disney cruise 2023 private island

Disney Cruise Line’s NEW Private Island – What We Know So Far – UPDATED

Disney Cruise Line’s current fleet of five ships will become a fleet of eight ships within the next few years. To accommodate the associated passenger influx, in May 2019 Disney purchased a second major property in the Bahamas, Lighthouse Point , to be a supplement to its current private island Castaway Cay.

Disney recently announced that Lighthouse Point will be opening to cruise guests during the summer of 2024.

Lighthouse point is a 700-acre parcel of land on the southern tip of the island of Eleuthera, about 132 miles southeast of Castaway Cay.

History of the Agreement | The Guest Experience on the Island | The Magic and Fantasy to Visit Lighthouse Point Summer 2024 | Official Name Announced | Arrival Point, Cultural Center, Stage, Shopping, and Adult Area Details | Disney Releases Lighthouse Point Port Adventures | Disney Releases First Photos

History of the Agreement

Disney has pledged to develop just 20% of the land it has purchased and return about 190 acres to the Bahamian government for use as parkland, maintaining much of the rest in its pristine, undeveloped state. DCL has also committed to using sustainable building practices and ensuring strict environmental standards. At the D23 Expo in September 2022, Disney announced that the development will be 90% solar-powered. (A 550-page environmental-impact study for Lighthouse Point is available at lighthousepointbahamas.com .)

In addition to protecting the environment, Disney has pledged to make a positive impact on the Bahamian economy with Lighthouse Point. The project is providing 120+ construction jobs, approximately 80% of which will be Bahamian. DCL also has a goal of creating about 150 well-paying operations jobs once the site opens. As a step toward the second goal, DCL now has a partnership with Junior Achievement Bahamas. The program will provide services to nearly 1,000 high school students on Eleuthera and will include education on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and college preparedness. Additionally, DCL has awarded $150,000 in grants to small businesses on Eleuthera, designed to fund training in topics such as developing marketing plans and understanding financial statements. According to the project’s spokespeople, Disney’s goal is to have a ship at the Lighthouse Point port three to five days a week, with the destination having room for just one vessel at a time. Weekly visitors are expected to number approximately 11,400–26,600, depending on the season and which ships are in port.

The Guest Experience on the Island

When guests arrive at Lighthouse Point, they’ll be greeted by distinctive architecture in bright, saturated hues. The curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. Upon closer inspection, guests will discover artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of traditional Junkanoo parades. Throughout the destination, references to playful folklore characters will evoke the warmth and charm of the local culture.

Respect for the environment is at the heart of the design. Approximatley 90% of the destination’s electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit impact on the landscape.

At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and enjoy Bahamian storytelling alongside favorite Disney characters. Much like Disney’s cruise ships and private island of Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group. Families can relax and play along white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the expansive family beach on the east side of the island, which will be centrally located near market-style dining, recreation and other amenities. And a brightly-colored, interactive family water play area will include two slides, water drums, fountains and more, along with a dedicated space for toddlers.

A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.

North of the family area will be an adult-exclusive beach — a stretch of serenity complete with a dedicated dining area for convenient access to food and drinks throughout the day, plus six private cabanas available by reservation.

There will also be 20 premium family cabanas available to rent near the family beach, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups and offer massage services.

Children ages 3 to 12 will have the opportunity to play at a themed kids’ club under the care of trained Disney Cruise Line counselors. It will include a splash pad inspired by favorite undersea creatures from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Little Mermaid,” shaded areas, and a dedicated dining zone.

Additional recreational activities will be available for kids of all ages, including a covered gaming pavilion; a volleyball court and gaga ball pit; watercraft and bicycle rentals; nature trails for hiking and biking; and more. And a collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the culture and landscape of Eleuthera.

The Magic and Fantasy to Visit Lighthouse Point Summer 2024

The first sailing to Lighthouse Point will be the June 6, 2024 3-Night cruise of the Disney Magic departing from Fort Lauderdale. The majority of three and four night sailings of the Magic during summer 2024 will also stop at Lighthouse Point. Four 5-night Magic sailings (on July 1, 15, 26 and August 12) will stop at BOTH Lighthouse Point and Disney’s original private island, Castaway Cay.

The official inaugural visit to Lighthouse Point (though not the first chronological visit) will be the June 8, 2024 sailing of the Disney Fantasy, with will make a stop at Castaway Cay and TWO stops at Lighthouse Point.

Lighthouse Point Gets an Official Name

At a Destination D23 session on September 9, 2023, president of Disney Signature Experiences Thomas Mazloum announced that the official name for DCL’s second private island will be Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Additionally he said, “Disney teams are collaborating with talented artists and cultural advisors in the Bahamas to shape an experience that celebrates the natural beauty, traditions and artistry of the one-of-a-kind nation.”

Arrival Point, Cultural Center, Stage, Shopping, and Adult Area Details

On November 3, 2023, DCL announced details about several areas of Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, including information on the arrival area, a cultural center, a stage, the shopping area, and an adults-only zone.

Arrival Point – Mabrika Cove

“Mabrika” means “welcome” in Taino, the language of the Lucayans, the indigenous people of The Bahamas. While the language is no longer used, a few words remain – one of them being “Mabrika.” At this colorful arrival point, guests will experience the warmth of Bahamian culture.

Goombay Cultural Center

The Goombay Cultural Center will embody the essence of “Junkanoo,” a Bahamian festival filled with music and parades that will come to life across Lighthouse Point. Goombay is one of the traditional music styles of The Bahamas, involving singing, dancing and drumming. The colorful pavilion and its Junkanoo-inspired arch will invite guests to embrace the traditions of The Bahamas, along with the sights and sounds of the country’s signature festival.

Triton’s Trumpet Stage

Triton’s Trumpet Stage will be the site of family entertainment on the island. The gazebo’s name is inspired by one of the stunning natural wonders found among the Bahamian beaches – a large, spiraled seashell commonly called “Triton’s Trumpet,” as well as for the king in Disney’s The Little Mermaid films.

Treasures of Eleuthera

Treasures of Eleuthera will be the retail shop featuring locally made gifts and artisan crafts. The shop will spotlight the work of Bahamian artists.

Serenity Bay

Like Disney’s first private island, Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will feature an adults-only zone called Serenity Bay. This area will be reserved for the exclusive use of guests ages 18 and up and will include beach and dining areas, as well as private cabanas available by reservation.

Disney Releases Lighthouse Point Port Adventures

Disney has announced their initial list of port adventures (excursions) that will be available for booking when Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point opens later this year.

Some of the excursions are substantially the same as those available at Disney’s first private island, Castaway Cay. These are bicycle rentals, bike and kayak exploration of the island, banana boat rides, and several variations of snorkeling and scuba trips.

The wholly new experiences involve exploration of the history and natural elements of the island of Eleuthera, home to Lookout Cay. Among these are “Ebike, Sand, Snorkel, and History Toru,” “Historical Nature and Awesome Buggy Tour,” “Private Historical and Cultural Tour,” “South Eleuthera Eco and Cultural Tour,” and “South Eleuthera Eco and Historical Tour.”

Prices for these port excursions are substantially the same as those at Castaway Cay. For example, a one-hour bike rental is $15.00 at both locations.

Disney Releases First Photos

With Lighthouse Point scheduled to open within just a few months, Disney has released its first actual photos of structures on the new private island. (All photos in this section ©Disney.)

We’ve been served up a line of cabanas with boldly colorful roofs, nestled beside some remarkably clear blue water. It looks like the two on the left (red and yellow) are larger grand cabanas with smaller standard cabanas falling in beside them.

Next up is what appears to be a platform for seating at True-True Too BBQ, a guest lunch spot. The roof-like shades are designed to resemble sea shells and are painted underneath with images items from nature.

The third image Disney shared is a more prosaic look at some structures near a tram stop. My guess is that these will be merchandise shops and/or kiosks for snacks and drinks.

In addition to the photos above, we’ve recently seen an artists’ rendering of new costumes that Mickey and Minnie will be sporting on the island. I’m 100% here for Minnie’s big-bow moment. And we’ve learned that Disney is making good by tapping into the creative talent of island residents and educating young Bahamians on career opportunities.

Stay tuned for updates as they become available.

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Erin Foster

Erin Foster is an original member of the Walt Disney World Moms Panel (now PlanDisney), a regular contributor to TouringPlans.com, and co-author of The Unofficial Guide to Disney Cruise Line. She's been to WDW, DL, DL Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, DVC Vero Beach, and DVC Hilton Head. She's a Platinum DCL cruiser and veteran of 10 Adventures by Disney trips. Erin lives near New York City, where she can often be found indulging in her other obsession - Broadway theater.

One thought on “ Disney Cruise Line’s NEW Private Island – What We Know So Far – UPDATED ”

As someone who loves Disney and loves (loved) Eleuthera’s pristine untouched uncrowded, mostly undiscovered beauty, this whole thing saddens me. Secret gone.

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Disney Castaway Cay (Bahamas DCL private island)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-04-28 12:44

Port Disney Castaway Cay cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas DCL private island. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Castaway Cay is a private island in the Bahamas. It serves as an exclusive port for the ships of Disney Cruise Line . Castaway Cay is located close to Great Abaco Island. Formerly, it was known as Gorda Cay. In 1997, Walt Disney Company bought a 99-year land lease from the Bahamian government for the cay, set to expire 2096, giving the cruise company substantial control over the passenger experience on the isle.

Castaway Cay is still largely undeveloped: only 55 of the 1,000 acres (4 km2) are being used. Now it has around 90-140 permanent residents who keep the isle running daily, as the numbers fluctuate between busy and offseason.

