Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Information and Shore Excursions

Castaway Cay is Disney's private island in the Bahamas and is always a highlight of their Caribbean cruises.

If you're expecting a Mickey shaped island with black, red and gold umbrellas, guess again. While this is the tropics a'la Disney, it's serene setting is the perfect accompaniment to your cruise.

The first thing that you'll notice is that it has its very own dock. No tendering to this island, you step off the ship and you're there.

The next thing you notice is a pristine beach lined with colorful umbrellas. Each one is the centerpiece for two adjustable lounge chairs and two beach chairs. There are a few hammocks scattered about for your use as well.

What you're looking at is the "Family Beach" which all are welcome to use. For guests 18 and over, Serenity Bay is the "Adult Beach" and there's a Teen Beach.

As you step off the ship, a friendly crew member hands you two towels. From there you can walk to the beach or you can head to the Tram Station. Here you'll be transported to the Family/Teen Beach. For guests wanting to visit Serenity Bay, there's a second tram that will take you there.

For those of us who spent summers at the Jersey Shore, a strange thing happens when you visit Castaway Cay. You head into the water, look down and see something unusual. Yes, those are your feet, something you've never seen before if you've visited Seaside Heights or Atlantic City.

Not only is the water crystal clear, it's comfortably warm for most of the year and since it's sheltered, the tide comes and goes with barely a ripple.

What's the Caribbean without snorkeling? There's a "trail" dedicated for this purpose that you're welcome to explore. Another popular tropical venue is the Stingray Adventure where you can book an excursion and interact with these fascinating sea creatures.

There's something about sunshine and salt water that makes everyone hungry. Listen for the announcement that Cookie's is open and serving lunch. (This is included in your cruise fare.) There will be an array of seasonal fresh fruit and barbecue favorites including hamburgers, chicken, hot dogs and the best potato salad you've ever tasted.

If you're still hungry, soft serve ice cream is the perfect beach dessert. Don't worry about wearing your bathing suit. There are covered pavilions with row upon row of picnic tables for you to dine at. (Serenity Bay has it's own buffet so you don't need to traipse back from there.)

Keep your Key to the World card handy if you want to order those fantastic tropical drinks. The signature Castaway Cay "Konk Kooler" is a favorite of Disney Cruise Line devotees.

White sand beaches, torquoise water, sherbert colored umbrellas, music in the air, lush vegetation, can this be Disney? Why yes, look there's a store "She Sells Sea Shells and Everything Else." Exclusive Castaway Cay merchandise is sold here as well as any essentials you may have forgotten (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, etc.) There are also stores which sell Bahamian handicrafts but be forewarned, the prices are much higher here than if you make your purchases at the other ports.

There's a real working Post Office if you want to mail the "I'm here and you're not" postcards back home. This is Bahama run and gives new meaning to "island time." You'll be back well before the postcard ever arrives. Here's a tip: The Post Office requires cash, that green and silver stuff that you stashed in your room safe and forgot about since you got onboard. Do yourself (and the people standing behind you) a favor and either have change or small bills. They're not equipped to break a steady stream of large denomination bills.

Hairbraiding can be scheduled while at Castaway Cay. While it is popular, I've seen more than a few tears when the little girls find out it requires a lot of tugging and pulling of their hair.

Adults can book the ultimate in pampering. Over at Serenity Bay there are open air massage cabanas. Just head to the Vista Spa and schedule yours.

There are a ton of excursions to choose from. You can go on a guided jetski tour, a Banana Boat Ride, rent bikes, parasail, etc. Just about everything you can expect to do at a beach destination is offered.

If you're reluctant to spend a full day in the sun, Groupers Pavilion is a sheltered area where you can play foosball, ping pong (and I promise, unlike the table on the ship, this one doesn't move just as you're about to make your game winning serve), basketball, golf wiffleball, monster chess and checkers.

Throughout the day you may spot a few of your favorite Disney characters making appearances. Keep your camera handy as you'll also want to take some spectacular pictures of your ship.

There's one downside to Castaway Cay. You have to get back on the ship!!! This idyllic day always seems to fly by. This is the type of experience that you wish you could bottle and open again, especially when you're shoveling snow.

