Complete Guide to Cruise Line Private Islands: What’s Included?

The complete guide to cruise line private islands, what’s included and what will cost you extra when visiting these exclusive Caribbean destinations

The Caribbean cruise industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with major cruise lines investing billions of pounds in developing exclusive private islands and beach destinations. These resort-style experiences, accessible only through cruise ships, have become some of the most anticipated stops on Caribbean itineraries. But what exactly is included in your cruise fare when you visit these tropical paradises?

From Royal Caribbean’s action-packed Perfect Day at CocoCay to Disney’s family-friendly Castaway Cay, each cruise line takes a different approach to their private island experience. Understanding what’s included and what comes at an additional cost can help you budget properly and set realistic expectations for your Caribbean cruise holiday.

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The Major Players: Who Operates Private Islands?

Multiple cruise lines have established exclusive Caribbean destinations, ranging from fully-owned private islands to partnership arrangements with local governments. Royal Caribbean International^[1] operates Perfect Day at CocoCay, a 140-acre Bahamian island featuring North America’s tallest waterslide and extensive waterparks. Disney Cruise Line^[2] manages two destinations: the long-established Castaway Cay and the newer Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on Eleuthera.

Norwegian Cruise Line^[3] operates Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize, whilst Holland America Line^[4] owns Half Moon Cay, a 2,400-acre island that has won “Best Private Island” from Porthole Cruise Magazine for 20 consecutive years. MSC Cruises^[5] transformed a former industrial site into Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, investing £160 million in environmental restoration.

The newest addition is Carnival Cruise Line^[6]‘s Celebration Key on Grand Bahama Island, which opened in July 2025 as a £480 million project spanning 379 acres. Princess Cruises^[7] operates Princess Cays on Eleuthera, whilst Virgin Voyages^[8] maintains The Beach Club at Bimini through a partnership arrangement.

What’s Actually Included: The Comprehensive Breakdown

Royal Caribbean – Perfect Day at CocoCay

Royal Caribbean sets the gold standard for included amenities at their private island destination. Cruise passengers receive complimentary access to beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels at all three beaches, plus unlimited use of the island’s tram service. The impressive water features included in your cruise fare encompass the Oasis Lagoon freshwater pool, Splashaway Bay children’s waterpark, and Captain Jill’s Galleon pirate ship for younger children.

Dining options are extensive and fully included, with Skipper’s Grill and Chill Grill buffet restaurants, two Snack Shack locations serving hot dogs, burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, and salads, plus desserts including brownies, cookies, and fresh fruit. Additional complimentary activities include beach volleyball courts, South Beach Sports Court, select fitness classes, and Wi-Fi access for guests with ship internet packages.

Here are the specifics:

Complimentary Beach Access & Amenities

• Beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels at all beaches
• Complimentary tram service throughout the island
• Three beautiful beaches with full access
• Changing rooms, lockers, and showers
• Beach access wheelchairs available

Free Water Features

• Oasis Lagoon freshwater pool with swim-up access
• Splashaway Bay children’s waterpark with slides and drenching buckets
• Captain Jill’s Galleon pirate ship water feature for younger children

Included Dining

• Skipper’s Grill and Chill Grill buffet restaurants
• Two Snack Shack locations with hot dogs, burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, and salads
• Desserts including brownies, cookies, and fresh fruit
• Five dining outposts total included in cruise fare

Additional Free Activities

• South Beach Sports Court and select fitness classes
• Beach volleyball courts

What is NOT included?

• Alcoholic drinks – unless you have an onboard drinks package
• Internet access is chargeable unless you have an onboard VOOM package
• The Thrill Waterpark is a paid upgrade
• Hot air balloon rides
• Shore excursions and activities (zip lining, parasailing etc)
• Cabanas and daybeds
• Access to the Coco Beach Club
• Access to the adults-only Hideaway Beach area

Disney Cruise Line – Castaway Cay: Family Paradise

Disney’s approach focuses on comprehensive family amenities with exceptional dining options. All beach equipment including chairs, umbrellas, and hammocks are complimentary at both family and adults-only beaches. The island features three all-you-can-eat barbecue restaurants: Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too BBQ, and Serenity Bay BBQ, serving hamburgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs, pork ribs, chicken sandwiches, sides, and desserts.

Unique to Disney, guests enjoy unlimited ice cream from self-service machines throughout the day, plus complimentary soft drinks including water, Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, lemonade, and sports drinks. Activities include the Pelican Plunge waterslides, Castaway Cay 5K run/walk, and Disney character meet-and-greets with Mickey and Minnie in beach attire.

