As you may already know, many cruise lines have their own private islands that you can visit on select itineraries. From the Bahamas and Haiti all the way across the globe to the serene South Pacific, these private islands are decked out with lavish cabanas, inclusive amenities, and waters so blue they will leave you speechless. But with so many options out there, how do you know which island is right for you? To help you choose, here is our Ultimate Guide to the Best Cruise Line Private Islands.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN
PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY
The Location: The Bahamas
The Experience: Extravagant theme park on the beach
The Ships: Weekender cruises on Mariner and Navigator of the Seas, Longer getaways on Oasis Class Ships (Allure, Harmony and Symphony of the Seas), and northeast departures on Grandeur, Adventure and Oasis of the Seas
The Details: After a $250 million transformation, Perfect Day at CocoCay is the ultimate in thrilling island adventure. This island is packed with record-breaking builds and unexpected firsts: Daredevil’s Peak—the tallest waterslide in North America; the biggest wave pool in the Caribbean; Splash Summit with over 1,500 feet of slides; Captain Jack’s restaurant with a full bar and live music; splash buckets, water cannons and dry slides for the kids; a 1,600-foot-long zip line; Chill Island including the island’s largest dining venue, Chill Grill, jet skis and guided snorkel tours; Oasis Lagoon—the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool with a swim-up bar, three swim-up islands, and first overwater private cabanas in the Bahamas; and last but not least, Up, Up & Away—a helium balloon that floats up to 450 feet above the ground, giving guests the highest vantage point in The Bahamas. Over the top? We think it’s just right for those adventure-seekers.
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LABADEE
The Location: Haiti
The Experience: Action-packed jungle beach resort
The Ships: Adventure, Allure, Anthem, Brilliance, Empress, Explorer, Grandeur, Harmony, Independence, Jewel, Mariner, Oasis, Odyssey, Symphony and Vision of the Seas
The Details: In the middle of the rolling jungle and white sand beaches, Labadee offers a variety of experiences to customize your day. Sunbathe in the gentle waves on a floating mat at Nellie’s beach or relax and restore in a private, shaded bungalow. While these bungalows don’t feature all the bells and whistles like running water and private bathroom, they do offer cabana service and uninterrupted water views. Change your perspective to 500 feet above the ground on the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line, the world’s largest overwater zipline. Coast down the mountainside at 30 miles per hour on the Dragon’s Tail Coaster and catch some of the best views on the island. Before heading back to the ship, be sure to try the Labadozie—Labadee’s signature frozen drink. This island may be a more chill version of Royal Caribbean’s private island style, but it still has plenty of thrilling attractions and is the perfect action-packed option for itineraries visiting Haiti.
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PERFECT DAY AT LELEPA
The Location: Republic of Vanuatu, South Pacific
The Experience: Eco-inspired private island
The Ships: TBD
The Details: Soon to be the newest addition to the Perfect Day Island Collection, Perfect Day at Lelepa is set to welcome guests in 2022. This will be the only private island destination designed for cruising in the South Pacific, exclusive to Royal Caribbean. Call us at 800-709-9507 and ask our Personal Vacation Managers to keep you notified about Perfect Day at Lelepa!
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE, OCEANIA CRUISES AND REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES
GREAT STIRRUP CAY
The Location: Berry Island chain of the Bahamas
The Experience: Quiet beach with plentiful marine life
The Ships: Norwegian Cruise Line – Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Dawn, Encore, Escape, Gem, Getaway, Jade, Jewel, Joy, Pearl, Sky and Sun
Oceania Cruises – Riviera and Sirena
Regent Seven Seas Cruises – Seven Seas Mariner, Splendor and Voyager
The Details: Upon arriving at Great Stirrup Cay, board a tender to visit the 268-acre island full of natural landscape and three unique beaches: the main beach at Bertram’s Cove, the lively Cabana Beach (close to all the crowds and action) and the secluded Fiesta Beach. Each section of the island offers the opportunity to lounge in the warm, Caribbean breeze with different style options for cabana rentals and complimentary beach chairs. However, if you’re looking to stay active on your vacation, you can choose from kayaking, parasailing, snorkeling at 15 different mini-reefs, or even feeding stingrays (for a fee). The real prize? Great Stirrup Cay’s turquoise water provides a view of the artificial reef with sunken ship pieces and an underwater sculpture garden. With some luck, you may even spot a sea turtle! As a special bonus, you can book an excursion to swim with the pigs of Treasure Island—just a 10-minute boat ride away.
Norwegian’s sister cruise lines, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas also offer occasional itineraries that include a day at Great Stirrup Cay.
