Disney’s Castaway Cay is a private island paradise in the Bahamas, exclusively reserved for guests of Disney Cruise Line. This 1,000-acre island offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and signature Disney magic, making it a highlight of any Disney cruise vacation.
Castaway Cay was originally known as Gorda Cay before Disney leased it from the Bahamian government and transformed it into a world-class private island destination. It officially opened to Disney Cruise Line guests in 1998 and has since become a beloved stop for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
One of the most notable aspects of Castaway Cay is that the ship docks directly at the island, eliminating the need for tenders and allowing guests to step right off and begin their adventure. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by pristine white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and clear turquoise waters. The island is designed with convenience in mind, featuring a tram system that transports guests to different parts of the island, ensuring easy access to its many attractions.
For those looking to relax, Castaway Cay offers multiple beach areas. The Family Beach is the most popular, providing ample space for guests of all ages to swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy the warm Bahamian sun. For adults seeking a quieter retreat, Serenity Bay is an exclusive, adults-only beach offering a more tranquil environment, complete with private cabanas, luxurious loungers, and a full-service bar.
Adventure seekers will find plenty to do on Castaway Cay. The island offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing. The snorkeling lagoon is particularly popular, featuring underwater surprises such as a sunken ship and Disney character statues. For those who prefer to stay dry, bike rentals allow guests to explore the island’s scenic trails, while the Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure provides an up-close encounter with gentle stingrays.
Children can enjoy supervised fun at Scuttle’s Cove, a kids’ club on the island operated by Disney’s trained counselors. Here, young cruisers can dig for buried treasure, play water games, and participate in organized activities while parents enjoy some much-needed relaxation time.
Food and beverages are included as part of the Disney Cruise Line experience, with guests enjoying an island barbecue at Cookie’s BBQ and Cookie’s Too. Complimentary soft drinks, water, and ice cream are also readily available, adding to the all-inclusive feel of the visit.
Castaway Cay also boasts a variety of shops where visitors can purchase exclusive souvenirs, beachwear, and keepsakes. For those looking to send a special memento, the island even has its own post office where guests can mail postcards with a unique Castaway Cay postmark.
With its stunning natural beauty, exciting activities, and legendary Disney service, Castaway Cay provides a truly magical escape. Whether lounging in a hammock, exploring the island’s vibrant marine life, or indulging in delicious island cuisine, guests of all ages are sure to make unforgettable memories at this enchanting...
Read moreCastaway Cay is by far one of my favorite islands/beaches I've ever been to. It was my favorite port during our Disney cruise. 🌊🚢The water is cold and crystal clear while the sand is so soft and fluffy. There is so much to do while you're here. We chose to swim with stingrays which were safe and fun. 🪼They also offered lunch which was good and soft serve ice cream . You can find characters around the island and clean bathrooms. The tram makes its rounds which is a great addition. I wish we had more time on this magical island. I hope to come...
Read moreWe had a great time on the island. We opted not to do any of the excursions due to time restraints with on ship activities. The water was chilly but clear and beautiful. I chose to walk to the beach instead of taking the tram. The walk was easy and didn't take very long. We used the tram to get back to the ship. The tram service was quick and reasonably comfortable. I would suggest getting to the character meet-ups as early as possible. They...
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