Cruises to CocoCay
CocoCay - Royal Caribbean's private resort island in the Bahamas and one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world. Officially named “Perfect Day at CocoCay”, it is not a city or a conventional seaport, but a purpose-built island of attractions visited exclusively by Royal Caribbean Group ships. The island lies within the Berry Islands, about 55 miles (89 km) north of Nassau, and is part of the Bahamian archipelago — hundreds of coral islands and reefs scattered across the warm waters of the Atlantic. There are no Gothic cathedrals or centuries-old streets here; instead, there is the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, holding roughly 800,000 gallons (3 million liters) of water, the tallest water slide in North America, and a helium balloon that lifts guests up to 450 feet (137 m) for a view of the whole island and its surrounding reefs.
For a cruise traveler, CocoCay is not a home port or a turnaround port — it is exclusively a port of call: no ship begins or ends a cruise here, and the island functions purely as a day-stop on the itinerary. Its pier can berth two of the largest Oasis-class ships side by side without tendering, and a third ship can anchor nearby when needed. On peak days the island welcomes up to 13,000 cruise guests at once, and around 2 million travelers visit every year. That makes CocoCay one of the most visited private islands in the world and Royal Caribbean's most successful project in the “private destination” category. 🏝️
📋 Before you set sail for CocoCay or step ashore for a few hours of port time, here's what matters most:
🇧🇸 Country: The Bahamas (Commonwealth of The Bahamas)
📍 Region: Berry Islands, Bahamian archipelago
👥 Population: about 38 people per the 2010 census — the island has no permanent civilian residents, only seasonal Royal Caribbean technical and hospitality staff
📐 Island size: less than 1 mile (1.6 km) long and less than a third of a mile (0.44 km) wide, with a total area of roughly 0.22 sq mi (0.57 km², 140 acres)
🗣️ Languages: English (the official language of The Bahamas); island staff also communicate in Spanish and other languages
💵 Currency: US dollar (USD) — the island runs on a fully cashless system through the SeaPass cruise card; the official currency of The Bahamas, the Bahamian dollar (BSD), is pegged 1:1 to the US dollar
🕐 Time zone: Eastern Time, EST (UTC-5), EDT (UTC-4) in summer — 7 hours behind Kyiv time
☀️ Climate: tropical, with a mild “winter” (70–79 °F / +21…+26 °C) and a hot summer (84–90 °F / +29…+32 °C); hurricane season runs from June through November
✈️ Nearest airport: Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau — about 55 miles (89 km) away; there is no direct air access to the island itself, it can only be reached by cruise ship
⚓ Official name of the island port: Perfect Day at CocoCay
🗺️ Island port area: approximately 0.57 km² (140 acres) — the entire territory belongs to Royal Caribbean Group
🏛️ The History of CocoCay — from Little Stirrup Cay to Perfect Day
⏳ From a fishing cay to a cruise line's private island
The history of CocoCay is the story of how an unremarkable coral cay became one of the most profitable assets in the global cruise industry. The island's original name was Little Stirrup Cay, part of the Berry Islands group, long used by Bahamian fishermen and spongers. At least several documented 19th-century shipwrecks (1848–1872) still lie in the island's coastal waters, drawing divers today. In 1986 the island was the site of a large-scale rescue operation, when passengers from the liner SS Emerald Seas were evacuated to its shore after a fire broke out on board.
⚓ From a tender stop to Perfect Day at CocoCay
In 1988, Royal Caribbean secured a long-term lease on the island from the government of The Bahamas, acquired along with Admiral Cruises. For the next three decades the island, renamed CocoCay, served as an ordinary tender stop with a beach and barbecue — no pier, no attractions, no real infrastructure. Everything changed in 2017–2019, when Royal Caribbean invested roughly 250 million USD in a complete transformation of the island. A covered pier capable of berthing the largest Oasis-class ships without tendering was completed in June 2018, and in May 2019 the island officially reopened under its new name, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In January 2024, another landmark zone opened on the island — the adults-only Hideaway Beach. 🏗️
⚓ CocoCay — Royal Caribbean Group's private destination
📊 Scale and layout of the island
CocoCay is not a port in the traditional sense but a fully designed island of attractions, divided into themed zones connected by free trams that loop from Arrivals Plaza every 15 minutes. The main zones are: South Beach — sports courts and a floating bar opposite Arrivals Plaza; Chill Island — the island's central white-sand beach; Oasis Lagoon — the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, holding about 800,000 gallons (3 million liters) of water; Thrill Waterpark — a water attractions park; Hideaway Beach — an adults-only (18+) beach; and Coco Beach Club — a premium, gated zone with an infinity pool available for an extra fee.
