How to spend your Castaway Cay day without spending a thing!
Allison Flynn6.14.19One of my favorite parts about sailing with Disney Cruise Line is stopping at Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay. (And, pretty soon, there will be a second private destination in the Bahamas!)While there are excursions you can book prior for Castaway Cay, there are so many things you can enjoy that are either included in your cruise fare or are inexpensive ways to while the day away.Beach day! Castaway Cay offers the ultimate beach day. Sand-loving kids and adults will have no shortage of spots to build elaborate castles. (Cinderella Castle, anyone?) Sand toys are available for purchase on the island, and we found the price of these to be affordable. Since we needed new sand toys for home, we bought them so our boys could build to their hearts’ content.Chairs and umbrellas are on each of the beaches, and there’s no additional cost to rent these. If you want a chair on the family beach, it is recommended to get off the ship early in order to snag a great spot. On our sailing (which was during a less prime time of year), it wasn’t an issue to get a chair even later in the morning. But for summer sailings, I wouldn’t wait and be one of the first off the ship.
Water funCastaway Cay is home to Pelican Plunge, a 2,400 square foot water play area that is situated in the blue waters of the sea. There are two water slides that dump you out into the ocean, and a bucket that will pour water all over you. I don’t recommend this experience for small children who do not like to get soaked or who aren’t strong swimmers. It’s a decent swim from the beach to Pelican Plunge, so it may be intimidating for some children (and adults.)You will also find Spring-A-Leak, a splashpad where you never know where water will spray next. This area is great for little ones who want to cool off but may not feel comfortable in the ocean.
You can also bring along your own snorkel gear and explore the ocean’s bottom. This activity takes place just off the Castaway Family Beach. There are two “trails” to follow – beginners should follow the Discover Trail, while those with more experience can go along the Explorer Trail. There are all kinds of sealife to see – and be sure to look out for the hidden Mickey!Be active!You are welcome to explore Castaway Cay in a variety of ways – from running the Castaway Cay 5K (you’ll want to ask if this will be offered onboard the ship) to renting a bicycle and pedaling your way around. You can also take the tram to various beaches along the island in order to enjoy the beauty of it all.There are also volleyball nets located on the Sports Beach. Hone your skills and challenge your family to a game!Enjoy lunch and a snack! There’s no reason to head back to the ship when you’re hungry. Castaway Cay offers a buffet lunch (included in your cruise fare) at Cookies and Cookies Too BBQ. Both serve a variety of foods from hamburgers and hot dogs, to salads and pasta. Those with food allergies should check to see which offers allergen-friendly foods. During our sailing it was at Cookies.Be sure to save room for dessert … or have a mid-morning snack … or mid-afternoon snack … and one last snack before heading back to the ship. Soft serve ice cream is found on the ship, but to me, what was served on Castaway Cay was better. I’m not exactly sure of the flavors, but it was tropical and just so yummy.
Relaxation and viewsWhat better way to chill out than to pile up in a hammock and gaze at the blue water or the magnificent ship in the distance. We spent a few minutes just swaying to and fro before catching the tram back to the ship.
I cannot wait to spend the day at Castaway Cay again, and am considering an itinerary with two stops at this private island because we enjoyed it that much! If I can help your family plan a sailing with this port of call, please contact me at allisonf@wishesfamilytravel.com or visit my Facebook page!