Grand Bahama Island is becoming a very popular port for cruise ships. Last year, approximately 843,000 passengers visited Grand Bahama Island on their cruise. If your next cruise is heading to Grand Bahama Island, here are five great things to do while you're in port.

Discover Paradise at Gold Rock Beach. Lucayan National Park's Gold Rock Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas. With a setting this stunning, it's no surprise that some of the scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean were filmed here. The sea is shallow and generally very clear - perfect for children or spotting huge starfish on the ocean floor. Pick up some snacks and beverages and plan to spend several hours relaxing in this peaceful setting. Come around low tide for the most spectacular pictures of the beach. Taino Beach is another popular location for relaxing in the sun.

Kiss a Dolphin...Or Dive With Sharks. Located in the Port Lucaya Marina, UNEXSO provides a wide array of diving options, dolphin experiences and shopping opportunities. Scuba divers can go out on UNEXSO's ever-popular shark or dives. Wreck and reef dives are also available. Those seeking something a bit tamer can swim with dolphins or have a close encounter with a dolphin in The Dolphin Experience Lagoon. UNEXSO is also the only facility in the world that offers an Open Ocean Swim With Dolphins - an opportunity to interact with dolphins in a natural nine acre ocean lagoon along the South shore of Grand Bahama Island. For those seeking a hands-on dolphin experience, try the Assistant Trainer for a day program.

Chill at a Grand Resort. A number of cruise lines sell shore excursions to Grand Lucayan Beach & Golf Resort, a 519-room oasis set on a wide mile-long stretch of white sand beach. Set on over seven acres, the resort features four pools, tons of water sports, two championship golf courses, tennis courts, the 25,000 square-foot Senses Spa & Fitness Center, and a number of dining options. There's so much to do here, you may find yourself wanting to return for a longer stay. For more information on what the Grand Lucayan offers, visit https://www.grandlucayan.com.

Shop and Dine at Port Lucaya Marketplace. Whether you're looking for Bahamian straw crafts, beachwear, duty-free boutiques, artwork, designer fashions, or sparkling jewelry - Port Lucaya is the place to shop on Grand Bahama Island. Port Lucaya features over 40 shops and 13 restaurants with Bahamian and international fare. There are also bars, fast food outlets, and snack shops here as well. This is a great place to sample some fresh Bahamian fruit, refreshing coconut water, Bahamian baked goods, or local Bahamian delights such as conch fritters, crab soup, cracked lobster, and Bahamian fried fish.

Snorkel at Deadman's Reef. The waters around Grand Bahama Island are generally crystal clear, making it a great place for snorkeling. One of the most popular snorkeling spots is Paradise Cove with direct access to Deadman's Reef. Snorkeling is available right off the beach here. Peterson Cay, a 1.5 acre national park, is another good spot for snorkeling and kayaking.

For more information on visiting Grand Bahama Island, visit https://www.grandbahamavacations.com.