7 Private Islands Owned by Caribbean Cruise Lines

  • By Tammy van der Westhuizen
  • Published 03 August 2022
  • Revised 06 November 2024
7 Private Islands Owned by Caribbean Cruise Lines
  • By Tammy van der Westhuizen
  • Published 03 August 2022
  • Revised 06 November 2024
7 Private Islands Owned by Caribbean Cruise Lines
  • By Tammy van der Westhuizen
  • Published 03 August 2022
  • Revised 06 November 2024

Cruising is the ultimate mode of hassle-free holidays. What more could you possibly seek, besides endless blue skies, unlimited amenities and bottomless buffets? How about adding a private island into the mix?

Cruise liners have steadily caught onto this phenomenon by purchasing small island beaches for your exclusive enjoyment. No more crowded excursions, no more queuing, no more endless waiting - just pure, uninterrupted paradise.

Below are some of the best privately owned islands where your perfect escape is just a dock away...


Disney Cruise Lines

It’s no surprise that Disney, the trailblazer of entertainment, makes the list. The most thrilling addition to their cruise itinerary is the brand-new cruise destination – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point – a private peninsula offering a tropical blend of Disney magic and Bahamian culture. Passengers aboard Disney’s newest ship, Disney Wish, along with those on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, can bask in the beauty of its pristine shores.

Think Disney Cruise Line owns only one private island? Think again. For over 25 years, families have enjoyed exclusive access to Disney Castaway Cay, soaking up sun and fun in the northern Bahamas. With endless activities to keep the kids and adults entertained, Disney truly knows how to create a magical getaway for the whole family. 


Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Disney’s newest island destination welcomed Disney cruise makers in June 2024 with its blush-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Every inch of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is inspired by the island's natural beauty, and brought to life through collaborations with local artists and cultural experts. Expect bold colours, organic designs, and traditional Bahamian architecture all around you.



In true Disney style, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is made for families, with something magical for everyone. Frolic in the water play zones, explore scenic nature trails or kick back on the family beach. From snorkelling and kayaking to meeting your favourite Disney characters, there's no shortage of fun.

Adults looking to escape the excitement can retreat to the adults-only beach or sip cocktails at exclusive bars, offering the ultimate peaceful escape in paradise. And kids get their own slice of island fun at Sebastian’s Cove, a playful paradise where little ones can splash around in water zones, take part in hands-on activities, and let their imaginations run wild.

Don’t miss the twice-daily Rush! A Junkanoo Celebration, a lively parade bursting with colour, infectious beats, and pure Bahamian spirit. From dazzling costumes to heart-pounding drumming and high-energy dancing, it’s a show-stopping celebration you’ll never forget.
 

Disney Castaway Cay

Disney Castaway Cay boasts immaculate white sand beaches and sparkling azure waters. A retreat for both kids and adults, it offers something for everyone, from family-friendly shores to Serenity Bay, an adults-only haven.

Dive into fun with snorkelling, swim alongside stingrays, race down water slides, or even take part in a 5 km run. Rent a kayak or paddleboat to extend the adventure, get active with volleyball on the Sports Beach, and hit the shops for much-needed souvenirs. Plus, you can feast your eyes and treat your taste buds to the mouth-watering beach BBQ.

The island’s shipwreck-inspired theme, complete with crates and driftwood structures, adds to the adventure. And with only one Disney ship docking per day, you’ll have free reign of the tiny isle. After exploring the luscious, green island, raise your feet, sip a refreshing cocktail, and take in the alluring beauty of the tropics.

Keep an eye out for Disney characters in beachwear, spreading that signature Disney magic from the ship to the shore.
 

Norwegian Cruise Line

Some Caribbean liners, like Norwegian, believe that variety is key and own not one but two slices of island exclusivity. Each offers its own unique vibe and attractions, giving you twice the fun. Known for its top-tier onboard entertainment, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private islands are just as impressive. And with the recent addition of the Norwegian Viva, the fleet now boasts 19 cruise ships, meaning you’ll have plenty of options to explore one - or both - of these dreamy island getaways.
 

Harvest Caye

Harvest Caye is where Belize’s coastal beauty truly shines with its stunning aquamarine beaches and golden sands. One of Harvest Caye's star attractions is the 15,000 sq foot swimming pool featuring a swim-up bar. Without leaving the pool, guests can order drinks and delight in their refreshments seated on underwater bar stools.

Take the zip line and soar 100 feet above for unwavering views over the grand bay. Cross the opulent jungle and land in the enticing turquoise lagoon. Unmatched vistas of the world's second-largest coral reef and Mayan mountains unravel from this spectacular trip.