The island's single covered pier can simultaneously berth two of the largest Oasis-class ships without tendering, and a third ship can anchor nearby when needed. It's about a 6-minute walk from the gangway to Arrivals Plaza, or guests can take the free pier tram.
🚢 How many ships CocoCay can host
On a typical day, one or two ships are docked at CocoCay's pier at once, rising to as many as three on peak dates. At maximum capacity, the island welcomes around 9,000–13,000 cruise guests in a single day, and the total annual guest flow reaches nearly 2 million people.
🏢 Which cruise lines call at CocoCay
The island is an exclusive private destination of Royal Caribbean Group, so only ships from two brands call here — Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. No other cruise line has access to the island, which is exactly what makes CocoCay such a unique, fully controlled and predictable stop on Western Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries. 🌴
💡 Fun facts about CocoCay
A few lesser-known details worth knowing before you visit the island:
🏝️ The island officially still carries two names at once — Little Stirrup Cay (the Berry Islands' geographic name) and Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's marketing name). In late August 2026, without any official announcement, the company began also using a shortened version — “Perfect Day CocoCay” (dropping “at”); whether this name will become permanent remains unconfirmed.
💰 The island's 250 million USD transformation is one of the largest single investments ever made in a private island in cruise industry history.
🌊 Oasis Lagoon is the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, holding about 800,000 gallons (3 million liters) of water.
🎈 The Up, Up & Away helium balloon lifts guests up to 450 feet (137 m) — the highest vantage point in the Bahamas accessible without a plane.
🌀 Daredevil's Peak at Thrill Waterpark stands about 135 feet (41 m) tall — the tallest water slide in North America.
⛴️ Before 2018, ships could only reach the island by tender boat — the covered pier that allowed the largest ships to dock directly was completed just ahead of the Perfect Day opening.
🤿 Several documented 19th-century shipwrecks lie in the island's coastal waters, making it a popular spot for dive excursions.
🎢 The CocoCay zip line stretches nearly 1,600 feet (490 m), running above the beach and the island's tropical vegetation.
👥 According to the 2010 census, only 38 people officially lived on the island — outside of ship-call days, it is effectively a deserted island guarded by Royal Caribbean staff.
📍 Main zones and attractions of CocoCay — must-sees for cruise travelers
A cruise ship's call at CocoCay typically lasts 8 to 10 hours, so it's worth exploring the island with a plan in hand. A detailed list with zone locations, prices, and operating hours can be found in the “Landmarks and Points of Interest” section; below is a quick overview of the island's key spots.
🌊 Oasis Lagoon — the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, free to access, with loungers and swim-up bars.
🌀 Thrill Waterpark — a water attractions park featuring the Daredevil's Peak slide, a wave pool, and numerous water slides for adults and kids.
🏖️ Chill Island and South Beach — the island's central beaches with white sand, loungers, sports courts, and a floating bar.
🔞 Hideaway Beach — an adults-only (18+) beach with its own pools, a DJ, and several bars; access requires an additional pass.
🍹 Coco Beach Club — a premium, gated zone with an infinity pool and ocean views, accessible for an extra fee.
🏴☠️ Captain Jill's Galleon — a free interactive pirate ship with water play features for the youngest guests.
🎈 Up, Up & Away — a helium balloon that lifts guests up to 450 feet (137 m) above the island.
🎢 CocoCay Zipline — a zip line nearly 1,600 feet (490 m) long, running above the beach and the island's tropical greenery.
✨ Why choose a cruise that calls at CocoCay
CocoCay is a rare kind of cruise stop — one that guarantees a perfect beach day regardless of mood or budget.
