Things to Do on Castaway Cay (And What to Skip)
Castaway Cay may be a tiny island, but it’s packed with so many activities that you might have a hard time deciding how to best spend your time. Measuring 3.1 miles long and 2.2 miles wide, Disney’s private island in The Bahamas offers everything from bike rentals and watersports to parasailing and a hands‑on stingray experience. Follow this list of dos and don’ts for the best things to do on Castaway Cay, plus what to skip so you can enjoy every beachy minute.
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1. Do Know Your Castaway Cay Options
Before you start planning your time on the island, it helps to know about the things to do on Disney’s Castaway Cay. It’s tempting to try to squeeze all the activities into one visit, but this tropical paradise is so much better when you slow down. Pick a few must‑dos that make your crew happy, then let the rest go. The point here is to relax, island-style.
Things to Do in Castaway Cay
- Beaches – Family Beach, Sports Beach, and the adults-only Serenity Bay Beach
- Snorkeling Lagoon – An underwater Mickey Mouse statue, a staged shipwreck, and plenty of tropical fish
- Pelican Plunge – A floating waterslide structure that kids love
- Bike Rentals – With easy island paths leading to an observation tower
- Watersports – Kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, and boat excursions
- Parasailing – Thrilling views of Castaway Cay from above
- Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure – An educational, hands-on animal encounter
- Massage at Serenity Bay – A relaxing adults‑only treat right by the water
- Beach Yoga – A complimentary light yoga session at Serenity Bay
- Games – Beach volleyball, Ping-pong, basketball, pool tables, and giant board games
- Character Meet-and-Greets – Disney characters in adorable beach outfits
- Shopping – Exclusive Castaway Cay merch you can’t get anywhere else
- Food & Drinks – Beach fare at Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too BBQ, and Hangar 98 BBQ
- Tram Transportation – A great way to get around the small island
2. Don’t Forget Your Stateroom Key
You absolutely must bring your Key to the World card when heading off the ship. It’s required to disembark and reboard. Thankfully, most other beach essentials, like sunblock and sand toys, can be purchased right on the island if you forget something. Towels are provided on Castaway Cay, so no need to lug those along.
3. Do Take the Tram
The walk from the ship to the main beach areas is longer than most first‑timers expect, especially in the heat. Thankfully, Castaway Cay’s complimentary tram system makes getting around easy. Hop on at the pier and ride to Family Beach, Sports Beach, or the transfer stop for Serenity Bay. It’s the quickest way to start your island day without wasting energy on the trek.
4. Don’t Bring a Stroller
Save yourself the hassle of hauling a stroller off the ship. Castaway Cay provides complimentary strollers, wagons, and joggers, all conveniently located near the tram stops. The island also offers special sand‑friendly wheelchairs designed for guests with mobility challenges.
5. Do Choose the Right Beach
Castaway Cay offers three distinct beaches, each with its own vibe: Family Beach, Sports Beach, and Serenity Bay.
Family Beach
For families with babies or young children, stick to the stretch of Family Beach closest to the ship. As Keryn Means of Twist Travel Magazine notes, this area tends to be calmer and less crowded.
A little farther down, you’ll find Pelican Plunge, a floating water play structure anchored offshore. Kids and playful adults swim out to enjoy two water slides — one enclosed and one open. Sliders must be at least 38 inches tall, and those under 48 inches must wear a complimentary life vest.
Note: Castaway Cay’s Spring‑A‑Leak splash pad closed permanently in 2023 during the island’s refurbishment, and it was never replaced. It’s too bad because so many children adored this spot, including my kids when they were little.
Sports Beach
If lounging all day isn’t your style, head to Sports Beach. This active area features sand volleyball and tetherball.
Serenity Bay (18+)
Adults looking for peace and quiet will love Serenity Bay, the island’s dedicated 18+ beach lined with palm trees. Soft sand, wide‑open space, and a mellow atmosphere make it a great place to escape the hubbub. In my opinion, the adult-only Hangar 98 BBQ at this beach serves the best food on the entire island, too.
6. Don’t Miss Entertainment and Games
Castaway Cay offers more than just beaches, with plenty of entertainment sprinkled throughout the island. At the Gazebo near Family Beach, you’ll often find character dance parties, live music, and the popular Island Vibes DJ.
