Things to Know Before Visiting Disney’s Private Island Castaway Cay

If you ask most Disney Cruise guests their favorite port, chances are the answer is the same: Castaway Cay. Since 1998, Disney’s private island has been the highlight of many sailings.

Easy Arrival

Unlike other cruise line islands, Castaway Cay has its own dock—no tender boats required. Within minutes of stepping off the ship, you can grab a towel, hop on a tram, and head to the Family Beach or Serenity Bay (adults only). Bring water shoes though—the sand can be rough in spots.

Food & Drinks Included

You won’t need to spend extra to eat well here. BBQ lunches are served at Cookies One, Cookies Two, and Serenity Bay, with burgers, chicken, ribs, salads, fruit, soft drinks, and ice cream—all included.

Optional Extras

Of course, Disney offers plenty of paid add-ons:

Cabanas (hard to snag, especially without Concierge or Pearl status) Snorkeling gear ($34 adults / $18 kids per day) Floats & bikes ($13 each) Excursions like stingray encounters or parasailing

Still, you can have a perfect day without spending a dime—just relax on the beach or try Pelican Plunge, the waterslide in the ocean.

Characters & Activities

Expect to see Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, and even Captain Jack Sparrow in island attire. If you’re active, try snorkeling, biking, or even running the unofficial Castaway Cay 5K. If not, hammocks and loungers are plentiful.

Adults-Only Escape

Serenity Bay offers a peaceful beach, its own BBQ, and the Air Bar—famous for the Konk Kooler, a rum and fruit cocktail.

Weddings & History

Yes, you can even get married here with up to 100 guests. Before Disney, however, the island (then Gorda Cay) had a darker history—once used by pirates and drug smugglers. Today, the old airstrip is a bike path.

One Visit Isn’t Enough

Many cruisers book a “Castaway Cay Double Dip” cruise for two stops on the island. Once you’ve been, you’ll understand why—one visit never feels like enough.