First, the logistics couldn't be simpler: the ship docks right at the island, no transfer is needed, and every zone is just minutes away on foot or by tram. 🚋
Second, it works for any type of travel group: family-friendly pools and a kids' pirate ship, thrill rides for teens, a quiet adults-only beach, and a premium club for those seeking privacy. 🏝️
Third, most of the core experiences — the beaches, loungers, Oasis Lagoon, and kids' zones — are included in the cost of the cruise, so a day on the island doesn't require extra spending unless you choose the paid attractions. 💵
The cruise specialists at Four Gates Group can help you choose the ideal Caribbean or Bahamas itinerary that calls at CocoCay, book the island's premium zones in advance, and recommend which attractions to add to your day — plus offer exclusive rates from Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, our partner brands as a priority agency in Ukraine. 🤝
ℹ️ Please note: the information on this page is provided for general reference and is accurate as of the date of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. For up-to-date information, please check with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or the official websites of the relevant venues.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals
How to Get to the Cruise Terminal at CocoCay
CocoCay (Perfect Day at CocoCay) is a private island owned by Royal Caribbean Group in the Bahamas, which is exactly why getting here is fundamentally different from getting to any “regular” city cruise port. There is no airport with scheduled flights, no railway station, no city taxis, and no rental car that could take you to the pier — the island is served exclusively by Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises ships, and there is only one way to reach it: by arriving on your own cruise ship. 🚢 Below is everything worth knowing about the logistics of this unusual port: exactly where the island is located, how docking works, how to get from the gangway to the beaches and attractions, and when to head back on board. All information has been verified by the cruise specialists at Four Gates Group. 🎯
📍 Where CocoCay Is Located and Why This Port Is Different
CocoCay is located in the Berry Islands, about 90 km (55 nautical miles) northwest of Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. It is a small island less than 1.6 km long and less than half a kilometer wide, known until 2019 as Little Stirrup Cay. Royal Caribbean has leased the island since 1988, and in 2019, after a major 250 million USD transformation, turned it into the “Perfect Day at CocoCay” resort destination covering about 51 hectares (125 acres) — complete with a waterpark, a man-made lagoon, private beach clubs, and its own pier for direct docking of large cruise ships.
📍 GPS reference: Little Stirrup Cay, Berry Islands, The Bahamas
⛴️ Distance from Nassau: about 90 km (55 nautical miles)
⛴️ Distance from Port Canaveral (Florida): about 385 km (240 miles)
⛴️ Distance from Miami and Fort Lauderdale: about 225 km (140 miles)
🏝️ Island size: about 51 hectares (125 acres)
🏛️ Owner/lessee: Royal Caribbean Group (leased since 1988)
⚓ The CocoCay Pier — Direct Docking, No Tenders
Before 2019, ships calling at CocoCay could only anchor a few hundred meters offshore, with passengers ferried to the island by tender boats — a trip that took about 15 minutes each way and significantly limited how many guests could go ashore during a single day of the call. As part of the 250 million USD transformation, Royal Caribbean built a covered pier on the island's north shore, allowing the company's largest ships — including Oasis-class vessels — to dock directly at the shore without tenders. The renovated island officially reopened on May 4, 2019, when Navigator of the Seas became the first ship to dock at the new pier.
Today the pier can accommodate up to two large ships at the same time, including Oasis-class vessels, each of which carries more than 6,000 passengers. Thanks to a well-designed network of trams, beach zones, and dining venues, the island comfortably handles guests even on days when two ships are docked at once.
🚢 Cruise Lines That Call at CocoCay
CocoCay is a private island exclusively for Royal Caribbean Group ships. Most calls are made by Royal Caribbean International — essentially the company's entire fleet sailing Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries out of Florida ports (Port Canaveral, Miami, Fort Lauderdale): Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, and others. Starting with the 2024–2025 season, ships from sister brand Celebrity Cruises began calling as well — including Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Equinox. No other cruise line has access to the island. 🌴
🚫 Why You Can't Get to CocoCay on Your Own
Unlike Barcelona or any other “city” cruise port, there is no way to reach CocoCay independently of a cruise — and it's worth knowing this before you plan a trip.
• No tourist airport: the nearest small airports in the Berry Islands — Great Harbour Cay Airport and Chub Cay International Airport — serve mainly local residents and private aviation; there are no scheduled commercial flights to CocoCay or anywhere nearby.
• The pier serves Royal Caribbean Group ships only: the island is under a long-term private lease to the company, and the pier does not accommodate ferries, private yachts, or ships from any other cruise line.
• No taxis, rental cars, or public transport: the island has no public roads at all — only walking paths and a free tram route for guests of whichever ship happens to be in port that day.
• No hotels or overnight stays: CocoCay is a day-visit island only; it is open exclusively to guests of docked ships and closes as soon as the last ship departs.
The only way to see CocoCay is to book a Royal Caribbean International or Celebrity Cruises sailing that includes a call at the island. The cruise specialists at Four Gates Group will be glad to help you find one. 🤝
🚶 Getting from the Pier to the Beaches and Attractions
Once the ship is docked, you can go ashore as soon as the gangway opens — there is no separate customs or passport check, as is typical at Bahamian ports on a closed-loop cruise itinerary.
🚶 On foot from the pier: walking from the gangway along the covered pier to the island's main square, Arrival Plaza, takes about 6 minutes.
🚃 Free tram: a free tram runs from Arrival Plaza with stops at every key zone on the island — Chill Island, Oasis Lagoon, South Beach, Coco Beach Club, and Hideaway Beach. Trams run roughly every 15 minutes, and some are solar-powered and wheelchair-accessible.
⏱️ Approximate walking time from the pier:
• Thrill Waterpark — about 8 minutes
• Oasis Lagoon (the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas) — about 12 minutes
• Hideaway Beach (adults-only zone) — about 15 minutes
• Chill Island and South Beach — 15–18 minutes, depending on the exact zone
💡 Guests traveling with children or heavy beach bags should hop on the tram at Arrival Plaza right away — it saves energy under the hot sun.
♿ Accessibility for Guests with Limited Mobility
The island is fully adapted for guests with limited mobility:
✅ The pier and Arrival Plaza are equipped with ramps, with no sharp level changes
✅ Some trams are wheelchair-accessible — just ask at any stop
✅ Beach wheelchairs are available on the beaches for moving across the sand and into the water
✅ Oasis Lagoon has a gradual entry and lifts for guests with limited mobility
✅ Island staff can assist with mobility needs on request — let the Guest Services desk on your ship know in advance
⏰ The Island Schedule and Returning On Board (All Aboard)
CocoCay is exclusively a port of call: boarding or disembarking at the start or end of a cruise never happens here, so this section works differently than it does for a port like Barcelona — it's not about arriving at a terminal, but about the schedule of the day ashore itself.
🕗 Island opening: usually around 8:00 a.m., right after mooring formalities are complete
🕔 Island closing and boarding begins: usually between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; the exact time is always listed in the ship's daily Cruise Compass and in the Royal Caribbean app
⏰ All Aboard deadline: typically 30–60 minutes before the ship's stated departure time — missing it means watching your ship from the pier and catching up with it at the next port of call entirely at your own expense.
❗ Important: the exact island closing time and All Aboard deadline vary by sailing — check the Royal Caribbean app or the daily program handed out on board the day before your CocoCay call.
💡 Insider Tips from the Four Gates Group Experts
Over years of working with Royal Caribbean sailings to the Bahamas, our specialists have gathered a few tips that make a day at CocoCay as smooth as possible:
🌅 Head ashore as soon as the island opens. The most popular zones — Thrill Waterpark and the loungers around Oasis Lagoon — fill up within the first hour, especially on days when two ships are in port at once.
📱 Book paid zones in advance through the Royal Caribbean app. Cabanas, entry to Hideaway Beach or Coco Beach Club, and waterpark time slots often sell out while you're still planning your cruise — weeks before boarding.
💳 No cash needed. Every purchase on the island — from drinks to souvenirs — is charged to your ship's SeaPass card or wristband, exactly as it is on board.
📶 Wi-Fi only works with a VOOM package. If you've purchased a VOOM internet package on your ship, it works on the island too; there is no free Wi-Fi at CocoCay.
🧴 Sun protection is a must. Shade is limited on the beaches, and the Bahamian sun is strong even in winter. High-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof pouch for your SeaPass card will all come in handy.
⏰ Set an alarm 30–40 minutes before the stated All Aboard time. It's easy to lose track of time on the island — there are no loud announcements like in city ports, only the ship's horn as a final warning.
👨👩👧 For families with children, Splashaway Bay and Chill Island are the closest zones to the pier — no need to spend the morning's energy walking to the more distant beaches.
📞 Contacts for CocoCay Guests
Since CocoCay is private property of the cruise line, all island-related questions (the day's schedule, booking zones, the time to return to the ship) are handled through the Guest Services desk on your ship — that's where the exact schedule for your specific call is known.
