More about Castaway Cay
Why Cruise to Castaway Cay?
A variety of beaches and activities cater to passengers; expect shuttle service and character visits
Some areas can be crowded, despite the island's size, and there will be lines to meet characters
Disney's attention to detail makes this private island one of the most impressive we've seen
Good to Know?
You can use your Key to the World (room key) to purchase items at gift shops on Castaway Cay -- no need to bring cash or credit cards off the ship.
Runners (and walkers) might be interested in participating in the Castaway Cay 5K, offered on every cruise that stops on the island.
Check out the post office to mail a letter or postcard with a one-of-a-kind Disney Castaway Cay postmark. There are limited operating hours, but you can use the drop box for outgoing mail. (This is the only venue on the island that does not accept the Key to the World Card for payment.)
What Sets It Apart?
Unlike other islands, Castaway Cay has Disney embedded in its offerings, complemented with character visits, ample children's programming and free attractions by land or sea, making it a truly easy family day at the beach. Adults can get away from the crowds at Serenity Bay, the adults-only beach.
Most of the water-based attractions that are not designated shore excursions are free, such as Pelican Plunge mini-waterpark and splash pad, as well as the complimentary childcare at Scuttle's Cove. Disney Cruise Line Wave Phones (glorified two-way radios that are provided free of charge onboard) also work on the island, so you can separate and still stay connected.
Amenities?
Grab enough towels to last you throughout the day as you head off the ship. Once you're finished, no need to bring them back to the ship; just deposit your used towels in containers throughout the island.
Beach lounge chairs, umbrellas and hammocks are located throughout the beach areas -- they are free to use, but it's recommended that you arrive early to snag your preferred location as they are first come, first served.
Disney-style tram service runs approximately every six minutes from Arrival Plaza, with stops at Scuttle's Cove and Castaway Beach, the main family beach areas. An additional tram takes you to Serenity Bay, the adults-only beach.
The kid-centered programming that young cruisers enjoy aboard Disney cruises continues on Castaway Cay with a complimentary supervised kids' club at Scuttle's Cove. The club features programming throughout the day (families check their kids in the same way as they do on board, scanning their bracelets).
Aside from that, younger kids love the thrill of spraying water at Spring-A-Leak splash pad and digging in the sand at Monstro Point, where they can find whale bones and shark teeth. Older kids might enjoy basketball, Ping-Pong and other games at In-Da-Shade, playing tether ball, volleyball or soccer, or going down the thrilling waterslide known as Pelican Plunge. There's a swim-up raft with ropes, bridges and ladders, too, and there are plenty of complimentary life jackets available throughout the family beach areas.
If you'd like to get married on Castaway Cay, you can arrange your ceremony through the cruise line. Ceremonies are typically performed at Wedding Pointe, a semi-secluded area near Serenity Bay and can accommodate up to 100 guests. Packages can include:
- Officiant
- Fresh flower bouquets and boutonnieres
- Pianist performance during the ceremony
- Wedding cake and Champagne celebration on the ship
- Dinner for two onboard at Palo restaurant
- Commemorative Disney Cruise Line certificate
- Steaming service for ceremony attire
You can use the Wi-Fi package you have purchased onboard your Disney cruise on Castaway Cay, as well as access the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. Depending on your carrier, you might access cellular service while on the island (roaming and data rates may apply, so contact your cell phone company prior to your cruise if you want to know more).
Castaway Cay features accessible paved pathways from the ship to the main dining and shopping areas, and trams are accessible to people in manual and electric wheelchairs. Several beach wheelchairs are stationed near the main beaches, available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are accessible restrooms located throughout the island, and designated accessible cabanas available to rent for a fee.
