

Here’s a balanced take to help you weigh your decision:

The tour is a hit for those who cherish the idea of exploring the unseen. It’s not every day you get to be part of an exclusive club that has ventured over 100 feet below the ocean’s surface.

The submarine’s safety record is impeccable, and seeing the marine life and coral reefs are genuinely out of this world. It’s an educational journey as much as it is an adventure, offering insights into the underwater ecosystem that are hard to gain from a typical snorkel or dive.

However, it’s important to consider the tour’s physical requirements and the fact that you’ll be in a confined space. If you’re someone who prefers wide-open spaces or gets uneasy in close quarters, this might be a significant factor.

Frequently Asked Questions: Atlantis Submarine Cozumel

How long is the atlantis submarine tour.

The entire tour is two hours long, including the boat ride to and from the sub. 45 minutes of that is spent on the submarine.

How to dress for Atlantis submarine?

Wear comfortable clothing that won’t hinder you from climbing up and down the ladder to get in and out of the sub. Bare feet and bathing suits are not allowed.

How far down does the Atlantis submarine go?

The submarine goes approximately 100 feet deep. Depth may vary depending on conditions.

How much is the submarine ride in Cozumel Mexico?

Currently the tour is $115 for adults and $75 for children. You’ll also have to pay a $6 national park fee.

Where is Atlantis submarine located?

Atlantis is located in Cozumel in front of the Casa del Mar Hotel.

How safe are the Atlantis submarines?

The submarines are very safe. Atlantis has a flawless 24-year safety record, redundant systems for emergency surfacing, constant surface vessel communication, and adherence to stringent American Bureau of Shipping and US Coast Guard standards.

Is there a bathroom on the Atlantis submarine?

No, there are no restrooms on the submarine or on the boat ride. There are restrooms available in the office.

How many people does the Atlantis submarine hold?

The submarine holds 48 guests and 3 crew members.

Has Atlantis Submarines ever had an accident?

There has never been a submarine accident in Cozumel.

Wrap-Up: Atlantis Submarine Tours

In the end, the Atlantis tour offers an extraordinary escape and a chance to see the life beneath the waves.

It’s an adventure that’s both thrilling and serene, educational and awe-inspiring. With its safety record, proximity to cruise ports, and the promise of an unforgettable underwater experience, it’s a standout attraction if you want to add depth (literally!) to your travel stories.

Yet, it’s not for everyone. Like any good adventure, it requires a bit of courage and a willingness to experience the unknown.

Whether it’s worth it is a personal question, but for many, the chance to explore the final frontier on Earth is an unequivocal yes. As you surface from the depths, you’ll carry with you not just memories, but a new appreciation for the ocean’s mysterious beauty.

Related Posts

• Paradise Beach Cozumel Review and Tips (By a Local 2023)
• Best Cozumel Ruins Tours (And Near Cozumel)
• Is There Uber in Cozumel?  
• Jeep Tours in Cozumel
• Is Cozumel Worth Visiting?
• Hiking in Cozumel: The Ultimate Guide
• Is Cozumel Safer Than Cancun?
• Cozumel Drinks and Where to Get Them
• Cozumel Crocodiles – What You Need to Know
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Pro Tips for Your Mexico Trips

Do i need travel insurance.

YES . No matter when you visit Mexico, don’t forget to buy travel insurance. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you need it once it will pay for itself many times over. I highly recommend Safety Wing . They have a proven track record for customer satisfaction and a variety of coverage levels.

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

YES. Renting a car in Mexico is not only safe, but it’s a great way to explore. Discover Cars is hands down the best rental car company . They check international and local companies to get you the best rates.

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe  — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free service in Mexico, the least expensive option is to buy a Telcel SIM card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. I have one and it’s been a lifesaver.

You can also get an eSIM. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries/regions, including Mexico.

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels,  Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels,  check out Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to  check VRBO , which is often cheaper with more options.

What do I pack for Mexico?

  My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.

What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Probably Not . U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa  check the Mexican Consulate’s website. For assistance with all your worldwide visa questions, check out iVisa .

Sherry Arkfeld is a digital nomad, travel blogger, and copywriter living her dream of being able to work from anywhere in the world while exploring new places with her little dog, Shelby. Sherry is passionate about sharing her experiences to help other travelers and digital nomads. Sherry and Shelby are currently traveling slowly around Mexico with plans to eventually go (almost) everywhere.

Disney Cruise Atlantis Excursion Review

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Are you trying to decide what  Disney Cruise  excursion to take in Nassau, Bahamas? You’re in the right place! Find out my review of the Atlantis Aquventure excursion from my recent cruise on the Disney Wish.

This post may contain affiliate links. When you click on these links, I get a small percentage back at no cost to you! For more information see my  disclosure policy .

Check out prices below or get a free quote by calling 877-510-2929 and let them know Mommy Mouse Clubhouse sent you!

My family of five recently went on a Back-to-Back cruise on the Disney Wish, where one of our ports of call was Nassau, Bahamas.

After looking through the list of excursions available during our day in Nassau, we decided to choose one of the Atlantis excursions called, “Atlantis Aquaventure (N25)”, because it was a perfect match for our boys ages 16, 13, and 9. Below, you can take a closer look at what is included and our experience.

Want to Go on a Disney Cruise?

If you’re thinking about going on a Disney Cruise for your family, I recommend booking with my travel partner, Get Away Today. They can help you find the best ship and itinerary for your cruise vacation. I have used them many times and they have the BEST customer service. Give them a call at 877-510-2929 and mention Mommy Mouse Clubhouse sent you to get the best deals!

Atlantis Aquaventure Excursion Description

So what exactly is the Atlantis Aquventure port excursion? Here is the description directly from  Disney Cruise  Line:

Wet and Wild Fun

Visit the underground aquarium of The Dig, head to the water park thrills of Aquaventure or just enjoy Atlantis’ beach. 

On this adventure you will… 

▪️Drive approximately 25 minutes through Nassau on your way to the world-renowned Atlantis Paradise Island resort.  ▪️Enter the magic of Atlantis’ 141-acre treasure: the Aquaventure waterpark. Featuring state-of-the-art water slides, river rapids, waterfalls, water holes and amazing special effects, Aquaventure is far from your usual water park.  ▪️Kids can join the fun at Poseidon’s Playzone, a new 9,000 square-foot water play fort with 40 new water play elements and an oversized 300-gallon water bucket that overflows from Poseidon’s trident onto the tower below every 5 minutes! ▪️Continue on to one of the resort’s many sublime sunbathing spots-on a white-sand beach, in the lagoon and around the pool areas.  ▪️Atlantis is home to the world’s largest open-air marine habitat, with more than 50,000 sea creatures representing 250 species. You can embark on a self-guided tour of the ruins of ancient Atlantis in The Dig, an elaborate replica of an actual archeological site. Explore a labyrinth of underground passageways brimming with large viewing windows filled with exotic marine life.  ▪️During your free time you can visit the casino, shop in the Marina Village or simply wander through the impressive lobby of the Royal Towers.  ▪️Finally, embark on a short 10-minute walk back to the bus pick-up location before beginning the 15-minute drive back to the pier. Please note that return transport is set for 3:00pm and 4:00pm. Your guides will confirm those times again upon arriving at Atlantis. ▪️Please note, tour durations and return times are subject to change due to ship schedules and itineraries.

What Disney Cruise Line Wants You to Know Before You Go

View important additional information to help you prepare for this exciting adventure. 

▪️This excursion includes a 15-minute walk to and from the pick-up location, as well as a minimum of 0.5 miles of walking at Atlantis. Because of this walk, Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes.  ▪️Wheelchairs need to be collapsible and are permitted in the pool and beach area but not in the waterslide area. No electric wheelchairs will be permitted. Guests must be able to board and disembark the bus or minivan on their own. ▪️All times and distances are approximate, subject to traffic and overcrowding.  ▪️Guests must be at least 48 inches tall to ride all water slides. Children less than 48 inches tall may participate at Poseidon’s Playzone water playground for children, and on the Aquaventure river systems. Children must be accompanied by an adult on a double tube, wear a life vest (provided free of charge) and be large enough to support themselves in the inner tube opening.  ▪️Waterslides are not suitable for persons physically limited or with a history of heart, neck, back or joint problems. Guests with injuries (casts, bandages, etc.) are not permitted to ride the slides.  ▪️Guests are encouraged to bring currency and credit cards to purchase extras such as souvenirs or snacks. Please note, however, that many outlets at Atlantis do not accept cash.  ▪️Lockers are available at an additional cost. Please note, however, that only credit cards, and not cash, are accepted for locker rentals.  ▪️You should never feel that gratuities are expected, but it is customary to leave a tip in recognition of exceptional service in restaurants and taxis and for excursion guides and drivers. It is always up to you to determine the amount.

