One of the biggest perks of a Caribbean cruise is visiting a destination that most travellers can only reach by ship. Cruise line private islands have become some of the most exciting stops on modern itineraries, offering everything from powder white beaches to waterparks, beach clubs and secluded cabanas.
What started as simple beach stops has evolved into incredible island resorts designed exclusively for cruise guests. Some focus on adrenaline-filled activities, while others are all about relaxing in the sun with a cocktail in hand.
If you are planning your next sailing, it is worth looking at itineraries that include these unique destinations. You can explore the full range of cruise line private islands to see which cruise lines offer them. But in the meantime, if you are wondering where to start, here are five cruise private islands that we think deserve a spot on your next Caribbean cruise itinerary.
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Royal Caribbean
If there is one destination that truly shows how far cruise private islands have come, it is Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Located in the Bahamas, this island has been transformed into a playground of experiences. Thrill seekers can head straight for the enormous Thrill Waterpark, home to record breaking slides and the tallest waterslide in North America. Prefer something a little more relaxing? Oasis Lagoon is one of the largest freshwater pools in the Caribbean and the perfect place to unwind.
Add in zip lines, floating cabanas and some beautiful beaches, and it is easy to see why CocoCay is often considered one of the most impressive cruise private island destinations anywhere in the world.
Ocean Cay, MSC Marine Reserve
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises transformed Ocean Cay from an industrial sand excavation site into a beautiful marine reserve, and today it is one of the most peaceful cruise private islands you can visit.
The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and soft white sand beaches, giving it a wonderfully natural feel. Guests can snorkel in the marine reserve, relax on quieter stretches of beach or simply enjoy the laid back Caribbean atmosphere.
Many MSC ships stay into the evening, which means you can enjoy sunset views and a lighthouse light show before sailing away.
Great Stirrup Cay
Norwegian Cruise Line
Great Stirrup Cay is one of the original cruise line private islands. Norwegian Cruise Line purchased the island in the Bahamas back in the 1970s, helping pioneer the concept of cruise-exclusive destinations.
Today it offers beautiful beaches, snorkelling, paddleboarding and a relaxed island atmosphere that makes it easy to spend an entire day in the sun.
Norwegian is also investing heavily in new developments on the island, including a large lagoon-style pool complex and new premium beach club-style areas. These additions are set to make Great Stirrup Cay an even bigger highlight for travellers looking to experience some of the best private islands in the Caribbean on a cruise.
RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay
Holland America
If you imagine the perfect Caribbean beach, chances are it looks a lot like Half Moon Cay.
Shared by Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line, this island is famous for its stunning crescent-shaped beach and shallow turquoise waters that stretch for miles.
There are plenty of activities available, from water sports to horseback riding along the shoreline, but the real magic of Half Moon Cay is its natural beauty. It is the kind of place where you can simply find a lounger, feel the sand between your toes and enjoy a classic Caribbean beach day.
The Beach Club at Bimini
Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages has taken a slightly different approach to private island experiences, creating an exclusive Beach Club at Bimini that perfectly reflects the brand’s laid-back luxury style.
Instead of a traditional cruise private island, this is more like spending the day at a stylish Caribbean beach club. Think lagoon-style pools, DJ sets throughout the afternoon and beachside dining with incredible ocean views.
It is relaxed, vibrant and effortlessly cool, making it one of the most unique stops on any Caribbean cruise itinerary and a highlight for many Virgin Voyages sailors.
More Cruise Private Islands Are on the Way
The popularity of cruise private islands continues to grow, and cruise lines are investing billions into new destinations and experiences.
Alongside the islands above, travellers can also visit places like Disney’s Castaway Cay or Princess Cays in the Bahamas. New projects such as Carnival’s Celebration Key and Royal Caribbean’s upcoming beach club destinations show that these exclusive stops will continue to evolve.
If you want to see which cruise lines operate their own islands and where they are located, take a look at our expert guide to cruise line private islands to explore them all.
