Ahhh...there's just nothing quite as relaxing as a Caribbean cruise, especially one to the Bahamas, and most especially to Nassau. Nassau combines Old World charm with spectacular beaches, duty-free shopping, fabulous beaches, wonderful food, and exciting nightlife. In addition to all that, the natives are friendly and the weather is awesome!

If you leave from Port Canaveral, you'll board the cruise ship sometime after noon. You won't be able to go to your room yet, but you're free to explore the ship and enjoy a frozen tropical drink. There will also be several places onboard where you can indulge in a snack, a meal, or an ice cream.

Later that afternoon, your Caribbean cruise ship will depart, and you'll be able to go to your cabin. You can unpack, shower, and get dressed up for dinner in the main dining room. If you prefer a casual meal, you'll have several choices, including buffets, burgers, and pizza. And there's always room service!

After dinner, you can do some gambling in the casino, dance at a club, take in a show, or shop on the ship. If you prefer quieter time, visit a cigar lounge or read a good book on deck as you watch the waves. Then it's time for bed.

When you wake up, you'll either be in Nassau or approaching it. Secure a spot up top. The view coming into Nassau is breathtaking: strips of white beaches, swaying palms, and a sparkling turquoise sea.

You'll have the entire day to explore Nassau. Learn some of the history while you're there, and be sure to sample some regional cuisine. If it's a beach you seek, head to the docks and hire a local to take you across the bay to Paradise Island. The public beach there is postcard-perfect, and lots of locals hang out there. Talk to them. Get to know them.

If the ship's still in port that night, check out some of Nassau's clubs. Try to find one with local entertainment. Believe me, these folks know how to party! You're sure to have a blast moving to the rhythms of a calypso band.

After departing from Nassau, many cruise ships head to Freeport. In physical characteristics, it's much the same as Nassau, but it looks newer and more modern somehow. The shopping here is surreal, so I hope you didn't spend all your money in Nassau!

The Caribbean is the ultimate vacation destination, and a Caribbean cruise is the way to travel. Someone else worries about the driving and the planning, and you just get to enjoy the scenery and the balmy breezes. A Caribbean cruise is also a great value. All your meals, your room, your transportation, and much of your entertainment is included in the price.