Castaway Cay, also known as Disney Castaway Cay, is Disney's first privately owned island in the Bahamas (West Indies), reserved exclusively for guests of Disney Cruise Line (DCL) traveling to the Bahamas and the Caribbean on Disney Cruise Ships.
Disney Castaway Cay serves as an exclusive port for Disney cruise line ships, offering a tropical paradise with white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of activities to enjoy. It is one of the highlights of Disney cruise trips and a popular destination for Disney cruisers.
How Big is Disney Castaway Cay?
Castaway Cay is an island of about 1,000 acres located about 70 miles from Nassau, Bahamas. It was formerly known as Gorda Cay, but was renamed Castaway Cay in 1997 when The Walt Disney Cruise Line company purchased a 99-year lease from the Bahamian government.
Disney Castaway Cay island is 3.1 miles long and 2.2 miles wide, and only 55 acres are developed and used by Disney Cruise Line.
Things you can do on Disney Castaway Cay
Spend the Day at the Castaway Cay Beaches:
There are three main beaches on the island: Family Beach, Serenity Bay, and Children's Beach.
- Castaway Cay Family Beach is the largest and most popular beach, with plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and playing in the sand.
- Serenity Bay is a more secluded beach that is adults-only.
- Castaway Cay Children's Beach is perfect for families with young children, with shallow waters and plenty of activities to keep kids entertain.
Go Snorkeling or Diving:
The waters around Castaway Cay are home to a variety of colorful fish and coral reefs. There are several snorkeling and diving spots on the island, including the Coral Reef Lagoon and the Stingray City.
Take a Bike Ride or Hike:
There are several trails on the island that are perfect for exploring. The Family Fun Trail is a short and easy trail that is great for families with young children.
The Explorer Trail is a longer and more challenging trail that offers stunning views of the island.
Relax at the Spa:
The Castaway Cay Spa offers a variety of massages, facials, and other treatments to help you relax and rejuvenate.
Enjoy a Delicious meal at Castaway Cay:
There are several restaurants on the island that offer a variety of cuisines, including American, Caribbean, and Italian.
The Cookie's BBQ offers a delicious barbecue buffet, while the Calypso Grill serves up fresh seafood.
In addition to all of the activities and amenities on the island, Castaway Cay also offers free perks for guests, including:
- Complimentary food and drinks -Guests can enjoy complimentary seafood and BBQ, water, soft drinks, and unlimited ice cream at no extra cost.
- Complimentary shuttle service -There is a complimentary shuttle service that will take guests from the ship to the beach and back.
- Complimentary beach chairs and towels -Guests can borrow beach chairs and towels for free from the beach hut.
Castaway Cay Cabanas
Castaway Cay cabanas are private beachside huts for Disney cruise guests for relaxing on the Disney private island.
There are 27 cabanas, divided into two categories: Family Beach Cabanas and Serenity Bay Cabanas.
Family Beach Cabanas are located on the main beach of Castaway Cay and can accommodate up to 10 guests. They have a private deck with lounge chairs, a hammock, a freshwater shower, and a mini fridge stocked with drinks and snacks. Family Beach Cabanas cost around $797.50 for up to 6 guests. You can add up to 4 additional guests for $50 each.
Serenity Bay Cabanas are located on a secluded adult-only beach on Castaway Cay and can accommodate up to 6 guests. They have a private deck with lounge chairs, a hammock, a hot tub, and a mini fridge stocked with drinks and snacks. Serenity Bay Cabanas cost $493.90 for the first 4 guests. You can add up to 2 additional guests for $50 each.
Castaway Cay 5k
The Castaway Cay 5K is a self-paced 3.1-mile run or walk that takes place on the Disney Cruise Line's private island Castaway Cay in the Bahamas. It is open to all guests and no registration fee or sign up.
The Castaway Cay 5k route is well-marked and it takes you through some of the most beautiful areas of the island, including the Serenity Bay lagoon, and the Coral Reef Lagoon.
There is no official start time for the Castaway Cay 5K. You can start the race at any time during the day, as long as you are off the ship by the designated time.
At the end of the race, you will receive a finisher's medal and a certificate of completion.
Who owns Castaway Cay?
The Walt Disney Company owns Castaway Cay, according to Wikipedia and Disney sources. The Walt Disney Company purchased a 99-year land lease for the island from the Bahamian government in 1997. In fact Disney Cruise Line was the first cruise line to have its own private island.
Do you need a passport to visit Castaway Cay?
U.S. citizens do not need a passport to visit Castaway Cay, a private island in the Bahamas as it is owned by Disney Cruise Line. However, you will need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or state ID card.
Other nationalities may require a passport to visit Castaway Cay. It is always advisable to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date travel requirements.
What movies were filmed at Castaway Cay Island?
Two movies were filmed at Castaway Cay: Splash (1984) and Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003).
Conclusion: Castaway Cay is a popular destination for Disney cruisers, and for good reason. The island has something for everyone to enjoy, from families with young children to couples looking for a romantic getaway. Ready to choose a Disney Cruise for your next vacation to visit Disney Castaway Cay? Comment below.
Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club: A Guide to the Benefits
Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Club is a loyalty program that rewards guests for their continued patronage. Once you complete your first Disney cruise, you are automatically enrolled in the Castaway Club. The more cruises you complete, the higher your Castaway Club level and the more benefits you receive.
Benefits of each Castaway Club level:
Silver (1-4 cruises):
- Members-only newsletter
- Dedicated phone number for questions or bookings
- 90-day advanced booking for excursions, the spa, and Palo
- Priority check-in
- Onboard booking bonus
- Welcome back gift
Gold (5-9 cruises):
All of the Silver benefits, plus:
- 105-day advanced booking for excursions, the spa, and Palo
- Early booking for new itineraries
- Onboard reception
- Deals on onboard shopping
Platinum (10+ cruises):
All of the Gold benefits, plus:
- 120-day advanced booking for excursions, the spa, and Palo
- Priority boarding
- One dinner for two at Palo
- Special platinum-only surprises
In addition to the above benefits, all Castaway Club members receive exclusive access to the Castaway Club website. The website includes downloadable coloring pages, e-cards, computer wallpapers, and recipes.
If you are a frequent Disney cruiser, the Castaway Club is a great way to show your appreciation for the company and to receive valuable rewards in return.
Here are some tips for making the most of your Castaway Club membership:
- Sign up for the Castaway Club newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest benefits and promotions.
- Use your dedicated phone number to book your cruises, excursions, and spa treatments early.
- Take advantage of your priority check-in and boarding privileges.
- Look for onboard booking bonuses and deals on onboard shopping.
- Enjoy your special welcome back gift and platinum-only surprises.
Conclusion:
The Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club is a great way to enjoy extra benefits on your Disney cruises. If you are a frequent cruiser, be sure to sign up for the program today.
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