Four Gates Group cruise specialists (24/7 for clients):+38 097 653 05 53
Office:+38 (044) 337 82 01
The logistics of a day at CocoCay are far simpler than those of a traditional city port — once the ship is docked, all that's left is to step ashore and enjoy the island. But that's exactly why it pays to know what to expect in advance: there are no taxis, no airport, and no second chance if you miss the All Aboard deadline. The cruise experts at Four Gates Group can help you choose the ideal itinerary with a CocoCay call, tell you which zones to book ahead of time, and stay reachable 24/7 throughout your entire cruise. 🏝️✨
ℹ️ Please note: the information on this page is for general reference and was accurate at the time of publication. Schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please confirm up-to-date details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on Royal Caribbean's official website.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals
CocoCay Landmarks and Highlights: The Complete Guide for Cruise Travelers
CocoCay is not a city with museums and streets — it's Royal Caribbean's private island, completely reimagined as a giant open-air entertainment complex. There are no Gothic quarters or cathedrals here. Instead, you'll find the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool, North America's tallest waterslide, a helium balloon that rises to 450 ft (137 m), and its own beach club with overwater bungalows. Ships typically call at CocoCay for 8–10 hours, docking directly at the pier with no tender required, so passengers can walk ashore in just a few minutes. Below is a detailed guide to every zone on the island, with up-to-date 2026 prices, opening hours, and precise walking directions from the pier to each attraction. 🎯
⛲ 1. Oasis Lagoon
💡 Fun facts and things worth knowing:
Oasis Lagoon is the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool, holding around 800,000 gallons (nearly 3 million liters) of water. The pool is split into three interconnected coves linked by footbridges, with in-water loungers set right into the shallows — you can relax submerged up to your waist. 🏝️
🔹 A gently sloping entry point at the south end makes it easy for children and older guests to get in.
🔹 A swim-up bar sits right in the middle of the pool, serving the signature “Coco Loco” cocktail.
🔹 Despite its size, Oasis Lagoon never gets deeper than chest-height on an adult — it was designed as a relaxation zone, not a swimming pool.
📜 History:
Oasis Lagoon opened in May 2019 as part of the island's sweeping USD 250 million transformation, when the once-quiet Little Stirrup Cay became “Perfect Day at CocoCay.”
🚶 Getting there from the pier:
About a 12-minute walk along the island's main promenade, or take the free tram (runs every 15 minutes, 7 stops across the island).
💶 Cost and hours:
Free for all passengers. Open for the entire length of the ship's port call (typically 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., exact hours depend on the ship's schedule).
🌊 2. Thrill Waterpark
💡 Fun facts and things worth knowing:
The island's premier attraction for thrill-seekers. The flagship slide, Daredevil's Peak, stands 135 ft (41 m) tall — the tallest waterslide in North America, and the whole Caribbean region as well. 🏆
🔹 The park has more than 13 slides in total, including the multi-slide Splash Summit complex, the Dueling Demons, Screeching Serpent, and Green Mamba attractions, plus the Slingshot and Twister raft slides for two to four riders at once.
🔹 The park is also home to the largest wave pool in the Caribbean, with waves that shift from gentle to fairly powerful throughout the day.
🔹 Children under 48 in (122 cm) or without swimming experience have access to a separate, calmer pool area.
📜 History:
Thrill Waterpark opened in May 2019 alongside the entire “Perfect Day at CocoCay” complex. Before designing it, the Royal Caribbean team toured leading water parks around the world to gather the best engineering ideas for the slides.
🚶 Getting there from the pier:
About an 8-minute walk from the pier exit, or one stop on the tram.
💶 Cost and hours:
Admission runs approximately USD 89–160 per person (ages 4+), free for children ages 0–3. Pricing depends on your sail date and demand — it pays to book ahead through Cruise Planner. Open for the entire port day. Admission includes loungers and umbrellas within the park.
🎈 3. Up, Up and Away — Helium Balloon
💡 Fun facts and things worth knowing:
A tethered helium balloon rises to 450 ft (137 m) above the island — the highest vantage point in all of The Bahamas. The ride lasts about 10 minutes and is open to guests of any age. 🎈
🔹 From the top, you can see the whole of CocoCay, the neighboring islands of the Berry chain, and the turquoise shallows all around.
🔹 The balloon operates on a tether and is automatically grounded in high winds — safety comes first.
📜 History:
The balloon has been one of the new island's signature attractions since “Perfect Day at CocoCay” opened in May 2019.
🚶 Getting there from the pier:
About a 6–7-minute walk — the launch pad sits near Arrivals Plaza, just past the island's main entrance.
💶 Cost and hours:
USD 39–99 per person (ages 13+), USD 24–64 (ages 4–12), free for children 0–3 (without a separate seat). Book ahead — daily flights are limited by weather conditions.
🌴 4. Hideaway Beach — Adults-Only Escape
💡 Fun facts and things worth knowing:
The island's first zone reserved exclusively for guests aged 18 and up. At its center is a heated infinity pool with a swim-up bar, where a DJ plays music throughout the day. 🎧
🔹 The area is home to five bars, including one right in the pool.
🔹 Admission includes two buffet-style restaurants serving pizza, empanadas, and seafood dishes.
🔹 Complimentary in-water hammocks, daybed loungers, and poolside seating — available on a first-come, first-served basis.