Here’s the specifics:

Complimentary beach amenities

• Beach chairs, umbrellas, and hammocks at both family and adults-only beaches
• Beach towels provided
• Restrooms, showers, and changing areas
• Beach wheelchairs available

Free dining

• Three all-you-care-to-eat barbecue restaurants: Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too BBQ, and Serenity Bay BBQ. The menu includes hamburgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs, pork ribs, chicken sandwiches, sides, and desserts
• Free ice cream from self-service machines all day
• Complimentary soft drinks including water, Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, lemonade, and sports drinks

Included activities

• Pelican Plunge waterslides
• Castaway Cay 5K run/walk (almost every sailing)
• Disney character meet-and-greets with Mickey and Minnie in beachwear
• Snorkelling with provided life vests (gear rental extra)

What’s NOT included?

• Excursions and experiences (including stingray encounters, parasailing, deep sea fishing etc)
• Snorkelling gear rental (£25-£25 per person)
• Bicycle rental (£15-£25 per person)
• Aqua trikes, paddleboards, kayaks etc (£10-£20 each)
• Cabanas (starting around £760) or grand cabanas (£1,085+) although these prices do include bike rental, snorkel gear, drinks, snacks and more.
• Alcoholic drinks
• Canned soft drinks
• Massages
• Lockers (£8-£12 per day)
• Spa treatments and massages
• Island-exclusive souvenirs, merchandise and postmarked stamps

MSC Cruises – Ocean Cay Marine Reserve: Eco-Conscious Luxury

MSC’s environmentally restored destination offers access to seven distinct beaches with complimentary chairs and umbrellas. The included Seakers Food Court buffet serves Caribbean and American classics, barbecue, salads, and children’s options, supplemented by four food trucks offering hamburgers, hot dogs, and grab-and-go items.

Traditional tram service provides island transportation, whilst Wi-Fi access and ship drink packages remain valid throughout the destination.

Check out our Complete Guide to MSC Cruises Drinks Packages^[10] to discover how you could elevate your Ocean Cay experience.

Here’s the specifics:

Beach Access & Facilities

• Seven distinct beaches with free access
• Beach chairs and umbrellas available
• Changing rooms, showers, and restrooms
• Beach wheelchairs for mobility-impaired guests

Included dining

• Seakers Food Court buffet with Caribbean and American classics, barbecue, salads, and kid-friendly options
• Four complimentary food trucks serving hamburgers, hot dogs, and grab-and-go items
• Traditional tram service for island transportation

Additional amenities

• Wi-Fi access (ship internet packages work on island)
• Drink packages from ship valid at all 10 island bars
• Air-conditioned shopping areas for respite
• Family entertainment and kids’ activities

What is NOT included?

• Water sports and rentals (including jet ski tours)
• Excursions
• Private cabanas, premium umbrellas, daybeds or clamshells
• Alcoholic and soft drinks – unless you have an onboard drinks package
• Spa treatments
• Speciality food trucks, premium coffees or ice cream parlours
• Experiences (lighthouse climb, stargazing etc)
• Locker rental
• Retail shopping

NOTE: These exclusions also apply to Yacht Club guests

Princess – Princess Cays: Good value for package holders

Princess operates Princess Cays on the southern tip of Eleuthera island in the Bahamas, featuring 40 acres with over a mile of white-sand beaches. Unlike many islands operated by cruise lines, Princess Cays has been left largely untouched, making it ideal for snorkelers and nature fans. This destination is shared with Carnival Cruise Line ships and has been welcoming guests since 1992.

What’s included?

Beach Access & Amenities

• Over one mile of white-sand beaches
• Free beach chairs and basic amenities
• Complimentary barbecue buffet lunch served 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM
• Four strategically placed bars across the island, all drinks included with Princess’ onboard packages

NOTE: Carnival guests visiting Princess Cays will have to purchase alcoholic drinks – they are NOT included in onboard drinks package allowances

Check out our Complete Guide to Princess Cruises Drinks Packages^[11] to discover how you could elevate your private island experience at Princess Cays.

Included facilities

• Paved walkways connecting all areas (good news for scooter users!)
• Adults-only Sanctuary area for 18+ guests
• Princess MedallionNet Wi-Fi for Princess guests with the relevant WiFi package
• Tender pier access with organised transportation

Free dining

• Buffet includes barbecue favourites, salads, and local specialties
• Complimentary beverages during meal service

What’s NOT included?

• Excursions
• Watersports (including snorkel rental, kayaking, glass-bottomed boat tours dune buggy tours etc)
• Clamshells, daybeds, bungalows, premium umbrellas etc
• Speciality experiences like stingray encounters and boat cruises
• Snack items or boxed lunches outside the buffet
• Locker rentals
• Souvenirs and gifts

Norwegian – Great Stirrup Cay

Norwegian has spent millions of dollars refining and extending their Great Stirrup Cay resort. Opening in late 2025, there’s an all new pier, expanded water park and an adults-only ‘Vibe Shore Club’.

