If you’re planning a Disney Cruise Line sailing, a stop at Castaway Cay is often the highlight for many guests—myself included after many visits.
This beautiful Bahamian island, leased by Disney since 1997, has a lot to offer – and there is no extra fee to visit.
Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or solo, these 40 tips will help you make the most of your time there.
I’ll cover everything from getting around to hidden gems, with practical advice to ensure your day is smooth and memorable.
Castaway Cay spans about 1,000 acres, but only a small portion is developed, leaving plenty of natural beauty to explore. It’s exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests, so expect a stress-free paradise compared to other ports.
1. It is for Disney Cruise Guests Only
Castaway Cay is reachable only via Disney Cruise Line ships, located 73 miles north of Nassau in the Bahamas.
Check your cruise route to ensure it includes a stop—some even feature a “Double Dip” with two visits.
Related: Castaway Cay vs Lighthouse Point – Which Disney Island is Right for You?
2. Pronounce It ‘Key’
I admit it. I got this wrong at first. You don’t pronounce it as you first thing you do – it is “key” not “cay”
The name “Cay” derives from the Spanish “cayo,” meaning a small island, and it’s pronounced like “key.”
3. No Extra Fee to Visit, But Extras can Add Up
Your cruise fare covers access to the island, including beaches and the island amenities.
You really do not have to spend anything extra at all – but there are paid options for activities.
Paid options like excursions (e.g., stingray adventures at $64 for adults) or rentals are optional. If you’re on a budget, stick to free activities—I’ve had wonderful days just lounging without spending more.
Related: Disney Castaway Cay Activities – Details and Prices
4. Towels Are Provided – No Need to Pack Your Own
As you disembark, you’ll find stacks of complimentary beach towels, with more stations around the island. It’s one of those thoughtful Disney touches that makes the day easier—we just grab them and go, returning them before heading back to the ship.
5. Breakfast on the Ship Offers Stunning Views
Opt for the ship’s buffet for a quick meal with outdoor seating overlooking the island.
It’s a peaceful start to the day.
6. Included Lunches Are BBQ-Style – Time It Right
Food is included in your cruise fare.
Barbecue lunches run from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM at Cookie’s BBQ, Cookie’s Too (both family areas), and Serenity Bay BBQ (adults-only).
Menu highlights include burgers, ribs, and salads. Get the soft serve ice cream too!
7. Accommodate Dietary Needs in Advance
For any special dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, inform your server the night before. I have sailed with family and friends who have all needed special options and they were happy with the way that DCL looked after them.
8. Serenity Bay: A Tranquil Adults-Only Haven
This 18+ beach at the island’s far end offers shallow waters and a serene vibe.
It’s less crowded than family areas, perfect for relaxing. If you are sailing without kids definitely go to this spot for at least part of the day.
You can walk but it is a long way – you can take a tram there. You do have to get off at the family beach stop and then get another tram which will take you all the way to the adult beach.
Related: The Complete Guide to Serenity Bay
9. Walk a Little Further for Extra Privacy
At Serenity Bay, crowds cluster near the entrance.
Walk a bit further for near-private spots with lounge chairs and umbrellas. The only compromise with that is it can be a long walk back to the food, the bar and the bathrooms!
10. Pack Beach Shoes for Comfort
The soft sand hides rocky spots, especially in shallow waters. I always have water shoes and I found these recently and like the style much better than the usual design.
11. Mind the Tides at Serenity Bay
Waters here are shallow, but low tide can expose more sand than sea.
Visit earlier for swimming; tides shift quickly, and by afternoon you will have a long walk out if you want to experience the water much higher than your knees!
12. Snorkeling Is Free with Your Own Gear
The snorkel lagoon has underwater surprises like Mickey statues.
Life vests are free and compulsory for snorkeling. Bring your mask and fins to skip rental fees ($44 for adults).
It’s a budget-friendly way to spot fish in calm waters and even try snorkeling for the first time (that is how I first experienced it). Be aware though that the statues are a long way out – make sure you know your limitations.
13. Try Castaway Ray’s Stingray Adventure
For $64 (adults) or $54 (kids 5-9), this guided session lets you feed and snorkel with stingrays. Book early—it’s popular and limited. Accompanying adults are required for under-17s.
14. Unlimited Included Ice Cream and Drinks
Self-serve stations near BBQs offer soft-serve ice cream and beverages. It’s a sweet perk for hot days—pair it with fresh fruit from lunch for a refreshing treat.
15. Join the Free Castaway Cay 5K
This casual 5K run or walk starts early; no pre-registration needed, just show up.
Earn a medal and explore trails with water stops. It’s family-friendly (ages 10+), and I’ve found it a fun way to see hidden spots like the observation tower, that you wouldn’t usually discover.
If you plan to do this, make sure that you do it early in the day. The sun can be very strong.
16. Spot Characters in Castaway Cay Outfits
Disney favorites like Mickey appear in beachwear for photos. You may also encounter other favorite Captains – Captain Hook and Captain Jack Sparrow!
Check the Navigator app for times and locations.
17. Much of the Island Remains Natural
Only 55 acres are developed; the rest is lush forest. The island has an interesting history – involving pirates and a dubious past including drug smuggling.
Related: Castaway Cay – The Real Backstory
18. Climb the Hidden Observation Tower
Along bike or 5K paths, find this 40-foot tower for panoramic views.
Most visitors do not know this exists—perfect for photos of the ship and landscape.
19. Rent Bikes to Discover Trails
At $19 per hour, bikes (with helmets and child seats) let you pedal 1.5 miles of paved paths.
Early mornings are best to avoid heat; it’s an easy way to see the old airstrip and explore the island that most people don’t see.
20. The Flying Dutchman Used to be Here
From 2006-2010, the Pirates of the Caribbean ship was displayed here, tying into the island’s rumored pirate past.
Many people mistakenly think that Pirates of the Caribbean was filmed here – it wasn’t but the ship featured in the movies was stored here for a while. Unfortunately, it was only ever built as a prop and it didn’t last very long.
Related: The Flying Dutchman at Castaway Cay
21. Cabanas Are Almost Impossible to Get
With just 24 available ($399-$949), they’re hard to snag unless you’re Concierge or have Pearl Castaway Club status.
Related: Castaway Cay Cabanas – An Inside Look
22. There is Limited Time
Ships dock around 9:00 AM and usually depart by 4:00 PM. You will be notified of the all aboard time in the App and it will also be posted on a sign where you disembark.
Make sure that you know when to be back at the ship, and the time for the last tram.
23. Kids’ Club at Scuttle’s Cove is Included
A lot of people don’t realize that there is a Kids Club on the island. You can use this and have some time to yourself, and maybe even head on over to the adult beach at Serenity Bay.
Supervised activities like scavenger hunts keep kids entertained while parents relax. It’s secure and water-free, ideal for a break at Serenity Bay.
24. Teen Hideout
Teens can spend time in the Teen Hideout on the island if they want some time to themselves!
25. Spring-A-Leak Splash Pad for Little Ones
This shaded area with fountains is perfect for toddlers and little ones. It’s a cool spot near the family beach for safe play. It is located next to the bike rental kiosk.
26. Enjoy Pelican Plunge Waterslides
Swim out to this floating platform with fast and leisurely slides; life jackets available.
Go early to avoid lines—it’s a popular spot for all ages.
27. There is WiFi – In Theory
A visit to Castaway Cay is a great opportunity to stay detached from reality! In theory there is a wifi signal – there are towers on the island – but it is pretty terrible.
You will still be able to use the Navigator App, but the only reason I bring my phone with me to Castaway Cay is to take pictures.
28. Opt for the Getaway Package Bundle
If you think that you will be getting all these options then you can bundle and save.
For $54 (adults) or $34 (kids), get snorkel gear, a float, and bike rental. Book onboard; it’s a smart save if planning multiple activities.
But if you are unsure of what you want to do then you can wait until you get on the island. There are kiosks where you can rent all of these items.
29. Relax at Castaway Air Bar
This rustic bar at Serenity Bay serves drinks like the Konk Kooler.
Its backstory (built from a stranded pilot’s plane) adds that special Disney touch. Take your drink to your lounger or spend some time at the bar which has some limited seating available.
30. Weddings on the Island Are Possible
For the ultimate Castaway Cay day!
Packages start at $5,000 for a wedding or vow renewal on Castaway Cay.
31. Sea Creatures Are Rare and Monitored
Jellyfish, or sea lice are uncommon, thanks to nets which surround the lagoon.
32. This Sometimes Happens – And It’s Disappointing
Sometimes the ship can’t dock at Castaway Cay because of adverse weather conditions.
This is obviously disappointing – but it is for your safety.
The dock was built for Disney and there was also a channel cut out so that ships could navigate to the dock. If a Captain feels that there is any chance that they cannot navigate this channel then they will reluctantly take the decision to skip the port and you will have an extra day at sea.
33. Loungers and Umbrellas Are Plentiful and Free
No reservations needed—thousands are available.
34. The Ship is Quiet When at Castaway Cay
You might want to take the chance to spend some time on the ship when it is docked at Castaway Cay. Most people get off the ship – this means that lines for the AquaDuck are usually much shorter.
The buffet will be open for breakfast and lunch. Most people get off the ship early and start to return around 2 pm. But you don’t have to go with the crowd!
35. Refill Water Bottles Easily
Free stations near restrooms and the BBQ locations keep you hydrated. Bring a reusable bottle—essential in the Bahamian heat.
36. Navigation Is Straightforward
Well-marked paths, trams, and bikes make it easy. From the dock, trams whisk you to beaches; walking lets you spot details like the post office.
37. Bring Sunscreen to Save Money
Island prices are high; pack your own. With the island’s sunny history (once a pirate lookout), protection is key.
39. Activities for Every Interest
From snorkeling ($44 rental) to kayaking tours ($84), there’s something for everyone!
And if relaxing on the beach is your thing then there is no need to spend anything extra.
40. You’ll Likely Want to Return
Castaway Cay’s is one of the most popular of all Disney’s cruise ports – and many people return again and again.
Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando. In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.