The Wandering Disciple

 The crystal clear, turquoise waters of the Bahamas archipelago are a magnet for tourists from every corner of the globe. This allure is deeply rooted in the islands' stunning natural beauty, offering an unparalleled vacation experience. Beyond the shimmering clarity of the sea itself, visitors are drawn to the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, perfect for world-class snorkeling and scuba diving. The powdery white and pink sand beaches invite relaxation, while the gentle, warm ocean breezes and perpetual sunshine create an idyllic escape. From the bustling luxury resorts of Nassau and Paradise Island to the quiet, untouched beauty of the Out Islands, the Bahamas offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to sun-seekers, adventurers, and those simply looking for a serene retreat.  Taken: October 27, 2006 (Nassau, Bahamas)

Cruise passengers enjoy a day at the beach during a stop at Cococay in the Bahamas. The island oasis features crystal clear waters, a marine water park, an island straw market and much more fun in the sun.  Cococay is a private island port of call owned by Royal Caribbean International. The cruise ships mix in this stop on Eastern Caribbean and Bahamas cruises to give passengers a break from the hustle and bustle of city ports of call for a laid back beach day.  Taken: April 22, 2010 (Cococay, Bahamas)

As you stroll the congested aisles of Nassau's renowned Straw Market, you will find hidden treasures for the whole family. From colorful cartoon characters beach towels for the kids to handcrafted bags and Bahamas souvenirs for the adults, the Straw Market has something for everyone.  The open-air market is nestled between the high-end shops of Bay Street and the cruise ships of Prince George's Wharf. It has been a popular stop for the thousands of cruise passengers that pass through the port daily. Opened in the 1940's the Straw Market has given Bahamians a place to sell crafts, souvenirs and more.  Taken: April 21, 2010 (Nassau, New Providence, Bahamas)

An abundance of island coconut trees makes for an abundance of handmade crafts in the Straw Market. Here local artisans turn the coconut shells into works of art like these island figures. (Photo: April 22, 2010)

It doesn't matter what corner of the continent you are on, a Starbucks is not to far away.  The Seattle-base coffee giant's grip on the market can even be felt even in the Caribbean as seen in this colorful coffee house in the Bahamas.  There are over 27,000 Starbucks worldwide with presence in 6 continents and 76 counties.  (Photo: April 21, 2010)

Just on the edge of Paradise Island is a little bit of paradise on the bright blue waters of the Bahamas.  The coastline of the Bahamas are filled with tropical getaways and luxurious mansions along the shores of this Caribbean hot spot.  (Photo: October 27, 2006)

Cococay in the Bahamas is a tropical retreat owned by Royal Caribbean International.  It is one of two island oasis owned by the cruise line to provide an island getaway during Caribbean cruises.  Unlike other ports of call, these destination provide nothing but relaxation and fun in the sun without the hustle and bustle of the busier ports.  (Photo: April 22, 2010)

During the pirate age, a system of rules and punishments helped to maintain conduct within the pirate culture.  To violate the code meant to be marooned from the crew.  If you were marooned, you were abandoned on a desolate island and left to fend for yourself.  This form of punishment was recreated in an exhibit at the Pirates of Nassau Museum in downtown Nassau.  (Photo: April 21, 2010)

The lost city of Atlantis is alive and well at the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas.  The popular attraction features tons of fun with aquariums, water slides, lagoons and many more exciting things to do.  (Photo: April 21, 2010)

Sitting high atop Bennet's Hill, the battery of Fort Fincastle protected Nassau Harbour from invading navy's and pirate intruders.  Built by Lord Dunmore in 1793, Fort Fincastle was one of three forts built to defend the island.  (Photo: April 21, 2010)

The colonial era fort just outside Nassau was designed to help defend the island nation from enemy attacks.  Fort Charlotte was built by Lord Dunmore following the American Revolutionary War.  Despite being the first line of defense for the city, Fort Charlotte never saw action and today is a popular tourist attraction in Nassau.  (Photo: April 21, 2010

A patrol car from the Royal Bahamas Police Force patrols downtown Nassau.  The Royal Bahamas Police Force is the national law enforcement agency of the island nation and is responsible for the safety and security of over 700 islands.  (Photo: April 21, 2010)

The Majesty of the Seas sits off-shore of CocoCay during a Bahama cruise.  The Majesty of the Seas is one of many cruise ships operated by Royal Caribbean International, connection cruisers with ports of call around the globe.  (Photo: April 22, 2010)

The iconic image of Mickey Mouse ears adorns the smoke stack of the Disney Wonder while docked in Nassau. The fun and excitement of the Disney empire takes to the seas on a fleet of four family friendly cruise ships. (Photo: October 27, 2006)

A tunnel leads to the center of Fort Charlotte near downtown Nassau. Built atop a hill, the fort was ordered by Lord Dunmore to help protect the port. Constructed in 1789, the fort has never seen battle and is now a popular tourist destination. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

The rocky coast of Tender Bay at Cococay greets guests as they come to the island for a great day in the sun at Royal Caribbean's private island.  The private island is one of two islands owned by Royal Caribbean.  (Photo: April 22, 2010)

Thousands of tropical fish fill the lagoons and aquariums at the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas. This popular attraction on Paradise Island allows guests to snorkel with these colorful sea creatures or just sit back and watch them from one of the many viewing windows. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

The bright, colorful Festival House sits by the port at Nassau, welcoming cruisers to the Bahamas. (Photo: April 21, 2010)

A collection of sailboats anchor off-shore of the West Esplanade Beach in Nassau. Nassau is a popular destination for cruise ships as most Caribbean cruises include a stop at Nassau on their itineraries. (Photo: October 27, 2006)

Bright blue waters surround the private island of Coco Cay.  Located in the Berry Island chain in the Bahamas, the island was once known as Little Stirrup Cay.  It was purchased by Royal Caribbean and renamed Coco Cay and now is a port of call for Caribbean cruises. It features activities like snorkeling, para-sailing, jet skis and much more for the cruise passengers.  (Photo: April 22, 2010)