Here’s what’s included in your fare as standard:

Beach & Pool Access

• Free beach chairs and basic amenities
• New heated pool as part of Great Life Lagoon expansion
• Splash Harbor complimentary splash pad with interactive water features
• Complimentary loungers around pool areas

Included activities

• Island-wide tram service for transportation
• Over-the-water swings for photos and relaxation
• Nature trails for exploring

Free dining

• Complimentary midday beachside BBQ
• Traditional barbecue buffet lunch included in cruise fare
• Food truck serving ‘island bites’
• Two swim-up bars (Reef Bar and Waves Bar). Your onboard drinks package covers drinks costs

What is NOT included?

• Watersports rentals (snorkelling, paddle boards, jet skis etc)
• Excursions such as stingray encounters, zip line adventure (from $110 per adult), boat tours etc
• Cabanas, villas and clamshells
• Access to the adults-only Vibe Shore Club
• Spa treatments
• Souvenirs
• Bottled water, energy drinks or Starbucks – even if you have a drinks package you will still have to pay

Norwegian – Harvest Caye

Another private island destination used by NCL is Harvest Caye. Under the terms of ownership agreed with the government of Belize, the island must be run to benefit the local economy.

This means that almost nothing beyond beach access is included in your fare.

What’s Actually Free

• Beach chairs and basic beach access
• 15,000-square-foot resort-style pool with waterfall (pool access only)
• Walking trails and nature sanctuary areas
• Direct pier docking (no tender boats required)

What Costs Extra (Unlike Other Private Islands)

• All food and beverages (expect to pay $12-18 per entrée, $9-12 per cocktail)
• All water sports equipment
• All activities and excursions

NOTE: Ship beverage packages CANNOT be used on the island

Carnival Cruise Line – Celebration Key

Carnival recently opened Celebration Key on Grand Bahama Island in July 2025, representing the cruise line’s first fully-developed private destination. The $600 million project spans 379 acres and features five distinct areas, including an adults-only beach club and family-friendly zones with water slides.

Carnival’s newest destination employs a unique “Island Eats” programme, providing one complimentary meal credit per guest at 14 different eateries. Options include burgers, chicken tenders, hot dogs, mac and cheese, falafel, and shawarma with fries and a biscuit.

The island features over 275,000 square feet of freshwater lagoons, including the family-friendly Starfish Lagoon and adult-oriented Calypso Lagoon with DJ entertainment.

Here are the specifics:

Free Beach & Pool Access

• Starfish Lagoon (family-friendly freshwater lagoon)
• Calypso Lagoon (adult-friendly with DJ entertainment)
• Over 275,000 square feet of freshwater lagoons combined
• Starfish Beach and Calypso Beach with complimentary loungers and umbrellas
• 18+ adults-only section of Calypso Lagoon

Island Eats Program

• One complimentary meal credit per guest at 14 different eateries
• Options include burgers, chicken tenders, hot dogs, mac & cheese, falafel, shawarma with fries and cookie
• Complimentary water available throughout the island

Transport & amenities

• ADA-accessible carts and 14 trams with seating for up to 12 people each
• Wi-Fi access through Carnival Hub app
• Family activities and live entertainment

What is NOT included?

• ANY drinks except iced water. Drinks packages do not work on the island either. Beer, wine and soft drinks will have to be purchased separately at additional cost.
• Any additional food beyond your Island Eats credit
• Premium dining at Pearl Cove Beach Club
• Suncastle waterslides
• Pearl Cove Beach Club from $100 per person (adults only)
• Daybeds, cabanas and recreational equipment
• Locker rental

Holland America Line – Half Moon Cay

Holland America Line’s Half Moon Cay, also known as RelaxAway (and Little San Salvador Island^[12]), is a stunning private island sanctuary nestled in the Bahamas. This crescent-moon-shaped island offers pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and an array of serene lounging spaces designed for effortless relaxation. The island provides a perfect blend of tranquil escape and adventurous activities, including horseback riding along the surf, kayaking through protected lagoons, and encounters with local marine life like stingrays.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, from beach clubs and shaded cabanas to delicious island-only dining options such as the Lobster Shack and tropical barbecue. With paved pathways, tram transportation, and nature trails, Half Moon Cay invites guests to explore its natural beauty, vibrant wildlife, and lively entertainment. Exclusively accessible to Holland America and select Carnival cruise guests, it promises an idyllic Caribbean retreat that blends luxury, adventure, and relaxation seamlessly.

What’s included?