Jodi Grundig of Family Travel Magazine says, “We love sitting on Family Beach by the island’s Gazebo because we can easily walk over and see things like a character dance party and the Island Vibes DJ performance.”
Over at In Da Shade Game Pavilion, cruisers can join in on activities like basketball free‑throw contests, ping‑pong tournaments, and oversized games such as giant checkers, chess, foosball, and pool tables.
7. Do Stay Active on Castaway Cay
If you want to stay healthy and fit while cruising, Castaway Cay makes it easy to balance all that unlimited soft serve ice cream. You can take a free yoga class on the beach, swim and snorkel, or join a game of volleyball or tetherball at Sports Beach.
Cruisers can explore the island on the 1.5 miles of bike trails. Look for rentals for adult bikes, kids’ bikes, and child seats. You can also rent paddleboats, kayaks, or aquabikes from Gil’s Fins and Boats. If you prefer to play in the shade, head to one of the island’s two Game Pavilions for a covered round of ping‑pong or basketball.
8. Don’t Skip Snorkeling
Castaway Cay’s Snorkeling Lagoon is calm, clear, and full of tropical fish beneath the surface, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. An underwater Mickey statue and a separate sunken shipwreck make snorkeling here unique, with their algae-coated surfaces and small hiding spots that attract marine life.
Kirsten Maxwell with Kids Are a Trip says snorkeling at Castaway Cay was the highlight of her family’s day on the island. For kids, Maxwell recommends bringing your own full‑face snorkeling mask, which makes it easier for children to breathe comfortably without juggling separate pieces. You can also rent snorkel gear, like traditional masks and fins, right on the island. Life vests are complimentary and required for all snorkelers.
9. Do Pack Your Running Shoes
You might be surprised to learn that Disney’s private island has a self‑paced 5K course you can run or walk anytime during your visit. It used to be an organized race, but now you simply follow the marked path near the bike rental stand and complete the 3.1 miles at your own pace. When you’re done, you can pick up a rubber finisher medal from Bike Rentals for bragging rights and a fun souvenir. Kimberly Tate of Stuffed Suitcase says her entire family enjoyed running the course and still had plenty of time afterward for beach time and snorkeling.
10. Don’t Wait to Buy Castaway Cay Souvenirs
If you spot something you love on the island, buy it right then and there. I assumed I could pick out a Castaway Cay-themed shirt, hat, or magnet later on board the ship, but I was sadly disappointed. Castaway Cay merchandise is only sold on the island. Once you sail away, those souvenirs are gone.
11. Do Visit the Castaway Cay Post Office
Castaway Cay has a tiny Bahamian post office near the island entrance where you can mail a postcard with a special Castaway Cay postmark. This makes a fun keepsake for all ages. Because it’s run by the Bahamian government (not Disney), it’s the one place on the island that requires cash, and hours can be limited, so stop by early if it’s on your list. Both U.S. and Bahamian dollars are accepted.
12. Don’t Bring Your Wallet
Nearly all purchases on the island, from souvenirs and beach rentals to cocktails and mocktails, are charged to your Key to the World card account. If you want to send a postcard from Castaway Cay, tuck a few dollars in your beach bag, but leave the credit cards back in your stateroom safe.
13. Do Book a Shore Excursion or Activity
Castaway Cay has plenty of ways to enhance your beach day, from jet boat tours to snorkeling, kayaking, and jet ski rentals. Parasailing gives a thrilling, bird’s‑eye view of Disney’s island as you float high above the water behind a speedboat. Kids especially love the Stingray Adventure, where they can actually touch these amazing creatures. And if you need some serious relaxation, adults can’t go wrong with a beach massage at Serenity Bay.
14. Don’t Pay for Bottled Water
Cruisers must pay for bottled water, but non-alcoholic drinks such as sodas and fruit juices are free at bars and drink stations throughout the island. Why pay for water when you can hydrate for free? Castaway Cay has filtered water stations throughout the island where you can grab a complimentary cup of cold water anytime you need it. Bringing your own reusable water bottles is better for the environment, too.
Adults aged 21+ can also purchase beer, wine, and tropical cocktails like frozen mojitos. Grown-ups who choose to imbibe should double up on water to stay hydrated under the Bahamian sun.
