Atlantis: On our own or with a tour?

[APagano]

I've heard conflicting reports about Atlantis and what you can and cannot do on your own. I have read that the only way to see the Dig is to take a cruise ship tour, while others seem to say that you can just cab it to Atlantis and pay a fee to check out the sights. Which is correct? If it's easy just to cab it and tour the grounds for a fee, is it worth it to pay for a shore excursion?

 

Thanks!!

[scubagirrl]

There are several different ship tours, depending on the cruise line. Some have a GUIDED tour of the grounds and entrance to the Digs, including lunch. Some allow you access to the BEACH only, with use of a chaise lounge. (you can't use the lounges if you just walk onto the beach).

If you don't want to go on a ships tour, you can take a cab and pay $29 pp to view the DIGS, this does NOT allow you to view the predator lagoon or any outdoor exhibits.

or, you can walk past the Casino Drive entrance, and use the public walkway next to the sheraton to enter the beach. All beaches are public, but you won't have a chaise lounge if you don't pay for the ships tour.

 

You can enter the casino and shopping areas for free.