We’ve all heard it time and time again — Nassau’s a terrible port. Nothing to see there but rather…assertive vendors. Unless you want to lay out the cash to go to Atlantis (and now maybe Margaritaville Waterpark), there’s nothing to do, stay on the boat. Respectfully, I disagree. Disrespectfully, people who say this are dead wrong. I used to feel the same way, until I discovered what’s REALLY worthwhile in Nassau, Bahamas, and it ain’t Senor Frogs.
Enter John Watling’s Distillery. Although the distillery itself has only been up and running (and offering its fantastic free tours), since 2003, it’s located in downtown Nassau’s Buena Vista estate, built in 1786. You want to feel like a weather-beaten pirate, swilling the best grog of yer life with yer rowdy crew? Cab it over to John Watlings, and let the friendly, knowledgable bartenders school you on what delicious is.
Their pina coladas are LIFE. CHANGING. In my travels, or at home, I’ve never had a drink that comes close to this. These things make the cruise ship pina coladas taste like the cheap, pineapple slurpies that they are. These will RUIN you in the very best way. Generous rum floaters swim around the top of each and every one, and it is pure, wicked delight.
For the crazy, also known as those who don’t like coconut, there are plenty of other drinks on the menu, most notably the Pink Sands. My friends tell me it’s good, though my gaze never strays from my true spirit love… the Watling’s Pina Colada. Seriously, think I have feelings for this drink…
As with most tours these days, you will exit through a gift shop. The good news is, the gift shop is full of RUM! Yessss. For around $40 USD – you can take home your own bottle of Watling’s Divine Pleasure Nectar of Delight (or rum, as you humans call it) – and attempt to duplicate their transcendent coladas at home. Like I’ve been doing. Every week.
My best day port day ever didn’t involve any chain resorts, or even Poseidon’s Pricey Palace, but it sure did involve some good buddies and John Watling’s. I think you’ll really enjoy this place.
Deen on Deck. It's a travel blog. 
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