Exploring the private islands of cruise

Over the years, private islands owned by cruise lines have become increasingly popular. They allow guests to experience a slice of earth that only those who cruise have the pleasure of visiting, plus, it’s another great aspect to any ocean-based holiday when a tropical island appears on the horizon!

Some have a lot more going on than others, but that just once again shows how diverse cruise can be and that there is something for everyone.

Let’s take a quick look at what’s on offer.

Private Cruise Islands

Ocean Cay – MSC Marine Reserve – MSC Cruises

Part of the Bimini chain of Islands in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay is a classic island with Caribbean charm. As well as being a Marine Reserve, it’s also your gateway to Bahamian-style bars, restaurants and shopping experiences, along-side a zip line, 2,000 amphi-theatre and so much more! Enjoy time on the beach or explore the island.

Great Stirrup Cay – Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas

What can’t you do at Great Stirrup Cay? That should be the question! Enjoy snorkelling, a zip line, Seahawk zip line, a huge beach-front buffet restaurant, white sandy beaches and so much more. Every NCL cruise that sails the Bahamas stops here – just so you know…

Harvest Cay – Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas

Harvest Cay is in Southern Belize and allows you to steep yourself in natural beauty and culture. This impressive 75-acre oasis features a large pool with swim-up bar, salt-water lagoon for water sports and exclusive 7-acre beach. Shore excursions ranging from zip lining across the island to snorkelling the world’s second largest barrier reef are also offered.

Labadee – Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean’s private destination, Labadee, on Haiti’s northern coast is blessed with pristine sands, coral reefs, jungle-covered hilltops and nestling lagoon-like bays. You can also delve into a zip line ride over the ocean!

Coco Cay – Royal Caribbean

Located in the Bahamas, Coco Cay is a firm favourite with Royal Caribbean cruisers. It boasts white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and it is exclusively reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. On the island, you’ll also find a Thrill Water Park and numerous water sport activities to enjoy.

Princess Cays – Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line

Another island paradise in the Bahamas, Princess Cays is famous for its natural beauty. Diving and snorkelling are hugely popular here as the coral is in abundance. But you can always rest and relax with some beach time as you soak up the tropical sunshine.

Half Moon Cay – Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line

Half Moon Cay is probably one of the most famous of the private islands owned by cruise lines and it’s easy to see why. What’s on offer never seems to end! Deep-sea fishing, swimming, scuba diving, volleyball and basketball courts, shuffleboard, a fitness trail and so much more await. This really is a slice of island life so far away from the norm.

Castaway Cay – Disney Cruise Line

Castaway Cay is reserved only for Disney Cruise Line guests, as the island itself is the property of the Walt Disney Company. It has a variety of features and activities to suit all the family. After all, it’s not just the little kids that enjoy the magic of Walt Disney! One of the highlights is a trip on the Flying Dutchman – a real pirate ship! Aye, aye!

Beach Club at Bimini – Virgin Voyages

The Beach Club at Bimini is just that, a beach club, but it also offers the chance to dive historic shipwrecks and explore incredible biodiversity that is naturally found on the island. Exclusive to Virgin guests, it’s another aspect to the lines’ cruise offering for those looking to party at night and relax during the day.

Tempted? Check out our amazing selection of Caribbean cruises!