Disney's Castaway Cay

By , Cruise Specialist | July 01, 2015 ( Comments)

In the world of cruises, there are several private islands operated by lines such as Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, and Holland America. All of those are worthy of the definition of “private island.” When asked, “What is Half Moon Cay?,” a logical and precise answer would be, “Holland America’s Private Island.”

“What is Castaway Cay?” Now that’s a different story….

Disney’s Castaway Cay is private island paradise that is operated and maintained by Disney Cruise Line, and there are several key differences that make it so much more than the typical private island.

Disney's upkeep of the island borders on the absurd. Every grain of sand on the beach has its place. And this shows! From the moment you step on your balcony or look out your window and your eyes take in the island, the beauty of its “untouched” beaches enchant you. The beaches are free of litter and the water is crystal clear. It is not rare to encounter a living starfish or a sand dollar!
No Tendering Necessary- Unlike other cruise lines, which must tender to their islands (which means you board a small boat from the ship and motor to the island), all four of Disney’s ships can dock right on the island! Which means you can come and go as you please all day!
Snorkel Lagoon- With crystal-clear water comes amazing snorkeling! Bring your own equipment or rent some of Disney’s and take a dip in the lagoon and discover beautiful species of fish, sea urchins, sunken submarines (from Disney World’s old 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction!) You’ll also find Mickey and Minnie statues submerged!!! It’s lots of fun!
Cookie's BBQ- Enjoy all you can eat barbecue! The best part? You don’t have to pay for it! It’s all included in the cost of your cruise, AND it’s the same high quality food found onboard the ship! Ice cream cones all around!
Scuttle's Cove- Onboard the ship, the kids will be in love with the Oceaneer’s Club and Lab! They will meet all new friends and participate in activities they will remember forever! The fun continues onshore at Scuttle’s Cove! The same counselors from the clubs run even more activities on the island! Play water tag, enjoy the playground for kids only, and even dig up some “Monstro Bones!” Adults are not allowed! We should be jealous…. (Not!)
Serenity Bay- The adult-only beach on the other side of the island is the place to go while the kids are busy! It is natural, untouched, and like the rest of the island, is beautifully maintained. It is far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the main family areas to make you feel like you are truly alone in paradise. The best part? The adults have their own buffet where you can enjoy the favorites of Cookies BBQ AND ribeye steaks grilled to perfection right before your eyes!
Castaway Cay 5K- Don’t worry, you can have the steak and the Mahi (and the chicken too). You just have to start the day and run the 5K! Be the first cruisers off the ship and on to the island in this free three-mile race that is officially a RunDisney event! You even get a medal for completing it! (Or completing most of it). Get a great look at all the island has to offer before anyone else gets off the ship! Oh and I was just kidding about the food, you can eat as much as you want with or without the race.
Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure- Why swim with the Dolphins when you can swim with stingrays!? You can feed them, touch them, and swim alongside them! While this activity costs a small fee, it is truly unforgettable!
Spring-a-Leak- Take a break from the heat and visit this “washed away” beach house! You’ll find leaking pipes, broken plumbing, and more! And it’s all fresh water! No salt in your eyes!
Pelican Plunge- A short swim away from the family beach, you’ll find this structure that is complete with 2 waterslides, a bucket dump, and more! It’s 2400 square feet of extra beachy fun!
Shore Excursions- Just like other island stops on your Disney Cruise, Disney Cruise Line offers many different shore excursion options such as jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, and more!
Olaf's Sumemrtime Freeze Bar- Following his obsession with warm weather and all things hot, Olaf himself has opened a smoothie bar on Castaway Cay! Complete with the Anna and Elsa’s favorite smoothie flavors! This Arendelle themed bar is a must see!
Disney Characters - Disney characters need to enjoy their vacation too! You’ll often find Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Captain Jack Sparrow, Captain Hook and Olaf walking around and enjoying the paradise as well! Be sure to stop and take a picture!

As far as private islands go, Castaway Cay is definitely more than the average island. It is truly paradise worthy of visit time and time again. I definitely don’t consider myself a beachgoer (in fact, some may say I hate the beach!), but I do love this island. And I could spend all day on its beaches!

Wanna go? Call me at 1-800-439-1909 ext 7856 and get the best Disney Cruise Advice around! (and a great price!)

Nico

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