Booking a cruise on Disney Cruise Line for the first time can be a little overwhelming. If you have never been to Disney’s Castaway Cay, there are some things you might not know that will help you enjoy your trip. Before we get started, be sure to book your port adventures as early as 75 Days before your cruise. Once you have a Disney Cruise in your memories, you will be able to book at 90 days all the way to a 120 days prior depending on your cruise line status. The earlier you book, the more options you will have. Once you get to Castaway Cay, there are some other things you should know. So, here are some very helpful Castaway Cay tips to give you the edge.
There are Different Beaches
The first thing to know about Castaway Cay is that there is not just one beach everybody goes too. There are several beaches for different types of cruisers. One is a family beach, another a teen beach, and even an adult beach with a bar. Serenity Beach, the adults only beach, is a tranquil place to unwind, while the family beach has plenty of games. There is also an area featuring beach sports.
You Don’t Have to Walk
Here’s a very helpful bit of info. There is a tram to take you where you want to go. You don’t have to walk everywhere if you don’t want to, and you can save yourself some time, by letting a tram do the work. The first tram leaves from just outside the post office (near the dock) and takes you to the family beach. There you can switch trams to Serenity Bay. However, you can also rent a bike if you really want to get around on your own. .
Looking not to spend on extras? An EZ Dis travel concierge will give you a shipboard credit for every cruise! You pay the same price as booking directly with Disney and receive money to spend on board (shopping, excursions, spa treatments and more!), as well as gaining first hand knowledge and recommendations as a thank you. Another good thing to know is that complimentary strollers and sand wheelchairs are available on the island as well.(in limited quantities, first come, first served)
5K Run
There is a 5K run that you can participate in. It’s one of my favorite Castaway Cay tips I wish I’d known. You have to get up early to do it, but there is a run on every day the cruise ship is docked. The event is a fun way to get your day started and to feel a little better about all the extra eating on the ship. When you finish the run, you get a medal and there is a lot of 5 K merchandise you can purchase as well on Castaway Cay.
TIP: While there is no charge, advanced sign up at Guest Services is required
The Food Service Stops at 2:00
Cookies and Cookies Too are great These barbecues along the beaches of Castaway Cay offer all you can eat food and sides. There is also unlimited soft serve frozen yogurt. Be sure to plan your day to include eating before 2pm. If you head to Cookies Too, the menu typically includes a bonus item such as steak or salmon.
If You Like Something, Buy It
Finally, this is a good rule anytime you go anywhere Disney. It especially applies on Castaway Cay. There is plenty of merchandise on the island. Much of it is exclusive. You can’t even get it on the cruise ship. Don’t think you will buy something you saw later during the cruise. You have to buy some of the merchandise while you are there. a lot of it is not available anywhere other than Castaway Cay
The vast majority of sailings from Port Canaveral have scheduled stops at Castaway Cay as well as many sailing from Miami or Galveston. Sometimes you can even reserve a special “double dip” cruise with 2 stops at Castaway Cay! Be aware, like everything else, stops at Castaway are subject to weather cancellation. Ask your travel concierge to help you pick the best itinerary for you!
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