📜 History:
The project was announced in September 2021 as CocoCay's “first adults-only escape,” a natural extension of the island's strategy of splitting into “family” and “quiet” zones.
🚶 Getting there from the pier:
About a 15-minute walk or tram ride — the zone sits in a more secluded, quieter part of the island.
💶 Cost and hours:
A day pass runs up to USD 99 per person if purchased on board (cheaper when booked in advance through Cruise Planner). Private “Hideaway” cabanas run from USD 899 to 1,699, and “Hideout” cabanas from USD 1,899 to 2,699 (on top of the day pass). Entry is strictly 18+; you may be asked to show ID at the gate.
🥂 5. Coco Beach Club
💡 Fun facts and things worth knowing:
The island's most exclusive zone, and home to The Bahamas' first overwater cabanas. There are only 20 of them, each around 675 sq ft (63 m²) and accommodating up to 8 guests, with a private slide straight into the ocean, an overwater hammock, and its own wet bar. 🛶
🔹 The club's beachfront infinity pool spans about 2,600 sq ft (240 m²), its edge visually blending into the ocean horizon.
🔹 Admission includes elevated dining — lobster, filet mignon, fresh grouper, and a wide selection of salads and appetizers served right on the beach.
🔹 Nearby, a floating bar sits out in the water, while neighboring South Beach offers volleyball and basketball courts.
📜 History:
Coco Beach Club officially opened on February 2, 2020 — after the launch of the main “Perfect Day at CocoCay” complex — and immediately established itself as a top-tier beach experience in the cruise industry.
🚶 Getting there from the pier:
About a 15–18-minute walk or tram ride to the final stop in the southern part of the island.
💶 Cost and hours:
USD 140–200+ per person (ages 13+), USD 34–99 (ages 4–12), free for children 0–3. Overwater cabanas can be booked up to a year in advance and sell out fast. Check Cruise Planner for exact cabana pricing on your specific sailing.
🏖️ 6. Chill Island & South Beach
💡 Fun facts and things worth knowing:
The island's main complimentary beach, with dazzling white sand and turquoise water — exactly the postcard image of The Bahamas. 🏖️
🔹 South Beach features beach volleyball courts and a snorkel gear rental stand.
🔹 Free loungers, umbrellas, and life jackets are available all along the shoreline.
🔹 For extra comfort, guests can rent private cabanas and daybeds in the Breezy Bay area of Chill Island for an additional fee.
📜 History:
Before the 2019 redevelopment, this part of the island was known as East Beach and South Beach; during the “Perfect Day at CocoCay” rebuild, the eastern stretch was merged into today's Chill Island zone.
🚶 Getting there from the pier:
10–18 minutes on foot depending on which stretch of beach you're heading to, or take the tram to the relevant stop.
💶 Cost and hours:
Entry and basic amenities are free. Breezy Bay cabanas cost extra — book ahead through Cruise Planner.
🏴☠️ 7. Captain Jill's Galleon & Splashaway Bay — Kids' Zones
💡 Fun facts and things worth knowing:
Two complimentary water play areas for the youngest passengers. Captain Jill's Galleon is a play structure shaped like a moored pirate ship, complete with water cannons and mini slides, while Splashaway Bay is a separate zone with five slides, fountains, and tipping water buckets. 🏴☠️
🔹 Both zones are designed for children up to 48 in (122 cm) tall, under adult supervision.
🔹 Both feature soft sandy bottoms and shallow water, safe even for the smallest guests.
📜 History:
These children's water zones were part of the first wave of attractions to open with the complex in 2019, later expanded further as the island grew.
🚶 Getting there from the pier:
5–8 minutes on foot — both zones sit close to the island's main entrance, in the “family” area.
💶 Cost and hours:
Free, open throughout the ship's entire port day.
🚡 8. CocoCay Zipline
💡 Fun facts and things worth knowing:
A course roughly 1,600 ft (490 m) long crosses the island at height, offering a panoramic view of all of CocoCay's colorful zones at once — from Oasis Lagoon to the shoreline. 🌬️
🔹 Minimum height to ride is 48 in (122 cm); weight range is 75–275 lbs (34–125 kg).
🔹 Closed-toe shoes are mandatory — sandals and flip-flops are not permitted.
🔹 Riders under 16 must be accompanied by a ticketed adult.
📜 History:
The zipline launched as part of the first wave of “Perfect Day at CocoCay” attractions in 2019.
🚶 Getting there from the pier:
About a 10-minute walk; the launch platform sits in the island's central area, next to Thrill Waterpark.