15. Do Eat on Castaway Cay
There’s no sense wasting beach time eating on the ship when the food is tasty and free on the island. Choose from three places to eat: Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too BBQ, and Hangar 98 BBQ (formerly Serenity Bay BBQ). Expect simple beach day fare like hot dogs, hamburgers, fresh fruit, ice cream, potato salad, and soft drinks.
Hangar 98 BBQ is my favorite place to eat on the island. This adults‑only dining spot serves bonus entrées you won’t find at the other two locations, including ribeye steak, a spicy chicken sandwich, and seafood gumbo.
If you’d like to eat lunch on Castaway Cay, don’t wait till it’s too late. The restaurants typically shut down for the day at 2 pm.
16. Don’t Bring Your Own Pool Floats
Cruisers can rent standard inflatable inner tubes and large float mats at the Float Rentals near Family Beach. Water toys like these provide oodles of fun for children or a relaxing way for grown-ups to laze about in the water. Your pool noodle or fabulous flamingo pool float takes up valuable luggage space and may be confiscated by Disney, so it’s better to leave your own floating devices at home.
Keep in mind that the only floats you can bring to the island are “Coast Guard personal flotation devices (PFDs), water wings, and flotation sewn into bathing suits,” according to Disney Cruise Line policies. Basically, this means the only floats you can bring are life vests, and these are available for free on Castaway Cay.
17. Do Look for Disney Characters on the Island
Meeting Disney characters on Castaway Cay is a highlight for many vacationers, and photos with friends like Goofy and Minnie Mouse in their island outfits make wonderful souvenirs. You’ll often spot characters like Captain Jack Sparrow near the Arrival Plaza, along the paths to Family Beach, and occasionally around Pelican Plunge. Check your Personal Navigator or the Disney Cruise Line app for meet‑and‑greet times so you don’t miss your favorites.
18. Don’t Get Stuck Without a Beach Chair
Beach chairs fill up quickly on Castaway Cay, especially at Family Beach, which is the most popular area for cruisers with kids of all ages. Robin Hutson of Luxe Recess warns, “Unless you take the tram early in the morning to the Family Beach, you won’t get a spot, as this section fills up first.”
If you prefer a slower morning and disembark after 10:30, head to the first tram stop near the Snorkeling Lagoon. This area usually still has plenty of lounge chairs and umbrellas available later in the day, and you might even find an open hammock if you’re lucky.
19. Do Book a Private Cabana in Advance
If you want guaranteed space, shade, and extra luxury on Castaway Cay, renting a private cabana is the way to go. They are definitely pricey, but they come stocked with all kinds of goodies that elevate your beach day. You’ll get snacks, unlimited non‑alcoholic drinks, sunblock, sand toys, snorkeling gear, free float rentals, and even a one‑hour bike rental.
Private cabanas are extremely limited, so you need to book them online well ahead of your cruise. If you miss out, keep checking the Disney Cruise Line website because cancellations do pop up. You can also stop by Guest Services as soon as you board the ship to see if any last‑minute openings have appeared.
20. Don’t Forget Free Childcare on Castaway Cay
If you want some kid-free time on Castaway Cay, you’re in luck. Disney offers free supervised childcare at Scuttle’s Cove for children ages 3 to 12. It’s run by the same trained youth counselors who staff the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab on the ship. Check the Navigator App for operating hours so you can time your drop‑off around your beach plans.
Scuttle’s Cove gives kids a fun, sandy play space with organized activities, water play, and plenty of entertainment. There’s also a Teen Hideout for kids ages 14 to 17 to hang out and do cool stuff without parents or little siblings getting in the way. Meanwhile, parents can find their favorite things to do on Castaway Cay, knowing the kids are having a blast.
Plan and Book Your Disney Cruise Early
Anticipating your Disney Cruise is half the fun, and research shows travelers often enjoy the planning process as much as the vacation itself. I recommend buying The Unofficial Disney Cruise Line Guidebook for tons of helpful tips to make the most of your time at sea and in ports of call. Start planning early so you can dream, compare itineraries, and get excited before you sail.
