Cruise lines are so much more than just their individual ships. Select cruise lines own private islands that are included on only their itineraries. Private islands offer passengers exclusive beach time as an extension of the onboard experience. Often, these islands will feature attractive activities, complimentary cuisine and even beverages at no additional costs. Here are six private islands that could be a wonderful port to visit on your next adventure.
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Owned by Royal Caribbean International, Perfect Day at CocoCay is a 125-acre island in the Bahamas. The island offers top-tier fun, relaxation and activities. Guests can enjoy adrenaline-pumping waterslides, zip lines and helium balloons that soar high in the sky. You can also shop for locally made goods or island-inspired souvenirs, sip a fruity frozen concoction or splurge on an over-the-top experience in a private beach cabana with butler service and other special amenities. These on-island experiences include excursions that feature water sports and eco-tours. You’ll also find several dining and bar venues, live entertainment and even special nighttime events. Clear azure seas, pristine white beaches and brightly colored cottages complete the setting for a magical day in paradise. To visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, book a Royal Caribbean or Celebrity cruise that includes this heavenly hideaway on their itinerary.
Harvest Caye
Harvest Caye is a 75-acre resort-style island off the south coast of Belize in Central America. Owned in partnership by Norwegian Cruise Line and the Belizean government, it’s the only destination in Belize that can accommodate cruise ship berths. Harvest Caye offers an expansive pool with a swim-up bar, salt-water lagoon for water sports, exclusive 7-acre beach and exciting shore excursions ranging from zip lining across the island to snorkeling at the world’s second-largest barrier reef. To visit Harvest Caye, book a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise that includes this dreamy island.
Castaway Cay
Castaway Cay is Disney Cruise Line’s private island paradise in the Bahamas, designed to provide a magical and relaxing experience for cruisers. This exclusive island offers pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and a wide array of activities and amenities that are perfect for families. Castaway Cay is located midway between the islands of Eleuthera and Cat Island in the Bahamas. It is about 100 miles southeast of Nassau, the Bahamian capital and 277 miles southeast of Miami. View Disney cruises with Castaway Cay on their schedules for a chance to visit this magical paradise.
Half Moon Cay
Half Moon Cay is an idyllic castaway island in the Bahamas with a white sandy beach lapped by calm cerulean blue waters. Privately owned by the Carnival Corporation, this port of call is exclusively used by cruises that include this Cay on their itinerary. Although there’s some steep competition from other private cruise-owned islands, Half Moon Cay is frequently listed as one of traveler’s favorites. This is mainly due to the extensive beach with its super-soft white sand and diverse activities such as horse riding. Currently, cruisers are transported ashore in tenders, but a new deep-water dock is planned for the near future. To visit Half Moon Cay, book a Holland America Line or Carnival cruise that includes this getaway on their itinerary.
Great Stirrup Cay
Great Stirrup Cay is a 250-acre island in the Bahamas owned by Norwegian Cruise Line. Snorkel with sea turtles and colorful fish in warm turquoise waters. Peacefully glide along the coastline in a kayak or soar high into the sky as you zipline across the island. At the free Abaco Taco, create your own mouthwatering taco while enjoying a cool beverage. Plan a Norwegian cruise that makes a stop at this stunning island so you can explore and enjoy.
Ocean Cay Marine Reserve
Owned by MSC Cruises, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve is a 95-acre island in the Bahamas. The island offers a wide range of activities, including diving into the turquoise water, indulging in a seaside spa treatment and dancing on the beach at sunset. Enjoy nature at its best with seven pristine beaches surrounded by protected marine life. To visit Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, book a MSC cruise that includes this heavenly hideaway on their itinerary.
In conclusion, these private islands offer top-tier fun, relaxation and luxury. They are the perfect addition to your cruise itinerary and many feature complimentary activities, food and beach chairs that would usually be an extra cost at other ports. To visit these amazing destinations, call a Personal Vacation Manager today.
