Private island destinations, exclusive to cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC, and Disney, are redefining Caribbean and Bahamas cruises. These bespoke retreats, such as Princess Cays, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, offer pristine beaches, waterparks, and curated excursions.
This guide explores the rise of private islands, what to expect, and tips for North American cruisers.
Please note that any and all pricing is subject to change and reflects rates current as of this writing, April 2025.
Why Private Islands Are Booming
Private islands give cruise lines control over guest experiences, from dining to activities, while boosting revenue through premium excursions.
They’re included in many 3–7-night itineraries from Miami, Galveston, and Port Canaveral, offering a hassle-free beach day.
Over 10 million cruisers visit private islands each year, with more growth expected.
Benefits
- Exclusivity: Only your ship’s passengers, ensuring less crowding than public ports.
- Amenities: Free beaches, dining, and kids’ zones; premium options like cabanas.
- Convenience: Most have docks; others use tenders for easy access.
Top Private Islands
1. Celebration Key (Carnival)
- Location: Grand Bahama, opening July 2025.
- Features: Five zones (family, adult-only, waterpark, cultural, luxury). Free beaches, lagoon, and dining; waterpark slides ($30), cabanas ($150).
- Excursions: Kayaking ($50), cultural tours ($70), snorkeling (~$60).
- Why Go: Diverse activities for all ages; included in Galveston and Miami itineraries.
- Tip: Book cabanas early; visit carnival.com.
2. Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean)
- Location: Bahamas, revamped 2019.
- Features: Thrill Waterpark ($50–$100), Oasis Lagoon (free), and South Beach. Cabanas ($200), zip-lining (~$80).
- Excursions: Jet skiing ($100), helium balloon ride ($60), snorkeling (~$50).
- Why Go: High-energy fun; great for families and thrill-seekers.
- Tip: Book waterpark passes via royalcaribbean.com.
3. Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian)
- Location: Bahamas, tender port.
- Features: Free beaches, cabanas ($150), and dining. Water sports ($50–$100).
- Excursions: Snorkeling ($60), wave runners ($120), stingray swim (~$80).
- Why Go: Relaxed vibe; ideal for budget travelers.
- Tip: Arrive early for free beach chairs.
4. Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (MSC Cruises)
- Location: Bahamas, opened 2019.
- Features: Eight beaches, free dining (BBQ, food trucks), lighthouse light show. Cabanas ($150), spa treatments ($50–$100).
- Excursions: Snorkeling ($60), kayaking ($50), lighthouse climb (~$20).
- Why Go: Eco-focused with vibrant marine life; ideal for relaxation.
- Tip: Book spa treatments early; visit msccruisesusa.com.
5. Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line)
- Location: Bahamas, leased since 1997.
- Features: Family and adult-only beaches, free BBQ dining, Disney character meet-and-greets. Cabanas ($200), bike rentals (~$15).
- Excursions: Snorkeling ($50), parasailing ($120), 5K run (free).
- Why Go: Family-friendly with Disney magic; dock for easy access.
- Tip: Mail postcards from the island’s post office; visit disneycruise.disney.go.com.
6. Half Moon Cay (Holland America/Carnival)
- Location: Bahamas, owned by Holland America.
- Features: 2.5-mile crescent beach, free BBQ, horseback riding. Cabanas ($150), villas ($500).
- Excursions: Snorkeling ($60), horseback riding ($100), stingray swim (~$80).
- Why Go: Serene natural beauty; great for couples and nature lovers.
- Tip: Reserve villas early; visit hollandamerica.com.
7. Princess Cays (Princess Cruises/Carnival)
- Location: Eleuthera, Bahamas, resort area.
- Features: Half-mile beach, free BBQ, craft markets. Cabanas ($100), water sports ($30–$80).
- Excursions: Snorkeling ($50), banana boat rides ($40), stingray encounters (~$70).
- Why Go: Laid-back vibe with water activities; tender port.
- Tip: Book water sports online; visit princess.com.
8. Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point (Disney Cruise Line)
- Location: Eleuthera, Bahamas, opened 2024.
- Features: Family beach, splash zones, Bahamian-inspired dining. Cabanas ($200), nature trails (free).
- Excursions: Eco-tours ($60), snorkeling ($50), bike rentals (~$15).
- Why Go: Vibrant cultural experience with Disney flair.
- Tip: Explore trails for free; visit disneycruise.disney.go.com.
What to Expect on a Private Island
Private islands are designed to offer a seamless, all-in-one experience, blending free amenities with premium upgrades. Here’s a detailed look at what cruisers can expect:
Free Amenities
- Beaches: Pristine, white-sand beaches with complimentary loungers and umbrellas are standard. Most islands have multiple beach areas, from lively family zones to quieter adult-only sections.
- Dining: Main dining areas offer free meals, typically including BBQ, burgers, salads, and desserts. Beverage stations provide water, iced tea, and lemonade.
- Kids’ Zones: Dedicated splash pads, playgrounds, and supervised activities keep children entertained, often at no cost.