How Much Does Atlantis Aquaventure Cost?

The price for the Atlantis Aquaventure excursion through  Disney Cruise  Line is:

• $239 for adults (ages 10+)
• $124 for kids (ages 3-9)
• Free for kids (ages 0-2)

Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas

The Atlantis Resort is located on Paradise Island about 2.5 miles from the cruise port. We happened to choose to do this excursion on the first part of our back to back cruise and lucked out as the Disney Wish was the only cruise ship in port that day.

For our second stop in Nassau, nine cruise ships were scheduled to be in port, which would have greatly impacted our experience at Atlantis. I recommend checking to see the number of cruise ships that will be there on the date of your visit.

How to Get to Atlantis from a Disney Cruise

The  Disney Cruise  Line Navigator app will tell you when and where your meeting point will be on the day of your excursion. The app will also tell you what you will need to bring with you, like your Key to the World Card, photo ID, etc.

We met at Worlds of Marvel restaurant and checked in with Port Adventure cast members. We waited for about 10 minutes, then were led as a group off the ship and through a small outdoor market. We then boarded a for a 10 minute ride you to the resort. 

Arriving at the Resort

When you arrive at Atlantis, a staff member will be there to help you fill out and sign a waiver on their website. You can have them fill it out for you on their tablet, or use their complimentary wi-fi to do it yourself on your phone.

After signing the waiver, you will go to the ticket booth and they will find your name on their list from Disney Cruise Line. You will be given a wrist band, then are able to enter Atlantis. You will then make your way through the shopping area and casino before arriving at the water park.

Aquaventure Water Park

The first thing we did was find a few chairs to drop off our stuff and come back to sit on during breaks from the slides. The  Disney Wish  was the only ship in port that day, so fortunately for us, there was no problem getting a nice spot in the shade next to the pool.

Water Slides

We enjoyed all of the water slides and the river multiple times. The boys favorite slide was called the Leap of Faith. This is a drop slide that starts on top of the Mayan Temple and ends by sliding through a shark tank!  We also liked the Abyss (an all dark water slide),  the Serpent Slide (a water coaster in the Power Tower), and the Challenger Slides (head-first mat slides). 

Poseidon’s Play Zone

This area is designated for little ones. It has small slides, a splash pad, and lazy river. There are also lounge chairs right next to it so parents can sit while their kids play.

Aquaventure River Rides

There are also some really cool water coasters and lazy rivers. My favorite was the lazy river. But don’t be deceived, this river is only lazy some of the time! There are sections where you go into rapids and get splashed with water. 

Food Options at Atlantis

There are a few options for food at Atlantis. You can purchase food inside the water park, but can be expensive. We brought our own lunch from the ship (Uncrustables from room service) and got a Frappuccino from Starbucks inside the water park! We paid with a credit card so I’m not sure if cash is accepted or not.

Things to Keep in Mind at Atlantis

• It’s important to know that if you have young children, there may be some height restrictions on certain slides and rides.
• Some water slides may not be suitable for individuals with physical limitations or injuries.
• Bringing cash and credit cards is recommended as many outlets at Atlantis do not accept cash. 
• Lockers are available for an additional cost, but only credit cards are accepted for locker rentals.
• It’s also important to check the number of cruise ships scheduled to be in port on the day of your visit, as it may affect your experience at Atlantis.

Atlantis Shore Excursion Return Time

Our tour operator let us know what time be back at the bus for our short ride back to the Nassau cruise port at the end of the excursion, which was 3:30 pm. I felt that we had plenty of time on our excursion.

My Review of Our Disney Cruise Atlantis Aquaventure Experience

Overall, we had so much fun at our first time at Atlantis Aquaventure and would definitely recommend it to others. The water slides were fun and thrilling, the lazy river was relaxing, and the food options were convenient. Also, knowing how many cruise ships will be in port on the day of your visit and planning accordingly can greatly enhance the experience.

I felt that the price for Atlantis Aquaveture was high, but I’m glad we did. Having the Disney Wish as the only ship in port had a lot to do with this because there were minimal waits for slides and plenty of lounge and beach chairs available. However, if we had gone to Atlantis on a day with multiple ships in port, I may feel differently.

Make sure to take a look at the marine life on your way back into Atlantis. We saw sting rays and a Sawfish shark!

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is worth it for the fun and unique water slides, lazy river, and food options. However, the price may be a bit steep for some.

No, you don’t have to book a Disney excursion to visit Atlantis. However, booking through Disney may offer added convenience and assistance, such as transportation from the cruise port and securing a spot in the water park. You can purchase a day pass directly from the Atlantis website and take a taxi to and from the port as well. I have also heard of people that book a room at the Comfort Suites Paradise Island right next door to Atlantis which includes 4 Atlantis Day passes, then check out of the hotel right after receiving their passes to save money. I have not personally tried this, so you might want to do more research on this before trying it.

Atlantis has designated areas for younger children and offers life jackets for all ages. However, it’s important to be aware of the height restrictions for certain slides and rides. It’s also recommended to keep a close eye on children at all times. 

There are height restrictions for certain slides and rides. It’s best to check with your tour operator or on their website before booking.

No, it is not the biggest waterpark in the world, but it does have some record-breaking slides and attractions.

Yes, appropriate swimwear must be worn at all times while enjoying the waterpark. Clothing with metal or sharp objects are not allowed on the slides. 

The length of time it takes to do Atlantis Aquaventure can vary depending on how busy the waterpark is and your personal pace. On average, it can take anywhere from 2-4 hours to fully experience all the rides and attractions. However, you are free to spend as much time as you want at the waterpark until closing time.

How to Book a Disney Cruise

When booking a Disney Cruise , I always recommend using a travel agent. I use my travel partner Get Away Today , because of their high level of customer service and attention to detail. They do an amazing job ensuring my family has a great time on our cruise.

You can check their website www.GetAwayToday.com for current deals or give them a call at 855-GET-AWAY to talk to someone in person (which I highly recommend). If you do, let them know that Mommy Mouse Clubhouse sent you to get the best deals!

More Helpful Disney Cruise Articles

• Disney Wish Back to Back Cruise
• Everything We Ate on the Disney Wish
• 25+ Disney Cruise Tips & Tricks
• Disney Cruise Room Service Menu
• Disney Cruise Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Experience
• Disney Dream Cozumel Excursion

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Disney Cruise: What to Expect

Are you ready for your next Disney Cruise? We have all the information you need! From itinerary and cost, to what else is included in your vacation package! 

Disney Cruise Internet (Updated New Plans)

If you’re planning a Disney Cruise, you may be wondering about the best way to stay connected while you’re at sea. Disney Cruise Line offers several different internet plans, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.

Disney Cruise Deluxe Family Verandah Suite (Disney Dream 8614)

I’m so excited to be giving you a tour of our Deluxe Family Verandah Suite on the Disney Dream cruise ship. Our suite was absolutely beautiful and perfect for families. It has plenty of space for all of us to relax and enjoy our vacation.

San Diego Disney Cruise

What is it like to take a San Diego Disney Cruise on the Disney Wonder? You’re about to find out! This article will take you through a quick tour of some of the ship’s highlights, and go through what each day is like on a 5 Night Itinerary to Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. Follow along with us as we learn how this magical cruise works!

Day One on the Disney Dream Cruise Ship

Want to know what it is like to board a Disney Cruise? You are in the right place! I will show you what is required in order to board, how the boarding process works, and all about Day 1 of a Halloween on the High Seas Disney Cruise on the Disney Dream.

Disney Cruise Formal Night

Wondering what to wear on a Disney Cruise Formal Night? I’ve got you covered! See the most EPIC Disney themed suits for men and boys plus where to buy cute dresses for women and girls!

Disney Cruise Activity Schedule

Want to know what activities are scheduled on a Disney Cruise? Here is the schedule from our 4-Night cruise on the Disney Dream including screenshots from the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App!

What to Eat on the Disney Dream

Check out the menus for most Disney Cruise Line Restaurants!

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Kona Atlantis Submarine Tour Review

Are you looking for the best things to do on the big island with kids keep scrolling to read my honest review of the kona atlantis submarine tour to see if it’s right for your family., this kona atlantis submarine tour review was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Are you wondering what to do in Kona Hawaii with kids?

I recently took my 5-year-old on the Kona Atlantis Submarine on the Big Island. This is a kid-friendly tour that takes you underwater to see tropical fish and sunken ships.

We have previously done the Waikiki Atlantis Submarine and the Maui Atlantis Submarine so we were curious how this one compared. Keep scrolling to read my honest Kona Atlantis Submarine tour review.

You will be able to see all of your favorite Hawaiian sea creatures up close, including a manta ray, parrotfish, triggerfish, and more! The crew was friendly and helpful throughout our entire trip as well which made it even better for us!

If you are looking for an exciting way to spend your day in Hawaii then look no further than this fun submarine adventure!

Keep scrolling to read my review of the Atlantis Kona Submarine Adventure.

Ready to book? Get your discounted tickets HERE !

Don’t have time to read many Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting the Big Island.

Popular Big Island Tours/Activities

• Manta Ray Snorkeling Tour (you can ONLY do this on the Big Island)
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour (this is the BEST way to see lava if you aren’t renting a car)
• Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour (this is a cool adventure for teens and adults)
• Swim with Dolphins (this is a unique experience for kids of all ages and adults)
• Kona ATV Tour (we love this one because they also do cultural activities)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Big Island Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Waikoloa Village (this is a mega resort where you can swim with dolphins or just enjoy their massive pool area)
• Courtyard by Marriott’s King Kamehameha Beach Hotel (this is a moderately-priced Kona hotel right on a little lagoon)
• Fairmont Orchid (this is a swanky resort with an awesome pool area and beach)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Kona Submarine Tour FAQs

YES! We’ve done the Atlantis Submarine on Maui, Oahu and the Big Island and the Kona submarine was by far our favorite. It’s an easy way to see tropical fish without snorkeling.

One of our favorite Kona Hawaii excursions for kids is the Aloha Adventure Farms ATV tour . They offer UTV rides for kids ages 5-15 and people ages 16+ can ride ATVs through the jungle, stopping villages to learn about Polynesian cultures through hands-on activities. There’s also swimming with dolphins at the Hilton Waikoloa Village . These are all awesome things to do on Big Island with kids.

Kids need to be at least 36″ tall to ride.

Brief History of the Atlantis Submarine

Atlantis Submarine Adventures has been operating in Hawaii since 1988. They have some of the largest and most technically advanced passenger submarines in the world.

They are pretty passionate about sustainable tourism and their Hawaii submarines are battery powered and don’t pollute the water. And in an effort to not disturb the sea life, they are also really quiet.

Atlantis Submarines currently have dive sites in Waikiki, Oahu; Lahaina, Maui; and Kona, Big Island. These are popular activities for a Hawaii vacation with kids.

What to Know about the Kona Atlantis Submarine Before You Go:

The Kona Atlantis Submarine is located in the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel on Ali’i Drive. This is walking distance from many Kona hotels.

You can either walk or park in their paid lot. We parked there for about 3 hours and it ended up being $25. However we forgot to get our parking validated.

When you enter the hotel, you’ll take a left and then a right until you see the Kona Atlantis Submarine check in area. It’s all indoors and air conditioned.

After you’re checked in, you’ll have the option of walking around the hotel for a bit or hanging out by the large outrigger canoe. When we were there, they had an amazing display of artwork by the famous Hawaiian artist Herb Kane.

Note: there are no restrooms on the submarine, so you’re best bet is to use the one by the luau check-in desk near the hotel’s main entrance.

Short Boat Ride to Submarine

Since the reef right in front of the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel is pretty shallow, you’ll take a 5 minute boat ride out to the submarine.

During this short boat ride, you’ll see safety presentations about all the different equipment you may have to use in an emergency (however they haven’t needed any since they started tours 30 years ago).

You’ll also get sweeping views of the entire Ali’i Drive strip, which is pretty cool!

There’s only one open-air section with built in benches. And the boat is pretty small. You also must stay seated the whole time. There’s no need to stand up to take photos of the submarine as you’ll have a much better opportunity on the way back to shore.

Once you reach the submarine, the crew will direct you to a line so you can climb down into the submarine with the rest of your group. You can leave your bags on the boat if you like. No one but the crew is on the boat while you are in your submarine.

You will need to turn around and climb down a steep 10-step ladder. My 5-year-old was nervous at first, but he managed to do it all by himself.

Submarine Tour in Kona Hawaii

Once you enter the submarine, you’ll see there are giant circular windows right in front of you. Two people share one large window.

You’ll start off going 60 feet under water and then you’ll gradually get to about 100 feet under the sea.

Underwater, you’ll get to see an 18,000-year-old coral reef that spans 25 acres! You’ll see TONS of tropical fish and other undersea creatures. We saw a manta ray and it was majestic!

The major Kona attractions are the sunken shipwrecks. And there are fascinating (and humorous) stories that go along with them.

The captain is really good about turning around so that the other side of the submarine can also get views of the items under water. That’s one of the reasons I think it’s one of the best Kona adventures for families.

Along the way, you’ll see fish and other sea creatures pop up sporadically. Because this is an ocean, they cannot guarantee you’ll see any fish, sea turtles, sea horses, sharks, or whales. It varies so much from tour to tour.

We ended up seeing a lot of schools of fish, which was awesome!

Kona Boat Ride to Shore

After the submarine ride, we climbed back out and onto the boat.

They did a full circle around the submarine so that everyone on the boat could stand up and take their own photo of the submarine in the water. The crew even waved!

It’s a quick 5 minute ride back to shore, but the views are pretty amazing!

How does the Kona Submarine Tour Compare with the Waikiki and Maui Submarine Tours?

Now that we’ve done all three Atlantis Submarine tours in Hawaii, I can confidently say the Kona submarine tour is our favorite.

We appreciated being able to wait for our tour to start in an air-conditioned hotel. The boat ride was short yet really fun and scenic. And the tour itself was informative, funny, and we saw TONS of coral and sea life in addition to the cool wreckage.

It’s definitely one of the top Big Island adventures worth checking out.

The Highlight of this Kona Tour and What You Should Look Out For

For my son and me, the highlight was simply going on a REAL submarine ride. It’s something unique that many people never have the opportunity to do. In fact, our guide said only 1% of people across the globe ever go 100 feet under water.

And fun fact: our submarine was built in Everett, Washington!

There are a couple of things families should know:

• There are NO restrooms on the submarine. So, I encourage you to have your family use the facilities inside the hotel instead.
• If anyone in your family gets motion sickness, they do have sick bags that are easily accessible on the submarine.
• The ladder to get in/out of the submarine is super steep and they want kids to do it on their own instead of being carried.

How Much Does it Cost and Where is it Located?

You’ll find the Kona Atlantis Submarine tour at the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel on Ali’i Drive.

There’s a ticket booth inside the hotel if you want to get same day tickets. From there, you’ll walk along the beach and onto the dock to get on the shuttle boat.

If you are sure you want to do this Kona activity, you’ll definitely want to reserve tic k ets before you arrive. Adult tickets start at $133 and children start at $51. Prices vary depending on restrictions/availability.

So, is the Kona Atlantis Submarine Worth It?

Absolutely! My 5-year-old son said this was his favorite Kona activity! We both loved seeing all the tropical fish, the manta ray, and the cool wreckage sites. Plus, our Kona tour guide was hilarious!

We’ve done the Atlantis Submarine on Oahu and Maui , but the Kona Atlantis Submarine ride is by far our favorite!

It’s definitely one of the best Kona Hawaii activities and top Big Island excursions for families!

Looking for more things to do in Kona Hawaii? Check out our post about where to find an affordable family photographer in Kona , the Aloha Adventure Farm ATV tour , Hawaii Keiki Museum review , how to visit a macadamia nut factory , where to swim with dolphins in Kona , and the best Big Island luaus .

Maui's Atlantis Submarine Tour: Your Insider Review

This page may contain compensated affiliate links. For more information, please read my disclaimer .

