Castaway Cay (pronounced "key") is Disney Cruise Line’s exclusive, award-winning, 1,000-acre private island, reserved for guests sailing on select Bahamian and Caribbean cruises. It is often the highlight for many cruisers, and still stands as one of our favourite family days ever! It offers tropical beauty, white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, incredible Disney service and activities for every age. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or stay active, there’s something for every cruiser, and it really is a tropical paradise!
The island is divided into 3 main areas:
Family Beach - Perfect for all ages with shallow, calm water and lots of activities. Complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas and water play are available, or you can rent snorkel gear to explore a snorkeling lagoon (look for sunken hidden statues under the water), kayaks and tubes. Take a ride down Pelican Plunge, two water slides on a floating platform a little swim out into the water!
Serenity Bay – Adults-only beach, which is quieter and more relaxing! With hammocks and a private lunch spot - it is perfect for those travelling without children.
Scuttle’s Cove – A supervised kids area run by Youth Counselors (for ages 3–12), with splash zones, games, and treasure hunts. Scuttle’s Cove is included as part of the onboard kids club program so it is also free of charge!
A free tram service makes it easy to move between areas, although it is all very walkable for those without mobility issues.
Excursions and Rentals
There are multiple things that are bookable through Disney Cruise Line, some prior to sailing and some which can be booked on the day, popular options include:
Castaway Cay 5K: Fun run open to all guests (no cost, but registration required at the bicycle rental shack when arriving at the island).
Bicycle Rentals: Ride the island’s trails and lookout tower.
Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure: Feed and snorkel with stingrays in a supervised setting (pre-bookable - we unfortunately had this cancelled last time but have it booked again for the next cruise!)
Glass-Bottom Boat Tour or parasailing (pre-bookable)
Dining
The restaurants on the island are included with your cruise fare:
Cookie’s BBQ & Cookie’s Too (Family Beach)
Serenity Bay BBQ (adults only)
The menu includes items such as: BBQ chicken, ribs, burgers, corn on the cob, salads, ice cream, cookies and more. Dietary requirements are just as catered for here as on the ships, just speak to a cast member at the restaurants!
Soft drinks and water are free; alcoholic beverages available for purchase at the bars on the island.
Shopping
There are two main shops:
She Sells Sea Shells...and Everything Else
Buy the Seashore
They sell Castaway Cay-exclusive merchandise, apparel, sunscreen, towels, etc. Purchases can be charged to your stateroom just like on board!
Character Meet and Greets
Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and lots of your other favourite characters meet in tropical inspired outfits throughout the island! PhotoPass photographers are available at these spots, but you can take your own photos too. The navigator app states the times and locations of these meets, however they do randomly pop up too!
Tips & Tricks
Arrive early to snag the best beach chairs and shady spots.
If possible, walk from the ship as there tend to be multiple characters to meet along the route, with some of the best photo spots too.
Book port adventures early when your booking window opens. Cabanas are very tricky to get unless you have priority booking, such as sailing concierge or being at the top end of the Castaway Club.
Bring your Key to the World card, sunscreen, water shoes and refillable water bottles.
Towels are provided as you disembark.
Wi-Fi is spotty, use the chance to unplug!
Consider renting a cabana if you want a private shaded area (limited availability and must be booked early).
To get a great view of the island, head to the outside areas on the back of the ship!
