Take a Closer Look at Disney’s Castaway Cay, Disney’s Private Island in the Bahamas
When you take any cruise, you’re hoping to see some of the world’s most amazing sites. You certainly don’t plan on only seeing the inside of a boat. Most Caribbean and Bahamian cruises on Disney Cruise Line include at least one stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island.
While DCL does have five ships, only one stops at the island per day. This is done to keep the crowds low so that your time on the island is less chaotic. Once the captain says you’re clear to go ashore, you’re free to disembark and head to the beach. And you are free to get on and off the boat throughout the day.
What to Bring to Castaway Cay
Truthfully, nothing. You’ll be given towels as soon as you step off the gangway. Beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas are all free to use. You will only HAVE TO have your Key to the World card and, occasionally, your photo ID or passport. Now, realistically, you’ll also want to, at the very least, have sunscreen. And maybe even a hat and pool coverup, too! But that’s really all that you need. The island will provide! And by island, I mean Disney.
Getting Around
Just beyond the pier on Castaway Cay is a tram that will take you to the family beach area. And it’s entirely free. If you’re headed to Serenity Bay, which is the adults-only beach, there is a second tram that will head there. You can also walk to any of the destinations. The way is well marked, and Serenity Bay is about 20 minutes from the ship on foot.
What’s Included?
Every guest at Castaway Cay has complimentary access to the tram, towels, lounge chairs, hammocks, beachside BBQ, unlimited ice cream, and multiple beaches. The Pelican Plunge water park and Spring-a-Leak splash pad areas are also free to use. If you bring your own snorkel gear, you can also enjoy the snorkeling lagoon off the family beach for free; otherwise, you’ll need to rent snorkels on the island to enjoy the lagoon.
Your food is also included on the island. Stop at Cookies or Cookies Too and you’ll be able to get all-you-can-eat BBQ lunch. Dine on such favorites as hot dogs, burgers, chicken, ribs, and more. You’ll also have access to unlimited ice cream and soft drinks, too. What about food allergies? Well, good news! Disney will take care of you! I was able to preorder my food with my server at dinner the night before. Then, once I arrived for lunch, I checked in with the staff and got my food prepared fresh on-site in a dedicated area. It was perfect! And completely safe AND delicious!
What’s Not Included?
While your food, drinks (non-alcoholic), towels, chairs, and Castaway Cay 5K are all included, there are some things you’ll have to pay for in order to enjoy them. For starters, you’ll need to pay for any alcohol, as Disney Cruise Line does not offer an alcohol package. Any shore excursions you take part in, bike rentals, snorkel rentals, boat rides, hobie cats, banana boat rides, etc, all cost extra. And if you’d like to experience the peace and serenity of a beach cabana, be prepared to pay for it. These activities will all be charged to your cabin, and you’ll pay before debarking.
Consider a Cruise Instead of the Theme Parks
If you’re looking for a super relaxing vacation with the magic of Disney, consider taking a Disney Cruise. You get the characters and story-telling of the theme parks, with the peace and tranquility of the ocean. Not to mention the chance to see the world.
Are you ready to set sail? Contact me today for a FREE Disney Cruise Line quote!