Find out if it's worth it to go on Maui's Atlantis Submarine Adventure. This is your unbiased insider's review and virtual preview of what it's like 130 feet down on one of their subs!

In a rush?  Book it now!

You've Got 2 Options if You Want to See Underwater Marine Life Without Getting Wet

If you want to check out the underwater marine life without getting wet on Maui, you have 2 choices: the Atlantis Submarine, or the Reef Dancer glass bottom boat.

If you're a playing the odds kind of person, then you should pick the Atlantis submarine because on average it has way better reviews.  Obviously your mileage may vary, but I'm just reporting people's general impressions.

Your Virtual Preview of an Atlantis Submarine Ride on Maui

Ready for a virtual preview of what you get?  Here we go!

The submarine is docked quite a ways out to sea, so you'll be heading to Lahaina Harbor where you'll check in, and then take a speedy boat out to the sub. And this is actually a good thing - if the sub were docked in the harbor, you'd miss out on seeing its magnificent gleaming white hull out in the middle of nowhere as it waits for your arrival.  I thought it was pretty cool.  It let me live out my "secret rendezvous with a submarine" fantasy.  Yes, I have an active imagination. 

Their sub can seat 48 passengers, and every single person gets a front row seat for the view ports inside.  This is good news since you won't have to worry about missing out because some 6-foot tall Goliath is blocking your sight line. 

(Please don't take offense if you're a 6-foot tall Goliath.  But you have to admit, a side effect of your being such a fine specimen of the heights that mere mortals can reach, is that you sometimes block the views for the rest of us.  But don't worry, we still think your height is pretty awesome overall.)

But I digress...

Ready for some pictures?  But first, I must warn you.  The camera I was using kind of sucks.  It, and underwater photos in poor lighting, are not on the best of terms.  But if you're cool with that here goes...

The entire tour is narrated, so you'll never have to wonder what you're looking it.  Granted, for stuff like an anchor, you don't really need someone to tell you it's an anchor.  But for the marine life, unless you're a marine biologist, the narration is great, and I think you'll enjoy it - we did! All too soon, it'll be time for the submarine to surface, where it will meet up with The Roxie, a cute little blue boat that marks the resting spot for the sub - due to the shortage of slips in Lahaina Harbour, the Atlantis Adventure sub is always left anchored out at sea.

And good thing too!  Remember my "secret rendezvous with a submarine" fantasy?  Now I see that it was only possible due to a slip shortage.  We all know you can't have a secret rendezvous with a submarine if it's parked in plain sight in a public harbor, right? RIGHT?

Tips for Your Atlantis Submarine Tour

1) We found it really tough to find parking in Lahaina that was close to the harbor. Make sure you allow yourself lots of extra time for finding a good spot. Alternatively, you can park further away as long as you budget time for the walk - of course, given the beautiful Maui weather, a walk through Lahaina wouldn't be such a bad thing now would it!  Just bring some cold drinking water with you to keep hydrated.

2) Allow yourself lots of time to find the boat departure slip. We normally don't have much trouble finding our way around, but we had a lot of difficulty finding the correct slip for Atlantis. Maybe it's just us though. We ended up asking for directions from some folks that were on another boat and had no problems after that.

3) There are no drinks, food, or restrooms on the submarine. We brought along a bottle of water in case we got thirsty on the tour, but since the tour only lasted 90 minutes, the lack of these amenities wasn't a problem.

4) Especially if you have your heart set on this particular Maui adventure, make sure you book your reservation in advance, as space can fill up quickly!

Is Maui the Only Place You Can Go on an Atlantis Submarine Adventure?

Atlantis operates these submarine tours at several sites throughout the world, all located either in the Caribbean, Hawaii, or Guam.

I figured I'd mention that so you know that your Maui trip isn't going to be your last chance to check them out.  You have options.

When Is the Best Time of Day to Go on an Atlantis Submarine Tour?

There are a ton of times to choose from, so it's easy to book your tour whether you're an early riser, or someone who likes to sleep in.  I suggest you book your tour for the afternoon.  Afternoons are often too windy for maximum enjoyment of the beach, and too hot for hiking.  But in the sub, you'll be in air-conditioned comfort.  Plus, an afternoon tour means you get to sleep in and have a leisurely breakfast.  You are on vacation after all, right?

Can Kids Go on the Atlantis Submarine Adventure?

If you have kids, I think they will definitely love it - the only catch is that any children would need to be at least 36" tall, and be able to climb down a ladder to gain access to the interior of the submarine.  The ladder isn't crazy tall tall though, so don't worry about it as long as your child is tall enough to meet that 36" cut off.

An AMAZING Video - They Saw WHALES! While Submerged in the Sub!

Ok, so I totally get that that sounds really hype-ey.  But seriously, this is one of the coolest videos I've seen in a long time.  I know, odds are this won't happen to you, but that's all the more reason to watch the video - at least you can live this incredible experience vicariously through them, right?

Every time I watch that video I find myself grinning from ear to ear.  It is just. that. cool.

Where's the Best Place to Book Tickets?

If you're interested in going on a submarine tour like we did, you can get more information on Atlantis Adventure pricing and reservations on the Barefoot Tours site.  

When you get to their site, scroll down until you see the link for Maui.  Click on it.  Then scroll down until you see "Submarine and Glass Bottom Boat Tours."  All of your Atlantis ticketing options will be laid out for you there.

There are several reasons why I feel comfortable recommending the Barefoot Tours site:

• They're a reputable local Maui company who has been in business for over 30 years.
• They have an excellent low price guarantee!
• They offer a wide selection of activities and tour operators, so I feel confident that you will find what you're looking for!
• I use them and have never been disappointed - I love their service and friendly staff!

More articles of interest:

1) Whale Watching in Maui: Tips to Make it Unforgettable!

2) To read more about our adventures in Maui, click here to see our Top 10 Things to Do in Maui for Adventure!

3) Like the idea of going underwater? How about underground? Read all about our underground Maui adventure in Kaeleku Caverns (a.k.a. the Hana Lava Tube)!

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Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Review: Is It Worth It in 2024?

Are you interested in the Atlantis Submarine Cozumel experience and wondering if it’s worth it? You’ve come to the right place!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen , I’ve personally been on the Atlantis Submarine expedition in Cozumel, and I’m here to tell you what it’s really like!

The Atlantis Submarine Cozumel tour is a unique way to explore the depths of the Caribbean Sea in a safe and comfortable environment.

But as one of the more expensive excursions in Cozumel, you might be wondering if it’s really worth your time and money.

In this post, I’m sharing my honest review of the Atlantis Submarine in Cozumel , including what to expect, pros and cons, practical information, and tips for making the most out of your experience.

Ready to find out if Atlantis Submarine Cozumel is right for you? Let’s dive in!

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel

🏆 Best UnDerwater Activity for Non-Divers

Pros: ✅ Don’t Have to Get Wet ✅ Safe & Comfortable ✅ Well-Organized

Cons: ❌ Can Feel Cramped ❌ Visibility Varies ❌ More Low-Key

Is the Cozumel Atlantis Submarine Worth It?

The Atlantis Submarine in Cozumel is definitely worth it if you want a chance to see the underwater world without getting wet.

I honestly really enjoyed the experience, and found it to be well worth the cost!

It offers a unique and fascinating way to experience the underwater world for those that don’t want to get wet or may not be able to snorkel or scuba dive.

And even though I am scuba certified, this is a much safer and more comfortable way to see the same sights! And it still was super interesting and unique.

It’s the perfect activity for families with children, submarine history buffs, and anyone else who wants to explore the depths of Cozumel from a safe, comfortable environment.

Plus, the crew was exceptional with entertaining and educational commentary, and the overall experience was on-time and well-organized.

However, it’s important to note that the Atlantis Submarine Expedition is a more low-key activity and may not be as thrilling as other adventure activities on the island.

But for those looking to explore the wonders of the underwater world in a safe and comfortable way, the Atlantis Submarine Expedition is an excellent choice and an activity that I would highly recommend!

What is the Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Like?

The Atlantis Submarine expedition in Cozumel is a one-of-a-kind experience that takes you on an underwater journey in a real submarine.

The tourist submarine is designed to hold up to 45 passengers and takes you on a 45-minute journey through the depths of the Caribbean Sea.

During the expedition, you’ll see a variety of marine life and coral reefs, including colorful fish, stingrays, and even shipwrecks.

