My parents hold US multiple entry visas,do they need to apply for Bahamian Visas when going on a cruise?HELP?

Question

We are going on a Caribbean Cruise in July and my parents are going with us. My parents hold US multiple entry visas,do they still need to apply for Bahamian Visas to be allowed to disembark in Nassau, Bahamas? I've asked my travel agent and she said that it is not required but I called the Bahamas Embassy and they said they still need to apply for a visa even if they stay in shore for approx. 6 hours. Another thing, is it hard to get approved for a Bahamian Visa? Please advise asap! Iam in desperate need for "a light in the dark". Iam completely lost! Please enlighten me! Thanks!:)

Answer 1

A lot will depend on your nationality. Believe what the Bahamian embassy told you. Call them and ask how long the process takes.

Answer 2

No they don´t. If their US visas are in order they don´t.

I used to be a purser with Carnival.

Answer 3

Are they docking in Nassau?  No one checks anything when you get off the ship in Nassau.  You just walk off...

Bahamas require you to have a ticket moving both ways - in and out - before you can enter.  Their seapass or ship pass will serve as their 'two way' ticket.  When boarding again, they need whatever valid ID they have been using all along.  

There were plenty of non-American on my cruise, and I did not see anyone having a problem with entry on any island.