Cigar Demo and Rum Tasting at Graycliff Cigar Company

Discover the World of Cigars and Rum at Graycliff Cigar Company

If you’re heading to Nassau and want an authentic taste of Bahamian craftsmanship, the Graycliff Cigar Company offers a compact yet rich experience. For around $176 per person, you get about 90 minutes of guided insight into the art of cigar making, topped with a tasting of some of the finest Caribbean rums. The tour is small, intimate, and designed to provide a behind-the-scenes look at how top-quality cigars are created, along with tips on how to enjoy them like a true connoisseur.

We love the way this experience combines hands-on learning with a relaxed social atmosphere—especially the opportunity to see expert cigar rollers in action and sample premium rums from across the Caribbean. The personal touch of small-group interaction also means you’re likely to get more detailed answers and tailor-made tips from your guides.

A potential consideration is that the tour is relatively brief and might feel a bit light for those wanting a longer, more in-depth visit. Also, the description notes some reviews mention that parts of the experience may be quick or basic — so if you’re looking for a highly detailed, extensive tour, you might want to set your expectations accordingly.

This tour suits visitors who are curious about cigars, enjoy tasting spirits, or simply want a memorable, authentic Bahamian experience that’s fun and educational. It’s perfect for those who appreciate craftsmanship and want to learn directly from passionate experts.

Key Points

• Authentic Insight: Learn from knowledgeable guides about the art and science of cigar making.
• Tasting Experience: Enjoy a flight of Caribbean rums, including Mount Gay and John Watling’s.
• Interactive: Get hands-on experience sorting, cleaning, storing, and rolling cigars.
• Small Group: Ensures plenty of personal attention and interaction.
• Location: Near Nassau’s waterfront, making it convenient for cruise travelers.
• Price: Offers good value for a combination of education, tasting, and hands-on activity.

A Closer Look at the Graycliff Cigar Company Tour

What is the experience like?

The tour begins at the Graycliff Cigar Company’s central Nassau location, conveniently close to the cruise port. As you step inside, you’ll immediately notice the warm, welcoming atmosphere that has earned the company numerous awards, including the 2001 Cigar of the Year Award. Your guide (possibly bilingual in English or Spanish) will start by sharing the history of the company, which grew from a single cigar roller in a restaurant doorway to an internationally recognized boutique.

The cigar-making process

What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity to see the cigar rollers (torcedors) at work. You’ll observe the entire process — from selecting the high-quality tobacco leaves to blending different types of tobacco for unique flavors. The guides take time to explain how each step influences the final cigar’s taste and quality.

One of the most appreciated parts, according to reviews, is the hands-on opportunity: many participants get to try their hand at rolling cigars themselves, which adds a memorable personal touch. You can even keep three of the cigars you roll, making it a keepsake of your Nassau visit.

Tips on smoking cigars

Beyond production, the guides give valuable advice on how to store cigars properly and smoke like a seasoned enthusiast. These tips can be surprisingly useful if you plan to buy cigars later or want to enjoy your own at home with a bit more sophistication.

Rum tasting — a true Caribbean highlight

After the cigar segment, the tour shifts to a rum tasting session. You’ll sample world-renowned rums such as Mount Gay from Barbados, Barbancourt from Haiti, and John Watling’s from Nassau itself. The tasting is relaxed, and guides often share stories about each rum’s background, adding cultural context. This part is especially praised by visitors who enjoy spirits and want to broaden their palate.

What do reviews say?

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable guides who make the experience enjoyable and informative. One reviewer states, “Great experience learning about the art of rolling cigars and the importance of selecting specific leaves for flavor.” Others appreciate the informality and personal attention, noting the small group size makes it easy to ask questions and engage.

Practical considerations

• The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
• It’s a cashless facility, so credit cards are essential.
• The activity is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• It’s suitable for those 18 and older due to the alcohol tasting.
• The location is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

What to keep in mind?

Some reviews mention that the tour can be brief or somewhat superficial — the walk-through might only last a few minutes, and some feel they could have learned more. A few visitors also pointed out that the interior can get quite hot, especially if air conditioning isn’t working well, so dress accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for cigar enthusiasts eager to learn from experts or casual visitors curious about the craft. If you enjoy spirits and want to experience a taste of Caribbean culture in a relaxed setting, you’ll find the rum tasting especially rewarding. It’s also perfect for those who value small-group, personal interaction over large, impersonal tours.

However, if you’re seeking a lengthy, in-depth exploration of cigar production or a detailed historical tour, you might find this one a bit light. Still, for a fun, authentic snapshot of Bahamian craftsmanship, it hits the right notes.

FAQ

• How long does the tour last?
  About 1 hour 30 minutes, including both the cigar-making and rum tasting segments.

• What is included in the tour?
  A professional guide, a flight of Caribbean rums, and Graycliff cigars — including those you roll yourself.

• Is there an age restriction?
  Yes, you must be at least 18 years old to participate, mainly because of the rum tasting.

• Do I need to bring cash?
  No, the facility is cashless, so a credit card is required for payment.

• Is transportation provided?
  No, the tour starts and ends at the Graycliff Cigar Company, which is near Nassau’s waterfront and public transportation.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

• Are guides bilingual?
  Yes, guides may operate in English or Spanish — just specify your preference when booking.

• Can I keep the cigars I roll?
  Yes, you’ll be able to keep up to three cigars you make during the experience.

Final Thoughts

The Graycliff Cigar Company tour offers a compact but engaging glimpse into the art of cigar making and the world of Caribbean rums. Its small-group format ensures a personal touch, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy learning from passionate guides and trying something a bit different from the usual beach days. The opportunity to see master rollers in action and sample top-quality spirits makes it a memorable highlight in Nassau.

While some may wish for a longer or more detailed tour, the balance of hands-on activity, expert guidance, and tasting creates a well-rounded experience that’s both educational and relaxing. If you’re curious about cigars or spirits, or simply want to enjoy a very authentic taste of Bahamian craftsmanship, this tour is a solid choice.

In sum, it’s a worthwhile visit for those who love to learn something new, taste well-crafted spirits, and experience a piece of Nassau’s proud cigar-making tradition — all in under two hours.

Note: As with all tours, check availability and confirm details before booking, especially considering the limited group size and potential seasonal variations.