These Islands Include:

Surrounded by tranquil blue waters, sugar white beaches, and gorgeous palm trees, the Private Island day is often considered the one of the highlights of a Caribbean cruise vacation. Since these islands cater to only one ship a day, the cruise lines have created a perfect paradise that's free of the crowds and hassles that you may find on other ports of
call.

While each cruise line's private island is unique, they all have similar facilities and activities. These include:

PRIVATE ISLAND FAQ'S

What time do we get there?
Most cruise ships arrive around 7 or 8 am. Once the ship anchors, the island staff and crew will disembark the ship with the supplies for the day and to begin preparing for the barbecue lunch. This usually takes about an hour. Once they are on the island, the ship's staff will begin allowing passengers to disembark the ship for their island day.

Does the ship dock at the island?
Only at Disney's Castaway Cay do ships dock right on the island. All other cruise lines offer a tender service from the ship to the island. Tenders are small ferry boats that carry passengers from your cruise ship directly to the island. The ferry ride is safe and takes no more than 5 - 10 minutes to arrive at the island's pier. The experience gives you a fabulous opportunity to take some beautiful pictures of your cruise ship, so have your camera ready.

Parasailing
The last tender typically leaves the island 30 minutes prior to sailing. As you leave your ship, the cruise staff and the ship's daily program will list the last tender's departure time. Please check with them on the day you arrive. If you miss the last tender, you will be responsible for meeting the ship at the next port of call.

Do people live on the Private Island?
There is small group of staff who remain on the island to clean up after the ship departs and to prepare the island for the next ship that stops at the island.

Do I need to take ID with me on the island?
Each passenger must take their boarding pass with them on the island. You must present your boarding pass as you leave the ship and when you return. You will also use your boarding pass to make purchases on the island.

Is lunch included on the island? Does it cost extra?
Your cruise line will have an elaborate island barbecue prepared for your day in port. Menu items can include: ribs, chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, pastas, salads, rice, potatoes, vegetables, corn on the cob, fresh fruit, desserts, pastries, and more. There is no additional charge for lunch.

Are beverages included?
Coffee, tea, juices, punch, and non-bottled water are included. Sodas, bottled water, beer, and all other alcoholic beverages are available for an additional charge.

Do they have Kids' Programs on the island?
If your child is enrolled in the kids program on the ship, then they will be given the opportunity to participate in any scheduled programs for their age group. This may include beach sports, scavenger hunts, treasure hunts, and more. Some cruise lines have specific, designated areas on the island for the kids and families.

Do I have to pay for beach chairs and umbrellas?
Beach chairs, umbrellas, and hammocks are available at no additional charge. There are plenty of chairs for everyone to enjoy, however, if you're looking for a particular spot, get on the island early. It's first come, first served.

Can I rent watersports equipment? How much does it cost?
The Bahamas and Caribbean have beautiful, warm, tranquil water and are home to some of the best snorkeling in the world. Every cruise line has a fantastic watersports program, so you can rent snorkel equipment, paddleboats, water bikes, kayaks, floating mats, and more right on the island. Some even offer waverunner rentals, parasailing, fishing, and scuba diving. Costs vary depending on the cruise line and may be reserved in advance as part of the cruise line's shore excursion program.

Do I need to bring cash on the island?
You do not need cash for bar purchases, water sports rentals, or for the island's gift shop. You can apply these charges to your shipboard account. You will need to present your boarding pass to make purchases. However, most islands have a small, native straw market on the island that includes includes local arts and crafts or hair-braiding. These items must be paid for with cash.

What about Tipping?
There is nothing more pampering than a bare-footed bar waiter serving you tropical drinks on the beach. Tipping is handled just like other drink purchases on the cruise ship in that 15% is automatically included to the cost of your beverage. However, if you want to get the waiter's attention early in the day, you may want to consider a special cash gratuity with your first beverage to ensure they find you again and again and again among your fellow sunbathers.

Do I need to bring my own towels?
Your cabin steward will provide special beach towels for your day on the island. As you return to the ship, you'll drop them off in special designated areas so you don't have to carry them back to your stateroom.

What should I wear? What should I bring?
It's a day at the beach so prepare accordingly. Don't forget suntan lotion, sunglasses, a hat, t-shirt, or cover-up. Bring comfortable walking shoes if you plan to do any biking or hiking and book if you plan to read. You will see some beautiful scenery so be sure to remember your camera. Don't worry, if you forget anything, you can always make a purchase in the gift shop.

Can I stay on the ship if I want?
Of course. Many repeat and experienced cruise travelers know that the cruise ship is quietest when the passengers are in port. The ship and the pool are all yours. Many cruise lines also offer special discounts in the spa during port days, so this may be a good day to consider a massage. Please note, like other port days, the ship's casino is closed while at the private island.

Where can I get more info on my Cruise Line's Private Island?
For more information about each Cruise Line's private island, please click the links below: