Best Cruise Line Private Islands: A Guide

Cruise line private islands offer an exclusive experience for passengers, with secluded paradises and pristine beaches. These private islands, owned and operated by various cruise lines, provide a secluded paradise where guests can unwind, indulge in exciting activities, and enjoy pristine beaches and stunning natural surroundings.

Explore top cruise line private islands, highlighting their allure and unique features that make them exceptional destinations in this guide. From the luxurious amenities of Perfect Day at CocoCay to the natural beauty of Half Moon Cay, each private island offers a distinct experience for guests.

Get ready to embark on a journey to these enchanting private islands and discover the allure that awaits. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, these private islands are sure to create unforgettable memories for your cruise vacation.

Perfect Day at CocoCay | Royal Caribbean

A view of a huge sign that reads "Perfect Day at CocoCay," a private island in the Bahamas, with turquoise water and palm trees under a bright blue sky.

Perfect Day at CocoCay, an exclusive destination owned by Royal Caribbean, has been transformed into a spectacular resort-like destination. In the Bahamas, this private island provides diverse activities, relaxation spots, and indulgent experiences, ensuring an ideal day for cruisers.

Transformation of the Island into a Resort-Like Destination

Royal Caribbean has invested in extensive renovations to transform CocoCay into a world-class island retreat. The island offers thrilling attractions, pristine beaches, and amenities to cater to guests, providing a resort-like experience.

Top Activities

Perfect Day at CocoCay offers an array of adrenaline-pumping activities for adventure enthusiasts.

Thrill Waterpark

This expansive waterpark features a variety of exhilarating water slides, including the tallest slide in North America, Daredevil's Peak. Feel the rush as you plummet down thrilling slides, navigate wave pools, or take on the challenging obstacle course at Splash Summit.

Zip-lining

Soar through the air on the island's zip line course. Experience breathtaking views as you glide across the island, taking in the stunning panoramas of the turquoise waters and lush landscapes.

Up, Up, and Away

This helium balloon ride offers a unique perspective of CocoCay from 450 feet above the ground. Enjoy panoramic views and capture memorable photos as you ascend high in the sky.

Top Spots for Relaxation

For those seeking relaxation and tranquility, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers several spots to unwind.

Oasis Lagoon

Escape to this expansive freshwater lagoon and relax in the crystal-clear waters. Lounge in one of the many poolside loungers or swim up to the swim-up bar for a refreshing drink.

Chill Island

Discover a serene beach experience at Chill Island. Sink your toes into the powdery white sand, bask in the warm sun, or take a dip in the calm waters. Relax under the shade of a palm tree or in one of the hammocks suspended over the water.

Beach Cabanas

Enhance your relaxation by renting a beach cabana. These private retreats offer comfort, shade, and personalized service. Additionally, enjoy exclusive amenities, such as comfortable seating, dedicated food and beverage service, and stunning views of the beach.

While visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay, be sure to explore the exciting activities, find your ideal relaxation spot, and enjoy the island's amenities for an unforgettable experience.

View Cruises to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Ocean Cay Marine Reserve | MSC Cruises

MSC's signature red and white lighthouse on it's private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, located in the Bahamas.

Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, owned by MSC Cruises, is an exclusive, environmentally focused marine reserve in the Bahamas.

This unspoiled island escape showcases MSC Cruises' dedication to marine conservation and sustainable tourism, embodying their commitment to environmental responsibility.

Environmental Focus & Conservation Efforts

Ocean Cay Marine Reserve is dedicated to preserving and protecting the surrounding marine ecosystem. The reserve was developed from a former industrial sand excavation site and has been transformed into a thriving coral reef and marine habitat.

Additionally, MSC Cruises has introduced rigorous sustainability measures to reduce environmental impact, such as energy-efficient structures, waste management, and recycling efforts.

Top Recreational Activities & Relaxation Options

An idyllic, wide-angle photo of a beautiful white sand beach at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas. The foreground features soft, white sand leading to shallow turquoise water. Several upright palm trees are visible on the left, casting shadows, and the background shows the vast, clear blue ocean meeting a horizon under a sky with scattered white clouds.