Disney Cruise Line prices usually rise as sailings fill up, so booking early gives you lower rates and better stateroom choices. If you want help choosing the right cruise, Get Away Today is a fantastic resource. Plus, they offer bonuses like onboard spending credits and Mickey and Minnie plush toys when you mention Colleen Travels Between sent you. Book your Disney Cruise with Get Away Today now!
Disney’s Castaway Cay FAQ
What are the best things to do on Castaway Cay?
The most popular Castaway Cay activities include the Pelican Plunge water slides, the Snorkeling Lagoon, Castaway Family Beach, Serenity Bay for adults, bike rentals, and the Observation Tower. Your day goes smoother if you pick just a few favorites instead of trying to do everything.
Do I need to bring cash or a credit card?
No. You won’t need a credit card or cash for most of the island. Your Key to the World card handles purchases. The only exception is the Castaway Cay Post Office, which is run by the Bahamian government and still requires either U.S. or Bahamian cash.
Is food free on Castaway Cay?
Yes. Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too, and Hangar 98 BBQ are included in your cruise fare. Soft drinks and fresh fruit are free as well. Alcoholic drinks cost extra.
Is filtered water available for free?
No. Filtered water stations and soft drinks are free across the island. Bring a reusable bottle and skip the bottled water charge.
Where can I find shade on Castaway Cay?
Serenity Bay has the most palm trees and natural shade. Family Beach has scattered palm trees and plenty of umbrellas. If shade is a priority, arrive early or reserve a cabana.
Does Pelican Plunge cost extra money?
No. Pelican Plunge is completely free and included in your Castaway Cay day. You don’t need to book it in advance, and there’s no additional charge to use the water slides.
Do I need to book Port Adventures in advance?
Book early if you want parasailing, jet skis, or cabanas. Bike rentals, inner tubes, and snorkel gear are easy to grab day‑of.
Was the Castaway Cay splash pad shut down?
Yes. Spring‑A‑Leak splash pad near Family Beach, closed permanently during Castaway Cay’s 2023 refurbishment and hasn’t been replaced.
What’s the adults‑only beach like?
Serenity Bay is peaceful, palm‑lined, and quiet. It has its own bar and BBQ and is a great escape from the crowds.
Can I walk the whole island?
You can, but the tram is faster. The bike trail is a great way to explore the entire island, too.
Learn More Cruise Tips
Before you set sail with Mickey and friends, find out what to pack for a Disney Cruise.
Not sure which itinerary and ship are right for you? Here’s how to choose the best Disney Cruise.
Parents and grandparents sailing with children should read these helpful tips for cruising with kids.
Quench your thirst at sea with this review and rating of Royal Caribbean mocktails.
Save These Castaway Cay Tips
Considering a Disney Cruise? Keep this list of handy tips and things to do on Castaway Cay for future reference. Just pin the image above to Pinterest. Go ahead and follow me on Pinterest while you’re at it!
Do you have any questions or additional Castaway Cay tips? Share your comments and questions below!
Thank you to Disney Cruise Line for inviting me to sail on Fantasy and Dream. My family has also paid full price to sail with Disney, and we’ve loved every voyage. All opinions are mine, as always.
Hello!
My husband blessed my daughter and I with a cruise on the Disney Dream in December 2014. We’re so excited! My question is this, what do you do with your room key card while on Castaway Cay? Since it’s just my daughter and I going, and we’ll be snorkling and on rafts quite a bit of the day, do I need to put the room key card in a waterproof lanyard and keep it on my person all day?
Thanks so much!
Hi Laura – What a wonderful gift from your hubby! I like to put my room key in a lanyard to wear around my neck when cruising so I don’t forget it when I switch from purse to beach bag or if I want to wander about without a bag. You can purchase one of these from the ship’s gift shop. When swimming, I always just leave the room key wrapped in my beach towel or tucked into a shoe. Have a wonderful cruise!
Hi,
I’m travelling on the dream in dec this year and was wondering…
1) is it best to leave my 3 month old on the ship whilst we bike around castaway cay, or is there a special seat for her?
2) does my 3 year old get entertained on the island by the kids club? Is it something we need to pre book him into? Is he there all day or is there provisions for us to bike with him. (He won’t be able to bike himself)
Thanks!
Hi Gemma – Let me look into these questions for you & I’ll report back!