The submarine is equipped with 26 large viewing portholes that allow you to see the underwater world in stunning detail, and the experienced crew provides informative commentary throughout the journey.

The expedition is one of the top things to do in Cozumel and is perfect for those who want to explore the depths of the ocean without getting wet.

Plus, you’ll have the unique opportunity to see the underwater world up close in a safe and comfortable environment.

Where is the Atlantis Submarine in Cozumel?

The Atlantis Submarine Cozumel is located on the island of Cozumel, Mexico, just 10 minutes south of the Cozumel ferry terminal and downtown San Miguel de Cozumel .

If you’re visiting on a day trip from Playa del Carmen , taxis can be easily hailed from the ferry terminal to get to the Atlantis submarine location, and costs around $100 pesos (~$5 USD) each way.

For those staying at resorts in Cozumel , taxis can be arranged from your resort and taxi drivers are very familiar with the Atlantis location.

Additionally, cruise ship passengers on shore excursions can easily hail a taxi to get there from the cruise ship ports.

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Pros & Cons

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Submarine Atlantis experience that I’ll discuss further in this post:

Pros of Atlantis Submarine Cozumel

• Opportunity to see the underwater world without getting wet
• Comfortable and safe environment
• Experienced crew with informative commentary
• On-time and well-organized

Cons of Atlantis Submarine Cozumel

• Can feel crowded depending on the size of the group
• Visibility depends on the sea conditions
• More low-key activity

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel: Practical Info

Here is some of the practical info you should consider when booking your Submarine Atlantis XII Cozumel experience:

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel: Tour Times & Availability

The Cozumel Atlantis Submarine is available every day of the week at the following times:

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel: Duration

The Atlantis submarine expedition lasts for approximately 2 hours in total.

However, this includes the time it takes for the safety briefing, the boat ride to and from the submarine, and the submarine experience.

The actual time on the submarine is about 45 minutes .

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel: Age Restrictions

The minimum age requirement for the Atlantis Submarine in Cozumel is 4 years old . Additionally, kids must be at least 3 ft tall to go on the submarine. Infants are not allowed.

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel: Prices

The price of the Cozumel Atlantis Submarine can vary depending on the season. You can check current prices here for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Note the Atlantis Cozumel price of admission does not include a $6 USD ($100 pesos) marine park fee that must be paid in cash upon check-in.

How to Book Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Tickets

The Atlantis Submarine expedition in Cozumel can be booked online in advance or purchased directly at the Atlantis Submarine location on the island.

I would highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance as this is a popular tour with limited seats and it does tend to sell out.

Who is the Atlantis Submarine in Cozumel Best Suited For?

The Atlantis Submarine expedition in Cozumel is best suited for those who want to experience the underwater world but may not be scuba-certified or able to snorkel.

The journey is perfect for families with children ages 4 and older, as the submarine is a safe Cozumel activity and provides a comfortable way to explore the ocean depths.

The viewing windows offer underwater views for all passengers, regardless of age or physical ability.

Additionally, the crew provides informative commentary throughout the journey, making it an educational experience for all.

Older adults who may not want to or are unable to participate in more strenuous water activities will also find this expedition enjoyable.

Or if you’re like my dad and love World War II submarines and history, Atlantis Submarine Cozumel will be a highlight for sure!

Physically, all passengers must be able to navigate backwards on a 12-step ladder and sit in the submarine for the duration of the journey.

Overall, the Atlantis Submarine is a unique experience suitable for a variety of ages and abilities.

Who is the Atlantis Submarine in Cozumel NOT Suited For?

While the Atlantis Submarine expedition in Cozumel is a great option for many travelers, it’s not suited for those who experience claustrophobia or have a fear of enclosed spaces.

The submarine is a confined space, and passengers are required to remain seated for the duration of the journey. Unfortunately, wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on this experience.

Additionally, while the expedition is a unique and exciting way to explore the underwater world, it is a more low-key activity and may not be suitable for those seeking high-intensity water sports or adventure.

However, for those looking for a comfortable and educational way to explore the ocean depths, the Atlantis Submarine is an excellent choice.

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Experience

Here’s what to expect on the Cozumel submarine expedition:

Arrival & Safety Briefing

When you first arrive to the Atlantis submarine location, you’ll enter the gift shop and be directed to the check-in counter to register, receive your wristband, and pay the $6 USD marine park fee.

It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to get checked in and use the restroom.

After check-in, you’ll head down to the safety briefing area to watch an informational video about the Atlantis Submarine experience.

Boat Ride to the Submarine

After the video, the group will then starting boarding a boat (known as the “Ana”) that will take you out to the Atlantis Submarine.

At this point, you’ll also have the opportunity to have your photo taken by a professional photographer.

The boat ride is about 15 minutes, during which time the crew will provide an airplane-style safety briefing explaining the emergency procedures and equipment.

Boarding the Submarine

Once you arrive at the submarine dive site, you’ll have the unique opportunity to see the Atlantis submarine surface from the depths of the ocean. It’s pretty cool to see it pop up out of the blue!

The boat you’re on will then tether to the side of the submarine, where the previous group will exit and the new group will enter.

While boarding, you’ll be required to go down the hatch backwards on a 12-step ladder. The steps are pretty wide and it’s easy to navigate.

Once you get to the bottom, you’ll take your seat on a single-file row facing the large viewing windows.

My Cozumel submarine tour was completely full so every seat was taken! It did feel a little tight as you are basically sitting shoulder to shoulder without much wiggle room.

But the good thing is that there are airplane-style air vents in front of every window that provide a steady stream of air throughout the duration of the trip. So it never felt too stuffy.

Cozumel Submarine Expedition

Once everyone is seated and the doors are closed, the Atlantis Submarine will begin its journey to explore up to 100 feet below the ocean’s surface.

The submarine captains will communicate their commands for all to hear and the tour guide does a great job narrating all of the sights (in both English and Spanish).

On the Atlantis submarine expedition Cozumel, you’ll get to see the Chankanaab Park, La Pared, and the Felipe Xicotencatl shipwreck.

Chankanaab Park

The Atlantis Submarine excursion in Cozumel offers a unique opportunity to see the Chankanaab Park coral reef system up close.

The reef system is one of the largest and most diverse in the Caribbean and is home to a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and colorful coral formations.

Seeing the coral reef system from the submarine is a truly unforgettable experience and offers a rare glimpse into the beauty and diversity of the ocean depths.

One of the highlights of the Atlantis Submarine expedition in Cozumel is visiting “La Pared,” (The Wall) the vertical drop-off located off the shores of the island.

This awe-inspiring underwater cliff plunges more than 2,000 feet into the ocean depths, offering a glimpse into the incredible scale and beauty of the underwater world.

As the submarine approaches the drop-off, passengers can see the dark contrast of the deep abyss below.

Felipe Xicotencatl Shipwreck

Another fascinating feature of the Atlantis Submarine expedition in Cozumel is the opportunity to explore the Felipe Xicotencatl shipwreck.

This sunken vessel, which was intentionally sunk in 1999 as an artificial reef, is now home to a diverse array of marine life, including vibrant corals, sponges, and schools of tropical fish.

As the submarine approaches the wreck, passengers can see the intricate details of the ship’s structure and the marine life that have made it their home. You’ll likely see a lot of scuba divers at the site too!

The crew provides informative commentary on the history of the ship and the ecological importance of artificial reefs, making this experience both educational and visually stunning.

And if you love Titanic as much as me, this will definitely be the highlight of the entire expedition!

Return Boat Ride

After the Atlantis Submarines Cozumel expedition is over, passengers will reverse the process to exit the submarine and re-board the boat.

On the return boat ride, you’ll also have a chance to review and purchase your professional photos if desired.

Personally, I didn’t feel the photos were worth it since it’s just one photo of you boarding the ferry boat and not the actual submarine.

Once you get back to the tour location, the Atlantis tour concludes and you’re free to leave, check out the gift shop, or purchase your photo package.

Is the Atlantis Submarine Safe?

Yes, the Atlantis Submarine is safe. The submarine is designed and built to meet the highest safety standards and is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its safety.

The crew is experienced and highly trained to operate the vessel, and safety procedures are followed at all times.

Additionally, the submarine is equipped with a variety of safety features, including emergency air supply, life jackets, and masks.

While you’re on the boat ride to the submarine, the crew will explain in detail the safety features, as well as the safety procedures that must be followed during the journey.