Beach access

• Two miles of pristine white sand beaches
• Complimentary beach loungers, hammocks, and towels
• 700-acre saltwater lagoon access

Transportation and facilities

• Free tram service connecting all areas
• Tender boat transportation from ship to island
• Enhanced beach facilities and upgraded amenities

Additional amenities

• Protected bird sanctuary access for wildlife viewing
• Enhanced dining facilities and food court
• Complimentary activities and natural preservation area

What is NOT included?

• Private cabanas and villas ($700+)
• Equipment rentals (snorkelling, kayaks, horse riding, paddle boards etc)
• Locker rental
• Excursions (stingray encounters, tram tours, guided walks etc)
• Alcoholic beverages – drinks packages DO NOT work on the island
• Speciality dining, such as The Lobster Shack
• Souvenirs and shopping

Virgin Voyages – Beach Club at Bimini

Virgin Voyages’ Beach Club at Bimini offers an adults-only experience with complimentary beachside lunch featuring Caribbean flavours, access to a lagoon-style pool with swim-up bar, and free tram transportation from the ship. Activities include DJ-led entertainment, sunrise yoga, beach volleyball, and evening bonfire events on select sailings.

What’s included

• Private beach access in exclusive cove
• Large lagoon-style pool with swim-up bar access
• Complimentary beachside lunch with Caribbean flavors
• Hammocks, loungers, and beach chairs
• Free tram transportation from ship (15-20 minute ride)
• Soda and water at designated stations

Included activities

• DJ-led entertainment and pool parties
• Sunrise yoga and beachside meditation
• Beach volleyball and wellness activities
• Evening bonfire events on select sailings

What’s not included

• All alcoholic beverages, although you can use pre-loaded drink credits (Bar Tab).
• Private cabanas
• Towels (although you can bring your own from the ship)
• Shore excursions (like shark snorkelling, dolphin safaris and scuba diving)
• Spa services

What Typically Costs Extra Across All Islands

Premium Activities and Experiences

Most private islands charge additional fees for thrilling activities and premium experiences. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, the Perfect Family Suite cabanas cost extra, as do the Thrill Waterpark (featuring the Daredevil’s Peak waterslide), zip-lining, and helium balloon rides. Snorkelling equipment, jet skis, and parasailing typically incur additional charges across all destinations.

Upgraded Accommodation and Dining

Private cabanas, beachside massages, and spa treatments command premium prices at virtually all private islands. Specialty dining venues beyond the included buffets often require reservations and additional payment. At Castaway Cay, bike rentals, snorkelling gear, and parasailing cost extra, whilst Ocean Cay charges for watersports equipment, specialty dining, and premium bar service.

Shopping and Souvenirs

All private islands feature gift shops and souvenir stands with items not included in cruise fares. These range from typical beach merchandise to cruise line-specific branded items and local crafts.

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Budgeting Tips for Private Island Days

To maximise value at private island destinations, focus on the extensive complimentary offerings before considering paid activities. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, as many islands have limited supplies or charge premium prices. Arrive early to secure prime beach locations and take advantage of complimentary activities before afternoon crowds arrive. You may also want to take the towels from your cabin, just in case they are not included in the cost.

For families, Disney’s Castaway Cay and Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay offer the most comprehensive included experiences, potentially eliminating the need for additional purchases. Couples seeking adults-only experiences should consider Virgin Voyages’ Beach Club at Bimini, whilst budget-conscious travellers should approach Norwegian’s Harvest Caye with caution due to its pay-per-item structure.

Our take

Although we have been to the Caribbean^[13], neither of us is a beach-type person. We’re much more interested in exploring new ports. Sitting on a beach getting salty and sandy isn’t an attractive proposition.

As such, private islands really don’t excite. And when you consider how many of these stops require additional spend, even for sodas, the level of interest drops further still. All too often the answer to the question, ‘Private islands, what’s included?’ seems to be ‘a beach’.

But if you’re a beach person, have at it. Just make sure you allow a little (lot) extra in your budget to cover the additional costs.

The Future of Private Island Experiences

The cruise industry continues expanding private island offerings, with Royal Caribbean developing Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau and Perfect Day Mexico in Mahahual (scheduled for 2027). These destinations represent the industry’s strategy to provide exclusive, controlled experiences whilst generating additional revenue streams and ensuring passenger satisfaction regardless of weather or local conditions.

Understanding cruise line private islands, what’s included and how much extra everything costs enables you to make informed decisions about their Caribbean holidays. From Disney’s all-inclusive family paradise to Carnival’s credit-based system, each cruise line offers a distinct approach to private island experiences. By knowing what to expect and what requires additional spending you can fully enjoy these exclusive Caribbean destinations whilst staying within your holiday budget.

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Check out our full Affiliate Disclosure Policy^[14] for more info.