Beaches & Water Sports

Enjoy the pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters of Ocean Cay. Relax in a lounge chair, swim in the calm lagoons, or snorkel through vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Additionally, water sports activities like paddleboarding and kayaking are also available for those seeking active pursuits.

Spa & Wellness

Indulge in relaxation and pampering at the island's spa and wellness center. Unwind with a massage, rejuvenate with a facial treatment, or simply enjoy a tranquil moment surrounded by the natural beauty of the reserve.

Sunset Beach

Experience unforgettable sunsets at the aptly named Sunset Beach. This idyllic spot offers panoramic views of the sparkling ocean, making it the perfect place to unwind and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.

Dining Experiences

Seaside Restaurants

Enjoy delicious meals at the island's restaurants, which offer a range of cuisines to cater to diverse tastes. Indulge in a wide selection of gastronomic delights, from fresh seafood dishes to international flavors, all while enjoying stunning ocean views.

Lighthouse Bistro

Visit the iconic Lighthouse Bistro for a unique dining experience. This elevated venue provides panoramic views of the reserve and allows you to savor dishes inspired by the Bahamian culinary heritage.

Food Trucks & Beverage Stands

Explore the island's food trucks and beverage stands, which offer a casual dining experience. Sample local delicacies, such as conch fritters or freshly grilled specialties, while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Ocean Cay Marine Reserve provides a harmonious blend of breathtaking natural beauty, sustainable practices, and delightful recreational and dining experiences.

Appreciate marine conservation, engage in fun activities, and savor Bahamian flavors in an eco-friendly setting during your visit.

View Cruises to Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.

Great Stirrup Cay | Norwegian Cruise Line

Two colorful striped beach chairs sit on the white sand beach of Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas, facing the clear turquoise water under a bright blue sky with palm fronds overhead.

Located in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay is a private island owned by Norwegian Cruise Line. Located in the Berry Islands, this picturesque spot is famous for its natural beauty and breathtaking beaches.

Great Stirrup Cay offers an array of activities and amenities, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for cruise passengers. The island boasts pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a paradise for beach lovers, snorkelers, and water sports enthusiasts.

Key Activities & Amenities

Experience the thrilling zip line adventure over the white-sand beaches of Norwegian Cruise Line's private island, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas.

Beach Relaxation

Spend your day basking in the sun on the island's picturesque beaches. Lounge on a comfortable beach chair, soak up the warm tropical rays, and let the gentle sound of the waves wash away your worries.

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Dive into the vibrant underwater world surrounding Great Stirrup Cay. Grab your snorkeling gear or join a scuba diving excursion to explore the colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating marine creatures.

Water Sports

Engage in thrilling water sports activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Feel the adrenaline rush as you glide through the crystal-clear waters and take in the breathtaking coastal views.

Bertram's Cove

This family-friendly area offers a shallow lagoon with calm waters, perfect for children and less experienced swimmers. Kids can enjoy building sandcastles, splashing in the clear shallows, and parents can relax knowing their little ones are safe.

Cabanas & Luxury Villas

For a more exclusive experience, rent a private cabana or luxury villa overlooking the ocean. These well-appointed retreats provide shade, comfort, and personalized service, allowing you to unwind in style.

Shopping & Local Crafts

Browse through the island's straw market and boutique shops, where you can find unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, jewelry, and beachwear.

Great Stirrup Cay offers an unforgettable tropical island experience during your Norwegian Cruise Line voyage. With its stunning beaches, exciting activities, and opportunities for relaxation, this slice of paradise is sure to leave you with cherished memories of your cruise vacation.

View Cruises to Great Stirrup Cay.

Half Moon Cay | Carnival Cruise Line & Holland America Line

A family of four walks along the white-sand beach of Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, enjoying a sunny Caribbean day on their Holland America Line cruise.

Little San Salvador Island, commonly referred to as Half Moon Cay, is a private island owned by Carnival Corporation. Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line both operate on this island.

Located in the Bahamas, this pristine island offers a perfect tropical getaway for cruise passengers, renowned for its natural beauty and serene ambiance.

Island Features

Beaches

Breathtaking white sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters invite you to stroll and soak up the sun.

Serene Ambience

A tranquil atmosphere, pristine nature, palm-fringed shores, and vibrant coral reefs create a picturesque setting.

