The Caribbean is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. Among the many treasures it offers are the exclusive private islands owned by various cruise lines. These islands provide a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury, making them a favorite destination for cruise travelers. Many cruise line offer their own private luxury island, where only their ships stops. Each offer various different activates from adult beach clubs to water parks. You can swim with dolphins or relax on the white sand. All will within the confines of the cruise’s private island. Now the newest luxury cruise line, Explora Journey is joining the ever growing list of cruises with private islands.
Currently, many cruise lines already offer their own private islands, lets review some of the options today.
Castaway Cay – Disney Cruise Line
Located in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay is Disney Cruise Line’s private island paradise. This meticulously maintained island features three distinct beaches, including an adults-only beach, and offers a variety of water sports, shore excursions, and even a 5K race. Guests can use their room keys to charge purchases on the island, and Disney provides onshore child care, making it a perfect family-friendly destination. Many people consider these among the top reasons to sail Disney cruise lines out of Florida vs other locations.
Perfect Day at CocoCay – Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, also in the Bahamas, underwent a $250 million renovation to transform it into a premier destination. The island boasts North America’s largest water slide, a wave pool, multiple pools, and a pier for easy access. Whether you’re seeking thrills at the water park or relaxation on the beach, CocoCay offers something for everyone. CoCoCay is also VERY populat often hosting 2-3 cruise ships at a time. Book your beach chairs early, as this island gets crowded!
Half Moon Cay – Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line
Half Moon Cay, another gem in the Bahamas, is owned by Holland America Line but also serves Carnival ships. The island’s crescent-shaped beach is perfect for lounging, while activities like horseback riding, swimming with stingrays, and a kid’s water park ensure there’s never a dull moment. Despite being a tender port, the amenities and natural beauty make it a top choice for cruise passengers. I was here a few years ago and found the island to be basic, yet if you’re looking to swim in the ocean and relax, it’s great way to spend a day!
Harvest Caye – Norwegian Cruise Line
Situated off the coast of Belize, Harvest Caye is a resort-style island that opened in 2016. This 75-acre paradise offers a variety of eco-tours, water sports, and a pool with a swim-up bar. The island is a collaboration between Norwegian Cruise Line and the Belizean government, providing a unique blend of local culture and luxury. Yet once again, a private beach and place to relax. Keeping you again in the ecosystem of the cruise line.
Labadee – Royal Caribbean
Labadee, located on the northern coast of Haiti, is another Royal Caribbean private destination. Known for its lush landscapes and thrilling activities, Labadee offers zip-lining, water sports, and a roller coaster. The island’s secluded beaches and local crafts market provide a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Even with all the turmoil in Haiti, Labadee has been a top stop for the cruise line. Many love it and enjoy visiting Haiti without the worry of gang violence.
Ocean Cay – MSC Marine Reserve
MSC is the parent company of Explora Journey and offers a stunning destination located in the Bahamas. Ocean Cay was transformed from an industrial sand excavation site into a beautiful marine reserve, which opened just in time for the world to shut down due to covid. Opening with poor timely in Dec 2019. Yet now, it’s a highlight of many MSC cruises. MSC invested around $300 million to create this paradise.
Explora Journey’s Private Island
Explora Journey will build out their island near Ocean Cay. It will also be in the Bahamas and is due to open in the coming years. MSC Group’s Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago spoke about it last week at the annual “State of the Cruise Industry” conference. He didn’t let out many details, but we do know that the smaller nearby isle will become a similar paradise for its luxury Explora Journeys brand.
Explora Journey currently offers all inclusive cruises so we can expect to see a similar experience here offering beach chairs, open bars, and dining options to cruise guests. Based on my own trip to the San Blas Islands on Explora, I would expect there to be some basic included activities as well. Such as water toys, snorkeling, floats etc. I would also highly expect Explora to monetize options on the island offering water sports such as jet skis and other chargeable excursions.
Here are some photo’s captured by Scott & Thomas Travel partner Kyle Stewart.
Given that this island is still being built and even reclaimed from the sea, I would expect that this port does not open until 2027 or 2028. Which is good timing given the new Explora ships which are due over the coming years.
Bottom Line
Cruise line private islands in the Caribbean offer an unparalleled experience, combining the best of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. Explora Journey is an awesome all inclusive small ship luxury cruise line. There are 5 very distinct reasons I love cruising on Explora. I often can offer travel codex readers a bonus 5% savings on top of Explora’s advertise prices and always a €150 onboard credit per person. If you are interested in cruising on Explora, contact me to book today. We also offer many other deals with several different company. Check out all the benefits of using a travel agent from onboard credit to discounts and more.
Whether you’re lounging on the pristine beaches, exploring the natural beauty, or indulging in thrilling activities, these islands provide a perfect escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. Explora Journey will be the next to open a private Island. The timeline though is still unknown, so are many of the details. File this under more to come.
