One of the most fun “perks” of traveling on Disney Cruise Line in the Caribbean is that the ships stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.  It is a paradise, complete with swaying palm trees, gentle breezes, and blue, calm waters. There are several activities that one can do while on the island, but by far, our favorite is Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure.

Once on the island, make your way past the hut with the large stingray on the side to the Castaway Ray’s check in area. You will be given a life jacket, mask, and snorkel, and then you can head in to the hut to wait. A cast member will give a short talk about stingrays in general and then talk specifically about what will be happening on your adventure. They will also answer any questions you may have about the stingrays and the process. The entire experience lasts about an hour.

Once the talk is over, proceed to the beach area where you will be assigned to one of several groups. Each group is about 6 to 8 people, and there is a guide for each group. The guides are standing in a u-shaped floating tray in the water. They will talk to you about the types of food the stingrays will be getting and show you how to place your hand flat so that the stingrays can swim above you and suck up the food. Notice the Mickey ear mats to put your hands on.

Each person will get a few pieces of food (one at a time) to feed the stingrays. They swim up the ramp onto the feeding tray, and as they glide over your hand they will take the food from you. You can also pet them as they swim by. They’re really soft!

Once the feeding is over, you are free to swim and snorkel with the stingrays in the stingray lagoon for the remainder of the hour. We had an underwater camera and were able to get some incredible pictures.

Stingray Lagoon on Castaway Cay

Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure is $48.38 per adult (age 10 and up) and $38.70 for ages 5-9. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.

DIStracted Tip: This adventure books up quickly. Be sure to book online as soon as you are able to ensure you get the time you want.