- Shade and Facilities: Ample shade stations, restrooms, and changing areas ensure comfort throughout the day.
Paid Extras
- Waterparks: Thrill Waterpark at CocoCay and Celebration Key’s slides require tickets ($30–$100), offering high-speed slides and wave pools.
- Cabanas: Private cabanas ($150–$200) provide shaded seating, waiter service, and exclusive beach access, ideal for families or groups.
- Premium Dining: Specialty restaurants ($10–$50) serve upscale options like seafood platters or tropical cocktails.
- Excursions: Activities like snorkeling ($50–$60), jet skiing ($100–$120), or cultural tours ($70) add adventure to your day.
Crowds
Private islands typically host 3,000–6,000 passengers from a single ship, but their sprawling layouts and zoned areas keep crowds manageable. Arrive by 9 a.m. to secure prime beach spots or waterpark access. Popular areas like waterparks or main beaches can feel busy by midday, but quieter zones are always available.
Accessibility
Most private islands are designed with accessibility in mind. Paved paths, beach wheelchairs, and trams accommodate guests with mobility challenges.
Expanding Your Private Island Experience
Private islands offer more than just beach lounging, providing opportunities for cultural, culinary, and adventurous experiences:
- Cultural Immersion: At Celebration Key, cultural tours ($70) explore Bahamian traditions, including Junkanoo performances and local crafts. Great Stirrup Cay offers historical talks about the island’s past ($40), adding depth to your visit.
- Culinary Delights: Beyond free dining, indulge in premium options like lobster rolls ($20) at CocoCay’s Chill Grill or tropical fruit platters ($15) at Celebration Key. Food trucks on some islands offer local flavors like conch fritters ($10).
- Water Sports and Adventures: Beyond snorkeling and jet skiing, try paddleboarding ($50) or glass-bottom boat tours ($60) for a family-friendly way to explore marine life. Perfect Day at CocoCay’s Up, Up & Away balloon ride ($60) offers stunning aerial views.
- Photography Opportunities: Private islands are a photographer’s paradise. Capture vibrant sunsets at CocoCay’s South Beach, colorful cabanas at Celebration Key, or the lush greenery of Great Stirrup Cay. Bring a waterproof camera for underwater shots during snorkeling.
Budgeting Your Private Island Day
Careful budgeting ensures you enjoy the island without overspending:
- Costs: Basic amenities like beaches and dining are free, but budget $50–$150 per person for excursions or upgrades like waterpark passes or cabanas.
- Savings: Skip paid extras to keep costs low. Bring your own snorkel gear or towels to save $10–$20 on rentals. Pre-book excursions online for 10–15% discounts compared to onboard prices.
- Extras: Alcoholic drinks cost $8–$15, and non-alcoholic specialty beverages like smoothies are $5–$10. Tips for staff ($5–$10 per service) are appreciated. Many cruise lines’ drink packages apply on private islands, offering savings for frequent drinkers.
- Tip: Check your cruise line’s app for daily deals on excursions or dining, which can reduce costs by 5–10%.
Practical Tips for Cruisers
To make the most of your private island visit, consider these tips:
- Timing: Most ships arrive by 8–9 a.m., so head ashore early to secure the best beach spots or waterpark access. Plan to return to the ship by 4 p.m. to avoid last-minute rushes.
- Safety: Private islands are safe, with lifeguards monitoring beaches and trained staff overseeing excursions. Follow guidelines during water sports or adventure activities to ensure a secure experience.
- Packing: Bring swimsuits, sunscreen (reef-safe preferred), water shoes for rocky areas, and a beach bag. Towels are provided, but a small backpack for snacks or kids’ toys is handy.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi is limited and often costly. Rely on the ship’s signal near the dock or use offline maps and itineraries downloaded in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are private islands worth it? Yes, their free amenities, curated activities, and exclusive access make them a highlight of Caribbean cruises.
- Can I stay on the ship? Yes, but you’ll miss the island’s unique experiences, from waterparks to cultural tours.
- Are they kid-friendly? Absolutely, with splash zones, calm beaches, and supervised kids’ programs designed for families.
- Do I need cash? No, charges are linked to your ship account via a cruise card. Bring $5–$10 for tips if desired.
Get Ready to Set Sail
The rise of private island destinations like Celebration Key, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Great Stirrup Cay is transforming Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, offering tailored fun, exclusive amenities, and hassle-free beach days.
These bespoke retreats cater to families, thrill-seekers, and relaxation enthusiasts alike, making them a must-visit on itineraries. Plan your private island adventure with resources like cruiseportadvisor.com to book excursions, explore port guides, and find deals. With their blend of adventure and relaxation, private islands elevate the cruise experience, promising unforgettable moments in paradise.
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About Jonathon Hyjek
Jonathon is the tech guy behind CruiseportAdvisor.com. When he's not stuck in front of his computer, Jonathon enjoys travel & cruising (even after being on a cruise ship that caught fire - a story for another day!)