Watersports

Exciting activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing, offer adventures in the sparkling waters.

Horseback Riding

Guided horseback riding adventures along the shores provide a unique perspective of the island's beauty.

Nature Trails

Explore lush vegetation, spot native bird species, and enjoy panoramic views on walking trails through the island's landscape.

Dining Options

Seaside BBQ

Indulge in beachside BBQ featuring grilled specialties like burgers, chicken, ribs, and fresh seafood with stunning ocean views.

The Tropics Restaurant

Offers buffet-style dining with international cuisines, including salads, grilled items, and tempting desserts.

Drink Stations & Bars

Relax and sip on tropical beverages, including cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks, at various stations and bars.

Local Cuisine

Try Bahamian specialties such as conch fritters, Bahamian-style cracked lobster, and tropical fruits to immerse yourself in the local cuisine.

Half Moon Cay promises an unforgettable experience with stunning landscapes, exciting adventures, and delectable culinary offerings. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, cruisers will find this private island a haven of natural wonders and delightful experiences.

View Cruises to Half Moon Cay.

Harvest Caye | Norwegian Cruise Line

Family walking through the main gate at Harvest Caye.

Harvest Caye, an exclusive port destination owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, offers a vibrant and tropical experience in Belize. This stunning island retreat combines natural beauty with exciting attractions, providing a memorable stop for cruise passengers.

Unique Features & Attractions

Family playing on beach and running into the water with pool toys.

The Flighthouse

This impressive 136-foot-tall lighthouse serves as a central landmark on the island. Take an elevator ride to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and the sprawling cruise ships docked nearby.

Expansive Beaches

Harvest Caye boasts beautiful sandy beaches with ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside relaxation. Enjoy the warm Caribbean sun, dip your toes in the clear waters, or cool off with a refreshing swim.

The Wildlife Experience

Immerse yourself in nature at the island's wildlife center. Explore the educational exhibits that showcase the native flora and fauna of Belize. You can encounter and learn about indigenous animals like colorful birds, butterflies, and iguanas.

Adventure Activities

Harvest Caye offers a range of exhilarating excursions and adventure activities. Choose from options like zip-lining through the lush rainforest canopy, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or embarking on a thrilling river tubing adventure.

Cultural Experiences

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Belize by participating in cultural activities and demonstrations. Engage with local artisans, learn traditional craft techniques, and enjoy live performances featuring Belizean music and dance.

Shopping

When it comes to shopping and souvenirs, Harvest Caye provides a variety of options to take a piece of Belize home with you:

Shopping Village

Browse through the island's shopping village, where you can find a selection of boutiques and stores offering local handicrafts, artwork, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. Look for items that reflect the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Belize.

Local Artisans

Interact with local artisans who showcase their craftsmanship on the island. From hand-carved wooden sculptures to vibrant paintings, you can find unique pieces that highlight Belizean artistic traditions.

Harvest Caye offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, thrilling activities, cultural experiences, and shopping delights, making it an ideal destination for cruise passengers seeking an immersive and enjoyable vacation experience in Belize.

View Cruises to Harvest Caye.

Princess Cays | Princess Cruises

A scenic view of Princess Cays, Bahamas, featuring a row of colorful cabanas with thatched roofs, surrounded by swaying palm trees on a white-sand beach.

A private resort destination utilized by Princess Cruises. Princess Cays offers a delightful getaway in the Bahamas. This idyllic island is known for its stunning beaches, family-friendly activities, and opportunities for souvenir shopping and immersing in local crafts.

Island Activities & Attractions

Guests enjoy a pedal boat in the shallow, clear turquoise waters of Princess Cays, a private island destination for water sports on Princess Cruises' Bahamas itineraries.

The island offers a variety of activities and attractions to enhance your visit.

Beaches & Watersports

The island boasts pristine white sand beaches where you can relax, swim, and soak up the sun. Engage in watersports activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides for a fun-filled day in the water.

Stingray Encounter

Experience the thrill of interacting with gentle stingrays in a specially designed area. Get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures as you learn about their behavior and have the opportunity to touch and feed them.

Nature Walks & Ocean Trail

Explore the natural beauty of Princess Cays by taking a leisurely stroll along the nature walks or the picturesque Ocean Trail. Discover the island's indigenous flora and fauna while enjoying breathtaking views of the coastline.

