A day at the beach on a private island is music to any cruise fan’s ears. That’s why many of the major lines own and operate private islands that serve as a destination for their passengers when they call on a Caribbean or Bahamas port of call. Private islands offer clean bathrooms, shore excursions, shopping and dining options for a fee, much like the more traditional island stops that are open to the public. But private island excursions can also come with extras — including the luxury of a cabana — that elevate the experience.
Some of the most popular cruise line private islands include the Disney-owned Castaway Cay, MSC’s Ocean Cay Marine Reserve and Holland America’s Half Moon Cay. These destinations provide a range of activities for families, adults and kids, with some even offering a special area just for teens. And because the islands are walkable, you can easily return to your ship for lunch without missing out on the fun.
Of course, some private islands require a tender boat ride to get there. And this process can be lengthy and frustrating for those who just want to hop off the ship and start enjoying the beach or other island attractions. Depending on the island, this can be especially true when multiple ships are in port on the same day.
Most of the cruise lines’ private islands are developed with a plethora of things to do right in front of the ship. This includes alfresco bars, souvenir shops and rental cabanas. Almost all of them have clean bathrooms and water sports (such as snorkeling, kayaking and parasailing) for a fee. And a few have amusements such as zip lines and water parks.
In addition, most of the cruise line-owned private islands have free activities such as trail walking, swimming and beach games like volleyball. Some also feature spa facilities and alcoholic beverage packages. And many offer a variety of shore excursions ranging from snorkeling to stingray encounters and horseback riding.
While a day at a private island can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend your cruise, it’s important to remember that these types of excursions aren’t as immersive as visiting a traditional Caribbean island or even a national park. They’re more of a cruise-line resort experience than a traditional island visit.
Still, a day on a private island can be a good choice for a cruiser who wants an uncomplicated beach day and doesn’t mind a bit of crowding. But for those who are looking for a truly authentic experience, there are better options out there. And you can find them with our private island tour options. Just be sure to book your tour well in advance. The most popular private island tours fill up quickly, especially on peak cruise vacation dates. If you have questions, contact us and we’ll help you plan a once-in-a-lifetime getaway.