Castaway CayAbout Castaway Cay
Castaway Cay is a private island in the Bahamas owned and operated by Disney Cruise Line, developed as an exclusive port of call for Disney ships and opened for guests in 1998.
The island offers multiple beaches and shallow swimming areas, a marked snorkel lagoon, a floating water-play area for children and on-island amenities such as a tram, barbecue facilities and character meet-ups. Guests use on-site rental services for snorkel gear and beach equipment, and many ships dock at a pier that provides direct access to the island.
Disney acquired and developed the island in the 1990s specifically for cruise itineraries and has operated it as a dedicated stop for Disney Cruise Line sailings since its opening. Facilities and layouts have been developed to separate family recreation from an adults-only area and to support large daily visitor numbers from cruise ships.
Situated in the northern Bahamas in the Abaco island chain, the island is accessible only to cruise guests and lies off the main tourist islands; it functions solely as a day port rather than as a residential or commercial community.
- Docking and peak times: Ships usually dock at a dedicated pier so most Disney vessels can come alongside rather than tendering; plan arrival activities early in the day when shore facilities are least crowded.
- Separate adult and family areas: An adults-only beach area and a separate family beach are maintained, allowing different experience choices for groups and travellers.
What to See#
- Family Beach: A family beach area with shallow water, lifeguards, picnic facilities and close access to mooring facilities and ship tenders or the island pier.
- Serenity Bay: An adults-only beach and recreation area separated from the main guest areas, with its own shoreline and quieter atmosphere.
- Snorkel Lagoon: A shallow, marked lagoon set aside for snorkeling with interpretive signs and rental equipment available on site.
- Pelican Plunge: A floating water-play platform and slides located off the shore for children and families, accessed by swim or shallow water.
- Guest services and tram: A small on-island post office, character meet-and-greet locations, and a tram that runs from the ship dock to the beaches and activity areas.
Best Time to Visit Castaway Cay
Best during the dry season (late fall to early spring) for pleasant weather; itineraries depend on cruise schedules.
Weather & Climate near Castaway Cay
Castaway Cay's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and warm winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 18°C to 32°C. Abundant rainfall (1233 mm/year), wettest in October.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 19° - 24° | 21° | 53 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 18° - 24° | 21° | 63 mm | - | - | 5.3 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 19° - 26° | 23° | 68 mm | - | - | 5.4 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 21° - 27° | 24° | 49 mm | - | - | 5.1 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 23° - 29° | 26° | 113 mm | - | - | 4.7 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 25° - 31° | 28° | 171 mm | - | - | 4.1 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 25° - 32° | 29° | 120 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 26° - 32° | 29° | 140 mm | - | - | 3.9 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 25° - 32° | 28° | 168 mm | - | - | 4.2 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 24° - 30° | 27° | 183 mm | - | - | 4.9 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 22° - 27° | 25° | 61 mm | - | - | 5.4 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 20° - 26° | 23° | 44 mm | - | - | 5.2 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Castaway Cay
Castaway Cay is only accessible to guests on Disney Cruise Line itineraries; ships dock at the island’s private pier and passengers disembark for day visits scheduled as part of their cruise.
Tips for Visiting Castaway Cay
- If possible, book Disney Cruise Line excursions that include guided beach or snorkeling access for the best organized visits.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a waterproof camera; snorkeling is the main attraction for many visitors.
- Expect strict Disney policies on bringing alcohol and personal items onto the island - check the ship's notices.