Hi Gemma –
Below is how the Disney Cruise Line PR peeps responded to your questions. Since there are child bicycle seats, it sounds like you can bring a baby on a bike ride, but 3 months may be too young for a bicycle seat. I did a little research and babies must be able to sit up on their own unattended to ride in bike seats. Your 3yo does not have to be in the kids club all day – you can check him out or in as you please, assuming there is enough space for him to attend. Please be aware that your 3yo should be fully potty trained to participate in the kids clubs, otherwise the nursery on board the ship would be a better option for him since Disney kids club personnel will not change diapers nor will they remind your child to use the bathroom on a regular basis (I learned this the hard way when my son was nearly 3yo and potty trained, but not so good at going to find a counselor/bathroom on his own – the nursery was a better fit for him).
1. Guests must be able to ride a bicycle. One-seat adult and one-seat child bicycles provided that will accommodate most guests. Bicycles built for two or tandem bicycles are not available. Children must be able to ride a bicycle and are required to wear helmets. Child bicycle seats, helmets and training wheels are available for no additional cost.
2. Kids ages 3-12 can enjoy Scuttle’s Cove, a children’s activity area staffed by the ship’s counselors. The day is filled with various programmed activities supervised by Disney counselors from the ship. Scuttle’s Cove now features a new whimsical water play area: a 1,200-square-foot soft wet deck area provides fresh-water fun with an array of pop jets, geysers and bubblers. With organized activities and Monstro’s Point—a giant whale-bone excavation site—kids will be delighted all day long. Scuttle’s Cove is open from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM.
My daughter would love the whale bone excavation…is this available to do as a family- or only with the kids club drop off? Also – is there an age limit if we go as a family?
Are there are opportunities for stingray feeding for a 3 year old? I know the excursion says 5. My daughter saw this activity on the travel channel and is obsessed!!
thanks!!
Hi Melissa – I am sure your daughter will have a blast on Castaway Cay! I can’t answer your questions so I suggest giving Disney Cruise Line a quick call. They’re always happy to help! (800) 951-3532
Thank you so much for this information.
You’re very welcome! 🙂
My husband and I will be cruising with Disney in February along with one of our sons, his wife and their three kids. I have rented a scooter to use on the cruise. Will I be able to use it on the island or will I need it. I can’t walk for long periods due to problems with my feet.
Hi Donna – I know there are special wheel chairs available on Castaway Cay that even work on the beach. Let me check with my PR rep on this one and I’ll get back to you!
Donna – I did a quick check of the Disney Cruise website and found the following information for people with disabilities visiting Castaway Cay. Looks like you can bring your scooter to Castaway Cay and take the tram from there and/or grab one of their cool sand wheelchairs. Have fun on your Disney Cruise!
* On Disney’s Castaway Cay, provisions for Guests with disabilities include the following:
* Paved pathways throughout the main promenade, providing access to shops and restaurants
* Sand wheelchairs, available free of charge and on a first-come, first-served basis
* A tram equipped to allow Guests in manual and electric wheelchairs to board
* Accessible restrooms
We will be on the Wonder next november! Iam worry about some topics please help!
How about the weather? Di you think water its going to be to cold for my 3 and 4 years babies?
What kind lf activities do you recomend for my family, we are mom, dad and 3 childrens under 4, iam worry we are going to be hand full all day!
And last one, we have an option to be on this castaway, kwest and nassau cruise or do Cozumel, grandcaiman and Jamaica, what would be your insigh would about the better option for my little kids and me?
Thanks for all your information!!
Loregre – I did a quick search for weather in November on Castaway Cay and the average temps range from a low of 68 F – 83 F high. The water temps will be lower, so I might not plan on doing a lot of swimming in the ocean. If you live somewhere very cold, your family may be more inclined to get in the water, though. Your kids could play with sand toys on the beach or you could rent bicycles with child seats to explore the island on two wheels.
As far as which cruise is best for your family…it’s really a matter of preference. I’d take a look at the port descriptions/excursions and decide which ones work best for each port and go from there. You really can’t go wrong with any Disney Cruise!
Hi Loregre,
I too have gone on a cruise with young children & they tend to tired very quickly & restless. Any trip to castaway cay is fabulous for the entire family, but I would consider how many days they will be able to handle on a cruise. You may wanna try a 3 or 4 day cruise first that limits some of the stops. Three stops may be too many for younger children & Cozumel may not be a great option for three little ones. This is just my opinion to help keep your vacation stress-free.