Additionally, our guide mentioned that they have never had any safety issues in the past, which was reassuring to hear.

While any activity that involves water and transportation has some inherent risks, the Atlantis Submarine is considered a safe and reliable way to explore the underwater world.

What to Wear on the Atlantis Submarine Tour

The Atlantis submarine is a comfortable space so you can pretty much just wear normal vacation clothes . The submarine is air-conditioned but does not feel uncomfortably cold.

Additionally, you’ll want to wear comfortable non-slip shoes or sandals as you’ll be walking around the boat, submarine, and pier area.

It’s also a good idea to bring sunglasses and biodegradable sunscreen , as you will get some sun on the boat ride over.

While there is no dress code, it’s important to remember that the submarine is a confined space, so it’s best to avoid large backpacks, beach bags, or bulky items that could take up extra space.

Tips for the Atlantis Submarine Cozumel

Follow these tips to make the most of your Atlantis adventures in Cozumel:

• Book in advance: Atlantis Submarine Cozumel is a popular tour with limited seats and often sells out. Make sure to book your tickets online in advance to save your spot at your desired time.
• Go early: The Atlantis submarine has departures every hour from 9:30AM-1:30PM. I would recommend going as early as possible so you’ll still have plenty of time after your Atlantis submarine adventures to explore Cozumel.
• Travel light: As the submarine is a confined space with no storage areas, it’s best to travel light. Avoid bringing large backpacks or beach bags that might take up extra space. The only space available is what can fit on your lap.
• Go to the bathroom before departing: Make sure to visit the bathroom before boarding the submarine as there are no bathrooms on board!
• Bring motion-sickness bands if needed: If you tend to suffer from motion sickness, bring motion-sickness bands along for the ride. The submarine does have a bit of a rocking motion as you cruise along. I personally didn’t feel any motion sickness but I know it’s a common issue for many people.
• Bring cash for tips: Atlantis Submarine Cozumel is an all-inclusive experience, but it’s customary to tip the staff if you had a positive experience. Make sure to bring some extra cash (pesos or USD) to tip the guides – they were excellent!

Atlantis Submarine Cozumel: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Atlantis submarine tours in Cozumel Mexico:

The actual ride on the submarine lasts approximately 45 minutes, however, the total experience is around 2 hours, including boat transportation time.

The Atlantis submarine in Cozumel reaches depths of about 100 feet (30 m).

Mid morning is recommended as the best time for the Atlantis submarine tour, where the fish are the most active and visibility is usually better. Plus, if you go early, you’ll also have time to spend the rest of your day exploring Cozumel Island.

No, there is no bathroom on board the Atlantis submarine. It’s recommended to use the restrooms at the tour location before getting on the boat.

Atlantis Submarines currently has 10 submarines worldwide and operates submarine tours in Aruba, Barbados, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Guam, and Hawaii (Kona, Maui, and Waikiki).

Not really. You may feel the need to swallow a few times but overall you’ll feel minimal discomfort as you change depths.

Final Thoughts: Atlantis Submarine Cozumel Review

I hope these honest Atlantis Submarine Cozumel reviews have helped you to decide if this unique experience is right for you!

I really enjoyed the experience because it’s so different than your typical snorkeling tour and you’ll get to see the same sights without getting wet.

I mean how many people can say they’ve been on a submarine?!

While the experience is a bit slower and more low-key than other Cozumel activities, I still found it to be very interesting and enjoyable.

Plus, it was extremely well-organized, safe, and comfortable.

Overall, I would highly recommend the Atlantis Submarine Cozumel for families with children, history buffs, or simply anyone that doesn’t want to get wet.

Just remember to book your tickets online in advance as there are limited seats and they sell out quickly!

🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

🏨 Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

🚗 Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited when swimming in the ocean and cenotes in Mexico, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.

Atlantis Aquaventure - worth it??

By disneycruisin , October 1, 2007 in Bahamas

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disneycruisin

Me and my DBF will be booking our first cruise at the end of this month - the 4 Night Bahamian on the Disney Wonder. I have always, always wanted to stay at Atlantis, so a trip there will be definately in the works. DCL offers 3 different excursions: Basic Tour of Atlantis $39, Beach Day at Atlantis $65, and Aquaventure $155.

Aquaventure seems soooo cool to me, and I would love to use the pools, but DBF thinks £75 is no way worth it just to use some other hotel's pools - it does seem expensive?

What do you guys think? We will be docked in Nassau from 9.30am - 7pm

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Me and my DBF will be booking our first cruise at the end of this month - the 4 Night Bahamian on the Disney Wonder. I have always, always wanted to stay at Atlantis, so a trip there will be definately in the works. DCL offers 3 different excursions: Basic Tour of Atlantis $39, Beach Day at Atlantis $65, and Aquaventure $155.   Aquaventure seems soooo cool to me, and I would love to use the pools, but DBF thinks £75 is no way worth it just to use some other hotel's pools - it does seem expensive?   What do you guys think? We will be docked in Nassau from 9.30am - 7pm

If you are already planning a trip to the Atlantis, then I'd pass on it for the cruise and check out the "real" bahamas. You can take a day trip to exuma via the Powerboatadventure.com, or snorkel, scuba etc.

You can find a waterpark anywhere, but the crystal clear waters and beautiful beaches are a must see.

Atlantis is a false environment, and not at all like visiting the bahamas.

Bribrittmom

For two or more people it is cheaper to rent a room at the Comfort Suites. Then you have full access to all Atlantis facilities.

We went to Atlantis a couple years ago before they built the new Aquaventure. But they had the myan temple and the water rides and the lazy river. We had an absolute blast. We stayed at Atlantis, it is very pricey but it was my 40th. We actually stayed in the Harborside Resort condos behind the main buildings and got a 1 bedroom condo for the same price as a Coral tower hotel room and we had a full kitchen and livingroom so it was nice.

I want to check out the Aquaventure but $155 a person is a little steep. We are taking a 3 day weekend Bahama cruise in December and plan on just taking a ferry or water taxi to Atlantis and go through the DIG. The cruise ship wants 56.00 a person for a 2 hour boat tour and a trip through the DIG. It will only cost us half that to do it on our own and then we can stay at Atlantis as long as we want and gamble too.

So it really depends on your budget and time but Atlantis is definitely worth a trip.

AerynSun_JohnCrighton

the comfort Inn still does the day room?

Does anyone have the site to book that?

Carnival is pricey for this as well, but I've been to Nassau a dozen times and never been to Atlantis, so this time I want to do it!

Thanks for your replies and thoughts guys :)

I really want to visit Atlantis since I've always wanted to stay at the hotel, but am unlikely to do so in the near future (if you pay that much for a hotel, you want all inclusive right?!) so a visit is a must. However, $155 is extremely steep - I'll check out the comfort inn to see if that's a better price.

We might do a short Atlantis trip and then if we have time, go see the beaches of the Bahamas :D

I got a AAA rate through hotels by city dot com and I am paying $135 for the room at Comfort Suites next Friday.

When I booked our room at CS last December through the smartertravel link I found it was cheaper than the AAA rate, might be worth checking out.

• 4 weeks later...

Thanks for all your help guys!

We have decided to just do the basic visit to Atlantis to see the Aquarium and resort ($39pp I think with DCL) and put the rest of the money towards a stateroom with a verandah :) I will still get to see the resort which will be really cool since I've always wanted to stay there!!

PaddleAddict

Thanks for all your help guys!   We have decided to just do the basic visit to Atlantis to see the Aquarium and resort ($39pp I think with DCL) and put the rest of the money towards a stateroom with a verandah :) I will still get to see the resort which will be really cool since I've always wanted to stay there!!

When we were there a few weeks ago Atlantis was selling day passes that included everything (aquarium, beaches, pools and water rides) for $105. It's still a little steep, but it's better than $155. They also sold passes for just the aquarium and the beaches/pools (no water rides) that was cheaper, I want to say about $60 (can't remember exact price).

Also, you don't have to do the tour through Disney if you don't want. It's free to wander around the resort (and pretty fun, too), and you can buy a pass to the Digs (the aquarium) for $32, and this includes a guided tour if you wish, or you can walk it alone. We took the guided tour and it was well worth it.

A taxi is $4 per person each way to get to Atlantis. Or a water taxi is $3 per person each way (but on the way back to the ship you may have to wait a little bit because they want to have those water taxis full before taking off).

