As veteran Disney cruisers, we've been to Castaway Cay, Disney's private island in the Bahamas, more times than I can count. We'd reached the point where some port days we didn't even bother getting off the ship. So when I booked a cabana for a big family trip, I honestly wasn't sure it would be worth the splurge.
It was.
Why we booked one
This was a multigenerational sailing: grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins, with our kids cruising alongside their cousins for the first time. I wanted one home base where everyone could gather, come and go, and relax together without hunting for enough beach chairs in a row.
I booked one of the newer family cabanas, tucked beside Serenity Bay (the adults-only beach). This section is family-friendly and open to all ages, but it's quieter and more relaxed than the main family beach.
What's included in a cabana?
- An indoor sitting area plus outdoor loungers
- Direct beach access
- A stocked fridge of soft drinks and water, and a fresh fruit tray
- Chilled towels, so you don't need to bring your own
- Floats, tubes and snorkel gear
- Bike rentals included for a set time
- A tablet in the cabana for requests, and a cabana host who checks in on you
- Golf cart transport if you need it
Lunch is the same barbecue you'll find elsewhere on the island, but having it a few steps away makes the day so easy.
The day itself
The forecast looked ominous. When we arrived it was cloudy, with lightning in the distance, and it was too late to cancel. We went anyway, and the weather ended up cooperating beautifully.
The water was calm, clear and warm without being too warm. We spent hours floating, reading, playing chess and just being together. The moment my husband walked in, he announced it was his new favourite port stop and that we'd never do Castaway Cay without a cabana again. Who am I to argue?
My tips
- Pick your number carefully. I spent far too long researching cabana locations and chose one close to the buffet and washrooms. Worth every minute of the rabbit hole.
- Book the moment your activity window opens. Cabanas are among the first things to sell out. I set an alarm for the middle of the night for mine, and had everything locked in within five minutes.
- Split it. For a larger group, the per-person cost comes down quickly.
- Don't let a forecast scare you off too early. Island weather changes fast.
So, is it worth it?
For first-timers on a short cruise, the regular beaches are wonderful and you don't need a cabana. But for a group, a family celebration, or seasoned cruisers who want a new way to enjoy the island, I'd give it a ten out of ten.
Cabanas sell out early, and your activity window depends on your Castaway Club status and how far out you book. Find your sailing here, send it to me, and I'll make sure you're ready the moment your window opens.