Me and my soon to be husband are thinking of taking a disney cruise in march or April for our honeymoon. Which ship and month is best out of Florida should we take? And what should we know and do we need passports
Hi Tammie – Typically Dream and Fantasy (the two newer ships) are the ships that sail out of Florida. Both ships are fabulous and very similar. It really is a matter of which ports you’d like to visit and your preferred cruise length. For most cruises, you will need a passport because you will be stopping at Mexico, Disney’s private island – Castaway Cay (which is actually part of The Bahamas), or other foreign Caribbean islands. Have an incredible honeymoon!
And don’t forget to check in online on Disney’s site. Lots of questions can be answered there too.
Hi, can you please help me with a few questions:
1. I have my snorkel mask and flippers but no vest, are vests available to use for free or should I expect to rent this at the island?
2. I’ll be doing the Disney dream cruise which stops at Nassau, my family and I will likely do a day at the Atlantis water park, I’ve been told the pre-pay price of admission via Disney comes with a premium vs. paying at the Atlantis facility, do you have insight into this?
3. On the same financial topic – with respect to castaway cay activities, can you comment on the pre-pay price vs. the price of activities at the island, is there a price break if you wait to pay for (snorkeling/parasailing/biking) once you get to the island?
Hi Colt – Let me check with my contact at Disney Cruise Line to see if I can answer these questions for you. I’ll post again when I hear back from them!
Hi Colt – Here’s what the Disney Cruise Line peeps said in response to your questions:
1. Snorkeling vests are available at Castaway Cay at no additional charge.
2. Disney Cruise Line offers a number of Port Adventures to Atlantis that include Aquaventure (the water park at Atlantis), including some excursions with additional experiences like snorkeling and interactions with dolphins and sea lions. Additionally, there is a Port Adventure solely for Aquaventure, if guests want to take the entire day to enjoy the water park. All of these Port Adventures include transportation to and from Atlantis as well as lunch. According to the Atlantis website, day passes to Aquaventure can be purchased, but they are not always available. Guests wishing to ensure they can experience Aquaventure can book in advance with Disney Cruise Line, and can then focus on having a relaxing, worry-free vacation.
3. Port Adventures are not more or less expensive when booked in advance, however, some of the packages are not available once on the island, such as the Castaway Cay Getaway Package. Others have limited availability (noted in the “Important Additional Information” section of the Port Adventure description on disneycruise.com), so guests wishing to participate in those experiences should consider booking in advance.
Does Cookies and Cookies Too serve breakfast or just lunch. We’ve had lunch there and it was delicious but I was wondering if we go directly there in the morning can we get breakfast.
Hi Susan – Breakfast isn’t served on Castaway Cay. I believe lunch is served 11:30 am – 2 pm, but the time might vary depending on your cruise and length of time in port.
Do they have bikes with training wheels?
Hi Carolina – That’s a good question! I tried to find the answer online but came up short. I’ve sent an email to the DCL PR peeps. I’ll let you know if there are any bikes with training wheels to rent on Castaway Cay when they get back to me.
Colleen,
Your tips are so helpful. Thank you.
My children and I will be on the Dream to Castaway very soon. They are chomping at the bit to try out the parasailing. Is it worth the short ride in the sky? Do I have to reserve on line before I leave for the cruise or is it something I can do once we are on the island that day? Currently, I noticed there is a 2:30 flight time (for an hour). If we do that time, will we have enough time to get back on board the ship? Thank you!\
Austin
Hi Austin – I have tried parasailing once, but not on Castaway Cay. It is definitely an experience your family will always remember! You could probably try parasailing elsewhere at a less expensive rate (I did it in Mexico), but it would be fun no matter where you go. You can book most activities on the island OR beforehand but if they get booked up, you’ll be out of luck. I’m sure you’ll have enough time to get back to the ship or they wouldn’t allow that time slot. I doubt you’d be in the air for a whole hour. (I think my flight was about 15 minutes or so, and that was plenty for me.) Have a great time!