After the flush of adrenaline, why not kayak and paddleboard on the saltwater beach as you discover the beautiful marine life? Or get lost in abundant foliage in the wildlife sanctuary. The merry birdsong of macaws and toucans are among the tropical birdlife.


Great Stirrup Cay

Great Stirrup Cay was the first enclave to be purchased by a cruise ship. Devoid of other islands' bells and whistles, Great Stirrup Cay is the ideal location to take in the magnificence of nature. 

The untouched landscape is also less developed, but this is a blessing. To reach utmost bliss, unwind in the picturesque paradise of palm trees and sun-kissed shores. 

Discover the pristine land's splendour by snorkelling the coral reef, kayaking the crystalline waters, and even swimming with domesticated pigs. 
 

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean owns two private islands with distinct identities in various nations. While they’ve temporarily paused docking at Labadee in Haiti, their other island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, is packed with thrilling activities to enjoy.

And if that’s not enough to get your heart racing, hop aboard the latest addition to their fleet, the Icon of the Seas. This giant holds the title of the world’s largest cruise ship, featuring the largest waterpark at sea, the tallest waterslide ever to set sail, and the first-ever open free-fall waterslide at sea.
 

Perfect Day at CocoCay

If your ideal Caribbean holiday cruise involves liveliness, fun and festivities, then a trip to Perfect Day at CocoCay is imminent. A thrill-seeker's dream, lather on the sunscreen as you take to the waterpark, loved by kids and adults alike.

Will you be brave enough to ride Daredevil's Peak, one of the highest waterslides in North America at 135 ft? If fear of heights does not discourage you, ride in a helium balloon 450 feet above CocoCay to take in the scenic beauty.

After riding a selection of 14 water rides, make a giant splash in the Caribbean's largest wave pool. And once you've exhausted all the amenities, you have a private island beach all to yourself.
 

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is riding the private island wave in style. They transformed an old sand excavation site in the Bahamas into a stunning beach paradise that’s sure to amaze. With the exciting launch of their newest ship, the MSC Euribia, in 2023, you can now sail to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve aboard several MSC cruise liners.
 

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

As the island’s name suggests, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve conserves the island’s precious ecosystem. Since the land redevelopment, marine life has flourished through careful restoration efforts by marine biologists and scientists.

With such unrivalled beauty before you, delight in the tropical scenery of azure waters, fine white sand, and swaying coconut trees. To enhance your relaxation, book a spa treatment as you unwind to the sound of the breaking waves. 

Pick your favourite of the eight pristine beaches, cooling off in the inviting waters. At night time, make sure to watch the lighthouse’s light show extravaganza. Another must-do is to witness the Junkanoo Parade’s dazzling dance work and colourful costumes.


Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruises completes our list of appealing private islands for Caribbean holidaymakers. Situated on the Bahamian archipelago, Carnival Cruise’s Half Moon Cay steals the heart of any die-hard beach lover. Catering for the likes of young adults, Carnival ensures you're kept active throughout the day on paradise island.
 

Half Moon Cay

Undisputed heaven on Earth, Half Moon Cay’s crescent-shaped isle features nature’s best. A watercolour of tranquillity and a soundtrack of gentle lapping water let you succumb to holiday bliss.

Feel the wind in your hair as you go horse riding on the sandy bay, an iconic Half Moon Cay activity. Other options are also abound, including swimming with stingrays, parasailing, and snorkelling.


Special Mention

Virgin Voyages

Virgin knows how to do holidays right, taking you from sky-high adventures to unforgettable getaways on land and sea. With a fleet of four ships - Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, and the soon-to-launch Brilliant Lady - Virgin Voyages has become the go-to for adult-only cruises. While The Beach Club at Bimini may not technically be a private island, it’s a must-see hotspot, made famous by A-listers and lucky travellers who’ve sailed with Virgin Voyages.

The Beach Club at Bimini

The Beach Club at Bimini, a private beach club created by Virgin Voyages, is located on North Bimini Island in the Bahamas, about 50 miles from Miami. With powdery white sand and shimmering turquoise waters, this tropical escape is all about luxury and laid-back island vibes.



Kick off your day with soul-soothing yoga and meditation, then unwind in the gorgeous lagoon-style pools or hit the multiple bars and dining areas. And when you want to crank up the heat, let loose at epic DJ pool parties that keep the energy high.

There's something for everyone at The Beach Club at Bimini, from various water sports to swaying in hammocks at The Hideaway, historic shipwreck diving, or sipping cocktails from the comfort of clamshell lounges, cabanas or daybeds.
 

With this information at your fingertips, why not visit one of these beautiful private islands yourself? Simply click here to check out our award-winning cruise holidays


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