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The Bahamas is usually a destination for relaxing and enjoying time, but between those, if one knows where to look, there is an array of historical and natural attractions that can be the envy of any travel architect.

What is now Nassau began as Charles Town in 1670, when the British arrived in the Bahamas in 1648. It was then renamed Nassau in 1695 in honor of King William III, who was also called the Prince of Nassau.

A century after the first settlers arrived in 1648, a renewed defense plan for the main towns of the Bahamas, particularly Nassau, began in earnest by Peter Henry Bruce, a military engineer.

Surprisingly, booking a cruise offers a wonderful vehicle for cultural tourism, no matter which part of the world the ship docks and the diversity of destinations you can cover in a single trip.

And when it comes to Nassau, there are some extraordinary places for an ardent planner to make the most of on an adventure on the sea.

Since architecture is an important element of any history-minded vacation, the first thing guests notice on a Bahamas cruise arrival as they enter the harbor are the ancient limestone forts and buildings overlooking the docks.

In Nassau, there are three such incredible landmarks which have played a major role in reshaping the history of this region. The most notable, that still stand today, are Fort Fincastle, Fort Charlotte and Fort Montagu.

All these famous forts of Nassau were built to protect the island from foreign invaders. This blog will provide a comparative study of these bastions and where you can find them in Nassau.

Fort Fincastle

Located on the north shore of the island of New Providence, the impressive Fort Fincastle sits on Bennet’s Hill, and is probably the first landmark cruise ship guests can see as the ship approaches the docks.

Built entirely in cut limestone in the shape of a paddle-wheel steamer, visiting the site is well worth as you can see another major attraction here, the Queen’s Staircase (also known as the 66 steps), which is also located within the same property.

Despite the passage of time, the ruins hold remains of some 60 odd cannons, none of which had to be ever used because of the imposing nature of this defense structure.

Fort Charlotte

Located in downtown Nassau, the 18th century Fort Charlotte is a 30-minute drive from Fort Fincastle and is situated overlooking the Nassau Harbor.

Made of solid limestone rock, the fort was the brainchild of Lord Dunmore, who was the governor from 1787 to 1796, and took 32 years to complete.

Though the fort was in use through the end of World War One, it never witnessed combat all through its existence.The signage is excellent, telling both history and what life was like for those stationed in Nasdau.

Fort Montagu

Fort Montagu, a war monument of the battle of the Bahamas in 1776, has significant value in shaping the history of the country.

Constructed in 1741 from local limestone as a defense mechanism against the Spanish invaders, this is the oldest fort still standing on the island of New Providence, at the eastern edge of the Nassau Harbor.

Originally intended to protect the British from the Spanish, today it is the site of the United States Marine Corps first ever military action in 1776.

Fortifications still stand watch over the city harbor, while balconies extend over narrow streets and bright pink government buildings lead to exquisite limestone stairs. A Bahamas cruise can be the perfect way to partake in cultural tourism.

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