Table Of Content
The swimming here is great, but it will likely take some time for the snorkeling to come up to snuff, simply because attracting and sustaining populations of fish where there previously weren't any takes time. Located in the Bahamas, Norwegian Cruise Line's easygoing, do-what-you-want-when-you-want private island, Great Stirrup Cay, is like the ultimate date night -- but better. And, like any great date, you can go all out and spend a ton of money, or keep it simple and sweet without spending a dime. If you prefer to just laze and soak in the paradisical scenery, look into booking a private cabana on Half Moon Cay -- they've got some of the best, at least in our expert opinion.
A Taste of Italy, Enjoyed in Luxury
Swim, snorkel, explore, or just relax, and leave the transportation to us. There was no cap on beverages; my finacée was able to order a Patrón soda for no extra charge. However, all the bartenders I spoke with said that they're still trying to figure out Celebrity's packages since this is Celebrity's first sailing to CocoCay. Celebrity's Classic Package is more restrictive, as it only includes drinks up to $10. While I could have paid to upgrade to the Premium Package, I figured that there would be a decent selection of drinks to choose from. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case onboard, as the majority of cocktails cost anywhere from $12 to $17.
Following Incident, Carnival Says Gambling ‘Strictly Forbidden’ Outside of Casino
Celebrity Reflection, along with Celebrity Beyond, are scheduled to regularly visit the island on itineraries ranging from 3 to 7 nights. After departing Fort Lauderdale, Florida on April 21, Celebrity Reflection sailed to CocoCay, arriving shortly before Wonder of the Seas. This marks the first time that Celebrity has called at the island since the $250 million renovation that was completed in 2019.
Where is Half Moon Cay?
Towels are provided on the island, so you do not need to bring your own from the ship. The best beach on Great Stirrup Cay will depend on your preferences because they're all beautiful. The ocean swing sets provide a fantastic photo-op if you've been waiting for that picture-perfect moment to share on Instagram. You can even purchase clamshells that are farmed nearby and contain natural pearls.
Sailing and Watersports on Half Moon Cay
There's also kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for rent, animal encounter tours with stingrays and the Bahamas' famous swimming beach pigs (yes, it's a thing!), and a great selection of food and drink venues. Taking a cue from Disney, Royal Caribbean also equipped Perfect Day at CocoCay with its own pier capable of docking two ships at once, meaning passengers no longer have to tender ashore. Each evening (at least on days when Virgin passengers are using it), a beachfront bonfire will cap off the ship’s visit to the port on the Bahamian island of Bimini. We do know that when a Virgin Voyages ship is in port, those passengers will have exclusive use of the facilities. On days when a ship is not scheduled to call, Resorts World guests will be able to access the club. Currently, other cruise passengers have been able to take excursions to The Beach Club, including those from Carnival.
The evolution of cruising's private islands - Travel Weekly
The evolution of cruising's private islands.
Posted: Mon, 11 Mar 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
As well, sunscreens should be safe for coral reefs (it’s sold on the island if you need some). There are also no paper maps of the island to cut down on the waste. Several different restroom stations are dotted along the island, and feature handicapped accessible stalls. Each restroom also has water fountains for you to grab a drink (disposable plastic bottles are discouraged on the island). If you have your certification then you can book a one or two-tank dive from the island. The entire building is covered in light panels and circled at top and bottom with bright spotlights.
The Ocean Villas are adjacent to the cabana area in front of Fiesta Beach, not the Silver Cove Lagoon. The island currently does not have Wi-Fi, so it will be a day to disconnect. Make sure that you let your friends and family know that you will be unavailable for the day before you get off the ship.
Harvest Caye, Norwegian Cruise Line
Passengers have to be ferried to and from the cay using tenders (ship’s lifeboats) which takes about 20 minutes. Although there’s some steep competition from other private cruise-owned islands, Half Moon Cay is frequently listed #1. This is mainly due to the extensive beach with its super-soft white sand and diverse activities such as horse riding.
Cobranded Cards
Explore more of the island along a winding trail to the highest point for panoramic views. On the return trip you can ride the horses through the shallow waters in a thrilling beach ride. If you are a lover of watersports and whatever is listed so far doesn’t fit your bill why not sail on a Hobie cat, sunfish sailboat or a windsurfing sailboat? You can hire any of these watercraft from one of the three water sports centers available on the island. Alternatively, hire water bikes for a fun time on the water or go kayaking at Bonefish Lagoon.
Purchased by Holland America Line in 1996, this Bahamian island (also known as Little San Salvador) derives its name from its half-moon shape. It has been lovingly developed over the intervening years, and hosts ships from Carnival Cruise Line when no Holland America vessels are in port. There's a reason some sailings devote two whole days of their itinerary here at Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Princess Cays is a tender port, but the operation runs smoothly for the short ride from and to your ship. But don't set your standards too high for your private island escape. That's especially true if you're on a megaship or if there are multiple ships calling on the same day. If you can't hack it in the sun all day, there isn't as much else to do compared to calling on a port that's open to the public. If you're looking for more information about the private island experience, as well as a list of these private islands, which lines operate them and what you can expect when you call there, you've come to the right place. Ocean Villas start at $899 and accommodate six guests, with up to two additional guests charged at $49 each.
Don't make the mistake of walking to the far end of the beach with all your gear when some cruise lines will provide open-air trams to take you where you want to go. Located off the northern coast of Honduras, lies the island of Roatan. It is the largest of the country’s Bay Islands and a hidden jewel in the Caribbean Sea. With a cruise to Mahogany Bay on the south shore, you’ll find soft sand beaches, crystal clear waters and lush, green landscapes.
So just because the weather is warm year-round doesn’t always mean the water will be as well. As we’ve mentioned, the island is a private paradise for MSC passengers. But to simply call it that wouldn’t do the work that MSC has done justice. Other major cruise ports (relatively) near Ocean Cay include Nassau, Key West, and Freeport.
While it’s open to all, it’s a bit of a walk from the main beach area. For even more beach bliss, book a massage or other spa treatment at the Mandara Spa at Silver Cove. Treatment rooms open onto the lagoon, so the island breezes can waft in while you zone out. Plus, your spa appointment will get you access to the Silver Cove beach, restaurant, and bars, which are typically reserved for villa guests. While much of the island is undeveloped, Norwegian has carved out a beachy paradise on the northern shore, with plenty of fun-in-the-sun options for cruisers of all ages. The private island of Half Moon Cay was formerly known by the less romantic-sounding name of “Little San Salvador Island”.
No comments:
Post a Comment