Can cruise passengers legally marry in The Bahamas?

Yes. If your ship docks in Nassau or Freeport, you can marry legally during your port stop provided you obtain a Bahamas marriage license and meet ID requirements.

Do we need to stay overnight?

No. With pre-scheduled paperwork and proper documents, most couples marry during a single port call.

How far is the ceremony venue from the cruise port?

Our preferred ceremony spot, Nuptial Beach, is approximately 20 minutes from the Nassau cruise port by private transfer.

What documents are required?

Passports for both parties, completed license forms, and—if applicable—certified final divorce decree or death certificate of former spouse.

Can we get an apostille quickly?

Yes. Expedited apostille service is available so you can depart with documents or have them couriered promptly after your cruise.

Can You Get Married in The Bahamas While on a Cruise?

Quick Answer

Legal: Yes — Marry during your port stop with a Bahamas marriage license, valid passports, and a Licensed Marriage Officer present. We schedule your license appointment around your ship’s arrival and handle transport, the ceremony, and paperwork.

Requirements & Timing

IDs: Valid passports for both parties.
If previously married: Certified final divorce decree or death certificate.
License appointment: Arranged on arrival; typically same-day issuance.
Ceremony transfer: ~20 minutes from Nassau cruise port to Nuptial Beach.

Pro Tip: Share your cruise itinerary early. We’ll pre-fill license forms and align your schedule so you’re back onboard with time to spare.

How It Works (Step-by-Step)

Book your package: Reserve an Island Nuptial option and send your arrival time. See packages.
Pre-arrival: We pre-complete license forms and confirm your appointment. See Eloping in the Bahamas.
Arrive in Nassau: Meet our concierge, sign, and obtain your license.
Ceremony: Private transfer to Nuptial Beach for your seaside vows and photos.
Certificates: Receive certified certificate; optional expedited apostille. Learn about add-ons.

Typical total time ashore for license + ceremony: ~2.5–4 hours depending on photos and apostille options.

Island Nuptial Packages (Cruise-Friendly)

Package	Includes	From
Island Nuptial Beach	Licensed Marriage Officer, legal paperwork prep, license concierge, simple beach ceremony, keepsake certificate.	$1,495
Island Nuptial Romance	Everything in Beach + bouquet & boutonnière, curated photo time, music.	$1,995
Island Nuptial Sunset	Everything in Romance + extended photography, décor accents, toasted celebration.	$2,495

Check Your Cruise Date Read FAQs

Add-ons: photography, videography, florals, hair & makeup, décor, live musician, and expedited apostille.

FAQs

Can cruise passengers legally marry in Nassau?: Yes. With the proper license and a Licensed Marriage Officer, your ceremony is fully legal.
Do we need to stay overnight?: No. With pre-scheduled paperwork, most couples marry during a single port call.
How long does everything take ashore?: Plan ~2.5–4 hours for license + ceremony + photos depending on your preferences.
What if the ship’s schedule changes?: We monitor itinerary updates and adjust timing or offer alternative arrangements where possible.
Is the venue far from port?: Nuptial Beach is about 20 minutes from the Nassau cruise port by private transfer.

Still deciding? Explore more elopement packages or contact Glenn.

About Glenn S. Ferguson

Bahamas Wedding Planner Glenn S. Ferguson

I’m a Licensed Bahamas Marriage Officer and WPIC-Certified Wedding Planner with 24+ years helping couples marry in paradise. My specialty is cruise-friendly legal weddings in Nassau with total logistics handled — so you can relax, say “I do,” and make it back to the ship on time.

You may also like: Eloping in the Bahamas · Bahamas Elopement Packages