Just when I think our Eastern Caribbean, 7-day cruise aboard the Disney Fantasy couldn’t get any better; the ship stops just off shore and backs into Castaway Cay, the last stop on my family’s memorable trip.
Castaway Cay is Disney’s private, 1,000 acre island in the Bahamas, of which only 55 acres have been developed.
Once you arrive at the island, grab a towel from an attendant as you get off the ship and you can either walk along the trail to the beaches, or you can hop on a complimentary tram and save the 10 minute walk. Once on the island, you have your choice of one of two family beaches or an adult-only beach area. There are also a small number of private cabanas available for daily and half daily rentals, but you will need to reserve these ahead of time as they are in high demand.
DIStracted Tip: To read more about the private cabanas check out You’re Gonna Wanna Cabana from DIStracted Editor Mary S.!
The day we stopped at Castaway Cay the weather was absolutely picture perfect, with not a cloud in the sky. As my family and I made our way to one of the two family beaches, we found a spot at one of the many complimentary chair and umbrella set ups. While the amenities on the island include a snorkeling lagoon, a sting ray petting area, a bike path and nature trail, basketball courts and two holes of mini golf, a rope and net course in the water, and dueling water slides that drop you right into the ocean, we were more interested in swimming in the crystal clear water. In addition to relaxing on the beach or partaking in the other water-based activities, you will also find a number of characters available for photos and hugs, as well as some organized games and a character dance party.
After we worked up an appetite swimming, we were ready to find something to quiet the loud growls in our stomachs. Thankfully, there is plenty to keep your tummy fully satisfied on Castaway Cay. We filled our plates at one of the two buffet areas on Castaway Cay, Cookie’s BBQ and Cookie’s Too BBQ. Both buffets have a full range of lunch options including hamburgers, hotdogs, chicken, ribs, and all the fixings to go with it. My personal favorite is the combo of hamburger and potato salad, but there is sure to be something to your liking as well. There are the unlimited soda fountains and self-serve ice creams machines to complement your meal.
At some point during the day, I highly recommend you make your way over to the picturesque Head’s Up Bar, which offers a full range of frozen drinks and other adult beverages, as well as non-alcoholic drinks. Even if you don’t partake in the delicious drinks, you must not miss the sweeping views of the island, and in particular, a great photo op of the ship in port.
DIStracted Tip: While they offer a full menu of classic and inventive drinks, I suggest asking the bartenders to make you one of their specialties – you won’t be disappointed.
On your way back to the ship, I also recommend stopping at the local post office. It’s a very small building located off to the left before you get back on the ship, so don’t miss it! There are postcards and stamps available for purchase (cash only) so you can send family and friends a greeting from paradise. Or, do what we did, and send yourself a postcard so that a few weeks after your trip is done, you will have a little memento to remember the fun you had while on Castaway Cay.
Whether you choose the adventure route or simply a day of basking in the sun, Castaway Cay will surely be a great end to your Disney Cruise Line voyage!
karen says
Great article really showcasing all that Castaway Cay has to offer! Don’t forget a visit to the adult-only beach, Serenity Bay for those 18+! It is breathtaking.