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HARVEST CAYE
The Location: Southern Belize
The Experience: Upscale tropical resort and nature center
The Ships: Norwegian Cruise Line – Norwegian Breakaway, Dawn, Encore, Getaway, Jade, Jewel, Joy, Pearl, Sky and Sun
Oceania Cruises – Marina, Riviera and Sirena
Regent Seven Seas Cruises – Seven Seas Navigator and Splendor
The Details: Once you depart your ship and step foot onto the island, you’ll be immersed in natural beauty and culture on a 75-acre oasis. Grab your towels and head to the Jimmy Buffett-affiliated LandShark Bar & Grill with an expansive pool, cascading waterfall, a swim-up bar, and private canopy cabanas available for rent. On the 7-acre beach, luxuriate in seaside cabanas featuring concierge service, private bathrooms, and air conditioning, with access to golf carts for easy transportation around the island. Head to the saltwater lagoon for watersports such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and electric float boats, or go snorkeling at the world’s second-largest barrier reef nearby. For the adrenaline junkie, Harvest Caye also offers The Flighthouse, a thrilling 136-foot high venue for aerial activities featuring 3,000 feet of zip lining across the island, quick jumps, and an observation deck with expansive island views. For a more upscale experience, take to the shopping village featuring popular name-brand retailers as well as local Belizean crafts.
Norwegian’s sister cruise lines, Oceania and Regent Seven Seas also offer occasional itineraries that include a day at Harvest Caye.
Note: Due to the agreement with the government of Belize, dining and drinks packages do not carry over to Harvest Caye. All purchases must be paid in cash or with a credit card; U.S. and Belizean dollars are both accepted. There are no ATMs on the island, so if you’re paying cash, use your ship’s ATM or stock up in advance.
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PRINCESS CRUISES AND CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
PRINCESS CAYS
The Location: Eleuthera, Bahamas
The Experience: Unspoiled private beach with excursion-like amenities
The Ships: Princess Cruises – Caribbean, Crown, Enchanted and Sky Princess;
Carnival Cruise Line – Carnival Conquest, Ecstasy, Elation, Fascination, Freedom, Legend, Liberty, Pride, Sunrise and Sunshine
The Details: Contrary to what the name portrays, this island is owned by Carnival Corp and access is extended to both Princess Cruises and its sister brand, Carnival Cruise Line.Featured as a port of call on Western Caribbean cruise itineraries, this stunning island is a refreshing change of pace from the other private islands, allowing you to relax and enjoy the serene white or pink sand beaches and crystal-clear Caribbean water. After tendering to the shoreline, you’ll be greeted by swaying palm trees and bursts of color, as well as plenty of lounge chairs and hammocks. Get there early to snag a spot in the shade and beach runners will be standing by to bring you a refreshing Coco Loco, or any other of your favorite beverages. But don’t be fooled by the laid-back vibes on the beach. This island offers many activities for those looking for something more active. Go kayaking, banana boating, paddle boating, skiing, snorkeling, parasailing, sail boating, or wave running. Or, take a coastal cruise by the rocky shoreline, go fishing or embark on a clear-bottom kayak tour. There are also volleyball and basketball courts. Brightly colored cabanas (with air conditioning and ceiling fans) are available for daily rental and offer a romantic escape for up to 4 guests. Since these private cabanas offer an adult sanctuary, you can take the kids to the nearby Pelican Perch kid’s club and playground.
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HOLLAND AMERICA LINE AND CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
HALF MOON CAY
The Location: Little San Salvador, Bahamas
The Experience: Rustic beauty, abundant wildlife and powdery beaches
The Ships: Holland America Line – ms Eurodam, ms Nieuw Amsterdam, ms Nieuw Statendam, ms Volendam, ms Zaandam and ms Zuiderdam
Carnival Cruise Line – Carnival Breeze, Conquest, Dream, Ecstasy, Elation, Freedom, Legend, Liberty, Magic, Pride, Radiance, Sunrise and Sunshine
The Details: Similar to Princess Cays, this island is owned by Carnival Corp and access is extended to Holland America Line and its sister brand, Carnival Cruise Line.As you tender to the island, the first thing you’ll see is Half Moon Beach with luxury cabanas dotting the beachfront. This island boasts some of the most extravagant rentals, from a 5-person Private Beach Villa with hot tub, misting showers, air conditioning and dining area, to an exclusive 12-person Private Oasis with private beach access, wet bar with a personal bartender and beverage package, personal butler, chef, cabana Steward and lifeguard—definitely worth the price tag. Throughout the island, you’ll see trails rich in birdlife. Since only 2% of the island is developed, some call this beach the closest thing you’ll find to an untouched Bahamas. Take a guided nature walk or explore on your own with clearly marked paths and informative signs. A must-do on the island is visiting the iconic Captain Morgan pirate ship, boasting three levels—the top deck provides views of the water and great photo-ops, while the first two floors are dedicated to the bar. The kids will enjoy Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park with water slides and playgrounds. Stingray Cove, a lagoon enclosure, is home to tame stingrays. And just like the other islands, you can take part in watersport activities, but for a bucket-list experience, go horseback riding. The trail will take you from the highest point of the island (with 360-degree views) to a cooling swim in the ocean.
