What Makes a Perfect Day At Coco Cay?

How to Enjoy a Stop At Royal Caribbean's Private Island

Last Updated on March 16th, 2020

Situated 55 miles (88.51 km) north of Nassau in the idyllic Berry Islands, Coco Cay offers guests a highly personalized experience. Because Royal Caribbean assumed the lease on the island in 2018, exclusive access is granted to their cruise ship passengers. This means you’ll enjoy a custom-crafted island experience without having to struggle through large crowds. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a romantic partner, or as a part of a group of family or friends, Coco Cay is an excellent private destination choice because it features activities and amenities for a variety of ages and personal preferences.

Most Bahamas cruises depart from ports located in Florida, and these are vacation destinations in their own right, so consider arriving a day or so before your cruise is scheduled to set sail to enjoy a slice of what these cities have to offer.

Fort Lauderdale

Officially known as Port Everglades, this port situated in the heart of Florida’s Fort Lauderdaleis one of the busiest in the world. Along with cruise ships, the port serves as a domestic cargo port as well as a foreign trade zone, so you’ll enjoy an international flavor during your time in the city. The port is within easy distance of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Despite its name, the port isn’t located on or near the Florida Everglades — it’s on the southeastern panhandle 23 miles (37.01 km) north of Miami.

Miami

Famous for its nightlife scene and sun-soaked beaches, Miami is also the home of America’s busiest port. PortMiami features a modern design that puts a premium on the kind of streamlined efficiency that keeps lines moving smoothly as passengers board and leave the ships. This port also serves as the home port for some of the largest ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. Passengers on Florida cruises cite the view of Miami when leaving port to be among the most breathtaking sights of their voyage. Miami is served by Miami International Airport, which is conveniently located near Miami’s downtown district.

Port Canaveral

Informally known as the gateway to Central Florida, Port Canaveralis 45 miles (72.42 km) east of Orlando and 20 miles (32.19 km) north of Palm Beach. It’s one of the busiest cruise port ships in the world, Fort Canaveral also serves international and domestic commercial shippers as well as the U.S. military. Travelers have a choice of four airports when flying in and out of the Port Canaveral area — Orlando International Airport, Orlando Melbourne International Airport, Daytona Beach International Airport, and Orlando Sanford International Airport.

Your Day at Coco Cay

Coco Cay is less than one mile (1.61 km) long and 200 yards (0.18 km). Depending on the size of your ship, you’ll be sharing the island with somewhere between 2,000 and 4,000 guests, but you’ll still have plenty of opportunity for some quiet, reflective time in an environment steeped in stunning natural beauty at one of the four beach areas. Well-designed pathways wind among the island’s many attractions. Here’s just some of what guests experience:

All-Inclusive Private Cabanas

Guests of the Coco Beach Club enjoy a seaside infinity pool, beachside lounging, and elegant cuisine and beverage selections served with impeccable style, but the real stars of their particular show are the floating cabanas.

The first floating cabanas anywhere in the Caribbean, these feature luxurious overwater hammocks, freshwater showers, a private slide leading to the crystalline waters of the bay. Private cabanas on the sand with all the amenities are available in various locations on the island.

Thrill Waterpark

Thrill Waterpark features the largest wave pool in the Caribbean, towering water slides as well as the highest water slide on the North American continent.

Snorkeling

You’ll be able to rent basic equipment for snorkeling at the Snorkel Shack and spend an hour or several hours enjoying brightly colored tropical fish and vibrant coral reefs in crystal clear waters.

Captain Jill’s Galleon

Captain Jill’s Galleon delights little hearts with interactive water cannons, slides, and a splash pad.

Chill Island

This relaxing beach getaway is ideal for picnicking under the palms, enjoying an al fresco snack or meal, or simply resting up from a visit to one of the water parks. For a super-relaxing experience, rent one of the cabanas on the sand — they accommodate up to eight people and include an attendant.

Captain Jack’s

Captain Jack’s serves up some of the best barbecue in the Caribbean. Specialties include chicken wings with mango-habanero sauce. Menu selections are ala carte, there is a full bar, and live performers provide island music.

Balloon Rides

You’ll soar 450 feet (0.14 km) in the air in a helium balloon overlooking Coco Cay and the surrounding waters.

Oasis Lagoon

Oasis Lagoon features secluded coves, a swim-up bar, and the biggest freshwater pool in the Caribbean. An underwater surround-sound system treats guests to music every time they dive beneath the surface of the water. Beach cabanas are also available here.

South Beach

South Beach features comfortable beachside lounging, beverage stations, a Snack Shack serving up casual fare such as burgers and salads, and three bars. Its white sand beaches are perfect for beach volleyball or basketball or building sandcastles.

Splashaway Bay

Five water slides, assorted fountains, and two gigantic drench buckets provide hours of watery fun for little ones.

As you can see, a visit to Coco Cay has something to create a memorable experience for every member of the family.

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