When we were there a few weeks ago Atlantis was selling day passes that included everything (aquarium, beaches, pools and water rides) for $105. It's still a little steep, but it's better than $155. They also sold passes for just the aquarium and the beaches/pools (no water rides) that was cheaper, I want to say about $60 (can't remember exact price).   Also, you don't have to do the tour through Disney if you don't want. It's free to wander around the resort (and pretty fun, too), and you can buy a pass to the Digs (the aquarium) for $32, and this includes a guided tour if you wish, or you can walk it alone. We took the guided tour and it was well worth it.   A taxi is $4 per person each way to get to Atlantis. Or a water taxi is $3 per person each way (but on the way back to the ship you may have to wait a little bit because they want to have those water taxis full before taking off).

Atlantis was??? That is cool....another option.

Reviews are beginning to emerge on this fairly new, Nassau shore excursion option and this one is testimonial from one booked directly through Carnival. Given that there were only two in our party, we debated whether to partake in the Atlantis Aquaventure via the booking of a room at the Comfort Suites or through the cruise line’s shore excursion desk. We opted for the latter and had no regrets.

The per person charge was $149, which seemed steep initially, but considering all that it included, ended up being a pretty decent value. To wit:

• Roundtrip ferry transportation, which had a set 9:15 a.m. departure and on the half-hour return options through 5:00 p.m. so that you could return when you wanted. You can remain at Atlantis beyond 5:00 p.m., but are responsible for your own return transportation should you opt to do this.
• Admission to Atlantis Aquaventure and the Dig (guided tour if you wish), including all water slides, pools, beaches, and shower and changing facilities.
• Towels and use of chaise lounges.
• Complimentary bottle of water upon arrival.
• Lunch from your choice of one of three poolside concession stands.

What is not included:

• Locker rental (largest locker is $10; smaller lockers go for less).
• Additional food and beverages beyond those delineated above.

If you avail yourself of the Atlantis Aquaventure experience via the booking of a room at the Comfort Suites, you would be responsible for your own transportation to and from the ship as well as your lunch.

The Atlantis Aquaventure is a well-executed water park attraction with myriad activities and slides suited to a variety of age and adventure levels. One could also just relax by one of the pools or beaches; however, a more affordable shore excursion might be a better pick if relaxation is the only desire. If adventure and fun is the priority, this is the excursion for you.

Based on personal experience, I recommend commencing with the various water slides upon arrival, when the sun is not yet directly overhead and the lines are shorter. That being said, given the vast number of water slides, the waiting lines were never excessively long. When you’re ready for a break, the lazy river is a nice interlude and takes about half an hour to fully traverse. Having exhausted the water slide and lazy river options in the morning, we had lunch and then relaxed by one of the pools for a few hours. The chaise lounges have a canopy option should you want to escape the full sun. We concluded the day by walking through the Dig, (a huge indoor aquarium) which was enjoyable, air-conditioned, and near where you need to exit. Pleasantly exhausted, we took the 4:00 p.m. ferry back to the port.

Even after reading this, it still seems to me as if booking a room at Comfort Suites is the better deal. (Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong, though, because I'm still a cruising rookie).

My boyfriend and I will be taking our first cruise to the Bahamas in August of next year, and the price I saw for a room at Comfort Suites was about $240. I know that transportation, lunch and a water bottle are not included with the Comfort Suites room, but unless the above are worth more than $60, the Comfort Suites room is ideal.

Whichever route you choose to get to Atlantis, you'll be happy. My review was more about a recommendation of the Atlantis Aquaventure experience and far less about the road to get there. For me it was worth it to spend a little extra to have it all taken care of in advance so I could maximize my time at Atlantis. The lunch was equivalent to about $15 per person. The Comfort Inn will probably work out a bit cheaper, but I always like to factor in the value of my time in these equations. Whatever you decide to do, you'll enjoy the Aquaventure.

konkrete kid

So glad I've read all these posts as my DH and I will be in Nassau the first of week of January for a day. We will definitely visit Atlantis on our own as we are past the age of enjoying a water park, but still want to visit the Dig and roam around for a bit. I thought the ship excursion was a bit steep for getting us there, a quick tour, a little gambling, then back to the ship. It is less costly to grab a cab and hang out at Atlantis for a bit, then also do a snorkel and sail excursion the same day - a win-win situation!

I agree, if you're not into the waterpark, then there really no reason to pay to go to Atlantis. The rest of it is open to the public, with the exception of the DIGS, which you can see, in part, from the entry point at the great hall of waters cafe. The rest is the same old, same old.

• 1 year later...

Hi all, I am a new member of forum

We did the altantis aquaventure and loved it. Yes it is alot of money, but I think I was like you and always wanted to go there so we bit the bullet and just went. We were the first people off the boat and took a taxi in. this was nice because aquaventure didnt open intill 10:00 so we had time to explore and do the digs. Overall we were really happy with the aquaventure and would recomend it.

• 4 years later...

Has anyone been to Atlantis Aquaventure lately? How exactly do you go about getting a room at Comfort Inn, checking in and checking out at the same time? I can't seem to book online. There are only 3 of us going. I don't want to risk missing getting a day pass from Atlantis, I hear they sell out quickly and no telling how long it will take to get off the ship, and I do not want to pay the $179 per person from Carnival. Any help would be greatly appreciated. The more details the better. Thanks again!

I don't know why you can't book online - it's just a regular hotel room, not a day pass. Be aware of extra fees - they can really add up! Like any hotel, rates are higher during peak seasons. Sometimes it's cheaper, sometimes it's not. Just have to do the math.

• 2 months later...

Are the pools heated in the winter?

pecandelight

It was cheaper than Carnival but you get no lunch while at Atlantis. Hopefully the prices aren't crazy there to eat.

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Worth it! - Atlantis Submarines Barbados

• Caribbean    
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• Atlantis Submarines Barbados

We went to 131 feet, and loved every minute of it. Great time along the gorgeous coral reef. Bucket list item.

We had pre booked a VIP Experience for a day cruise before we left the UK, all emails were handled very professionally by Sherry. We were picked up on time by a friendly taxi driver and taken to the harbourside. We met our own tour guide, Shari I think, and was taken upstairs on the boat for our trip out to meet the submarine. What a lovely lady she was, gave us lots of tips on what to do and where to go on the island. After being transferred onto the submarine we sat and watched all the marine life, being taken down to 149ft bleu sea level. The abundance of marine fish was amazing, we even got to see a shipwreck. My highlight was seeing a turtle swim past us. After around 45 minutes we surfaced and went back to the feeder boat, where we drank wine and had a lovely meal in a box, beautiful meatballs and a tasty pineapple cake. This is an expensive attraction, but one I advise anyone to do, its not everyday you can say you were on a submarine in the Caribbean.

My partner and I did the Day tour while on vacation in Barbados and it was lovely he doesn’t really like the water but had an amazing time the staff aboard the sub were more like comedians and made the tour that much more fun and relaxing

This was a great trip. You catch a ferry out to the submarine and then transfer into it. The submarine then goes on a 45 minute trip down into the ocean up to a depth of 150 feet. We saw plenty of fish and were well looked after by the staff.

With a group of seven ages ranging from 50 to 13, we were all blown away by our under water adventure. The staff were amazing, the passion for their jobs was infectious and we were not disappointed with the sights we saw, in my opinion great value for money.

I would never snorkel or scuba dive nor do any other type of underwater activity. But this was a great opportunity to do something fairly unique. I am claustrophic and also do not like to get my head under water, so I wasn't sure how I would like this trip. It was very enjoyable. Fascinating trip down to 140 feet below the surface. Lots of fish, coral reefs, and other sea life including a large turtle heading to the surface. Entertaining crew as well.

Watch CBS News

Dubai flooding hobbles major airport's operations as "historic weather event" brings torrential rains to UAE

Updated on: April 17, 2024 / 5:57 PM EDT / CBS/AP

Dubai, United Arab Emirates  — The desert nation of the United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Wednesday from the heaviest rain ever recorded there after a deluge flooded out Dubai International Airport, disrupting travel through the world's busiest airfield for international travel. The state-run WAM news agency called the rain Tuesday "a historic weather event" that surpassed "anything documented since the start of data collection in 1949." 