💶 Cost and hours:
USD 79–139 per person; the price drops if bundled with a Thrill Waterpark ticket. Booking ahead through Cruise Planner is significantly cheaper than buying on the spot.
🤿 9. Water Adventures & Excursions
💡 For those who want to get closer to the island and the water around it:
🚤 Wave Jet Tour (Sea-Doo Personal Watercraft) — a guided group ride around CocoCay and the neighboring Berry Islands, passing the Great Stirrup Cay Lighthouse and Starfish Alley shallows. Duration: 75 minutes (50 minutes of actual riding time); drivers must be 16+. Cost: USD 61.99 (driver), USD 21.99 (passenger).
🪂 Parasail Adventure — a tandem parasail flight behind a boat, reaching about 400 ft (122 m), with 5–6 minutes in the air plus 45–60 minutes on the water. Cost: USD 73.99 per person.
🚣 Glass Bottom Boat Tour — a 90-minute catamaran cruise over coral reefs and tropical fish, with guide commentary throughout. Cost: USD 30.99 per person.
🐠 Snorkeling — full-day gear rental (USD 26.99), or the guided “Reef Snorkeling & Sandbar” excursion, a 2.5-hour outing to artificial reefs and sunken features at a depth of about 10 ft (3 m) (USD 39.99).
🤿 Discover Scuba Dive with a PADI instructor — a single shallow dive to a maximum depth of 40 ft (12 m), lasting 90 minutes. Cost: USD 50.99 (with gear) or USD 42.99 (without gear).
⚠️ All water excursions should be booked in advance through Cruise Planner — spots are limited, and popular tours often sell out before the ship even arrives in port.
🛍️ 10. Other Places Worth a Look
• 🛒 Coco Logo Shop — the official “Perfect Day at CocoCay” souvenir store near the bridge on the way to Chill Island; pay with your SeaPass card.
• 🧺 Straw Market — two small marketplaces run by local Bahamian artisans on Chill Beach (one near the snorkel gear rental stand, one near Chill Grill), selling handmade woven goods and souvenirs. Cash only (US dollars).
• 🚋 Free tram — runs across the island every 15 minutes, 7 stops, and is accessible for guests with limited mobility and wheelchairs.
• 🍔 Skipper's Grill, Chill Grill, and three Snack Shack locations — complimentary dining venues for all passengers: tacos, burgers, salads, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs; beer and cocktails cost extra.
• 🏐 Sports courts — volleyball and basketball on South Beach, free of charge.
• 🐚 Natural area on the island's east side — a coral basin and walking trails for those who want to escape the crowds and see a more untouched side of the island.
🗺️ Three Ways to Spend the Perfect Day at CocoCay
Port calls at the island typically last 8–10 hours. Unlike city ports, there's no logistics or transfers to worry about here — you can devote the entire day to relaxing. Below are three plans depending on your budget and preferences.
🥉 Plan #1. The Free Day — from USD 0 per person
⏱️ Total time: 8–9 hours | 💰 Estimated budget: food and souvenirs only
🕘 9:00 a.m. — Disembark, walk or take the tram to Chill Island
Grab a free lounger while they're still plentiful — the best spots fill up by midday.
🕙 9:15 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — Beach time and swimming
Swim in the clear turquoise water, play beach volleyball on South Beach, rent your own snorkel gear near the shore.
🕛 12:00–1:00 p.m. — Lunch at Chill Grill or Skipper's Grill
Complimentary dining: burgers, tacos, salads; add a beer or cocktail for an extra fee (USD 10–15).
🕐 1:00–3:00 p.m. — Oasis Lagoon
Swim in the freshwater pool, relax on the in-water loungers, grab a “Coco Loco” cocktail at the bar (USD 12–16).
🕒 3:00–3:30 p.m. — Straw Market
Browse the local artisans' market, pay for souvenirs in cash.
🕞 3:30–4:30 p.m. — Head back to the ship
💰 Cost breakdown:
• Admission and all basic zones: USD 0
• Lunch and drinks: USD 10–15
• Cocktail: USD 12–16
• Souvenirs: as desired
💸 TOTAL: about USD 25–35 per person
🥈 Plan #2. The Active Day — USD 200–250 per person
⏱️ Total time: 9 hours | 💰 Estimated budget: USD 200–250
🕘 8:30 a.m. — Disembark straight to Thrill Waterpark
A pre-purchased ticket (USD 89–160) gets you into the park right at opening, ahead of the lines for Daredevil's Peak.
🕙 8:45–11:30 a.m. — Thrill Waterpark
Every slide, the wave pool, the Splash Summit zone.