The weather is usually picture perfect. Here's hoping for blue skies during your visit to Disney's island paradise.

Castaway Family Beach
Fun for the whole family, this beach features lounge chairs, beach umbrellas, sand chairs and even a few hammocks. Go early for the best selection.

The Snorkeling Lagoon is located here, and features a snorkeling "path" to follow to see tropical fish and special buried "hidden treasure". Snorkeling is best early in the day, before the sand has been kicked up by all the swimmers.

Your inclusive lunch is served at Cookie's Bar-B-Q and features a buffet with ribs, chicken, hamburgers, salads, corn on the cob, fresh fruit, soft serve ice cream and other picnic style fare.

Serenity Bay Adult Beach
Located on the far northwestern end of the island is Serenity Bay, a secluded beach for adults 18 and older only. This is where adults can enjoy the pampering of an open-air cabana massage, sip a drink, and relax and enjoy the quiet of the beach with no children around. A buffet lunch is served.

Several bars are interspersed throughout the beach areas, and they serve a variety of tropical and soft drinks. A favorite is the Konk Kooler, a libation made with light and dark rum, orange juice, passion fruit and coconut cream (it can be made without the rum) that can also be purchased in a souvenir glass.

Castaway Ray's Stingray Adventure (one hour)
An interactive experience that immerses guests into the fascinating underwater world of stingrays. In partnership with the Living Seas at Epcot, a stingray sanctuary has been developed adjacent to the Teen Beach. This 60-minute excursion includes an educational orientation featuring facts and tidbits about stingrays, hands-on interaction, and free-time to snorkel in the stingray lagoon.
No one under the age of 5 is permitted. Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult
Adult Price: $35.00 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $29.00 (5 - 9)

Walking & Kayak Nature Adventure (2.5 - 3 hours)
Venture to the tranquil side of Castaway Cay. During a forty-minute walk to your kayak launch site your knowledgeable guide will make the Bahamas' geology and history come alive! When were the Islands of the Bahamas born? Where did the Bahamian people come from? Then you embark on a one-hour kayak excursion through the ecologically sensitive mangrove environment. Here you will learn about the importance of the mangrove ecosystem as a nursery for immature marine life and a habitat for birds. Your kayaks glide over shallow waters teeming with tropical fish, sponges and colorful coral formations. Enjoy a swim in the crystal clear waters off a secluded pure white sandy beach, where you will also explore the wonders of the seashore's tidal zones and their diverse vegetation. A twenty-minute hike brings you back to your tram stop This tour is a must for those that want to experience the natural beauty of Castaway Cay.
Adult Price: $60 (ages 10 and above) No one under age 10.

Snorkel Lagoon Equipment Rental (all day)
Discover marine life in our environmentally friendly snorkel lagoon. Pick up your gear at "Gils Fins and Boats" and head to the educational area where you can learn more about our 12-acre snorkel lagoon. Once in the water, you can follow the Discover Trail (for beginners) or the Explorer Trail for the more advanced swimmers. Your all day equipment rental allows you to enter and exit the waters as many times as you like. A great first snorkeling experience. This excursion is operated by Disney Cruise Line.
Adult Price (ages 10 and up):
$25.00
Child Price (ages 5 to 9):
$10.00

Glass Bottom Boat Scenic Voyage (1.5 hours)
Your window to the underwater world is aboard a 46-foot glass-bottomed trawler. You'll embark on a 1-hour narrated eco tour. There are two window wells that provide views of the barrier reefs that protect Castaway Cay. You'll see a number of different types of fish, sea creatures and corals from your unique vantage point.
Adult Price: $35.00 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $25.00 (3 - 9)

Seahorse Snorkel Adventure (2 - 2.5 hours)
This excursion will put the wind in your sails! You'll board a 63-foot catamaran that will whisk you away to a prime snorkeling spot amid the colorful reefs that encircle Castaway Cay. You'll be provided with snorkeling gear and a brief orientation, and then it's time to explore an amazing underwater world teeming with fascinating aquatic plants and animals. After snorkeling, complimentary snacks and beverages will be served before the return trip to Castaway Cay.
Adult Price: $52 (ages 10 and above) Child Price: $30 (ages 5-9) No one under age 5.