Hi Austin,
I just thought I’d add a couple things too about parasailing. I’ve done it twice in Phuket, Thailand and Destin, Florida. If it’s the same as Destin, we went via speedboat with 4 other people we didn’t know. So it takes a little time to get to where they put you in the harness. Also, you wait for the other people to have their turn too. Hence, the hour. On a separate issue, I also wanted to say we booked excursions ahead of time on our Disney Cruise (though not parasailing), and you can cancel up until you board without paying. We didn’t know this, and forgot to cancel a snorkeling excursion we decided we didn’t want to do. They weren’t going to let us cancel it, since we’d set sail already. We ended up getting out of paying for it, due to choppy waves and they canceled all the excursions that day on Castaway Cay. So, I’d say book now (since it doesn’t cost anything until later), make up your mind a day before the cruise, and go from there. Have fun!
Kelly
Kelly – Good point on the parasailing timing and great tip on booking now and deciding right before the cruise!
Did you happen to find out if they have bikes with training wheels on Castaway Cay?
Cherie and Carolina – I’m so sorry I never posted about the training wheels on Castaway Cay! I looked at my photos of the bicycles available for rent on the island and saw that indeed some of the bikes do come equipped with training wheels.
Does DCL provide swimming vest for kids, especially for those who don’t swim?
Hi Christina – DCL DOES provide swimming vests for kiddos. My son is sporting one under the “Do rent an innertube” tip. Of course, you still need to be very vigilant about watching young ones in the water. Have a wonderful cruise!
Hi Christina – I checked with Disney Cruise Line PR and this was their response:
Disney Cruise Line has pool vests available for children onboard our ships and on Castaway Cay. We strongly recommend all children have adult supervision in the pools and water play areas onboard as well as at the beach on Castaway Cay.
Do you know if there will be gluten free food available at Castaway Cay?
Hi Michelle – Disney is excellent about offering dining options for travelers with food sensitivities and allergies. I don’t have specific information about gluten-free dining at Castaway Cay but I know that you can make your gluten free needs known when you register for your cruise. I would take it a step further by talking specifically with your head waiter (you’ll have the same one throughout your cruise) about your needs on your first night. I’m sure Disney can accommodate you!
Hi Michelle – I checked with Disney Cruise Line PR and this was they said:
Gluten-free dining options are available on Castaway Cay, as well as onboard. We ask families to notify us prior to sailing of any special dietary restrictions and to talk to their dining servers who will instruct them where to obtain gluten-free items on the island.
Im a little concerned about getting the tram to other areas for the day and the tram being overly full if you dont head back early and not being able to get back to the boat on time, cant walk back if its far with small children walking, do the trams getting crowded heading back to the boat near to departure time to the point you might get stuck
Hi Kim – You shouldn’t have any trouble catching a tram back to the ship. If you are concerned, just give yourself some extra time instead of waiting for the final tram of the day! Enjoy your Disney Cruise!
We will be on the Wonder this Wednesday! It’s our 1st Disney cruise. Are there plenty of chairs & beach umbrellas on castaway cay? Is there a charge? The grandparents are joining us and this is a must have for them.
Hi Rosie-
I know you can pay a fee for a luxury cabana with shade and other amenities but I can’t remember if there were complimentary umbrellas available. There were plenty of beach chairs, but still they can get filled up so I suggest arriving early. I have sent your question to my PR contact at Disney Cruise Line and I’ll let you know what she says about the umbrellas! Enjoy your cruise!
Well, that was fast! My Disney Cruise Line PR contact said this about the umbrellas/beach chairs:
Yes, there are plenty of beach chairs and loungers for all guests on Castaway Cay at no charge. Umbrellas are on a first come basis, no charge and there is a large quantity of those as well, already set up on the beach.
You said something about basketball on the island? Do you know if they have anythjng organized or if it is just for fun?
Tanner – I don’t think there’s anything organized but if you want to set up a game with fellow cruisers, I suggest going to CruiseCritic.com’s chat rooms. You can find the date of your sailing there and get to know your fellow cruisers before you even leave home. You could try to set up a basketball game on Castaway Cay via the chat room.
We are going to take a Disney Cruise Line Caribbean cruise for our honeymoon. We only have a tourist US visa, will we be allowed to enter Castaway Cay?
Hi Angel – Castaway Cay is officially part of The Bahamas. I would check with Disney Cruise Line directly on this question to be safe!