New Providence Island is a lively hub for anyone looking to enjoy a good drink with a side of sunshine, sea, and local flavor. Its proximity to Nassau makes it especially convenient for travelers wanting to combine beach days with memorable drinking adventures. What’s great about this island is its diversity — from boat parties on the water to intimate art and wine sessions, there’s something for every type of drinker. We especially love the Rose Island Boat Party for its pure fun and floating bars, and the Rum Runners Pub Crawl for those who prefer an authentic taste of Bahamian spirits with a social twist. Whether you’re in the mood for a wild beach bash or a relaxed sip-and-paint, New Providence delivers.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a wide range of drinking experiences: from the energetic Rose Island Boat Party with its floating bars and water sports, to the private speed boat tour that combines island-hopping with beach relaxation and a floating bar, and the creative Paint and Sip at the Gallery and Wine Bar for a more artsy approach. For those who love the ocean, the Nassau Sail & Snorkel Adventure offers a scenic sail with a laid-back open bar, while the Rum Runners Pub Crawl takes you to the island’s top rum stops. Each offers a unique way to enjoy local flavors and island hospitality.
1. Rose Island Boat Party, Beach Getaway & Floating Bar
At number 1, the Rose Island Boat Party combines the best of Bahamas party life with the beauty of the ocean. For around $120 per person, you get a 4-hour trip that includes access to Footprints, a lively beach bar famous for its fun atmosphere, and visits to floating bars right in the middle of the ocean. You’ll enjoy snacks, food, and drinks included in the price, with plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe in between partying. The itinerary features stops at pristine beaches and floating bars like Atholl Island, where you can try water sports or simply relax with a cold drink.
What sets this tour apart is its lively social scene and the chance to party on the water. The floating bars are genuinely unique, giving you the sensation of being in a floating nightclub. Reviewers love the “unlimited drinks onboard” and the friendly crew, with many noting it as a “lot of fun” with great value. This tour is perfect if you’re looking for a full-on beach party that combines ocean activities with a festive vibe.
Bottom Line: A lively, all-in-one party experience on the water, ideal for travelers wanting to combine swimming, sunbathing, and dancing with friends.
2. Private speed boat beach and bar hopping visiting Rose island
Coming in at number 2 is the Private Speed Boat Tour, perfect for those who want a flexible, personalized island-hopping experience. Priced at $850 for up to 8 people, this 4-hour trip offers a chance to visit multiple beaches and local spots along the way. You can relax on soft sands or mingle with locals at a floating bar, making it a great option for families or small groups seeking an intimate adventure.
The tour includes stops for swimming and snorkeling, and the boat itself is comfortable and equipped for a smooth ride. One reviewer highlighted a “lovely snorkeling outing” that included swimming with pigs, making it clear this tour isn’t just about drinking — it’s about exploring. The private nature of this trip lets you customize your stops, making it ideal for those who prefer a more tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups seeking a private, flexible boat trip that combines snorkeling, beach visits, and social drinking in a more exclusive setting.
3. Paint and Sip at the Gallery and Wine Bar
Number 3 on our list is the Paint and Sip experience, offering a creative twist on drinking tours. For $75 per person, you spend around 2 hours painting alongside a talented Bahamian artist in a vibrant Nassau setting. This tour provides a chance to learn regional art techniques while enjoying a selection of wines, making it perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed, artistic atmosphere.
What makes this experience special is the authentic cultural touch — you’ll gain insight into the local art scene and leave with your own painted masterpiece. It’s a more laid-back option compared to boat parties, ideal for couples or small groups wanting a memorable, hands-on activity. Reviewers say it’s a “great way to relax and connect while enjoying good wine and art,” and the setting’s lively Bahamian colors add to the atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A creative and cultural way to enjoy drinks, perfect for art lovers or those seeking a more relaxed, intimate experience.
4. Nassau Sail & Snorkel Adventure with 1 Hour Open Bar
The Nassau Sail & Snorkel Adventure ranks high for its scenic sailing and underwater exploration. At $130 per person, this 3.5-hour tour features a state-of-the-art catamaran sailing to a coral reef at Athol Island, where you’ll snorkel among vibrant marine life. The highlight is the 1-hour open bar, serving tropical drinks, beer, and soft drinks, which you can enjoy while sailing back in the warm Caribbean breeze.
This tour is particularly suited for travelers who love a mix of adventure and relaxation. The crew is praised for their helpfulness, and the reef snorkel is highly rated for its colorful fish and coral. Guests also appreciate the flexible sailing time, with some saying it’s “terrific for a family or couples who want a bit of everything: snorkeling, sailing, and drinks.” The combination of the ocean, marine life, and a lively bar makes it a top choice for ocean lovers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a scenic sail combined with snorkeling and a relaxed open bar, suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
5. Rum Runners Pub Crawl
Finally, the Rum Runners Pub Crawl is a more social, laid-back experience. For $135, you get approximately 3.5 hours exploring some of Nassau’s favorite rum stops, including Hillside House Art Gallery, Green Parrots, Rip Tyde, and Luna Rum Distillery. Each stop offers tastings of locally crafted rums, infused beverages, and even rum cake.
This tour is designed for those who want to enjoy Bahamian rum culture while enjoying the island’s lively nightlife. Reviewers emphasize the “warm breeze, sun, and local flavors,” with one noting how they “loved tasting island-infused spirits that you can’t find anywhere else.” The stops are carefully chosen to combine local flavor with scenic views, making it a perfect choice for social drinkers and curious explorers alike.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those interested in tasting authentic Bahamian rums and enjoying a lively evening with friends.
How to Choose Your Drinking Tour
When selecting the best drinking experience in New Providence Island, consider your budget, interests, and the type of atmosphere you prefer. If you want a high-energy party with water sports, the Rose Island Boat Party is hard to beat. For a more exclusive adventure, the Private Speed Boat offers flexibility and privacy.
If you’re into arts and wine, the Paint and Sip provides a relaxed, culturally rich experience. Ocean lovers will appreciate the Nassau Sail & Snorkel for its scenic sailing and marine life. For those who enjoy social drinks and local flavors, the Rum Runners Pub Crawl combines tasting with lively nightlife.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these popular tours. Think about your preferred pace — energetic beach party or leisurely art session — and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
New Providence Island offers a wide variety of drinking tours that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you’re after a high-energy boat party, private island-hopping, artistic wine sessions, scenic sailing, or a rum-focused pub crawl, you’ll find an experience that suits your style. For a lively, social atmosphere, the Rose Island Boat Party remains a top pick. For more relaxed, intimate moments, the Paint and Sip offers a creative escape. And for those who crave a true taste of local spirits, the Rum Runners Pub Crawl is unbeatable.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance will help ensure a smooth and fun experience. So, pick your favorite, raise a glass, and enjoy all the flavor and sunshine New Providence Island has to offer.