Float Rentals (all day)
Relax and enjoy the swim lagoon on your very own float. Also, great to use for lying out on the beach. Clear inner tubes available for old-fashioned water fun.
Adult Price: $6 all day rental
Child Price: $6 all day rental

Bicycle Rentals (1 hour)
Explore the trails and paths of Castaway Cay from an Island Bike. Child Seats are available. Children must be able to ride a bike and are required to wear a helmet.
Adult Price: $6 per hour rental
Child Price (Ages 5 - 9): $6 per hour rental

Boat Rentals
Half Hour rentals area offered at Gil's Fins and Boats. Boat rentals are for ages 5 and up and are walk up only. Subject to availability. Rentals are for a half an hour.
Aqua Fin: $15.00
Sea Kayak: $8.00 one seater, $10.00 two seater
Hobie Cat: $18.00
Aqua Trike: $15.00
Paddle Boats: $8.00 two seater, $10.00 four seater

Banana Boat Ride (15-20 minutes)
It's fun, it's exciting, it's the Banana Ride at Castaway Cay. The Banana boat is an inflatable water sled pulled by a Jet Ski. The Banana Boat can hold up to 10 guests. It's a wild ride that takes you through the Cay inlet and gliding over the Caribbean waves. Ages 8 and up only. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older.
Adult Price: $15.00 (Ages 10 and up)
Child Price: $15.00 (Ages 8 -9)

The Wild Side (teens only)
Snorkeling, biking and sea kayaking on the wild side of the island are part of this adventure for Teens only. This excursion is operated by Disney Cruise Line and is subject to availability depending on the teen count onboard.
Teen Price: $35 (ages 13-17 only)

Parasailing (45 minutes, airborne 7-9 minutes)
Come experience the fun, thrills and excitement of the most enjoyable parasail ride in The Bahamas. No experience required. Our parasailing ride is designed to be enjoyed by guests ages 8 and older. While soaring single or tandem high above beautiful Castaway Cay you will enjoy a spectacular view of the shimmering sand, turquoise water, and breath-taking skyline. An unforgettable experience with an ultra-modern, state-of-the-art winch-boat for a fun and comfortable ride. Children under age 13 must be accompanied by an adult.
$75.00 all ages 8 and up

Castaway Cay Getaway Package
This convenient package includes snorkel equipment and float rental for the entire day, plus a 1-hour bicycle rental. This excursion is operated by Disney Cruise Line.
Adult Price: $32.00 (ages 10 and above)
Child Price: $16.00 (ages 5-9)

Castaway Cay Bottom Fishing (3 hours)
A memorable day is in store for the fishermen who set sail on this excursion. The bait and tackle are provided, and soda/water is also included. You'll cast out your line in the crystal clear waters of the Abaco islands. This excursion can accommodate up to 6 fishermen. The minimum age requirement is 6 years old. Children ages 6 - 12 must wear a life vest.
Adult/Child Price: $117.00
Departure: 9:00am, 9:15am (Disney Magic only), 1:00pm

Personal Watercraft (Jet ski) Eco Tour(1 hour)
You'll board your Personal Watercraft (jetski) for a guided tour of Castaway Cay. It's a unique opportunity to learn about the island and it's ecology while piloting your own watercraft. Your first stop, the mangroves where your guide will talk about the ecosystem. Next, you're off to a fascinating glimpse into the history of the Bahamas and it's colorful marine life. Participants who are 16 to 17 years of age may drive with written permission from their parent/guardian. Passengers must be age 8 and up. Either a parent or guardian must sign an authorization for children participating in this excursion. Watershoes/sandals are strongly recommended, as are eyeglass straps. The tour times are: 9:45, 10:30, 11:15, 12:00, 1:00, 1:45 and 2:45.
$95.00 for single rider, $160.00 for driver and passenger.

Please note: except where noted, shore excursions are operated by independent contractors. All excursions are subject to cancellation due to weather, itinerary changes and attendance. Excursions are booked on a first come, first served basis and are subject to availability. All prices are subject to change without notice. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.