With its diverse range of activities and family-friendly facilities, Princess Cays ensures a fantastic experience for the whole family.

Kids' Club

A supervised kids’ club offers age-appropriate activities, games, and crafts with trained staff guidance. Parents can unwind while their kids are entertained safely, ensuring a relaxing experience for everyone involved.

Water Park

Enjoy water park fun with your kids, including slides, fountains, and interactive play areas for a delightful family experience. This lively aquatic playground provides endless fun for children of all ages.

Playgrounds & Sports Courts

Princess Cays offers playgrounds and sports courts where kids and adults alike can enjoy outdoor activities such as volleyball, basketball, and beach games.

View Cruises to Princess Cays.

Celebration Key | Carnival Cruise Line

A wide aerial view of Pearl Cove at Carnival's new private destination, Celebration Key, in the Bahamas, featuring a large swimming pool, tropical beach with lounge chairs, and clear turquoise water.

Celebration Key is Carnival Cruise Line's 65-acre haven on the southern shore of Grand Bahama, is perfect for adults, families, and those who love the outdoors and having fun.

Enjoy a range of island-style fun, leisure, and adventure across five distinct "portals" to explore as your Carnival ship arrives. Each portal highlights a different facet of Carnival's offerings, which include a lengthy beach, expansive lagoons, regional food, retail stores, and excursions.

Activities & Attractions

A stunning underwater view of two sea turtles swimming gracefully in the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Bahamas, with a small island visible in the background.

Paradise Plaza

From the moment you arrive at Carnival’s Celebration Key, you’re welcomed by an impressive sandcastle, stunning island views, and energetic Caribbean music. This is where the excitement begins, setting the stage for all the fun and adventure ahead in this tropical haven.

Starfish Lagoon

Ideal for family getaways, Starfish Lagoon at Celebration Key features the Caribbean's largest freshwater lagoon.

Kids will delight in the Guppy Grotto splash pad and the thrilling dueling waterslides, Flash Flamingo and Mach III Marlin. Adults can relax with Floating AquaBana rentals while the kids play.

When it's time to eat, Starfish Lagoon offers a diverse array of dining options, including local Bahamian food trucks, catering to every palate.

Calypso Lagoon

For a more tranquil and adult-oriented experience, Calypso Lagoon is the perfect destination. This no-kids zone includes a swim-up bar where you can sip on your favorite frozen cocktails while a DJ curates the perfect island vibe.

Private cabanas are available for a romantic escape, and the dining venues serve delicious local Bahamian cuisine, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the day.

Private Club Portal

For a luxurious retreat, the Private Club Portal offers an adults-only sanctuary with elevated relaxation. Enjoy an infinity pool with stunning views of the blue Bahamian waters and the most comfortable loungers on the island.

This exclusive area is perfect for indulging in gourmet cuisine and enjoying the best views on Celebration Key.

Lokono Cove

This shopping paradise features a variety of local Bahamian artisan goods, souvenirs, and duty-free items from popular brands. Spend your day exploring the shops and soaking in the lively island atmosphere.

View Cruises to Celebration Key.

Tips for Enjoying Your Private Island Adventure

Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun's rays. The tropical climate can be quite intense.
Bring snorkeling gear if you have your own. Although equipment is available for rent on the island, having your own gear guarantees a better fit and comfortable experience.
Consider booking excursions or activities in advance to secure your spot, as popular activities may fill up quickly. You can do this through your cruise line, or reach out to one of The Cruise Web's experts to find the best excursions at the best price!
Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery and moments during your visit.
Be mindful of the island's environmental policies and practice responsible tourism by not littering and respecting the natural surroundings.
Take the opportunity to try local cuisine, such as delicious seafood dishes, tropical fruits, and traditional specialties are often available at the island's restaurants and food stalls.
Keep an eye out for unique and sustainable souvenirs, supporting local artisans, and contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage.

In conclusion, cruise line private islands offer exclusive vacations with pristine beaches and activities for all ages. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, these islands cater to every traveler's needs.

To embark on this journey and create unforgettable memories, contact The Cruise Web at 1-800-377-9383 or visit cruiseweb.com.