🕚 11:30 a.m.–12:15 p.m. — CocoCay Zipline
A combo ticket with the waterpark (USD 79–139, discounted as a package) — zip across the island.
🕧 12:15–1:15 p.m. — Lunch at Skipper's Grill
Complimentary.
🕐 1:15–1:30 p.m. — Up, Up and Away
Balloon ride (USD 39–99) — a panoramic view of the island from 450 ft (137 m).
🕜 1:30–4:00 p.m. — Chill Island or Oasis Lagoon
Wind down and swim after the active part of your day.
🕓 4:00–4:30 p.m. — Head back to the ship
💰 Cost breakdown:
• Thrill Waterpark: USD 89–160
• Zipline (combo discount): USD 60–90
• Up, Up and Away: USD 39–99
• Lunch and drinks: USD 15–20
💸 TOTAL: about USD 203–369 per person
💡 Skip the zipline or the balloon and your budget drops by USD 40–90.
🥇 Plan #3. Premium — Coco Beach Club, from USD 300 per person
⏱️ Total time: 8–9 hours | 💰 Estimated budget: USD 300–500+
🏆 What's included:
• ✅ Access to the island's most exclusive zone — Coco Beach Club
• ✅ Private beach, infinity pool, and in-water loungers
• ✅ Elevated dining with lobster and filet mignon all day long
• ✅ An optional overwater cabana for a group of up to 8
• ✅ Access to the floating bar and South Beach sports courts
• ✅ A calm, uncrowded atmosphere
You can book Coco Beach Club, a cabana, or any other premium zone at CocoCay in advance through your cruise manager, or reach out to us however's most convenient:
Phone numbers:
• Office: +38 (044) 337 82 01
• Mobile (LifeCell): +380 93 653 05 53
• Mobile (Vodafone): +380 66 653 05 53
• Mobile (Kyivstar): +380 97 653 05 53
Email us
🕘 8:15 a.m. — Disembark, head straight for Coco Beach Club
🕘 8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. — Morning at Coco Beach Club
Private beach, infinity pool, in-water loungers, cocktails.
🕛 12:00–1:30 p.m. — Lunch at the club's restaurant
Lobster, filet mignon, fresh grouper — all included in the day's admission.
🕐 1:30–3:30 p.m. — Relax in your overwater cabana (optional)
A private slide into the ocean, an overwater hammock, snorkel gear.
🕒 3:30–4:00 p.m. — Stroll to the floating bar for photos
🕞 4:00–4:30 p.m. — Head back to the ship
💰 Cost breakdown:
• Coco Beach Club admission: USD 140–200+
• Overwater cabana (optional, for up to 8 guests): from USD 1,000 and up
• Drinks beyond the included menu: USD 20–40
💸 TOTAL: from USD 300 per person (without a cabana), or considerably more per group with one)
🤝 Four Gates Group helps our clients book Coco Beach Club, Hideaway Beach, cabanas, and water excursions at CocoCay well in advance — premium zones sell out weeks before departure. Reach out to your cruise specialist, and your day on the island will be planned to perfection. 🛳️✨
⚠️ Good to Know Before You Head Ashore
🕐 The “all aboard” rule: you must be back on the ship 60 minutes before departure. Since CocoCay is Royal Caribbean's private island, there's no other way off it — the ship will not wait.
🪪 Documents: your Ship Card (SeaPass) is all you need on the island — it also serves as your payment method. Cash is only needed at the Straw Market.
💵 Cash: bring USD 20–40 in small bills for souvenirs at the Straw Market — the artisan stalls don't accept cards. The official Coco Logo Shop and all bars/restaurants take SeaPass only.
👙 Clothing and footwear: swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel (available on the island or bring one from your cabin), and closed-toe shoes for the zipline.
☀️ Sun protection: shade is limited on the island, and summer temperatures reach 90°F (+32°C). Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are a must; the island recommends reef-friendly sunscreen, which is gentler on the surrounding coral ecosystems.
📶 Connectivity: mobile data on the island is limited, and Wi-Fi is available as a separate package. Download an offline map of the island in advance.
🌊 Water safety: swimming is permitted only in designated, lifeguard-monitored zones; currents are possible in open water.
🍹 Alcohol: drinks are included in your ship's all-inclusive package only in certain zones (for example, within Coco Beach Club admission) — elsewhere, they're charged separately to your SeaPass card.
ℹ️ Please note: the information on this page is for general reference and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions may change without notice. For up-to-date information, please check with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or the official websites of the venues listed.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals