Rum Tastings in Nassau

When Jack Sparrow famously said “why is the rum always gone,” he was certainly not talking about Nassau. Here the rum flows freely and in abundance. A rum tasting in Nassau is the best way to tap into this important part of island life and also learn about the culture and the food of the Bahamas.

Here's all you need to know about rum tours, one of the most delightful gastronomic activities in Nassau.

What are the best rum tastings in Nassau?

Whether you enjoy a foodie experience or want to feel the rhythm of the island with your glass of rum, there is a Nassau rum tasting for everyone:

Rum and food walking tour

This is a comprehensive tour that captures multiple parts of Nassau in one experience. Take a walking tour through the colonial streets of Nassau and listen as your guide indulges you in inspiring and captivating stories from the city’s past.

Along the way, you will make several stops to savor delectable Bahamian dishes and even some rum-infused treats. The tour will end at the world-famous John Watling’s Distillery where you will learn all about the fascinating process of rum making.

Rum Reggae and Rhythms tour

If it is a party atmosphere you are after, this rum tasting in Nassau is the one for you. For 4 hours you will be treated to free-flow rum punch and non-stop reggae beats.

The tour starts at Graycliff Cigar Company where you get to witness the art of cigar rolling before you move on to one of the most famous chocolate tastings in Nassau, at the Graycliff Chocolatier, whose chocolate is infused with the essence of paradise.

At Bahama Barrels you will try a unique island blend wine, a nice departure from an afternoon of rum.

We will quickly move back to the main event with a visit to John Watling's Distillery to taste their legendary rum and then end the day at Cable Beach where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy some more rum and reggae.

Rum distillery tour

Time-strapped tourists who want to experience the brilliance of Caribbean rum but can’t commit a whole afternoon will love the option of a short rum distillery tour. Visit Luna Rum Distillery to learn about the fascinating process of rum making and see the various stages of the process.

Awaken your taste buds with three different rum tastings as well as a selection of delectable rum-infused cakes.

Cigar demo and rum tasting

This special rum tasting in Nassau is for those seeking out the finer things in life because nothing beats sipping on a good rum and having a puff of a quality cigar. You will visit Graycliff Cigar Company to learn the art of cigar rolling and see the torcedors at work.

Learn all about how to select, store, and smoke the best cigars and end the experience with a rum flight from around the world.

Which places are visited?

Rum tastings in Nassau take you all around the city. On walking tours, you will visit the colonial-era city center. Most tours pay a visit to John Watling’s Distillery to learn about the swash-buckling past of rum and Nassau.

Graycliff Cigar Company and Graycliff Chocolate company are also popular stops. Each tour offers a unique itinerary, taking you to the best spots across the city to enjoy rum and merriment to the fullest.

How much do rum tastings in Nassau cost?

The least expensive rum tasting in Nassau is a short distillery tour at US$25 per person. A reggae and rum tour costs US$70 per person but for US$85 per person, you can join a private tour for a small group.

For more comprehensive experience, the cigar demo and rum tastings cost US$175 per person, which not only allow you sample rums from the Caribbean, but also show you how cigars are made.

What is included?

Rum tours in Nassau offer great value for money as you will enjoy several drinks included in the tour. Some rum tastings include food tours in Nassau, while the rum and reggae tours offer unlimited rum punch and a small wine tasting.

On the rum and cigar tour you will have a flight of rum and the distillery tour offers 3 tastings and some cake too.

Where does it start?

Rum walking or reggae tours start at John Watling’s Distillery or Pompey Square and distillery tours take place at Luna Rum Distillery in the west of the city. You will also meet your guide at Graycliff Cigar Company for a rum and cigar tour.

How long does it last?

Most rum tastings in Nassau last 2.5-3 hours but the rum and reggae tour is a little longer and lasts 4 hours. The distillery tour only lasts 20 minutes and the cigar and rum tour lasts 1.5 hours.

Are children allowed?

No, children cannot partake in the rum tasting, as the minimum legal drinking age is 18.

When is the best time for a rum tasting in Nassau?

A rum tasting in Nassau is a fun way to end your stay on the island, sending you off with a cache of fun memories. A tour that doubles as a walking tour in Nassau might also be a good idea at the beginning of your stay as you get a good lay of the land and quickly learn about the city’s history and culture.

Travel tips

• Bring along your ID to prove you are old enough for a Nassau rum tour.
• Inform your tour operator of any food allergens or dietary restrictions when booking your tour.
• Drink lots of water to stay well hydrated during your tour.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved.