Royal Caribbean has announced the expansion of its Artist Discovery Program from ship to shore, giving Bahamian artists the opportunity to bring to life the region’s culture through curated collections and performances. The next edition of the program will offer guests visiting the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island more ways to encounter the beauty of the Bahamas.

“The Artist Discovery Program will ensure we authentically reflect The Bahamas’ enduring creativity and essence at our Royal Beach Club,” said Philip Simon, President, Royal Caribbean Bahamas. “We are excited to give our guests a deeper and immersive taste of The Bahamas by embedding local art at the center of the ultimate vacation experience.”

Opportunities for artists include large-scale murals, dance performances, live music, and expressive sculptures. Artists will be prominently featured throughout the beach club.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will be designed to offer an immersive experience of Bahamian art through designated “art districts.” The districts will introduce guests to Bahamian traditions, highlighting natural wonders, festivities, and the country’s beauty.

Both individual and teams of artists living in the Bahamas are invited to apply for consideration with mural, sculpture, musical, or performance submissions. Submissions must be completed by March 28, 2025. Applicants must send five work samples, a CV, and an artist statement to RBCPIArtistDiscoveryProgram@rccl.com to be considered.

The first round of selections will be announced in April, and the final selections will be revealed in May. Final selections will be installed at the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island by July 2025, with a grand unveiling in December 2025.

The first of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Collection continues to take shape ahead of its opening this December.

Additional information on the Artist Discovery Program can be found here.

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The countdown is officially on for the opening of Carnival Cruise Line’s brand-new private destination in the Bahamas, Celebration Key. To kick off the countdown, Carnival Corporation’s CEO Josh Weinstein and Chief Maritime Officer Lars Ljoen joined Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy for a behind the scenes look at Celebration Key as construction enters its final phases.

In a nod to the maritime tradition of a keel laying for a new ship, they placed commemorative keys into Celebration Key’s signature Suncastle, the sandcastle-esque centerpiece of the sunny destination.

The Suncastle is 10 stories tall, standing near the first portal guests encounter when they arrive at Celebration Key, called Paradise Plaza. The Suncastle is home to racing waterslides which are part of the family-focused portal, Starfish Lagoon. Other portals include the adult-focused portal Calypso Lagoon, a premium beach club called Pearl Cove, and an artisan retail village called Lokono Cove.

During their tour, the Carnival leaders joined team members planting palm trees from the “Plant a Tree” community engagement program that launched last year as part of a broad preservation initiative. It has involved replanting of thousands of native trees across the property. About 1,000 sabal palms were saved and replanted across Celebration Key.

Duffy also participated in the ceremonial filling of one of two expansive freshwater lagoons that will be sustained by Celebration Key’s desalination system that converts seawater into freshwater. The lagoons span over seven acres and hold about seven million gallons of water.

“Celebration Key represents a new chapter for Carnival and its construction builds on our close partnership with The Bahamas, so seeing it transform from vision to reality is incredible,” said Duffy. “We broke ground on this site less than three years ago, and now in five short months we’ll see our first guests enjoy the many experiences we created just for them to celebrate and enjoy this gorgeous place on Grand Bahama.”

About 500 workers are on site daily as construction continues to prepare Celebration Key for its summer opening. To date, 28 Bahamian companies have contributed to the project. Carnival Vista is slated to be the first ship to stop there on July 19th.

“This destination will serve as a tribute to the rich Bahamian culture and Grand Bahama’s natural environment,” said Weinstein. “It’s clear Celebration Key will be a game-changer for our flagship brand and its loyal guests, with endless options for relaxation and recreation, but it’s also truly great to see firsthand how we’re implementing our company’s robust sustainability initiatives on land.”

Celebration Key is a featured destination on hundreds of Carnival itineraries across 20 ships sailing from 10 U.S. homeports into 2027. It’s the first destination that’s exclusively for Carnival Cruise Line ships. Half Moon Cay, another private destination in the Bahamas, is shared between Carnival and her sister brand Holland America Line.

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After decades of sharing a private island (Half Moon Cay) with sister brand Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line finally has a private destination to call its own. Carnival’s Celebration Key is an exclusive port in the Bahamas that allows guests to enjoy a beach or pool day filled with fun — from water slides and games to delicious food and drinks.

If you’re looking for an overview of what you need to know about Celebration Key, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s our full guide to Celebration Key, Bahamas.

Guide to Celebration Key Bahamas

What is Carnival’s Celebration Key?

Celebration Key is an upcoming private port for Carnival Cruise Line, located in the Bahamas. It can be found on the southern coast of Grand Bahama, about a 23-mile (40 minute) drive from the Freeport Cruise Port on the western side of the island.

Construction on Celebration Key officially broke ground in spring 2022, and design and construction has been underway since. The first cruise ship scheduled to visit the beach destination is Carnival Vista on July 12th during an eight-night southern Caribbean cruise.

Celebration Key will feature its own cruise pier, able to accommodate up to two of Carnival’s largest Excel-class vessels simultaneously. The destination will be split into five areas that Carnival calls “portals.” They are the Paradise Plaza welcome area, the family-focused Starfish Lagoon, the adult-centered Calypso Lagoon, the Locono Cove shopping area, and the adults-only private beach club, Pearl Cove. Starfish Lagoon will feature the largest freshwater lagoon in all of the Caribbean.

Getting to Celebration Key Bahamas

Carnival’s Celebration Key will be exclusively for Carnival cruise ships. This means that you cannot visit the destination unless you’re on a Carnival cruise. Most sailings that include a call at Celebration Key will originate in Florida, including voyages from Miami, Port Canaveral, Jacksonville, and Tampa. However, other homeports will also offer cruises to Celebration Key such as Mobile, Alabama; Galveston, Texas; and Baltimore, Maryland; among others.

The majority of the ships in Carnival’s fleet will sail to Celebration Key over the next couple of years. These include the line’s three newest and largest ships, Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee, which offer mostly six to eight-night sailings. Shorter Bahamas and Caribbean cruises on ships like Carnival Sunrise, Horizon, Freedom, and Vista will also visit Celebration Key.

What’s Free at Celebration Key?

A number of included activities, amenities, and entertainment will be available for visitors to enjoy at Celebration Key. As guests arrive to the destination, they’ll be greeted by live music and a fountain at Paradise Plaza.

Starfish Lagoon is filled with fun for the whole family. The focal point of the entire destination is located here: the towering Suncastle, constructed to look like a sandcastle. This structure will house dual racing waterslides, which are 350-foot-long, 10-story attractions called Flash Flamingo and Mach III Marlin. The Starfish Lagoon portal is also where you’ll find a lagoon swimming pool, the family-friendly beach, and the Guppy Grotto splash pad with fun water features for the littlest visitors. A gaming pavilion also offers activities like ping-pong, foosball, and cornhole.

Calypso Lagoon will be the more adult-friendly portal, though it’s not limited to just adults like the exclusive Pearl Cove Beach Club is (more on that below). This area is located on the other half of the lagoon-style pool, offering a more laid-back atmosphere complete with DJ-spun music. This portal also offers access to the beach.

Competitive guests might want to play a few games at the pickleball, basketball, or volleyball courts, which are accessible from both the Starfish and Calypso Lagoon areas.

Food at Carnival’s Celebration Key

Island Eats

Instead of offering a full picnic-style buffet for free to guests like many private cruise destinations, Celebration Key will operate a bit differently. The destination will feature a number of both sit-down and casual walk-up dining venues that are an extra fee. Each guest will receive a dining credit called Island Eats. This entitles passengers to a complimentary meal at one of the quick casual venues, or a 25 percent discount on one entree from the full-service restaurants (excluding the Pearl Cove restaurant).

However, if you’re still looking for a buffet-style restaurant, there is one at Celebration Key that you can use your Island Eats credit for — Captain’s Galley Food Hall. Located in the Starfish Lagoon portal, the food hall will serve subs, burritos, hot dogs, pizza, burgers, salads, Mediterranean bowls, desserts, and more.

Between dining venues and bars, there will be over 30 options to choose from at Celebration Key.

Casual Venues

There will be a number of casual dining options at Celebration Key in addition to the aforementioned food hall, including food trucks and carts, snack shacks, and the fast-casual venue Mingo’s Express.

Calypso Lagoon, Starfish Lagoon, and Lokono Cove will all have food carts. Paradise Plaza will feature an ice cream shop called Yumshine Scoops.

Snack shacks can be found in both Calypso Lagoon and Starfish Lagoon, serving things like wraps, sandwiches, salads, and other grab-and-go items. Those two portals have their own food truck plazas too, offering beachside classics like burgers and chicken sandwiches as well as local Bahamian dishes like conch fritters.

Mingo’s Express, located at Calypso Lagoon, will offer hamburgers, salad, fish sandwiches, and Caribbean specialties.

Full-Service Restaurants

Celebration Key will be home to four full-service restaurants for visitors to enjoy as well.

Located in Calypso Lagoon are two sit-down restaurants: Mingo’s Tropical Bar & Kitchen and Surf N’ Sauce BBQ & Brews. Named for the Bahamas’ national bird, Mingo’s will serve up island favorites like jerk chicken and coconut shrimp, as well as classics including tacos and burgers. Surf N’ Sauce BBQ & Brews is exactly as it sounds — a barbecue joint. Complete with an outdoor smoker, guests can enjoy slow-cooked meats alongside sides and sauces right next to the lagoon. Bonus: guests will also be able to grab a craft beer from a local brewery at the venue’s full-service bar.

The family-friendly Starfish Lagoon will be home to Gill’s Grill, a full-service restaurant pairing land and sea with dishes like seafood baskets, steamed crab, shrimp, lobster, local fish, chicken, and burgers.

The Pearl Cove Beach Club has its own full-service venue too, aptly named Pearl Cove Beach Club Restaurant & Bar. The space will include a restaurant with an elevated menu, bar, and lounge area. It will serve dishes such as lobster, shrimp, fresh sushi, and salads.

Drinks at Celebration Key

A number of bars will be dotted around Celebration Key, ensuring that guests will never be far from a tropical cocktail or ice-cold beer. But before we get to that, we first have to talk about coffee. Many visitors will want to start their island day with a burst of energy from Suncastle Grounds Coffee, located in Locono Cove. It will serve up hot, iced, and frozen coffee beverages.

Now, onto Carnival’s Celebration Key bars. We don’t know exactly what drinks will be offered at each bar, as menus have not yet been revealed and the destination is not yet open.

Calypso Lagoon is home to three bars. Long Necks Bar in a swim-up bar in the lagoon with a whopping 100 seats. There, guests can enjoy a Bahamian cocktail, frozen drink, or beer amidst a fun atmosphere curated by an on-site DJ. Visitors may also want to swing on over to one of the 40 swings at the Sunshine Swings Bar. The last bar at Calypso Lagoon is the Lagoon Bar West.

Over at the Starfish Lagoon, guests will find Lagoon Bar West’s counterpart, Lagoon Bar East. Starfish Lagoon is also home to Parrotfish Swim Up Bar, which offers variety with both in-water and out-of-water seating. The AquaBana area will also have its own bar.

Over at the beach club is the Pearl Cove Beach Club swim-up bar, serving up its own tropical cocktails and other libations.

Remember that the full-service restaurants mentioned above include bars of their own, too.

As for standard non-alcoholic beverages that guests don’t have to pay extra for, Carnival has not revealed what will be offered at Celebration Key. However, you can expect that offerings will likely be similar to what you can find on other cruise line private islands such as ice water, lemonade, and iced tea.

Does Carnival’s Cheers drink package work at Celebration Key?

Unfortunately, Carnival’s beverage packages do not apply to the line’s private destinations, which include both Celebration Key and Carnival Corporation’s private island Half Moon Cay. So you’ll have to pay menu price for alcoholic and specialty beverages.

Things to Do at Celebration Key That Cost Extra

Shore Excursions

During a visit to Celebration Key, cruise passengers don’t have to stay in the port area. Whether exploring on their own or taking a Carnival shore excursion, guests have the option of seeing other parts of Grand Bahama Island. However, these explorations are not included in the cruise fare and will cost extra. Some of Carnival’s shore excursions available at Celebration Key include:

• ATV off-roading with visits to a garden and Taino Beach
• Pirate’s Cove ziplining and beach break
• Open-air tram city tour with a guided tour of Cooper’s Castle and a visit to the Port Lucaya Marketplace
• Jet-skiing along Millionaire’s Row and a visit to Taino Beach
• Open-air tram tour with a wine-and-paint class and visit to the Straw Market
• Disco Bus tour with rum and beer tasting along with a stop at the beach

Guests can also rent equipment for water activities within Celebration Key, including kayaks and paddleboards.

Shopping

Carnival’s Celebration Key will include a number of shops offering handmade craft items, duty-free items, jewelry, and other souvenirs. Locono Cove, the shopping portal, will also feature a Bahamian artisan market. There are also shopping opportunities on other parts of the island, and many shore excursions build in time for visitors to peruse local shops as well.

Cabana and Daybed Rentals

Cabanas

Standard cabanas will be available at several spots surrounding the lagoons as well as close to the kids’ splash pad. They can accommodate up to four guests and include armchairs, a couch, sun loungers, a cooler with chilled bottled water, and fruit and snacks upon arrival.

Over-the-lagoon cabanas, located on peninsulas over the lagoons, add a private sun shelf and ceiling fan. Large cabanas can also be found around the lagoons, accommodating groups of up to six. They include a few extras such as a dining table, soda, and lunch delivery.

AquaBanas are fun floating cabanas centered around a peninsula with its own bar at Starfish Lagoon. They offer seating for up to eight people around a table, with their feet in the water under a shady canopy.

Villas

Supervillas are the largest private cabanas at Celebration Key with the ability to accommodate up to 10 guests. They include the same things as the other cabanas, plus hammocks, swing chairs, dedicated sun shelves with water loungers, and a waterslide into the lagoon. There are two Supervillas at Calypso Lagoon, and two at Starfish Lagoon.

Four Beach Supervillas will also be available: two at the family-friendly beach and two at the adults-only beach.

Daybeds

For a slightly more premium experience at a lower cost, guests can also opt to reserve a daybed, many of which are located at both Calypso and Starfish Lagoons. The plush daybeds include pillows, a canopy for shade, and privacy curtains. Water daybeds include lounging for two on the sun shelf at Calypso Lagoon.

Pearl Cove Beach Club

If you’re looking for a more upscale and laid-back place to hang around the pool or beach, Pearl Cove Beach Club is the place to be. This exclusive portal is open only to adults 18 and older, and requires a fee for access.

The focal point of Pearl Cove is an 11,000 square-foot infinity pool complete with a sun shelf, premium loungers, and umbrellas. Villas and cabanas are available in the beach club for rent. Pearl Cove also has its own private end of the beach, which will offer food and drink service.

There will be three types of bookings available for access to Pearl Cove Beach Club. The first is basic beach club access, which includes a welcome drink of fruit or rum punch starting at $100 per person.

The second is open bar access, which consists of rum punch, draft domestic beer, house red and white wine, well drinks, frozen strawberry daiquiris, and piña coladas. This option includes up to 10 drinks and starts at $140 per person. The third option is all-inclusive access, which is the same as the open bar except it also includes lunch at the Pearl Cove full-service restaurant. This package also has a 10-drink limit, and starts at $180 per person.

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MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas is a beautiful slice of paradise that’s perfect for a beach day. If you’ve clicked on this article, chances are you’re either looking to book a cruise to Ocean Cay, or already have and want to know more about it. You’re in luck — here’s our guide to what you need to know about Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

Everything You Need to Know About Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

What is MSC Ocean Cay?

Ocean Cay is MSC Group’s private island in the Bimini district of the Bahamas. It’s located 20 miles south of Bimini proper.

Ocean Cay is an artificial island that was built by dredging in the 1960s by Dillingham Construction. It was used to mine white sand for industrial purposes. Dillingham Construction wound up abandoning the island, and in 2015 MSC Group acquired it through a 100-year lease agreement.

The transformation from industrial mining site to cruise destination involved removing the abandoned mining infrastructure and cleaning up the island and surrounding ocean bed. The company also relocated hundreds of coral colonies from debris on the ocean bed to better locations where they can grow, and planted thousands of plants on the island that are native to the region.

Through MSC Group’s restoration and conservation efforts as it developed Ocean Cay, the island achieved marine reserve status. Thus, the destination’s full name is Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and is now a flourishing 64-square-mile ecosystem.

Currently, all Caribbean and Bahamas voyages on MSC Cruises that depart from Miami, Port Canaveral, and Brooklyn include a visit to Ocean Cay. MSC Group’s luxury cruise brand, Explora Journeys, also visits the island on some of its Caribbean itineraries.

Getting to Ocean Cay, Bahamas

Ocean Cay is a private island, meaning only MSC Cruises and the company’s luxury cruise brand, Explora Journeys, can go there. This means that to visit, guests must book a cruise that stops there on one of those two cruise lines. Currently, guests can book sailings on MSC Divinia, Grandiosa, Magnifica, Meraviglia, Seascape, Seashore, Seaside, and World America that visit Ocean Cay.

Ocean Cay has a dock, which means passengers can walk on and off the ship at their leisure without having to wait for a tender ride.

Your cruise itinerary dictates how long your ship will dock there. Most ships will arrive around 8 am, with a single-day call ending anywhere from 5 pm to midnight. Some visits are overnight, with the ship departing the following day. However, even on overnight calls all guests have to be back on the ship for the night — usually around midnight — and can then get back on the island in the morning.

Just off the dock is a transportation area where guests can catch a free tram to various beaches. If you don’t want to take a tram the closest beach, Lighthouse Bay, is about a five minute walk.

Yacht Club guests get their own transportation to the private Yacht Club area on the island, Ocean House, in the form of golf carts.

What’s Free at MSC Ocean Cay?

For most visitors, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve is a beach day, so it’s fitting that there are eight beaches to choose from. The closest beach to the ship, which faces the ocean, is Lighthouse Bay. It’s a busy beach with activities throughout the day, sitting between the pier and the island’s lighthouse. Other ocean-facing beaches include the destination’s longest beach Sunset Beach, Bimini Beach on Ocean Cay’s smaller island, Paradise Sands between the spa and wedding pavilion, and Ocean House Beach — which is just for Yacht Club guests.

Ocean Cay also has a lagoon, which sits between the main island and the smaller island with a bridge to connect them. The main beach on the lagoon is South Beach, which is a long beach with easy access to food and drinks. It’s also where you’ll find water sports equipment like kayaks and paddleboards. North Beach, which is located on the smaller island, sits across from South Beach on the lagoon as well. Additionally, Seakers Cove is a new family area found between the ship and the lagoon.

Other complimentary activities to enjoy at Ocean Cay include sports competitions like volleyball, ping-pong, or beach olympics, as well as dance classes and live music. Kids and teens have their own scheduled activities too, such as active games and scavanger hunts.

Throughout the day, guests can also expect various other entertainment on Ocean Cay Marine Reserve like a beach party to get everyone in the Bahamian spirit. During late-night calls, passengers can also take part in the Luna Libre party on Lighthouse Bay following the signature laser show from the lighthouse. It’s complete with a DJ, dancing, and a bonfire.

Food at Ocean Cay

Complimentary Food at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

Much like the ship, there are included food options available on the island. Seakers Food Court is the classic barbecue lunch buffet that cruisers are familiar with if they’ve visited other cruise line private islands. It serves up things like burgers, hot dogs, jerk chicken, fish, and a variety of sides like fruit, potato and mixed bean salads, coleslaw, and french fries. Veggie burgers are available upon request. Desserts are simple, including things like cookies, brownies, and rum cake.

You’ll also find food trucks near various beaches on the island, serving up the same type of fare — though with more limited menus — as Seakers Food Court.

The Yacht Club area features Ocean House Restaurant, offering up fancier dishes than the ones on other parts of the island. These include things like carne asada, crab ceviche, a lobster roll, a grilled portobello sandwich, charred octopus, and blackened mahi mahi. Desserts include mango cheesecake, chocolate cake, and creme caramel.

Extra Cost Food at Ocean Cay

If you’re looking for something a bit more elevated and don’t mind paying for the privilege, Ocean Cay features the Great Star food truck serving up a variety of seafood dishes. Options include things like seafood ceviche, lobster grilled cheese, fried calamari, and a lobster roll. Prices range from around $8 to $13 per item.

For a fun sweet treat head over to The Smiling Fish, which serves ice cream and coffee. Ice cream flavors include chocolate, vanilla, coconut, and key lime, along with fun toppings. Try the signature treat — ice cream in a fish-shaped waffle cone. Ice cream prices range from $4 to $9. Coffee options include things like espresso and iced coffee including the Ocean Cay Coco-Nilla latte. Coffee prices range from around $3 to $4.75.

Drinks at Ocean Cay

Free drinks on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve are simple, similar to what you’ll find on the ship: water, lemonade, and iced tea.

There are 10 bars spread across Ocean Cay as well — most that are open-air huts with bar seating. Two of the larger bars are Springer’s Bar and the Lighthouse Bar. Springer’s Bar is an authentic Bahamian bar that MSC describes as having a “laid-back atmosphere”. The Lighthouse Bar is a Hemingway-style cocktail bar serving up a wide selection of rums, spirits, and cocktails along with views of the ocean and your cruise ship. The other bars include Rose Bar, Great Star Bar, Ivory Bar, Cactus Bar, Pineapple Bar, Disc Bar, Maze Bar, and the Ocean House Bar (for Yacht Club guests only).

Bars on Ocean Cay offer beer, wine, spirits, cocktails, mocktails, soda, and bottled water. Cocktails include margaritas, piña coladas, strawberry daiquiris, mojitos, aperol spritzes, and more. Still and sparkling bottled water are also available, as are Coca-Cola brand soft drinks. These beverages can all be purchased individually. But if you have a drink package, the great news is that MSC Cruises’ beverage packages do work on Ocean Cay.

Things to Do at Ocean Cay That Cost Extra

While you can easily spend a day at the beach on Ocean Cay and not spend a dime, there are some amenities and activities that you can purchase to enhance your experience. One such experience is the Ocean Cay Lighthouse Climb, which allows guests to climb 165 steps up into the Ocean Cay’s iconic lighthouse and enjoy a unique vantage point to view the island.

Other activities you can book include a catamaran cruise, snorkeling over a shipwreck, stargazing on the beach, and jet-skiing tours. Kayak, paddleboard, snorkel equipment, and floating mat rentals are also available.

If you want ultimate relaxation during your day at Ocean Cay, head over to the island’s spa. You can get a massage that takes place in a treatment hut right on the beach, looking out over the blue Bahamian waters. Also offered on the island are sunrise and sunset yoga classes, which can be booked on the ship.

There are also shopping opportunities and cabana rentals on Ocean Cay, which we cover below.

MSC Cruises Ocean Cay FAQs

Is there WiFi on MSC Ocean Cay?

There is wireless internet available on Ocean Cay, and your onboard internet package does work on the island. Guests are able to connect their devices to the island’s wifi just as they would on the ship. However, you will need to disconnect from the ship hotspot and connect to the MSCOCEANCAY hotspot once ashore.

Does the drinks package work on Ocean Cay?

Yes, the beverage package that you have on the ship extends to MSC Ocean Cay. This includes the Easy, Easy Plus, and Premium packages. MSC Yacht Club guests have drinks included with their experience, which extends to the island as well as in the dedicated Yacht Club area.

Do I need to bring my own towels ashore?

Yes, guests should plan to bring beach towels with them from the ship when going ashore in MSC Ocean Cay. Guests will need to return these towels to the ship at the end of the day as well. The exception is for Yacht Club guests who will find towels on the island at Ocean House Beach.

What’s the weather like on Ocean Cay?

Ocean Cay is in the Bahamas, so you can expect warm to hot weather year-round just like in the rest of the Bahamas. Summer highs can reach around 90 degrees, and winter lows are around 70 degrees. Hurricane season runs from June through November. Sunny days are plentiful on Ocean Cay and the island doesn’t have an abundance of natural shade, so be sure to bring cover-ups and plenty of sunscreen.

Can Ocean Cay accommodate food allergies and other dietary needs?

Ocean Cay is equipped with both vegetarian and vegan dishes. Also available are veggie burgers, salads, and gluten-free bread (upon request). Specific food allergies can’t necessarily be accommodated, though. MSC recommends that guests eat aboard the ship where the staff can better accommodate allergy requirements.

Does Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve have cabanas for rent?

Ocean Cay has cabanas available for rent on several beaches. The Ocean Cay Beach Cabanas are partially-walled, thatched-roof huts with a couch, table, and lounge chairs. They include extra towels and two floating mats and can accommodate up to six people.

The Yacht Club area, Ocean House Beach, also has its own Ocean View Yacht Club Cabanas. They include towels, fresh fruit, four floating mats, and four sets of snorkeling gear. These cabanas can also accommodate up to six people. Also available are Beachfront Yacht Club Cabanas, which are closer to the water than the Ocean View ones.

Can you buy souvenirs on Ocean Cay?

Ocean Cay has several shops where you can get things you may have forgotten for your beach day — or pick up a souvenir before heading back to the ship. The MSC Shop sells essentials like beach toys, lip balm, and sunscreen, as well as items from the MSC Foundation. The Ocean Cay Trading Post sells gifts inspired by nature and Ocean Cay-branded souvenirs like t-shirts, hats, beach towels, and accessories. You use your cruise card to pay for items from these shops just as you would if purchasing something on the ship.

Is Ocean Cay accessible for those with special needs?

Ocean Cay is completely ADA compliant, and has beach wheelchairs and beach wagons available upon request. There are also trams for transportation around the island for those with mobility issues.

Will there be construction during my visit?

While MSC continues to make progres to the island, there will likely be some ongoing construction during your visit that will not impact your day. For instance, during our recent visit, Lighthouse Beach and Lighthouse Bar were closed, but we could still enjoy everything else that the island had to offer.

What additional improvements are being made at MSC Ocean Cay?

You’ll find various projects underway including a second food hall, more bars, additional excursion centers, more family-friendly offerings, and the new Marine Conservation Center.

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Do you have an upcoming cruise heading to Disney’s newest private destination in the Bahamas? If so, then this guide to everything you need to know about Disney’s Lookout Cay is for you. We were among the first guests to visit Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Fantasy. Now, we’re back and have the most recent information about this brand-new port of call to share with you.

Everything You Need to Know About Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

What is Disney’s Lookout Cay?

Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is Disney Cruise Line’s latest venture. This private destination is located at the southern end of the island of Eleuthera, which is located east of Nassau and south of Disney’s other private Bahamian destination, Castaway Cay.

Unlike Castaway Cay, Lookout Cay is not a “private island” though. It’s actually a 700-acre area of land on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera, very nearby to Princess Cruises’ Princess Cays. As part of the purchase from the Bahamas government in 2019, Disney pledged to keep much of the area undeveloped and to uphold strict environmental regulations.

Disney Cruise Line also collaborated with local artists and vendors to help showcase the culture and people of the area. This is evident in the design and decor of the private resort from the curvature of the buildings, to the vibrant colors, right down to Mickey and Minnie’s outfits.

Getting to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

As mentioned above, Disney’s Lookout Cay is DCL’s private destination. So, the only way to visit the resort is to book a Disney cruise that calls at this exclusive Bahamian port.

While there has been mention that residents of Eleuthera may be allowed to visit the island as well, or that DCL might allow day passes for non-cruise guests, there’s no official information regarding this just yet.

Disney Cruise Line ships only dock in Lookout Cay for the day, so you will not be able to spend the night here. Your cruise itinerary will dictate how long you spend at Disney’s Lookout Cay. However, in general, your ship will spend approximately 8 hours in port.

The good news is that unlike other private islands in the Bahamas, Lookout Cay has a pier. Thus, cruisers can just walk ashore from the ship, while watching the neighbors tender to shore at Princess Cays. However, you will need to prepare yourself for quite the hike to get there!

It takes approximately 1200 steps or a 1/2 mile to get from the ship to Mabrika Cove. While those with accessibility needs can request a transfer from the ship, this service is limited meaning most guests will need to walk. Unfortunately, there’s no shade or benches to rest along the way either.

It’s then a 10-minute ride from the Mabrika Cove tram stop to the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop where most of the facilities are located. While this could be walkable in the future, it is quite a distance and there are currently no paved paths.

Once at the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop, there are mostly paved paths and wooden boardwalks to navigate the area.

Disney’s Lookout Cay Map

To get a better visualization of the resort, we’ve included the Disney’s Lookout Cay map. As you can see below, the area is divided up into two sections, Mabrika Cove and Goombay Cultural Center.

Mabrika Cove

There is little at Mabrika Cove aside from the Mabrika Cove cabanas, or the family cabanas. These cabanas are rather secluded from the rest of Lookout Cay and have a great view of your cruise ship. In case you are wondering, there is a dedicated food and bar area for these cabanas, so you won’t have to trek all the way to Goombay for food or drinks.

In Mabrika Cove, you’ll also find the Turbot Berth for charter boat rentals, Mangroves & Go which serves specialty coffee like the Junkanoo Latte, dole whip, and draft beer, and a small merchandise kiosk called First & Last Chance Stand.

Goombay Cultural Center

Off the Goombay Cultural Center tram stop is where you’ll find all the major amenities, dining, bars, and shopping options. When you exit the tram, The Gathering Tree is to the left where you’ll meet for many of the organized shore excursions at Lookout Cay. To the right is Rocky Point, a hut for bicycle rentals; though, we were told only organized bike tours are available at this time.

Immediately beyond the tram stop, there are crew members handing out towels for your day ashore and an information hut. There are also two shops, Disney T’ings for all your Lookout Cay merchandise and Treasures of Eleuthera selling local crafts. From here, if you head straight towards the beach, you’ll find the Cultural Center where activities occur throughout the day.

However, if you want to explore more of the island, you’ll have to decide whether to head left eventually making your way to Serenity Bay or right towards the majority of other amenities at Lookout Cay.

If you head right, there’s the vast Family Beach, the Rush Out Gush Out family water play area, Sandsational Smoothies, the Watering Hole and Reef & Wreck bars, True-True BBQ, Sebastian’s Cove youth area, the Play-Play Pavilion for family activities, and the Nature Trail which leads to the namesake lighthouse.

If you head left, there’s the Flippers & Fins snorkel rental hut, the Bow & Ribbon bar, True-True Too BBQ, the adults-only Serenity Bay, Serenity Bay cabanas, Serenity Bay BBQ, and the Blue Hole Bar within Serenity Bay.

Of note, most of the bars also have restrooms conveniently located on the opposite side of the building. There are 9 restroom locations scattered throughout Lookout Cay.

Food at Disney’s Lookout Cay

Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point has plenty of food and drink options. Most of these items are complimentary, minus the bars.

There are three food stations on the island that serve a free buffet-style BBQ lunch. There’s True-True BBQ, True-True Too BBQ, and Serenity Bay BBQ. All three locations serve mostly the same items including some Bahamian-inspired dishes.

The menu features grilled salmon, snapper, rotisserie chicken, ribs, hot dogs, hamburgers, spicy chicken sandwiches, chicken and seafood rice bowls, a few plant-based options, and a variety of side dishes. At Serenity Bay, the buffet includes steak as well. Of course, there’s also dessert like cookies and soft serve ice cream.

If you have any allergies, you can arrange with your waiter ahead of time to pick up your food at the True-True Too BBQ location.

Depending on what time your ship is in port, lunch is generally served from around 11:30 AM to 2 PM.

In addition to these BBQ spots, there are several covered seating pavilions located nearby each one. The seating area at Serenity Bay BBQ is particularly small, but you might have trouble finding seats at any of these locations during peak lunch times. Currently, flies are also an issue near these food pavilions.

Lookout Cay Buffet Menu | Allergy Friendly Menu

Drinks at Disney’s Lookout Cay

There is no need to buy soda or bottled water at Disney’s Lookout Cay as there are fountain beverage stations throughout the island. If you bring a refillable Yeti-type water bottle, it will stay cold longer and save you from making multiple trips. These stations include water, soda, and even Vitamin Water and Powerade.

Now, if you want to enjoy an alcoholic beverage during your time on Disney’s Lookout Cay, these drinks will cost you extra.

There are four bars on Lookout Cay:

• Blue Hole Bar
• Bow & Ribbon Bar
• Watering Hole Bar
• Reef & Wreck Bar

The Blue Hole Bar is located in the adults-only Serenity Bay and has its own unique menu. The remaining three bars all have the same menu. There are also servers roaming the beach area to take your drink orders.

The signature island drinks are the Eleuthera Euphoria and the non-alcoholic Butterfly Switcha. The Eleuthera Euphoria is made with Gosling’s Spirited Seas Ocean Aged Rum, Pineapple, and Dole Whip.

In addition to these bars, there’s also the previously mentioned Mangroves & Go, located in Mabrika Cove, and Sandsational Smoothies. This bar serves up frozen and specialty non-alcoholic drinks like the Pineapple Pleaser made with Dole Whip Pineapple, Marshmallow Cream, and Graham Crackers.

If you want a souvenir from Disney’s Lookout Cay, you can purchase any of these drinks in the signature Pineapple souvenir cup, similar to the coconut cup from Castaway Cay.

Serenity Bay Bar Menu | Standard Bar Menu | Sandsational Smoothies Menu | Mangroves & Go Menu

What’s Free at Disney’s Lookout Cay

Beaches

When you think of a cruise line private island, you probably envision stretches of beautifully manicured beaches. Disney’s Lookout Cay is exactly that! In fact, we think the water and beaches are much nicer than sister island Castaway Cay.

Unlike Castaway Cay though, Family Beach and Serenity Bay Beach are along the same stretch with not much separation. Family Beach is the larger of the two beaches and the true gem. Serenity Bay Beach is the adults-only area; however, it is much smaller and less private when compared to its counterpart on Castaway Cay.

Both beaches are lined with plenty of lounge chairs and colorful umbrellas. Although, most of the chairs are found above the sand dunes, meaning guests will have to use the small “bridges” to cross the dunes and access the water. Most of these bridges have stairs but there are a few strategically positioned ramps as well.

We had no issues finding lounge chairs on Family Beach, but the seating on Serenity Bay Beach was full shortly after the ship’s arrival.

While snorkeling equipment can be rented, there is no dedicated snorkeling lagoon on Lookout Cay like there is on Castaway Cay.

Family Play Areas (Rush Out Gush Out and Play-Play Pavilion)

Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point has a variety of activities for families to enjoy a day of fun in the sun. The Rush Out Gush Out water play area is designed for younger children. It features two slides, water drums, fountains, and more.

The Play-Play Pavilion is a covered gaming area with life-sized games like Connect 4 and Jenga, hula hoops, soccer nets, and more. It is certainly not as elaborate as the In Da Shade Games on Castway Cay though.

Of note, there’s no basketball court or in-water play areas on Lookout Cay.

Youth Areas

Disney’s Lookout Cay features a Little Mermaid-themed youth area. Sebastian’s Cove is for children ages 3-10 years old. We got to explore the area a bit during an open house and thought it was a decent size. Its focal point is an under the sea water play area, but there’s also plenty of sand for building sand castles and playing games with the youth activities staff. There’s even a small lunch pavilion here.

However, there is no dedicated equivalent to Vibe or Edge on Disney’s Lookout Cay. The Play-Play Pavilion currently doubles as the meeting spot for teens and tweens.

Other Lookout Cay Activities

The signature island activity is RUSH! A Junkanoo Celebration. This cultural performance occurs at the Goombay Cultural Center twice daily. During our sailing, the show times were 12 PM and 2:30 PM. This celebration is under 10 minutes and features costumed dancers and a band. The Goombay Cultural Center also holds craft sessions and informal presentations throughout the day.

Another family-friendly activity that is signature to Lookout Cay is the Fun in the Sun Beach Bash. This activity occurs at the Play-Play Pavilion and features Disney characters and games that all family members will enjoy.

There’s also a Nature Trail that leads to the namesake lighthouse. This trail is a compacted dirt path that begins past the Reef & Wreck Bar and leads to the lighthouse. There are Discovery Trail signs along the way on which you can scan the QR code to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

And it wouldn’t be a Disney cruise without Character Meet and Greets. Throughout the day, guests can take photos with their favorite Disney characters donned in Bahamian outfits that are exclusive to Lookout Cay. Located near the True-True BBQ, you’ll find Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Chip & Dale, Daisy, and Donald at various times. Just be prepared to wait in line.

Things to Do at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point That Will Cost Extra

If you are looking for more than just a beach day, there are other activities on Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point that will cost you extra money. Besides alcoholic beverages, coffee, and smoothies, you’ll need to scan your Key to the World card or DisneyBand+ for shopping purchases. You’ll also have to pay extra for shore excursions and cabana rentals.

Of note, there are currently no spa services available on Lookout Cay.

Shopping

On Lookout Cay, you’ll find three shopping areas and the Plaits & Pleats hair braiding stand. The First & Last Chance Stand at Mabrika Cove is a small kiosk, while the Disney T’ings is the much larger Disney merchandise shop. Here, you will find exclusive Lookout Cay merchandise along with other Disney Cruise Line merchandise. Think t-shirts, spirit jerseys, Minnie ears, ornaments, Loungefly backpacks, and more.

Across from Disney T’ings is the Treasures of Eleuthera. This shop features handmade Bahamian goods, and it was pretty empty during our visit.

Like most things Disney, if you do want to purchase any merchandise, be prepared to wait in line. The lines were quite LONG in the morning during this initial sailing. If you don’t want to chance something selling out, you may decide to wait in line; otherwise, you can always stop in later in the day.

Shore Excursions

Like most cruise line private islands, Disney’s Lookout Cay also features a number of shore excursions that are available for purchase pre-cruise or once onboard the ship. While only a select number of tours are currently available, below is the list of tours expected to be offered.

Staff indiciated that it would be weeks before bike rentals would be available. We were also told that there will be a Lookout Cay 5K, similar to the one on Castaway Cay, but the timeline of when it will be available is unclear.

• Bahamian Bank Boat Escape- $109 (ages 10+), $79 (ages 8-9)
• Banana Boat- $59, $49
• Bike and Kayak- $99, $89
• Nature Walk and Coral Nursery- $59, $49
• Snorkel Rental- $38
• Snorkel by Boat- $109, $89
• South Eleuthera Eco & Historical Tour- $119, $79
• Tropical Reef Safari Snorkel- $109, $79
• Bicycle Rental- $15 (currently unavailable)
• Boiling Hole Reef Snorkel- $109, $79 (currently unavailable)
• Ebike, Sand, Snorkel, and History- $139 (currently unavailable)
• Historical Nature and Buggy Tour (2 person)- $239 (currently unavailable)
• Historical Nature and Buggy Tour (4 person)- $399 (currently unavailable)
• Pirates of Eleuthera- $79, $69 (currently unavailable)
• Private Historical Cultural Tour- $799 (currently unavailable)
• South Eleuthera Eco & Cultural Tour- $149, $119 (currently unavailable)

Cabana Rentals

As mentioned previously, there are two cabana locations on Lookout Cay. The family cabanas are located in Mabrika Cove and the adult-only cabanas are located at Serenity Bay. There are regular cabanas that can hold up to 10 guests and grand cabanas that can hold up to 16 guests at both locations.

Current pricing is as follows:

• Family Cabanas at Mabrika Cove- $963 for up to 6 guests and $56 for additional guests up to 10.
• Grand Family Cabanas- $1300 for up to 10 guests and $56 for additional guests up to 16.
• Serenity Bay Cabanas- $523 for up to 4 guests and $56 for additional guests up to 10.
• Grand Serenity Bay Cabanas- $963 for up to 10 guests and $56 for additional guests up to 16.

Our Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Review

Whether this is your first cruise with Disney or you are a seasoned Castaway Club member, you can’t go wrong with either of Disney’s private destinations in the Bahamas. Though, there are certainly pros and cons to the new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

The beach was soft and sandy leading to beautiful azure water. The area is easy to navigate, and we liked the concrete pathways and wooden boardwalks leading from one location to the next. We loved the vibrant colors and architectural design. We also appreciated the little Bahamian touches like the Junkanoo celebration and the local menu items on the buffet.

However, we did miss the seclusion of Serenity Bay at Castaway Cay and thought the area was too small on Lookout Cay. There was also not much shade to be found anywhere on the resort, especially during the long walk down the pier.

On a similar note, there was no seating anywhere on the pier nor near the tram stops for those needing a seated rest along the way. The flies were a big issue near the food stations as well, making it difficult to eat lunch without constantly swatting these insects away.

Further, the separation between Mabrika Cove and the rest of the amenities is not ideal either, especially for those opting for a family cabana. While we don’t have kids, we could see families missing some of the options at Castaway Cay like the snorkeling trail, Pelican Plunge, or In Da Shade game pavilion.

While we enjoyed our two visits to Lookout Cay, we don’t see it adding much to the Disney experience beyond what Castaway Cay already offers. Honestly, there’s really nothing that would lead us to pick an itinerary calling in Lookout Cay over one in Castaway Cay.

Additional FAQs about Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Where is Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point?

Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is located in the Bahamas. Not a true private island, Lookout Cay is at the southern end of the island of Eleuthera, known for its pink sand beaches. The island of Eleuthera is east of Nassau and south of Disney’s Castaway Cay.

How is Lookout Cay different from Castaway Cay?

Disney’s Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay both offer private beach destinations in the Bahamas for Disney Cruise Line guests. While both ports have many similarities, there are some notable differences.

Geographically speaking, Castaway Cay is a private island, while Lookout Cay is part of the island of Eleuthera. Futher, Castaway Cay is designed to resemble a shipwrecked community, while Lookout Cay celebrates the real life people of the Bahamas.

Both locations have a pier that allow guests to walk ashore and avoid the tendering process like some other cruise line private islands. However, the pier at Lookout Cay is much longer and the island is more spread out requiring a tram to the main facilities.

Both locations feature family areas and adult-only areas. However, while the adult-only Serenity Bay is a private retreat on Castaway Cay, it’s part of the same beach area on Lookout Cay. It’s also smaller on Lookout Cay. Though, in our opinion, the Family Beach is nicer on Lookout Cay than Castaway Cay.

Further, Lookout Cay actually features less amenities. There is no in-water play area similar to Pelican Plunge on Castaway Cay. There’s no dedicated snorkeling area either and no stingray adventure. There’s also no dedicated teen or tween area and currently no sports area. However, Lookout Cay does feature the Goombay Cultural Center with local artists and an exclusive Junkanoo celebration.

The food is similar in both destinations but Lookout Cay does feature some Bahamian specialties on the menu. Lookout Cay also features some signature drinks on the bar menus, along with a specialty coffee shop.

Another difference is the location of the family cabanas. Unfortunately, the family cabanas on Lookout Cay require a tram ride to reach any of the kid and family activities.

What Disney ships go to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point?

In 2024, Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Dream visit Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. In 2025, Disney Wish will also offer sailings to this private Bahamian destination.

Do you need to take towels with you when going ashore? 

No. As you get off the tram at Lookout Cay’s Goombay stop, there are crew members handing out towels for you to use while on the island.

Do cell phones work on Lookout Cay? 

Maybe. This will depend on your cellular carrier and your international coverage plan. If you take your cell phone out of airplane mode, you may incur additional fees. If the Bahamas is included in your international plan, then you can use cell service at Lookout Cay.

Does the Disney Navigator app work on Lookout Cay? 

Yes. While you are off the ship enjoying your time on Lookout Cay, you can still view the Navigator app for the list of daily activities and such.

Does the WiFi work on Lookout Cay? 

Yes. If you purchased a Disney WiFi package onboard the ship, the service extends to the private destination as well. The WiFi actually works pretty well on Lookout Cay as opposed to Castaway Cay where the signal can be spotty the further away from the ship you get.

Comments

Do you have a cruise planned to visit Disney’s new Lookout Cay in the Bahamas? Do you enjoy cruise line private destinations? Drop us an anchor below with your first impressions of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

The post We Just Returned From Disney’s Newest Private Destination and Share Everything You Need to Know About Disney’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

If you’re heading out on a Virgin Voyages sailing that stops at Bimini — or are on another cruise ship that calls there — you may want to know more about the Beach Club at Bimini. Here’s our full guide on Virgin Voyages’ private beach destination in the Bahamas.

Everything You Need to Know About the Beach Club at Bimini

What is the Beach Club at Bimini?

The Beach Club at Bimini is a private beach club experience by Virgin Voyages in partnership with Resorts World, which owns the property where the beach club is located. The beach club is on North Bimini Island, which is located about 55 miles off the coast of Miami.

On days that a Virgin Voyages ship is in port, the beach club is reserved exclusively for VV passengers. On days that a Virgin Voyages ship is not docked at Bimini, other cruise lines occasionally use the beach club as well.

Getting to the Beach Club at Bimini

Bimini has a pier where cruise ships can dock, which means visitors can walk right off the ship and onto the island. At the end of the pier is a waiting area for the free open-air tram, which takes you to the Beach Club at Bimini.

Virgin Voyages passengers don’t need to worry about any tickets or identification to get into the club because access is free for them to enjoy.

Amenities at the Beach Club at Bimini

Once you arrive at the entrance to the Beach Club at Bimini, you’ll be facing towards The Main House and attached open-air lounge, which you’ll walk through to get into the club. Stretching out in front of you immediately you’ll find the two lagoon-style pools with the Lagoon Bar adjacent to the smaller pool on the left.

Also left of The Main House is one of the two Beach Eats dining areas and The Hideaway, which is a grove of palm trees filled with hammocks.

Beyond the pools is the beach, and to the far left towards the beach is The Retreat area for those staying in suites. To the right of the pools and towards the beach is the Beach Bar and the watersports shack. And to the immediate right of the pools is the other Beach Eats location.

The dining areas have picnic tables that visitors can use. Seating elsewhere in the club includes standard beachfront and poolside lounge chairs, daybeds, clamshell loungers, and cabanas for rent. The Lounge adjacent to The Main House has outdoor living room-style furniture.

Showers, changing rooms, and restrooms are also available at the Beach Club at Bimini.

Food at the Beach Club at Bimini

As mentioned above, there are two Beach Eats locations. And all food availble is complimentary at the Beach Club at Bimini for Virgin Voyages passengers. Instead of offering a buffet like many lines do at their private beach destinations, Virgin Voyages offers small plate options. All you have to do is walk up to the food counter, tell the crew member what you’d like, and they’ll arrange your dishes on a tray for you to take with you to a nearby table or back to your lounge chairs or daybed.

Additionally, drink stations are nearby, offering beverages like water and soda.

The food menu can vary slightly, but here’s an idea on what you’ll find at the beach club:

• Lechon Asado
• Caribbean Chicken and Coconut Curry
• Banana Leaf Steamed Red Snapper
• West Indian Pumpkin Curry
• Bahamian Manco and Macadamia Salad
• Watermelon and Jicama Salad
• Grilled Corn on the Cob
• Crispy Cassava
• Tropical Fruit Salad
• Rum Cake

We recommend getting lots of dishes and sharing them!

Drinks at the Beach Club at Bimini

A limited number of non-alcoholic beverages are free at the Beach Club at Bimini, such as water and soda.

However, all alcoholic drinks cost extra. At the bars, there’s a small menu of frozen and mixed cocktails as well as ready-to-drink packaged options including a Moscow Mule, Rum Old Fashioned, and Pineapple Daiquiri (among others).

Mixed cocktails can be purchased by the glass or by the pitcher (we recommend getting a pitcher of the Passion Drop to share — so good!). Prices for cocktails range from $11 to $13 (by the glass) and $41 to $45 (by the pitcher). The ready-to-drink packaged cocktails are $13 each.

Champagne (by the glass or bottle), canned wine and beer, and non-alcoholic choices including Red Bull and Heineken 0.0 are also served at the bars. Glasses of champagne range from $7 to $25, while cans of beer and wine range from $5 to $11 each.

Things to Do at the Beach Club at Bimini

For most visitors, a day at the Beach Club means a laid-back day at the beach and/or pool, sipping cocktails and eating delicious food. However, there are activities you can partake in during your time there as well.

For example, in the afternoon the ship’s Happenings Cast (entertainment staff) host a flotilla party at the larger pool, complete with lots of pool floats, bubbles, dancing, and music. There’s also a shady area at the club with a volleyball court, bocce ball, and cornhole. Team beach games and stand-up paddleboard yoga classes are also offered at the beach club.

Cabanas at the Beach Club at Bimini

For those who want their own space at the Beach Club at Bimini, there are cabanas available to rent. The cabanas have an organic, beachy vibe with thatched-wood roofs and three walls, with the fourth open to the air and extending out into a small patio. Inside the cabana is a day bed, beanbag chairs, and a drink cooler with a nearby coffee table. In front of the cabana are two lounge chairs.

The price of a cabana includes the services of dedicated crew members who will attend to your needs — including bringing you food and drinks. Cabanas are priced per cabana and can accommodate up to six people. There are four types of cabanas to choose from, based on their location.

There are 14 Bimini Beach Cabanas, which are located on the sandy beach area between the free lounge chairs near the water and the pools which are further back. Bimini Grove Cabanas are located further away from the water near the hammock grove and lounge. The four Bimini Lagoon Cabanas are located by the pool.

The nine Bimini RockStar Cabanas are available to those staying in a RockStar Suite or other VIPs that have access to Richard’s Rooftop on the ship. If any of them don’t sell, the cruise line may open them up to other passengers who will get the line’s full “rockstar” treatment during their time at the beach club.

Prices for the beach, lagoon, and RockStar cabanas start at $500. Prices for the grove cabanas start at $400.

Exclusive Beach Club Area For Suite Guests

If you’re booked in a suite on your Virgin Voyages ship or are some other form of a VIP on board, you’ll have access to the RockStar Retreat at the beach club, which is located to the far left when you’re looking towards the water. This special area includes an open-air pavilion that has a bar, patio seating areas, and private bathrooms.

The RockStar Retreat also includes food service, where all you have to do is find a seat on the patio and give your lunch order to a waiter. The food is the same as what you’ll get in Beach Eats, but you don’t have to go there yourself and stand in line waiting for it.

The retreat area also includes dedicated daybeds and lounge chairs, which don’t fill up as quickly as the ones on the main beach do.

Additional FAQs about the Beach Club at Bimini

Is there wifi at the Beach Club at Bimini?

Yes, the beach club includes free wifi.

How do I pay for drinks at the Beach Club at Bimini?

If you’re visiting from a Virgin Voyages ship, you can use your RFID bracelet to pay for drinks at the beach club just as you use it to pay for things on the ship. Purchases at the club will be charged to your onboard account. This means that if you have Sailor Loot (onboard credit) or Bar Tab credit, drinks purchased at the club do go towards that balance.

Can I do other things on Bimini besides go to the beach club?

Absolutely! Bimini offers a variety of other activties. The free tram ride to the beach club actually includes a stop at a golf cart rental business, where you can get off and rent a golf cart to explore the island on your own.

You can also hit up the Resorts World Bimini Casino, book excursions on the island through your cruise line, and more.

Is there a shop for souvenirs at the Beach Club at Bimini?

No, the beach club doesn’t have a shop. However, you can find Beach Club branded merchandise for sale on the ship. If you want to buy local Bahamian souvenirs, there are other spots on the island with shops, including the Bimini Craft Centre in Alice Town. It’s located just under three miles away from the beach club — an easy ride if you’ve rented a golf cart.

Visiting the Beach Club on Another Cruise Line

As briefly mentioned above, ships from other cruise lines do visit the Beach Club at Bimini occasionally when a Virgin Voyages ship isn’t in port. These include Carnival and Royal Caribbean, among others. The club is treated more as a beach day pass destination in this case, where visitors pay a flat fee to enjoy the club’s facilities and amenities.

In this case, when you get off the ship you check in at a booth at the end of the pier where they give you a wristband based on the package you bought for the club. On Carnival, for example, one is a standard day pass and the other includes an open bar. You must show this wristband once you get off the tram so you’re allowed into the beach club area.

Food and bar menus are also different for non-VV ships, and cost extra. The menu offerings may vary, but here’s an idea of what you can expect if you’re visiting via another cruise line:

• Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken
• Cheeseburger with Potato Chips
• Chicken Fingers with Potato Chips
• Grilled Hot Dog with Potato Chips
• Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Potato Chips
• Fish Sticks with Potato Chips
• Fresh Fruit Plate

The situation is similar for the drink menu at the bar. For example, during a Carnival cruise call, all cocktails were $12 each and included classic options such as a Piña Colada, Mudslide, Margarita, Daiquiri, Bahama Mama, Mojito, Long Island Ice Tea, Goombay Smash, White Russian, and Rum Punch. Other options included cocktails like the Tastie Lynette, Ocean, Sunshine, Mr. Zombie, and Sunset.

Comments

Have you visited the Beach Club at Bimini yet? What features of this private resort do you enjoy? Drop us an anchor below to share your reviews of Virgin Voyages.

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When thinking of the Bahamas, many people automatically think of the country’s clear blue waters and soft sandy beaches. Rightfully so, as they’re one of the best parts of visiting this part of the world. If you have an upcoming cruise to this region, you might be looking for the best beaches in Nassau, Bahamas.

Here, we’re going over some of New Providence Island’s best beaches, plus touching on excursions that visit them, which resorts offer day passes, and tips for visiting the beach during a cruise.

When’s the best time to visit the beaches in Nassau for weather?

Before we get to our top picks for beaches to visit during your cruise, we should first go over the best time to visit the beaches in Nassau. If you’re looking for hot weather and warm waters that won’t give you a chill as you venture in, pretty much any time besides winter is a safe bet.

In the spring, the average temperatures for the Bahamas are in the mid-70s. Summer temperatures average in the mid to high-80s, while fall is generally in the high 70s to low 80s. In the winter, the temperature averages in the low 70s and the water averages at 74 degrees. It’s certainly not cold water by any means, but it’s a bit too cool for lots of visitors to fully enjoy. However, if you want cooler weather, winter is an excellent time to head to the beach in the Bahamas.

Overview of the Best Beaches in Nassau, Bahamas

Here’s a quick overview of some of the best beaches you can visit in Nassau, Bahamas during a cruise visit, listed in alphabetical order. We’ve also included the driving distance between the cruise port and the beach, as well as the best way to get there.

Adelaide Beach

Adelaide Beach is located on the opposite side of New Providence Island from the cruise port in the southwestern corner. This long beach is one of the quieter and more secluded options on the list, where you’re likely to find more locals than tourists. Because of its less-touristy and hidden-away nature, you won’t find bars and restaurants lining Adelaide Beach, so be sure to pack some snacks.

• Driving distance from cruise port: 14.5 miles
• How to get to Adelaide Beach: Taxi

Cabbage Beach

Cabbage Beach is known as one of the best and most popular beaches in the Bahamas. It’s located on Paradise Island just east of Atlantis. In addition to enjoying the calm waves and a mile of soft sandy beachfront, visitors can rent jet skis, go parasailing, or go water skiing. Nearby restaurants ensure you won’t go hungry during your day in the sand and surf at Cabbage Beach.

• Driving distance from cruise port: 2.2 miles
• How to get to Cabbage Beach: Water shuttle or taxi

Cable Beach

Another one of Nassau’s most popular beaches, the two-mile Cable Beach is lined with resorts and condos. It’s known for its calm waters and soft sand. Visitors have lots of watersports options while there including jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. This is one of the beaches that has vendors walking around selling everything from umbrella and chair rentals to souvenirs and sunscreen, so keep that in mind.

• Driving distance from cruise port: 6 miles
• How to get to Cable Beach: Jitney bus or taxi

Caves Beach

Caves Beach is located just a bit further west from the cruise port past Cable Beach. Named for the limestone caves that run along the edge of the water, this small sandy beach is much less crowded than Cable Beach. What you lose in beachside amenities (there aren’t any), you make up for in seclusion at Caves Beach.

• Driving distance from cruise port: 8.6 miles
• How to get to Caves Beach: Jitney bus or taxi

Goodman’s Bay Park

Located on the eastern end of Cable Beach, Goodman’s Bay Park has a less-crowded beach that offers an escape from the hubbub of all of the people staying at the resorts. The park does have bathrooms, but you’ll need to walk down towards the busier part of Cable Beach to get amenities like food or chair rentals.

• Driving distance from cruise port: 3.6 miles
• How to get to Goodman’s Bay: Jitney bus or taxi

Jaw’s Beach

Located far off the beaten path on the northwestern side of New Providence Island, Jaw’s Beach is located within Clifton Heritage National Park. The protected beach has warm, clear, and shallow waters, perfect for enjoying a laid-back day of lazing around or going snorkeling.

It also features the largest single figurative underwater sculpture, reaching over 16 feet up from the sea floor. It depicts a local Bahamian girl carrying the weight of the ocean above her in reference to the Greek myth of Atlas, the Titan who held up the heavens.

• Driving distance from cruise port: 16.3 miles
• How to get to Jaws Beach: Taxi or rent a car

Junkanoo Beach

Junkanoo Beach is another popular Bahamian beach for cruisers, as it’s the closest beach to the cruise port and is within walking distance. If you want a convenient and busy beach with nearby food and beverage options, watersport rentals, and restrooms, this may be a good option.

The waters are shallow and crystal clear. It’s picture-perfect for what guests want when thinking about a beach in the Bahamas. Be aware that you will find lots of locals selling their wares here.

• Driving distance from cruise port: .8 miles
• How to get to Junkanoo Beach: Walk or Jitney bus

Love Beach

Located past Cable Beach and near the airport, Love Beach is known for its prime snorkeling waters. There are 40 acres of coral reefs about a mile off the shore here. These reefs and rocks keep the beach from getting high waves, and rock pools make it a great place for exploring and enjoying calm, crystal clear waters. When you get hungry, grab a bite to eat at the nearby Nirvana restaurant, which also rents out beach chairs.

• Driving distance from cruise port: 11.9 miles
• How to get to Love Beach: Jitney bus or taxi

Montagu Beach

Montagu Beach is located adjacent to Fort Montague, which is a mid-1700s fort located east of the cruise port area. The beach offers soft sands and shallow waters, and there’s a playground and park nearby. The beach area is a popular spot for locals to enjoy some lunch, so you’ll be able to find some local dishes from food vendors during your time there.

• Driving distance from cruise port: 2.3 miles
• How to get to Montagu Beach: Jitney bus or taxi

Saunders Beach

Saunders Beach is a popular destination for families visiting Nassau, as it features calm, shallow waters partly thanks to manmade coves. Amenities include a playground, restrooms, and outdoor showers. There aren’t many food and beverage options nearby, but there are some fast food restaurants across the street from the beach and a nearby gas station for snacks.

• Driving distance from cruise port: 2.2 miles
• How to get to Saunders Beach: Jitney bus or taxi

Beach Excursions in Nassau

If you want to take an organized excursion to one or more of the beaches in Nassau, look for animal encounters (such as dolphin or stingray encounters or swim with pigs), ‘beach escape’ or ‘beach break’ excursions, or general overview island tours that include a stop at a beach or two. You can find these types of excursions through your cruise line or through independent tour operators.

Cruise lines also sell excursions that essentially are day passes to local resorts. You can certainly book them through the cruise line, but it’ll almost always be cheaper to book a day pass through the resort on your own.

Here are some examples of beach-focused shore excursions in Nassau from different cruise lines:

• Dolphin Swim & Blue Lagoon Beach Fun with Lunch (Carnival)
• Snorkel Sunken Sculptures, Iguanas & Sun Cay Beach (Carnival)
• Adventure Jeep, Beach & Local Lunch (Carnival)
• Nassau Beach Break and Sightseeing (Royal Caribbean)
• Swimming Pigs & Pearl Island Beach Escape (Royal Caribbean)
• Adventure Jeep and Beach (Norwegian Cruise Line)
• Express Beach Break (Norwegian Cruise Line)
• Sea Lion Encounter & Beach at Blue Lagoon Island (Princess)
• Backstage Nassau With Beach Break (Holland America)
• Jet Ski Adventure & Sun Cay Beach Club (Holland America)
• Explore Nassau Sightseeing and Beach Tour (Disney)
• Nassau Backstage Local Flavors with Beach Break (Disney)
• Snorkel and Beach Adventure (Disney)

Nassau Beach Resort Day Passes

If you want to enjoy the perks of a beach resort in Nassau while you’re in port, consider booking a day pass. Many resorts offer day passes for visitors that allow them to enjoy many of the same amenities that their overnight guests have access to.

What the day pass includes depends on the resort, but many include things like access to the pools and fitness center, use of loungers and umbrellas on the beach, and use of bathrooms and showers. Some day passes may even include food and beverage credits.

Some popular resorts offering day passes for cruisers visiting Nassau, Bahamas include:

• Margaritaville Beach Resort & Waterpark
• Warwick Paradise Island Bahamas
• RIU Palace
• Breezes Resort Nassau
• Atlantis Paradise Island
• Baha Bay Waterpark at Baha Mar
• British Colonial

Tips For Visiting the Beaches in Nassau, Bahamas

If you’re planning to visit the beach during your port day in Nassau, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Don’t bring valuables ashore. Of course, you will need to bring things like your ID and money/a credit card, and most people bring their phone along too. Otherwise, leave valuable items behind. Don’t bring your entire wallet’s contents, for example. Leave everything but the essentials in your safe back on the ship.
• Keep an eye on your belongings. If your whole party wants to go in the water at the same time, make sure at least one person is keeping an eye on everyone’s belongings back on the shore. Better yet, invest in something like a beach chair lock bag so you don’t have to worry as much about valuables being stolen.
• Bring beach towels from the ship. Even if you have a day pass through a resort, many day passes don’t include the use of beach towels.
• Unless there are garbage cans nearby, practice the carry-in/carry-out policy at the beaches in Nassau, Bahamas. This means that any trash you create during your time at the beach needs to leave the beach with you. There should be trash cans in the port area if you can’t find them elsewhere.
• Bring a lightweight long-sleeve shirt with you. Even if it’s a hot day, the sun may get to you faster than you think and you’ll want a quick and easy way to cover up for some relief.
• Alongside the previous point, don’t forget your sunscreen and don’t be afraid to use it. The same goes for your sunglasses.
• Bring plenty of water when you head ashore. Even if you’re sure there will be places to get a drink at or near the beach you’re visiting, it’s always best to have too much water rather than not enough, especially in the hot Bahamian sun.
• Pay heed to water condition warnings. If you get to a beach and there’s a warning that there are strong waves or rip currents, listen to the warnings. These safeguards are in place for a reason.

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When considering the best time to go on a cruise, there are multiple factors that have to be accounted for — namely the region you want to sail. The best time for a Caribbean cruise isn’t going to be the same as the best time for a northern Europe or Alaska voyage, for example. Other factors like cost, weather, and crowds might also be things you take into consideration.

To help you figure out when you should best aim for taking a cruise, we’re breaking down our recommendations by region.

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How to Pick the Best Time to Go on a Cruise

Caribbean and Bahamas

There isn’t necessarily any “bad” time to cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas, with the region welcoming cruise ships all year-round. However there are things to take into consideration, such as hurricane season which runs from June through November. Prices tend to be a bit cheaper from September through November, because of this and because kids are back in school.

Weather and crowd-wise, we recommend taking a Caribbean or Bahamas cruise in the January to mid-May time period, not counting school break weeks. The weather is more mild this time of year, it’s not hurricane season, and crowds shouldn’t be quite as heavy when school is in session.

Alaska

The Alaska cruise season generally runs from mid-April through September; cruise ships don’t sail in the region when it’s at its coldest throughout the winter. Of the cruising season, there isn’t a clear-cut answer when it comes to when is “best.”

To avoid crowds, choose a voyage during the shoulder season in April, May, or September. The least rainy month is May, while the warmest (and busiest) will be July and August. Certain times of the Alaska cruise season also increase your chances of seeing wildlife and/or the Norther Lights.

Mediterranean

Cruise ships sail in the Mediterranean all year long, but the primary season runs from April into early November. For more mild weather and less crowds than during the busy summer season, aim for a Mediterranean voyage in early May or September.

For the lowest crowds, look for one of the few voyages sailing in the winter or early spring. If you’re looking for warmth and sunbathing weather, June and July are good bets — avoid August if possible due to the hottest temperatures and highest crowd levels.

Mexican Riviera

There isn’t really a “bad” time to cruise to Mexico’s west coast, as the weather ranges from balmy to hot the majority of the year, and cruise ships sail there year-round.

For warm weather that isn’t too hot and the best chance at no rain, look to visit the Mexican Riviera during the winter and into early spring. As long as you avoid time periods where kids are off from school (Christmas break, winter break, spring break, etc.), you’ll also encounter fewer crowds during this timeframe.

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Bermuda

The Bermuda cruise season generally runs from late March into early November. For mild weather, cheaper cruise fares, and fewer crowds, try to sail right at the beginning of the season in April or May. If you don’t mind spring break crowds, Good Friday and Easter is a fun time to visit Bermuda as there are lots of fun treats to eat and a Good Friday kite flying event at Horseshoe Bay Beach.

If enjoying the fanfare of a yacht racing event is more your speed, try to plan your cruise for the end of April at the beginning of the Bermuda International Invitational Race Week.

Northern Europe

Though cruises are available in northern Europe year-round, you’ll find the largest amount of voyages during the warmer months in spring, summer, and the beginning of fall. The best season to take a cruise in northern Europe weather-wise is in the summer from June through August. If you’re okay with cooler weather and want fewer crowds, opt for a sailing in September or October.

Canada/New England

The best time to visit Canada and New England is highly subjective based on what your goal is in going there. If you want the warmest, sunniest weather to explore quaint coastal towns and cities on the northern Atlantic seaboard, July and August are your best bets.

But many travelers head to this region specifically to see the dazzling fall foliage, in which case the best time to visit is October. September can be a good middle ground, because crowds will thin out (as school is back in session) but the weather will still be warm. There’s also a chance to see the start of the leaves changing towards the end of the month, though it varies from year-to-year and is never guaranteed.

Australia/New Zealand

Cruises sail Down Under year-round, and there is no cut-and-dry answer as to when the best season is to sail. Different parts of the region experience different weather in relation to the seasons, and it comes down to what’s most important to you.

For sunny skies and hot days in many parts of the continent where cruise ships sail, take a cruise during the austral summer. Since the seasons are flipped for the northern and southern hemispheres, that means during our winter season, from around December through March.

Waiting until at least February or March is a good idea for avoiding crowds, as Australian and New Zealander kids’ summer break generally runs from mid-December through January. For a voyage in northern Australia, consider March or later, as the cyclone season runs through February.

Hawaii

Like many other regions, there isn’t really a “bad” time to visit Hawaii. Certain times of year are preferable than others based on one factor, but another time of year will be more desirable based on another factor.

If you want more mild weather that isn’t in the rainy season, consider April to May or September to October. For the least chance of a rain shower (but the hottest temperatures), take a cruise to Hawaii in June, July, or August. For the best prices, look into voyages that sail in November and early December.

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While you might be familiar with Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, or Freeport, less travelers know about the hidden paradise of Bimini. If you see this island chain as a port of call on your next voyage itinerary, definitely pack a bathing suit and charge your camera.

Here is everything you might want to know about the best things to do in Bimini, Bahamas on a cruise.

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Our Picks for the Best Things to Do in Bimini, Bahamas on a Cruise

Where is Bimini and which cruise lines call there?

Bimini is a chain of two islands — North Bimini and South Bimini — along with a string of cays that make up the westernmost district of the Bahamas. North Bimini is considered the main island, along with its primary hub of Alice Town.

Just 50 miles off the coast of Miami, Bimini (often referred to as the Out Islands) is a close and idyllic port of call for cruise lines including Carnival, Celebrity, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Virgin Voyages, and more.

The cruise port is located in Bailey Town, North Bimini and is run by Resorts World Bimini. In 2021, docking facilities were extended to accommodate Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class, among the largest ships in the industry.

In addition to the cruise port in North Bimini, the island chain is also home to MSC’s private Bahamian island called MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. The artificial island, originally created through dredging in the 1960s, is located about 20 miles south of North Bimini and opened to MSC cruisers in 2019.

How big is Bimini, Bahamas?

The entire island chain extends about 40 miles north to south, though the main island of North Bimini is 7 miles long and just 700 feet wide. Other Bimini locations include Gun Cay and Cat Cay. The population for the entirety of Bimini is just over 2,000 residents.

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What is Bimini island famous for?

Bimini is known for its world-class sportfishing, courtesy of crystal-clear seas teeming with fish like blue marlin. This is perhaps what drew Ernest Hemingway here in the 1930s — or maybe it was the rumors that the fountain of youth is located there. Rife with dolphins and reefs, Bimini is a destination with pristine natural beauty and ideal. Thus, it’s ideal anyone who loves getting in the water.

In addition to its endemic marine life, including shark-diving opportunities, Bimini is home to the wreckage of the SS Sapona. This partially submerged concrete shipwreck lies a few miles off South Bimini and includes a storied history as a ship once intended for WWI troop transport. It became a casino and a floating speakeasy instead, before it ran aground in 1926.

Yet another stellar snorkeling or diving opportunity is the Bimini Wall. This underwater rock formation stretches like a cobbled road along the seafloor, leading to speculation that it was once the entrance to the mythological Atlantis. 

What to do in Bimini for the day?

Anything involving the Bahamian sun, sand, and surf is recommended for a day in Bimini. This includes snorkeling or diving, kayak rentals, standup paddleboarding, swimming with stingrays, a dolphin-watching cruise, fishing, or simply lying on a beach.

A complimentary tram transports cruisers from the Resorts World terminal to any of its adjacent facilities. This includes the spa, casino, or beach club as well as the boutiques of Fisherman’s Village.

If you want to venture off on your own, you could rent a golf cart for the day. Or, these are just some of the popular cruise line shore excursions available:

• Reef Shark Snorkeling
• Sapona Shipwreck Snorkeling
• Reef Fishing
• Resorts World Pool and Beach Experience
• Swimming with Stingrays
• Kayaking
• Jet Skiing
• Open-Air Tram Cultural Tour
• Scuba Diving
• Conch Cruise

The Beach Club at Bimini

Virgin voyagers are in for a treat during their call in Bimini. Richard Branson has developed a private beach club in partnership with Resorts World Bimini for guests of the cruise line. The Beach Club at Bimini is free to all Virgin cruisers and its amenities include ample sun loungers and clamshells; cabanas for rental; a lagoon-style pool, complete with floaties; a bar; complimentary lunch at two Beach Eats pavilions; a sports court; hammocks; and a covered lounge area.

Passes to the beach club can be purchased by visitors on other cruise lines when Virgin is not in port.

Where to eat in Bimini, Bahamas?

Dining in Bimini can be separated between mom-and-pop venues and hotel restaurants. Seek out fresh seafood at Big John’s Conch Shell Bar & Grill. Or maybe opt for some local pies at Edith’s Pizza and Takeout, both in North Bimini.

The Hilton Hotel, at Resorts World Bimini, has no less than six bars and restaurants. From a sushi bar to a swim-up bar and an in-casino sports bar serving gourmet burgers and named after Hemingway, the Hilton is a convenient (but pricier) option for cruisers seeking a meal close to port.

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Hidden away on Royal Caribbean’s island Perfect Day at CocoCay is a beach club open only to those who purchase access to it. With limited availability, it offers a quieter atmosphere complete with an elevated restaurant, heated infinity pool, and plenty of space on the beach. But is it worth the cost? We help you decide whether the value is there for Coco Beach Club.

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Coco Beach Club on Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay – Is it worth it?

What is Coco Beach Club?

To see if it’s worth the cost, we first need to go over exactly what Coco Beach Club is. Coco Beach Club is an exclusive area on Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. It’s only accessible to those who purchase a Coco Beach Club day pass. The club is located south of the pier where the ships dock, just across on the other side of the island.

While everyone who gets off the ship is welcome to use the public beaches on CocoCay, Royal Caribbean limits the amount of passes it sells to the Coco Beach Club to just a few hundred. Even with just one ship in port, that means there are at least well over a thousand (if not a few thousand) guests on other parts of the island. Not to mention how many people there are when there’s two ships docked. This makes Coco Beach Club a great spot for those who want to enjoy a more laid-back, peaceful beach day.

Coco Beach Club is open to guests of all ages. Babies and toddlers under three years old get in for free. For an adults-only experience on CocoCay, Royal Caribbean has Hideaway Beach which debuts in January 2024.

What’s included in Coco Beach Club?

A day pass to the Coco Beach Club includes:

• Access to the exclusive beach and heated oceanview infinity pool
• Dining at the sit-down Coco Beach Club restaurant
• Coffee and pastries in the morning
• Buffet-style salads and light bites throughout lunchtime
• Use of beach chairs, umbrellas, and daybeds
• Use of premium quality beach towels
• Use of floating mats and lifejackets
• Bar service from your seat

If you have a drink package on the ship, it applies to the bars on CocoCay as well — including at Coco Beach Club.

Coco Beach Club also features beach cabanas and overwater cabanas that are available to rent. The cost of renting one includes access to Coco Beach Club for up to eight guests. For the purposes of this article, we aren’t going to factor in whether renting a cabana is worth the cost. Instead, we are focusing on the standard club cost only — which brings us to our next point…

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How much does Coco Beach Club cost?

Royal Caribbean utilizes dynamic pricing for a pass to Coco Beach Club. This means that there’s no set price that applies to all ships visiting the island at any time of year. Instead, the cost fluctuates based on just about any factor that Royal Caribbean chooses to consider, such as what ship(s) is in port, how high demand is, and the time of year. To see the exact cost for access to the beach club on your sailing, log into your Royal Caribbean cruise planner to view the price.

With that being said, many passengers who have both already sailed and are booked on upcoming voyages have shared the price of Coco Beach Club for their particular cruise, giving us an idea of the vast range of pricing.

Based on our findings, it appears that the ship you’re sailing and the time of year will have a big impact on how much a pass will cost for Coco Beach Club. If your ship is one of Royal Caribbean’s newest and most popular vessels (such as Wonder or Icon of the Seas), chances are good that Coco Beach Club will cost at least $200 per person (and likely more).

Expect it to be around $300 during peak season, including during the summer and over school breaks. On a smaller, older ship and/or during a slower season, you might find that beach club pricing is in the $100 to $200 range.

If you’re interested in Coco Beach Club but can’t justify those types of prices, there is a silver lining. Passes are often included in Royal Caribbean’s sales such as Black Friday, with the line previously offering access for half off the list price. So if Coco Beach Club is a sought-after part of your vacation, keep an eye on sales that the cruise line is running. And check your account every so often to see if the pricing has dropped.

Is Coco Beach Club worth the price?

As with anything, considering whether something is “worth the cost” is quite subjective to the individual in question. In our opinion, the real value for Coco Beach Club is in its less-crowded, more peaceful atmosphere and elevated cuisine. For example, the restaurant menu at Coco Beach Club includes filet mignon and lobster — dishes you certainly won’t find at the lunch buffet on the island.

And even though kids are welcome at the club, chances are high you won’t find very many. Why? Because many parents won’t see the value in paying extra for access to a beach club for their kids when it likely won’t be as appealing to them as the Thrill Waterpark, Splashaway Bay splash waterpark, the sports courts, and the casual more kid-friendly food in those areas anyway.

Looking at what’s included in Coco Beach Club, many passengers see enough value in those perks to make the cost worth it. And when the price is lower, we’d be more likely to agree — especially if we can snag a pass for under $100 per person. However, a full-priced pass is getting more difficult to justify for the average cruiser.

If you’re sailing as a couple and passes are $200 per person, you’re paying $400 total for the privilege of some elevated food, a quieter atmosphere, and access to an infinity pool and less-crowded beach. And that’s not even for a full day, technically, it’s just for as long as the ship is in port. (For reference, most port calls at CocoCay last for 10 hours.) That’s $40 per hour for a couple on an island where there are other free beaches, food options, and activities.

Coco Beach Club doesn’t even include free drinks. If you have the drink package they will be included, but that applies to the rest of the island as well. Many Royal Caribbean ships have pools that are actually adults-only. And if you want a more upscale lunch or dinner you can get several specialty meals on the ship out of that $400.

Conclusion

Like we said, value is subjective and there will be opinions across the board. But for us, the current pricing trends for Coco Beach Club aren’t worth it unless you can snag a really good discount. Our advice is to enjoy Perfect Day at CocoCay for the crazy fun beach day that it is. Then, hit up the solarium and specialty restaurants back on the ship during the rest of your cruise vacation.

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