Cruise from Cayman Islands to Bahamas, Venturing Private Islands in the Caribbean
Sailing in style to private Caribbean islands is gaining popularity, with more cruise lines providing unique experiences at their own island destinations. Here's a look at some of the exceptional private islands you can visit while cruising.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean pioneered the Private Island craze with the transformation of its Bahamas island, perfect Day at CocoCay, in 2019. The multimillion-dollar renovation included a new pier, thrill rides, and chill zones, making it a top destination on many Caribbean itineraries. The island offers seven pristine beaches, six pools, including the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool with a swim-up bar and in-water loungers. Thrill-seekers can enjoy the tallest slide in North America at the Thrill Waterpark, while families will appreciate the kid-friendly Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill’s Galleon. Four restaurants offer complimentary food, and there are numerous bars, shops, and even an adult-only Hideaway Beach. For an additional charge, travelers can book overwater cabanas, a zipline, and tethered hot-air balloon rides, as well as kayak tours and snorkeling excursions.
A week-long, full-board cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is available from £1,064pp, departing from Miami on November 8, with stops at St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay. (See royalcaribbean.com.)
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises' Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas is another popular private island destination. Renowned for its white sand beaches, the marine reserve focuses on sustainability and boasts pristine waters, food trucks, restaurants offering Bahamian specialties, and beach bars serving tropical cocktails. Snorkeling, kayak, paddleboard, and windsurfing excursions are available, as are overwater cabanas and sunset champagne cruises for a touch of luxury. A newly-opened conservation center on the island showcases MSC's efforts to restore the marine life and bird population.
Seven nights' full-board cruise on MSC World America is available from £649pp, departing from Miami on September 13 and calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico. (See msccruises.com.)
Holland America/Carnival
Holland America Line and sister cruise line Carnival have a substantial presence on Half Moon Cay, a beautiful Bahamian island with a two-mile crescent of powder-soft white sand. In summer 2023, extensive upgrades will introduce a new beach club and lunch venue on the south of the island, along with a new pier at the north end that will service both Holland America and Carnival ships. Thrill-seekers can enjoy horseback riding along the shore, snorkeling, jet skiing, and stingray encounters, while families will love Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park. Nature enthusiasts can explore eco-tours and birdwatching, and unique experiences include glass-bottom boat tours and a pirate ship-themed bar. With beach sports, shopping, and complimentary barbecue lunches, Half Moon Cay offers a high-end island escape for cruisers.
A 14-night full-board Western & Eastern Caribbean cruise on Holland America’s Zuiderdam is available from £1,379pp, departing from Miami on November 8 and calling at Half Moon Cay, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Mexico, Miami, Bahamas, Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos. (See hollandamerica.com.)
Disney
Disney has two private islands in the Bahamas catering to families and kids, Castaway Cay and the more recently opened Lookout Cay. Both islands offer a variety of activities, including kids' clubs, water play areas, water slides, and character experiences. Adults can relax at Serenity Bay or dine at upscale restaurants. The islands also feature snorkeling trails, eco-tours, and cultural experiences to highlight the local Bahamian culture, making for a unique, family-friendly destination on many Caribbean itineraries.
A four-night full-board cruise on Disney Wish to the Bahamas, including stops at both Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay, is available from £920pp, based on two adults and two children sharing and departing on August 17. (See iglucruise.com.)
These private islands offer a wide range of amenities, exclusivity, and engaging activities, making them standout features in their respective cruise itineraries. Whether you're seeking thrills, relaxation, or a family-friendly adventure, these islands provide an unforgettable cruising experience.
Travelers on a Royal Caribbean cruise can experience the luxurious transition of Perfect Day at CocoCay, featuring seven pristine beaches, thrill attractions, and multiple dining options.
MSC Cruises' Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve showcases white sand beaches, sustainability initiatives, and various water sports, offering a touch of luxury for visitors.
