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Heim Travel
Sophie Claire Höller
2019-11-17T17:15:00Z
- royal caribbeanhas its own private island in theBahamas, called Perfect Day at CocoCay.
- Whilecruise lineOperating there since the 1980s, it recently invested $250 million in renovations.
- The island is now home to theCaribbeanlargest wave pool, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean and the tallest water slide in North America.
- There's also a 1,600-foot zip line and a helium balloon that soars 450 feet into the sky, as well as a swim-up bar, various restaurants, and private cabanas and day beds.
- While I can see the appeal, it was a bit too artificial for my liking, and most activities cost extra.
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The concept behind Perfect Day at CocoCay - yes, that's the official name of the island - is simple: "Thrill and Chill".
CocoCay, die private Bahamas von Royal CaribbeanIsland, supplies and provides day beds, cabanas and a swim-up bar, as well as 13 water slides, a 1,600-foot zipline and a giant helium balloon.
Kara Wallace, Royal Caribbean's vice president of North America marketing, told Insider that CocoCay is "about creatingthe ultimate vacation."
private islandsare becoming a trend in cruising, with cruise lines such asDisney, Norwegian, Holland America and Princess offer their guests exclusive travel destinations. Wallace says it's a way for cruise lines to differentiate themselves, but stresses the island isn't destined to replace portsSan Juanor Sint Maarten. "It allows us to offer the same service as on board, but on an island," she said, adding that it's also about "offering a destination that nobody else can match."
So what is a private island that is practically tailor-made for aGuest on a cruise shipHow? Spent a day there recently - keep scrolling to see how it was.
Perfect Day at CocoCay - formerly known as Little Stirrup Cay - is Royal Caribbean's very own private island.
Located pretty much in the middle of the Bahamas archipelago, CocoCay is less than a mile wide and about 200 yards long, covering about 125 acres. It is approximately 55 miles from Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas.
Royal Caribbean has been there since the 1980s but recently undertook a $250 million renovation of the island.
This was apparently years in the making. and is based on intensive research and development.
Royal Caribbean showed guests a variety of mood boards and asked them what their perfect day would look like and what they hoped for from a private island experience. This resulted in everything from creating more shade to more transportation options.
And there's more to come. On January 31, 2020, Coco Beach Club will open with the Bahamas' first overwater cabanas (each with its own slide into the sea).
Most of the local Bahamian staff live on the island, which only operates when there are guests.
Only Royal Caribbean employees and cruise guests have access to CocoCay.
The renovation included building a pier so guests can get directly from the ship to the island without having to take a hassle of a shuttle boat.
Only two ships can dock at the island at a time to limit crowds.
Although the island is only a few hundred meters away at the end of the pier, there are buses that stop everywhere.
The "trams" run every 15 minutes and stop at Thrill Waterpark,chill island,Oasis Lagoon, South Beach und Coco Beach Club.
As you step onto the island, you'll be greeted by Bahamian dancers dressed for Mardi Gras.
At some point during the day they changed their outfit and wore different costumes as we left the island.
There's also a live band that will put you in vacation mode right away.
They played a lot of Jimmy Buffet covers.
The first thing you will see is Daredevil's Peak, the tallest water slide in North America at 135 feet.
Other superlatives on the island are the largest wave pool in the Caribbean and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.
The slide is in Thrill Waterpark along with 12 others like Dueling Demons and Screeching Serpent.
The water park costs extra, in between$44 and $99 per person for a full day.
Daredevil's Peak left me unimpressed for the most part, but Dueling Demons made me scream all the way down.
In Dueling Demons you stand on a platform in some sort of glass floor and after a very dramatic countdown you plunge into darkness as the ground just drops away beneath you.
The 125 hectare island has different areas and which one you visit depends on your interests.
The cards were urgently needed.
According to Wallace, the whole concept of CocoCay is based on the idea of "thrill and chill".
The basic idea is that people either want an adrenaline rush or want to relax, and CocoCay makes sure they have both options at all times.
Paved paths are color coded to guide you to different areas of the island.
A green trail leads to the more relaxing spots on the island, a blue trail to Thrill Waterpark and a red trail takes you on a sort of tour of the island.
There are lockers...
The buildings on the island are all colorful and tropical.
... bathroom ...
The bathroom was vaguely designed in the style of a surf shack.
... towel stations ...
It was nice not having to lug around a towel.
... and sinks everywhere.
As on the ships, sinks are ubiquitous to avoid huge, trapped germ pits.
There are even gift shops.
Most items are decorated with "CocoCay".
The island is quite huge, with various bridges and water features.
The island extends over 125 hectares.
There is also a helium balloon that rises 450 feet into the sky.
However, the "Up, Up and Away" balloon is attached to the ground, so you're not going anywhere. It also costsbetween $24 and $99, depending on the age of the guests and the season.
A 1,600-foot zipline makes three stops across the island.
The zipline also costs extra. Prices expire everywhere$79 bis $139 pro Person.
Unlike most normal zip lines, this one just felt comfortable.
This was fun and gave you a cute bird's eye view of much of the island, but in my opinion it wasn't worth the rather high price tag.
Of course, like on the ship, you're never far from something to eat.
Skipper's Grill offers complimentary salads, sandwiches and burgers made to order.
The funnel cake was excellent.
Other desserts were brownies and chocolate chip cookies.
There are currently four free eateries (with another opening in December) and one a la carte restaurant.
Chill Grill is the largest eatery in the area and offers a buffet that ranges from American BBQ to a self-service taco bar.
The beef tacos wereyummy, and I also recommend the Cuban sandwich and the Portobello sandwich.
As for alcohol, there are plenty of bars on the island, but the swim-up bar at Oasis Lagoon was by far the most popular.
The 23-seat bar is located in the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.
Although around 6,000 people disembarked for the island, it didn't feel very crowded.
Royal Caribbean estimates that one million visitors will have visited Coco Cay in 2019 and expects that number to double in 2020.
We hardly had to queue for the slides at the water park.
However, signs indicated where the wait could be 15, 30 and even 45 minutes.
The wave pool was also relatively empty.
It's the largest wave pool in the Caribbean.
The swim up bar was the busiest spot on the island.
However, our cruise was in early November and therefore had fewer children than a summer or winter break cruise.
Free umbrellas and sunbeds lured me to the beach.
There are three beach areas in total.
There are also day beds and cabanas, although they'll cost you a pretty penny.
Daybeds can cost between299 $ bis 569 $, while the overwater cabanas, which will debut in December, forup to $1,599 in high season.This price includes entry for up to eight people to the cabana and an exclusive Beach Club area.
Chill Island was the place for me. People were snorkeling in the sea, although even without rental gear I saw some pretty stunning fish in the crystal clear waters.
Kayaks, snorkels, and jet skis are also available for rent. I decided to save my money and instead swam quite far out to a floating dock that I had all to myself.
While the water slides were fun and the beach was undeniably beautiful, the whole island felt a little too artificial for me.
I'm not a water park girl and while the beach was beautiful, the whole island felt a little too inauthentic and over the top for me. Plus, just about everything — from snorkel gear to the water park to day beds and cabanas — costs extra.
Still, the Royal Caribbean cruise lines love it. The private island has quickly become their number one port, based on ratings and rankings collected from guests by Royal Caribbean.
Royal Caribbean currently has another private island, Labadee in Haiti, andbolt Perfect Day bei Lelepain Vanuatu.
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FAQs
How much did CocoCay cost to renovate? ›
In 2019, the island was extensively renovated by Royal Caribbean at the cost of US$250 million.
Does Royal Caribbean have their own private island in the Bahamas? ›Royal Caribbean has a private island in the Bahamas called Perfect Day at CocoCay. The island gives cruise guests a combination of thrilling activities and relaxing beaches.
How much did Royal Caribbean pay for CocoCay? ›With the completion of Royal Caribbean Cruises' $7 million private island CocoCay, the cruise line has taken the out-island concept from beach experience closer to a full-scale Caribbean port-of-call experience.
Do people live on CocoCay island? ›The only people who live on CocoCay are Royal Caribbean employees, according to the cruise line. As Royal Caribbean guests step onto the island, a band greets them with Caribbean tunes. Most attractions on the island are complimentary to cruise guests, including the food and many of the pools and beaches.
How much is it to rent a floating cabana at CocoCay? ›The ultimate luxurious experience in CocoCay is renting a floating cabana, which can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $1,700. You'll feel like you're vacationing in Bora Bora with a private cabana that features a sofa, dining area, water slide and concierge. This also includes access to everything in Coco Beach Club.
Do you have to pay at Royal Caribbean private island? ›Is there an admission fee? There is no admission fee to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay. Most of the experiences at Perfect Day at CocoCay are complimentary. Some of these include Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, the shipwrecked Captain Jill's Galleon l...
Where is Johnny Depp's private island in Bahamas? ›He owns a US$5.35 million private island in the Bahamas
The 18-hectare (45-acre) island is known as Little Halls Pond Cay and is located in the Exuma Land and Sea Park protected area of the Bahamas.
Johnny Depp once owned a private island but ended up selling it after his divorce from Amber Heard due to ugly memories.
Do cruise ship employees get free food? ›Do cruise ship employees get free food? A majority of cruise ship lines offer their employees free food throughout the duration of their contracts. There's typically a special kitchen on the boat that prepares food for staff members. Employees may eat in separate dining areas, depending on their classifications.
Is the food on CocoCay free? ›Entry fee includes access to premium beach, the clubhouse, infinity pool, complimentary dining at the exclusive restaurant with an elevated menu, beach chairs, umbrellas and more.
Are there free beaches on CocoCay? ›
Perfect Day at CocoCay has three main free beaches. Chill Island is the sandy option all the way on the left side of the island, with its own beachside barbecue. South Beach, to the right and all way across the island from the pier, has the island's sports court.
How many employees live on CocoCay? ›Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean's private island oasis in the Bahamas. Up to two ships can dock at the island's pier, and it's staffed by 350 employees who reside full time on the island.
How does CocoCay get electricity? ›Electrical power generation and distribution: diesel generation system with switchgear and distribution with associated transformers. Water treatment and distribution: groundwater intakes and reverse osmosis water treatment.
Does CocoCay have a hotel? ›Rooms available at Cococay Resort Hotel
The front desk is always open, day or night.
Most of the food at Perfect Day at Coco Cay is included in the cruise price (all food except for Captain Jack's). One thing to remember is that the restaurants (Chill Grill and Skipper's Grill) are only open from 11:30 - 3:00.
Do I need a passport for a cruise to CocoCay Bahamas? ›Bahamas Entry Requirements for US Citizens
While US citizens visiting the Bahamas for tourist don't need a visa to enter the country, you need a passport with at least three month validity if you plan to fly to the Bahamas, or even to enter by boat, except for in one special case.
You can't go to CocoCay and not notice the beautiful beaches. Chill Island, South Beach, and Harbor Bay beaches are for all guests to use free of charge. The beaches have complimentary lounge chairs, hammocks, bean bag chairs, and umbrellas.
Can you smoke on CocoCay? ›Cigarette, cigar, e-cigarette and pipe smoking is permitted only in designated smoking areas. Please check wayfinding signs on the island for specific locations.
Do you need water shoes at CocoCay? ›Proper footwear
Don't forget proper shoes if you're planning to ride the Zip Line at Perfect Day at CocoCay. Your shoes must have a closed toe area and be secured around the back of your foot as well. Sneakers or enclosed water shoes are great options.
However, you can't just pop over in a private boat and enjoy the amenities. CocoCay is leased by Royal Caribbean International for use exclusively by its visiting cruise ships.
Can you do whatever you want on a private island? ›
The short answer to this is no. It's not possible to make up laws even if an island is private, simply because of the fact that it will already be governed by a country.
Do you get free drinks in the casino on Royal Caribbean? ›As a benefit with Club Royale, complimentary drinks are offered in the Casino, during operating hours, to Prime, Signature and Masters guests.
Is Labadee Haiti owned by Royal Caribbean? ›CAP-HAITIEN – Labadee, the Royal Caribbean-owned beach resort off Haiti's northwestern coast popular with cruise lovers, is once again open after being shuttered nearly two years ago, government officials said.
Can people visit Johnny Depp's private island? ›Unlike other privately owned islands that have been developed into tourist destinations, Little Hall's Pond Cay is not open to the public. There are no resorts, condos, restaurants, or hotels on this little island.
How much did Johnny Depp's island cost? ›Johnny Depp bought Little Hall's Pond Cay, a 45-acre island with six beaches, for $3.6 million in 2004. The actor once called the place "pure and beautiful" – but it may be settlement fodder now that he and longtime partner Vanessa Paradis have split.
What celebrity owns an island in The Bahamas? ›Eddie Murphy owns a private island, Rooster Cay, located just outside Nassau Bahamas. It's a secluded island paradise that's spread over 15 acres. Murphy bought the property in 2007 for $15 million. Beyonce's father is Bahamian and Beyonce and Jay Z own not just one, but two private islands in The Bahamas.
What celebrity owns a private island? ›Pamela Anderson – Island off Dubai coast
Other famous actors who have their own private islands include Tyler Perry, who bought the White Bay Cay in The Bahamas to fly his private plane. Even Steven Spielberg has two islands in Madeira Archipelago, off the coast of Portugal.
Your daily work schedule while onboard will depend on your particular position, but you can expect to work seven days a week and anywhere between 10-13 hours per day.
Do cruise ship employees get their own room? ›Crew and staff members often have one roommate, though they sometimes have three. Their rooms are furnished simply, giving occupants some combination of a bed, a desk, a closet, a few shelves, and a small bathroom.
Why don t cruise workers get days off? ›People that work at hotels get days off – so why don't people on a ship? That mostly comes down to cabin space. Cabin space is at a premium. If crew were to have days off you would still need other crew to cover those responsibilities – this means more crew onboard taking up more cabin space.
Can you swim in the ocean at CocoCay? ›
CocoCay Is Great for Babies & Toddlers
Of course, they can also swim in the ocean.
Yes! Beverage packages purchased onboard or on Cruise Planner will be active on the island.
Does CocoCay require cash? ›You'll need your SeaPass card to pay for things on the island. There's also an island market with local Bahamian crafts, where items can be charged with your SeaPass card (until 2:30 p.m.) and cash (USD) is always accepted.
Does CocoCay have jellyfish? ›There may be some jellyfish in the waters around CocoCay, depending on the weather.
How much does it cost to build a CocoCay? ›A perfect day on CocoCay costs Royal Caribbean International $200 million to build.
How much did it cost to renovate the resort on renovation island? ›While initially expecting to invest around $4 million, the couple quickly realized the 1960s resort was in such bad shape that renovating it would cost far more than that — they ended up investing around $10 million to complete their vision of restoring the resort to glory.
When did Royal Caribbean redo CocoCay? ›The announcement. At a ceremony in March 2018 in New York City, Royal Caribbean announced its plans to expand its private island in the Bahamas, CocoCay. The $200 million transformation (later it increased to $250 million) was part of an even bigger announcement to reveal the Royal Amplified fleet upgrades.
How long did CocoCay take to build? ›The current design of the island took roughly two years to complete, as the company wanted to ensure that they protected the quest experience throughout the process, all without shutting it down.
Can you go to CocoCay for free? ›Is there an admission fee? There is no admission fee to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay. Most of the experiences at Perfect Day at CocoCay are complimentary. Some of these include Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean, the shipwrecked Captain Jill's Galleon l...
Who owns the island on Renovation Island? ›Sarah and Bryan Baeumler moved their family to South Andros Island, Bahamas, to build up their dream resort. They were given six months to change the rundown property into the Caerula Mar Club. So, how is Renovation Island doing today?
Where did the people on Renovation Island get their money? ›
After college, Bryan set his sights on a law career but soon had a change of heart and instead founded a contracting company called Baeumler Quality Construction. That company has launched multiple others, including Baeumler Approved, Baeumler Productions, and Baeumler Media.
Where did the owners of Renovation Island get their money? ›According to Celebrity Net Worth, Bryan and Sarah's net worth is around $20 million. The couple likely makes most of their money from the show now, but Sarah also has her own lifestyle brand that pulls in an income. Her brand includes products and services for creating unique designs.
Who owns the island next to CocoCay? ›Coco Cay aka Little Stirrup Cay, is privately owned by Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL). It is about one mile long, 1/3 of a mile wide, and its white-sand beach is reserved exclusively for RCCL's guests.
Which Royal Caribbean ships are being refurbished 2023? ›Summer 2023 sailings are changing aboard both Voyager of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas as the ships are being repositioned.
Can you go to CocoCay without a passport? ›However, if you travel with Royal Caribbean cruises, you can visit CocoCay, an island the cruise company owns—it's “private” in a sense. Here, you don't need a passport to go to the Bahamas, though you will need to stick with your cruise itinerary on a non-negotiable basis.
How many ships can be at CocoCay? ›Location: A maximum of two ships can dock at this private island.