What are cruise ship private islands?
Private islands are exclusive destinations included in the itineraries of many Caribbean cruises. These islands are accessible only to cruise passengers, offering a unique and personalized experience.
Unique characteristics
These islands are characterized by their tranquil atmosphere and freedom from typical tourist destination distractions. You won’t find cars, traffic lights, or hotels. Instead, they offer a space where passengers can enjoy a relaxing day at the beach or participate in various entertainment activities.
Convenience and facilities
One of the great advantages of these islands is their convenience. Ships dock very close to the facilities and beaches, allowing passengers to easily disembark and return to the ship whenever they wish.
Examples of private islands
Several cruise lines have their own private islands. Some notable examples are:
- Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean): Located in the Bahamas, it offers attractions such as Oasis Lagoon (the largest pool in the Caribbean), the Splashaway Bay water park, and beautiful white sand beaches.
- Ocean Cay (MSC Cruises): Also located in the Bahamas.
- Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian Cruise Line): Located in the Bahamas.
- Half Moon Cay (Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line)
- Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point (Disney Cruise Line)
- Princess Cays (Princess Cruises)
Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean)
Perfect Day at CocoCay, owned by Royal Caribbean, is a tropical paradise located in the Bahamas. This island offers a perfect combination of excitement and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy Thrill Waterpark, with its 13 slides, including the tallest in North America. For adrenaline lovers, the Up, Up and Away helium balloon offers panoramic views from 450 feet high. White sand beaches like Chill Island and South Beach are ideal for relaxing, while Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, is perfect for cooling off. The island also features luxury options such as the floating Cabanas at Coco Beach Club.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (MSC Cruises)
Ocean Cay, MSC Cruises’ private island, is an ecological oasis in the Bahamas. Formerly an industrial site, it has been transformed into a protected marine reserve. Visitors can enjoy pristine beaches, explore nature trails, and participate in conservation activities. The island offers water sports, a lighthouse with spectacular views, and an Aurea spa. At night, the place comes alive with entertainment and an impressive light show at the lighthouse. Ocean Cay stands out for its commitment to sustainability and the preservation of the marine ecosystem.
Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian Cruise Line)
Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, offers a classic Caribbean experience with a touch of luxury. The island features white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those seeking exclusivity, Silver Cove offers luxury villas with access to a private beach and restaurant. The island also has a water park, zip line, and several bars and restaurants. Great Stirrup Cay is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful natural landscapes.
Half Moon Cay (Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line)
Half Moon Cay, shared by Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line, is a gem in the Bahamas. With its two-mile-long crescent-shaped beach, it is frequently voted as one of the best private beaches in the Caribbean. The island offers a variety of activities, from horseback riding on the beach to kayak excursions in the lagoon. Visitors can relax in private cabanas, enjoy water sports, or explore nature trails. Half Moon Cay also features a water park for children and dining options ranging from beach barbecues to more formal restaurants.
Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point (Disney Cruise Line)
Disney Cruise Line offers two unique private islands. Castaway Cay, in the Bahamas, is a family paradise with a Disney theme. The island has separate areas for families, teens, and adults, including the adults-only Serenity Bay beach. Visitors can enjoy encounters with Disney characters, snorkeling in a lagoon with submerged Disney statues, and a variety of water sports. Lighthouse Point, the new addition in Eleuthera, Bahamas, promises to be a celebration of Bahamian culture with attractions designed in collaboration with local artists, offering a unique experience that combines Disney magic with the natural beauty of the Bahamas.
Princess Cays (Princess Cruises)
Princess Cays, Princess Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas, offers a relaxed tropical experience. Located on the southern tip of Eleuthera Island, it features over half a mile of white sand beach. Visitors can enjoy water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding, or simply relax in hammocks and private cabanas. The island also offers a children’s play area, a local crafts market, and several bars and restaurants. For the more adventurous, there are excursion options such as bike rides around the island or boat tours. Princess Cays stands out for its tranquil atmosphere and preserved natural beauty.
Sir Bani Yas
A special case is Sir Bani Yas, an island that belongs to Abu Dhabi, in the United Arab Emirates. Several cruise lines such as MSC and Norwegian use part of this island as a private destination, offering a unique experience in the Middle East.
The island located in the Persian Gulf offers visitors a fascinating mix of nature and adventure. Passengers can enjoy beautiful white sand beaches, participate in water sports, or explore the interior of the island, which is home to the Arabian Wildlife Park, home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, including Arabian gazelles, giraffes, and cheetahs.
Conclusion
Cruise ship private islands offer a unique and exclusive experience, combining the comfort of a cruise with the beauty of a paradise destination. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, these islands have something for all tastes, becoming one of the highlights of any cruise trip.
