{"id":2611,"date":"2023-07-31T11:14:00","date_gmt":"2023-07-31T01:14:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/castaway-luxury-private-islands-only-accessible-by-cruise\/"},"modified":"2024-06-18T05:18:59","modified_gmt":"2024-06-17T19:18:59","slug":"private-islands-only-accessible-by-cruise","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/private-islands-only-accessible-by-cruise\/","title":{"rendered":"Castaway Luxury: Private Islands Only Accessible by Cruise\u00a0\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><em><strong>These are the hidden jewels of the Caribbean, accessible only to those who cruise.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Private islands are the epitome of luxury. Imagine having cloud-soft sands, crystal-clear waters and a reserved cabana to enjoy tropical cocktails all to yourself. Getting to a private island almost always involves a cruise, and the onboard perks are as exciting as the destination: all-inclusive dining, entertainment and water activities, plus exclusive docks at picture-perfect island paradises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We&#8217;ve rounded up our favourite private island escapes only accessible by cruise for a castaway moment that&#8217;s as dreamy as it is secluded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ready to set sail?<\/strong> Check out our cruise offers <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/cruises\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.\u202f&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean International&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/shutterstock_2261721953-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Shutterstock \" class=\"wp-image-16793\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">CocoCay. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Step off the boat and you\u2019re welcomed with a sign that acts as a calling (or a challenge): Welcome to Perfect Day at CocoCay by <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/cruise-line\/royal-caribbean-international\">Royal Caribbean International<\/a>. Only accessible to lucky cruisers onboard Royal Caribbean ships, you\u2019re invited to be bold and loud at this exclusive Bahamas island. Discover a mind-blowing line-up of waterslides, zip lines and pools at Thrill Waterpark, where North America\u2019s tallest waterslide \u2013 Daredevil&#8217;s Peak \u2013 sits at a whopping 41m. If you\u2019re more about the chill than thrill, relax on the white sandy beaches of the freshwater Oasis Lagoon, or while away the day on the Bahamas\u2019 first floating cabanas. Live music and beachside parties will mean there\u2019s always something to keep you entertained, while pristine paths with native wildlife sightings allow for peace and quiet. With a number of restaurants and snack bars serving BBQ, burgers, seafood and tropical cocktails, you\u2019ll be well-fed and watered all day long.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Labadee, Haiti, Royal Caribbean International&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/shutterstock_1085695739-1024x576.jpg?crop=1\" alt=\"Shutterstock\" class=\"wp-image-16795\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Labadee Bay.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Where you\u2019re going, you don\u2019t need to keep time. It flows imperceptibly slower at Labadee, a bay exclusive to <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/cruise-line\/royal-caribbean-international\">Royal Caribbean<\/a> guests on the northern coast of Haiti. Surrounded by the warm shimmering waters of the Caribbean Sea, swaying palm trees, powder sands and lush mountains set the backdrop for your heavenly day. Upon arrival, head straight for the hypnotic turquoise waters and let your mind float away to another world. But if it\u2019s adventure you\u2019re after, you\u2019ll be well-looked after on Labadee: soar on the Dragon\u2019s Breath Flight Line, the world\u2019s longest overwater zipline, which reaches speeds of 64km an hour (40 miles per hour). Feel that momentary sense of freedom as you fly above hills covered with greenery and pristine beaches, relishing the moments of silence broken only by the warm breeze. The Dragon\u2019s Tail Coaster, a high-speed roller coaster through the mountains, will get the heart racing, while the waterslides and trampolines will keep it high at Arawak Aqua Park.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"-\" class=\"wp-image-5871\" srcset=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-350x233.jpg 350w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-1200x799.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Great Stirrup Cay.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For families seeking an upscale expedition, there\u2019s no better spot that Great Stirrup Cay, accessible aboard <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/search\/cruises?cruiseLines=NCL\">Norwegian Cruise Line<\/a>. Secluded island time is on the menu from the moment you land, including private beachfront cabanas for ultimate relaxation. Slink into serenity with a beachfront massage or spa treatment, then peer behind the gorgeous sugar-white sand beaches and crystal-clear azure waves to find thrilling water sports and activities. Snorkel with sea turtles, glide gently in a kayak or clip yourself into an exciting zipline adventure with endless views of island paradise. Make sure not to miss the playful swimming pigs of Treasure Island, iconic to picture-perfect images of the Bahamas and just a 10-minute boat ride away.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Harvest Caye, Norwegian Cruise Line&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/shutterstock_1351045808-1024x576.jpg?crop=1\" alt=\"Shutterstock \" class=\"wp-image-16813\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Harvest Caye.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Over 450 islands dot Belize\u2019s Caribbean coastline, yet only <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/search\/cruises?cruiseLines=NCL\">Norwegian Cruise Line<\/a> has a port of call in the region at Harvest Caye. Get a true feel for the culture, flavours and wildlife in one action-packed day, painting your own Caribbean adventure. If you long for relaxation, the island\u2019s seven-acre beachfront offers ample space for tranquillity on its talcum-white sands. If you yearn for adventure, verdant rainforests reveal nature trails that are home to dozens of winged creatures: encounter exotic birds with their siren call and butterflies in shades of vibrant blue and orange. Admire the lush landscapes from the above with a thrilling zip-line tour.&nbsp;Make sure to keep room in your suitcase for authentic handmade crafts and souvenirs from the shopping village, and room in your stomach for the food \u2013 feast on delicious cuisine at the island\u2019s restaurants, serving fresh seafood and Belizean specialities.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Princess Cays, Princess Cruises&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/shutterstock_549545044-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Shutterstock\" class=\"wp-image-16803\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Princess Cays. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Journey beyond what you know the Bahamas to be with a visit to <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/cruise-line\/princess-cruises\">Princess Cruise Line&#8217;s <\/a>Princess Cays, found on the island of Eleuthera. On the surface, the usual pristine beaches and sparkling waters entice, but under the surface, there&#8217;s a myriad of unique experiences to be found on this tropical isle. Watch the marine life go about their day with a clear-bottom kayaking experience, or swim alongside them with a snorkel adventure. Take in the views from the observation tower, enjoy local flavours and fresh seafood at the beachside barbecue, or peruse through authentic Bahamian crafts at the local market. Finish the day with a dune buggy adventure, zipping through the island\u2019s exotic flora and fauna into historic towns.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Half Moon Cay, Carnival Corporation&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/shutterstock_197022275-1024x685.jpg\" alt=\"Shutterstock \" class=\"wp-image-16805\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Half Moon Cay. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Mostly used for Holland America Line and <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/search\/cruises?cruiseLines=CCL\">Carnival Cruises<\/a>, Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas is an idyllic retreat that\u2019s anything but typical. Yes, there\u2019s an award-winning beach, but it\u2019s the unforgettable adventures that will stay in your heart forever. There\u2019s no better way to awaken your adventurous spirit and circumnavigate the island\u2019s coast than atop a horse. Leave with windswept hair, a smile on your face and some seriously epic photos. Then, see the mystic wonder of underwater life with an excursion to visit the majestic stingrays of the region. See their wings flutter like silk kaftans and marvel at their white bellies as they flip for you. Wind back the action and calm your nerves by hitting nature trails or enjoying the bevy of family-friendly amenities.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Mahogany Bay, Carnival Corporation&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/shutterstock_1291484353-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Shutterstock\" class=\"wp-image-16809\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Mahogany Bay. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>See the full colour spectrum of the underwater world at Mahogany Bay, the cruise port owned by Carnival Corporation in Roatan, Honduras. Dip your toes into the watery wonderland of the second largest coral reef system in the world, where there\u2019s no shortage of snorkelling and diving opportunities. Back on land, rise above the island with a picturesque chairlift ride, or explore the local area by foot. Meet local vendors keeping their crafting traditions alive or breathe in the freshest air on a rainforest hike, before sinking into a beachfront lounger or cabana for an afternoon by the sea.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ocean Cay, MSC Cruises&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/shutterstock_1603019554-1024x653.jpg\" alt=\"Shutterstock \" class=\"wp-image-16811\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ocean Cay. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to dedicated conservation efforts, MSC Cruises\u2019 Ocean Cay is a self-proclaimed \u2018island with a vision\u2019. Their commitment to preserving marine life and ecosystems shows, with an extensive and exquisite coral reef system that\u2019s perfect for snorkelling and diving. Follow colourful fish as they weave through vibrant coral formations, or stick to above-water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding and jet-skiing. Munch on authentic Bahamian cuisine and sip on refreshing tropical drinks before learning more about the island team\u2019s marine conservation and sustainability efforts. Just make sure you don\u2019t leave before catching the sunset \u2013 it must be seen to be believed.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ready to escape?<\/strong> Check out our collection of cruises <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/cruises\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.\u202f&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Looking for more inspiration?<\/strong> Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/sail-into-family-holidays-with-the-best-child-friendly-cruise-lines\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sail into Family Holidays with the Best Child-Friendly Cruise Lines<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>These are the hidden jewels of the Caribbean, accessible only to those who cruise. Private islands are the epitome of luxury. Imagine having cloud-soft sands, crystal-clear waters and a reserved cabana to enjoy tropical cocktails all to yourself. Getting to a private island almost always involves a cruise, and the onboard perks are as exciting [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":31,"featured_media":5871,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[38,70],"tags":[26,42],"location":[],"customertype":[],"class_list":["post-2611","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-usa","category-caribbean","tag-islands","tag-sun-beach"],"acf":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-scaled.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"lux_id":2611,"lux_link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/private-islands-only-accessible-by-cruise\/","lux_title":"Castaway Luxury: Private Islands Only Accessible by Cruise\u00a0\u00a0","lux_excerpt":"These are the hidden jewels of the Caribbean, accessible only to those who cruise. Private islands are the epitome of luxury. Imagine having cloud-soft sands, crystal-clear waters and a reserved cabana to enjoy tropical cocktails all to yourself. Getting to a private island almost always involves a cruise, and the onboard perks are as exciting [\u2026]","lux_excerpt_trimmed":"These are the hidden jewels of the Caribbean, accessible only to those who cruise. Private islands are the epitome of luxury. Imagine having cloud-soft sands, crystal-clear waters and a reserved","lux_image_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-scaled.jpg","lux_image_url_medium":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-350x233.jpg","lux_image_url_large":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-1024x682.jpg","lux_image_url_square":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/shutterstock_1039246669-500x500.jpg","lux_categories":[{"label":"USA","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/destinations\/usa\/"},{"label":"Caribbean","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/destinations\/caribbean\/"}],"lux_tags":[{"label":"Islands","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/islands\/"},{"label":"Sun &amp; Beach","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/sun-beach\/"}],"lux_locations":[],"lux_customer_types":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2611","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/31"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2611"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2611\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5871"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2611"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2611"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2611"},{"taxonomy":"location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/location?post=2611"},{"taxonomy":"customertype","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/customertype?post=2611"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}