Note: If you purchased a drink package on the cruise, it will not transfer over to Half Moon Cay. Drinks will need to be purchased separately (unless you book the Private Oasis cabana, of course).
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DISNEY CRUISE LINE
CASTAWAY CAY
The Location: Near Great Abaco Island, Bahamas
The Experience: Premium family leisure
The Ships: Disney Dream, Fantasy, Magic and Wonder
The Details: Upon docking at Castaway Cay, step off your ship and onto an island completely outfitted with something for all ages to enjoy! The kiddos will love keeping cool on the water slides and splash areas, while your little discoverers will be fascinated by the giant whale-bone excavation site at Scuttle’s Cove. Throughout the day, meet and greet some favorite Disney Characters (what’s more memorable than having an impromptu Dance Party with Lilo and Stitch?) and take photos you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Enjoy a family stroll on the scenic walking trails discovering the local flora and fauna, or take to Castaway Family Beach where you can swim, snorkel, kayak, paddleboard or even sail (with 2- and 4-person paddleboat options available for rent). The Teen Hideout is the perfect chill spot for 14 to 17-year olds to lounge in their own slice of paradise. And while the kids are at bay, the grownups will play at Serenity Bay, a secluded adults-only oasis reserved for guests 18 years of age and older. At Serenity Bay, treat yourself to an open-air cabana massage or frozen specialty cocktail from Castaway Air Bar. The shopping and water activity options are endless, so pack up the whole family and make a getaway to Castaway Cay.
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PAUL GAUGUIN
MOTU MAHANA
The Location: Taha’a, French Polynesia
The Experience: Authentic, indulgent Polynesian paradise
The Ships: m/s Paul Gauguin
The Details: Embark for beautiful Motu Mahana in the lagoon of Taha’a and become enveloped by crystal clear, warm water and gently swaying palm trees in the balmy breeze. You’ll be greeted by your hosts, Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins, playing ukuleles and singing traditional Tahitian songs. They’ll demonstrate how to open a coconut or show you how to tie a pareo (a traditional Tahitian sarong or wraparound skirt). After getting your feet wet, the first order of businesses is being treated to a refreshing cocktail from the floating bar and indulging in a fantastic beach barbeque. During your day (or two) in Motu Mahana, the cruise line staff will come ashore bringing with them everything you need for a great day on their private island. They will bring the kayaks and snorkeling equipment from The Gauguin’s watersports marina. A small market is set up with locals if you would like to do some shopping. For the ultimate indulgence, we recommend getting a massage on the beach as the perfect way to forget any stresses from home and fall into the relaxed Polynesian lifestyle.
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VIRGIN VOYAGES
THE BEACH CLUB AT BIMINI
The Location: Bimini, Bahamas
The Experience: Trendy, exclusive open-air lounge
The Ships: Scarlet Lady
The Details: This new adult-only cruise line created by party mogul Richard Branson boasts exclusive onboard experiences not found elsewhere, like onboard drag brunches and tattoo parlors. Their new private island oasis, The Beach Club at Bimini, offers an upscale ambiance with areas of high energy and quiet spots for relaxation, each hosting their own experiences. An expansive lagoon-like pool takes center stage—to the right is a sports shack with rentals like kayaks and an area for volleyball. Off to the left is a meditation and relaxation area for guests who want to be away from all the action. Whether you choose to retox or detox during your time on the island, you’ll enjoy a menu of locally sourced food such as conch and mango salad, lechon asado, and the island’s famous Bimini bread. There are six bars to choose from, but our favorite spot is in the hanging wicker bar chairs above the pool where you can sip on a cocktail while dangling your toes in the pool. As the day progresses, enjoy lively DJ-led pool and flotilla parties, and by night, curl up at the bonfire with acoustic musical performances and the “fireball” tradition before heading back to the ship. Most Virgin Voyages itineraries to the Caribbean include a day and night (10 am to midnight) spent at The Beach Club— complete with their signature bonfire bash under the stars.
Read Also – First Look: Virgin Voyages’ Exciting New Take on Cruising
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Still not sure which private island to choose that will suit your ideal vacation style? Our friendly and knowledgeable Personal Vacation Managers are experts on the matter and are happy to help guide you in choosing the island that is most ideal for your interests. Then, they will help you select—and book—an itinerary that will transport you to your island paradise. When you’re ready to start planning your next trip, give them a call at 800-709-9507.