The rains began late Monday, soaking the sands and roadways of Dubai with some 0.79 inches of rain, according to meteorological data collected at Dubai International Airport. The storms intensified around 9 a.m. local time Tuesday and continued throughout the day, dumping more rain and hail onto the overwhelmed city.

Flooding impacts Dubai International Airport

By the end of Tuesday, more than 5.59 inches of rainfall had soaked Dubai over 24 hours. An average year sees just 3.73 inches of rain fall at Dubai International Airport, a hub for the long-haul carrier Emirates.

At the airport, standing water lapped on taxiways as aircraft landed. Arrivals were halted Tuesday night and passengers struggled to reach terminals through the floodwater covering surrounding roads.

The airport said in a  series of social media posts  that all operations were halted for about 25 minutes on Tuesday afternoon and that all arrivals would be diverted after that "until the weather conditions improve." Late Wednesday morning, the airport and the flagship carrier Emirates were still warning travelers not to come to the airport unless absolutely necessary, saying all flight check-in was still suspended.

"Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. Please check your flight status directly with your airline," the airport said in a tweet. "We are working hard to recover operations as quickly as possible in very challenging conditions." 

One couple, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity in a country with strict laws that criminalize critical speech, called the situation at the airport "absolute carnage."

"You cannot get a taxi. There's people sleeping in the Metro station. There's people sleeping in the airport," the man said Wednesday.

They ended up getting a taxi to near their home some 18 miles away, but floodwater on the road stopped them. A bystander helped them over a highway barrier with their carry-on luggage, the bottles of gin they picked up from a duty-free store clinking away.

Paul Griffiths, the airport's CEO, acknowledged continued issues with flooding Wednesday morning, saying every place an aircraft could be safely parked was taken. Some aircraft had been diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central, the city-state's second airfield.

"It remains an incredibly challenging time. In living memory, I don't think anyone has ever seen conditions like it," Griffiths told the state-owned talk radio station Dubai Eye. "We are in uncharted territory, but I can assure everyone we are working as hard as we possibly can to make sure our customers and staff are looked after."

Did "cloud-seeding" contribute?

Rain also fell in Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. However, the rains were acute across the UAE. One reason may have been " cloud seeding ," in which small planes flown by the government go through clouds burning special salt flares. Those flares can increase precipitation.

Several reports quoted meteorologists at the National Center for Meteorology as saying they flew six or seven cloud-seeding flights before the rains. The center did not immediately respond to questions Wednesday, though flight-tracking data analyzed by the AP showed one aircraft affiliated with the UAE's cloud-seeding efforts flew around the country Sunday.

The UAE, which relies heavily on energy-hungry desalination plants to provide water, conducts cloud seeding in part to increase its dwindling, limited groundwater.

Flooding closes schools across UAE

Schools across the UAE, a federation of seven sheikhdoms, largely shut ahead of the storm and government employees were largely working remotely if they could. Many workers stayed home as well, though some ventured out, with the unfortunate ones stalling out their vehicles in deeper-than-expected water covering some roads.

Authorities sent tanker trucks out into the streets and highways to pump away the water. Water poured into some homes, forcing people to bail out their houses.

The country's hereditary rulers offered no overall damage or injury information for the nation, as some people slept in their flooded vehicles Tuesday night. In Ras al-Khaimah, the country's northernmost emirate, police said a 70-year-old man died when his vehicle was swept away by floodwater.

Fujairah, an emirate on the UAE's eastern coast, saw the heaviest rainfall Tuesday with 5.7 inches falling there.

Authorities canceled school and the government instituted remote work again for Wednesday.

Rain is unusual in the UAE, an arid, Arabian Peninsula nation, but occurs periodically during the cooler winter months. Many roads and other areas lack drainage given the lack of regular rainfall, causing flooding.

Meanwhile in neighboring Oman, a sultanate that rests on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, at least 19 people were killed in heavy rains in recent days, according to a statement Wednesday from the country's National Committee for Emergency Management. That includes some 10 schoolchildren swept away in a vehicle with an adult, prompting condolences from rulers across the region.

Climatologists have warned for years that human-driven climate change is fueling more extreme and less predictable weather events across the globe.

Parts of southern Russia and Central Asia have also been dealing for days with unusually damaging amounts of rainfall and snowmelt, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate to higher ground and killing more than 60 people in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

• United Arab Emirates
• Weather Forecast
• Severe Weather
• Persian Gulf
• Flight Delays
• Flight Cancellations
• Flash Flooding

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What is cloud seeding and did it impact Dubai's floods?

At least 135 dead in Pakistan and Afghanistan as flooding continues

What's the mood in Iran as Israel mulls its response?

What Taylor Swift's new album means for her $1 billion fortune

• Taylor Swift's new album, " The Tortured Poets Department ," is almost guaranteed to be a bestseller. 
• But no matter how well it does, it won't be the way Swift earns most of her money this year.
• The remaining leg of her Eras Tour is expected to add much more to Swift's billion-dollar fortune.

Taylor Swift released her new album, " The Tortured Poets Department ," at midnight, and, in what should be no surprise to anyone on this planet in the year 2024, it caused a scene.

Her album garnered millions of streams within hours. There's almost no doubt it'll top the Billboard chart like the 13 Swift albums before it.

But no matter how many platinum certifications it collects or streams it racks up on Spotify, "The Tortured Poets Department" won't be Swift's biggest money-maker this year.

The remaining leg of her Eras Tour — kicking off in Paris next month and running through December — is instead expected to be what contributes most to her fortune, which Bloomberg estimated to be $1.1 billion last year.

"Live music is the engine of the global music business," Clayton Durant, an adjunct professor at NYU Steinhardt's Music Business Program who's the founder of CAD Management, told Business Insider. "Her tour is probably going to earn 10 to 15 times more than her streaming."

Swift's Eras Tour brought in more than $1 billion in ticket sales last year over its 66 dates. By the end of this year, she's set to have played another 86. Swift's cut is unknown, but based on industry standards, she'll surely earn nine figures in 2024 from ticket sales.

Concerts don't only bring in money from ticket sales.

Pollstar estimates that Swifties spend an average of $40 a head on merch at her concerts — that adds up to about $175 million in gross merch sales last year. Swift's camp keeps the majority of that.

Bloomberg estimated that between box office and merchandise, Swift pocketed $225 million, pre-tax, from her first 57 Eras Tour dates. Career earnings from ticket sales and merchandise account for 34% of her total net worth, while earnings from music streaming and sales account for 18%, Bloomberg estimates.

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Swift isn't alone in making money on the road.

In 2021, the last year Billboard made a list of music's top earners, seven out of the 10 top money makers earned more than half of their income from touring.

But the music industry didn't always function this way. Before the advent of streaming, musicians made most of their fortune selling CDs, cassette tapes, and vinyl records .

"Physical music sales made up the bulk of artists' revenue pre-streaming, and that revenue was what enabled artists to tour. These days, the equation has flipped," Tatiana Cirisano, a senior music-industry analyst at MIDiA, told BI over email.

Streaming made listening to recorded music much cheaper. For less than the price of one CD — or for free, illegally or with ads — people could get all the songs they wanted.

"The moment Napster hit, it changed the paradigm, and it really honestly diluted the value of music," Durant said.

To be sure, Swift is still making tens of millions, if not more, on streaming and record sales each year — more than almost any other artist on the planet.

Streaming services such as Spotify pay out artists on a pro-rata model: There's a pot, made up of subscription and ad revenue, paid out to artists each year. Those with the biggest share of the platform's total streams get the biggest piece of it.

But "if you're an individual artist, you have to have a pretty massive audience to be able to earn a meaningful share of that revenue — which is paid out to you after your label gets its cut," Cirisano said.

Last year, Swift was the most streamed artist on both Apple and Spotify. One of every 78 songs streamed in the US last year was a Swift song, according to the music-data firm Luminate. She'll probably rank at or near the top again, between " The Tortured Poets Department " and a streaming lift from the second leg of her Eras Tour.

Swift is also set to earn more than most artists from physical music sales. Last year, she was responsible for one out of every 15 vinyl records sold, according to Luminate. Cirisano said Swift's rabid followers saw physical records as "a symbol of fandom" and a way to support Swift.

That said, without Eras, Swift would just be a poor centimillionaire.

Watch: Artsy CMO, Everette Taylor, tells Insider that the online art marketplace is more inclusive, and lucrative

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