Castaway Cay cruise port guide

Arrival & Getting Ashore

Getting to the centre: From Castaway Cay's dock, head to the island's beaches; there is no town to reach.

• Shuttle: free island trams; change at Pelican Point for the tram to Serenity Bay.

Prices checked 2026-10-15. Source: Disney's Castaway Cay pocket guide.

Ships dock directly at the island, according to Disney's visitor FAQ. Passengers walk off using the ship's gangway rather than joining a routine tender transfer. Wait for the ship to announce that guests may go ashore.

Take your ship access card and the identification specified onboard. Disney explicitly requires passengers 18 or older to carry a passport or government-issued photo ID to go ashore and reboard. Keep it dry and with you when separating from your beach bag for an activity.

Frequent island trams provide onward movement. They serve the recreation areas within Castaway Cay; they are not transport to a Bahamian town. For mobility assistance, discuss the gangway and your equipment with Disney before travelling, as tram accessibility alone does not establish the whole landing route.

About this port

Castaway Cay is Disney Cruise Line's private Bahamian island, reserved for its cruise passengers. The visit works well as a beach day with lunch ashore, with optional cycling, snorkelling and boat activities for anyone wanting more movement. There is no town visit to organise: the destination is the island's managed recreation area.

The main decision is between Castaway Family Beach and Serenity Bay, the beach for adults aged 18 and over. Pick a base that suits the whole party before adding activities. A cabana is an optional purchase; it is not necessary to enjoy the included beaches and seating.

Getting Around

Use the walking areas or the island tram service according to your energy and the heat. Disney says trams accommodate personal and electric wheelchairs, but sand wheelchairs cannot board. Accessible toilets are provided. This distinction matters when planning how to move between a beach and a tram stop.

The island's destination page identifies Pelican Point tram stop beside Castaway Family Beach. For Serenity Bay, change here to its separate tram. Agree a recognisable meeting place if part of the group goes to an activity while others stay by the water. Save exploring the walking trails for a time when you still have comfortable time to return.

Things to Do

A straightforward beach day: Castaway Family Beach brings swimming and family activities together, with Cookie's BBQ as a lunch option. Adults wanting a separate setting can choose Serenity Bay, which also has barbecue dining. Loungers, umbrellas and towels are included, so decide whether an extra rental will actually improve your day before booking it.

Explore by bicycle: Disney's Bicycle Rentals activity provides one hour of cycling along island paths. The published rental is US$15 per rider aged three or over, checked 2026-09-25; prices and availability can change. Read the equipment and participation details for younger riders. Allow time to return the bicycle before heading to lunch or your ship.

Snorkelling or an organised water outing: Snorkel equipment is available to hire, while Disney also offers glass-bottom boat trips and other Port Adventures. Choose the glass-bottom option if looking underwater appeals more than swimming. Booked activities have their own meeting instructions and may change with weather. The included beach day and a paid boat excursion are separate choices, so compare the activity duration against the time you want on shore.

Getting back to your ship

Retrace your route towards the dock, using the island tram where helpful. Allow for waiting, gathering belongings and returning hired equipment before reaching the gangway. Keep the ship's all-aboard time separate from the ending time of a beach activity or meal service. Have your access card and required photo ID ready for reboarding; seeing the ship from the beach does not mean you are already at its entrance.

Practical Information

Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear and something to keep essential documents dry. Included drink stations and barbecue meals make it possible to spend the day ashore without booking a restaurant, but specialist drinks and equipment hire cost extra. Use the dining times announced for your call rather than assuming food service lasts until all-aboard.

Disney lists drones, personal wagons, flotation devices and fishing gear among prohibited items. Read its current packing restrictions before bringing bulky beach equipment. The island has its own approved rentals and facilities.