No Caribbean cruise would be complete without disembarking onto your very own slice of private island bliss. Over the past few years every single cruise line has invested heavily in their own private islands, sometimes even adding more than one! Now these private islands are so much more than just blissful white sand beaches, from gigantic water slides to coral reef nurseries, these little slices of paradise have become highly sought-after destinations in their own right.
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean spent $250 million renovating this tiny Bahamian island, which is less than a mile wide, back in 2019. The island began welcoming visitors on the 4th May 2019 and has been a huge hit with guests ever since. Whether you’re looking to conquer the tallest waterslide in North America, take a ride up to 137-metres up in a helium balloon, or simply enjoy a cold beer at the swim-up bar in the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas, there really is something for everyone on Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Ocean Cay, MSC Marine Reserve
MSC Cruises
Slightly late to the private island party, MSC Cruises inaugurated their very own slice of Bahamian paradise in December 2019. Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is not just a sanctuary of white sand and turquoise waters perfect for rest and relaxation, MSC Cruises has been fully committed to developing the island in the most eco-friendly and sustainable way. In fact the island will feature a Conservation Centre and a thriving coral nursery, which will serve as an active base for coral education and marine research.
Harvest Caye
Norwegian Cruise Line
Havest Caye, located in Southern Belize, is Norwegian Cruise Line’s second private island destination, with their very first island Great Stirrup Cay being located in the Bahamas. Harvest Caye perfectly blends Caribbean beach relaxation with natural beauty and conservation. You’ll be able to snorkel the world’s second-largest barrier reef, relax on the exclusive 7-acre stretch of sand, or for the ultimate adrenaline rush, you can even zipline across the island!
Half Moon Cay
Holland America
Little San Salvador Island in the Bahamas is home to Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s very own private island destination. There are numerous activities on offer ranging from snorkelling to paddle boarding or even horseback riding, however the best way to explore Half Moon Cay’s lagoon and learn all about the island’s mangroves and bird species is by kayak. If you’re looking for a bucket-list wedding venue the island even has its own chapel for wedding ceremonies or vow renewals.
The Beach Club at Bimini
Virgin Voyages
A slightly controversial inclusion, as at the time of writing guests have yet to step foot on the Bahamian island, however we’re very excited about Virgin Voyages’ brand new Caribbean private island retreat. Bimini is teeming with opportunities to get active, from ocean-based water sports to diving a little deeper amongst historic shipwrecks. The Beach Club itself features an expansive lagoon-like pool, and as the sun begins to set, the island really lights up, culminating in a DJ-led pool party before it’s time to return to the ship.