A post office on Castaway Cay features special Bahamian postage that is specific to Disney Cruise Line, as well as a "Castaway Cay" postmark. The isle is developed in the theme of castaway community, and the buildings are made to look as if they have been improvised after shipwreck. All facilities are maintained like the other Disney theme parks, and the shops accept passengers' stateroom keys for payment. Foodservice is operated as extension of cruise packages. Various activities are available to Disney guests including personal watercraft rental, bicycle hire, massages overlooking the ocean, para-sailing, snorkeling, volleyball and basketball. Also available are monkey bars and a rope for kids to climb across set around 98 ft (30 m) in the ocean on one beach and a slide around 82 ft (25 m) into the ocean on another. There are 3 beaches for passengers: one for Cabana guests, one for families, and another (named Serenity Bay) exclusively for adults.

Walt Disney's second private Bahamian island destination is Lighthouse Point (on Eleuthera Island's southern coast). Both exclusive Disney cruise ports in The Bahamas are managed by Walt Disney's subsidiary company Disney Parks and Resorts.

Disney Castaway Cay cruise terminal

Cruise ships to Castaway Cay dock on a dedicated pier located next to Castaway Cay Family Beach (on island's western coast).

Signature facilities and services on Castaway Cay include:

• Castaway Cay Airport is a private Disney airport on the island.
• There is a Post Office with special Bahamian postage (Disney Cruise Line themed). A "Castaway Cay" postmark is also officially issued.
• The island and all its facilities are maintained like a Walt Disney park. All shops accept passengers' cabin keys (onboard account cards) for payment.
• Dining on the island is operated as on the cruise ship.
• Among the unique shore activities and services are bicycle rentals, personal watercraft rental, ocean-view massages, snorkeling, parasailing, court volleyball / basketball.
• On two of the beaches are constructed monkey bars and a climbing rope for kids (approx 30 m / 100 ft) into the sea).
• The island has a total of 3 beaches - one family, one for adults only (Serenity Bay), and one VIP (for Cabana guests only).
• There are 2 mini-submarines in the snorkeling area.
• The Flying Dutchman is the pirate ship from Disney's "Pirates of the Caribbean" movies.
• On the island are also built exclusive facilities for Disney ships' crews, including beaches, sports courts, recreational venues.
• Island's service staff consists of around 150 - all living permanently on the island. Among them are maintenance personnel, drivers, tour boat captains, landscapers, custodians. All the needed supplies are delivered to the island by the visiting Disney ships. Drinking water is a desalinated seawater produces by reverse osmosis.

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2 NEW Things at Disney Cruise Line’s Private Island

Sometimes, it can feel like the Disney parks are in their own little bubble. When you’re in Disney World , for example, it’s easy to forget that anything exists outside of the Magic Kingdom — you’re practically on an island! But did you know that Disney has a REAL private island ?

If you’ve ever set sail with Disney Cruise Line , you’ve probably traveled to Castaway Cay , known as Disney’s own private paradise! It’s located in the Bahamas and serves as one of the major destinations for Disney Cruise Line passengers. It’s been a while since we’ve given you an update on this little private island, so come with us to cover the new things at Castaway Cay.

Castaway Cay features all the amenities you probably expect from a Disney Cruise Line destination: shopping locations, port adventures (like snorkeling, jet skiing, and hiking), character appearances, and plenty of food and beverage options.

Oh, and there are plenty of places to snap some iconic Disney photos. You might even see a character or two during your visit!

OK, now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about what’s new.  Soon, Castaway Cay will be informally known as the “old” island because a NEW private island called Lighthouse Point is on the horizon. 

Lighthouse Point is located on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. Disney previously announced that they’ll welcome guests to the island in summer 2024!

Now, back over on Castaway Cay, Disney announced that something NEW is coming to the island. Families who have set sail with Disney Cruise Line 50 times or more will get special recognition on a commemorative display right on the private island. Here’s a preview of the special display!

Between the new private island and the new Disney Treasure cruise ship coming soon, there’s a lot to look forward to with the Disney Cruise Line! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more.

Disney Revealed TONS of Clues About Its NEW Cruise Ship – The Treasure

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Have you ever visited Castaway Cay? Let us know in the comments!

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Lighthouse Point Disney Cruise Line Private Island: Opening Date & First Sailings, Details

Disney Cruise Line’s new private island destination is Lighthouse Point, located on Eleuthera in the Bahamas. This post covers everything we know about DCL’s counterpart to Castaway Cay, including the opening date, when preview & inaugural sailings to Lighthouse Point will happen, plus full details & concept art. ( Updated November 4, 2023 .)

Created in close collaboration with local artists and advisors, Disney Cruise Line’s vibrant island retreat at Lighthouse Point will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.

Keep reading to discover all the latest details about this relaxing beach escape designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.

When Disney Cruise Line guests arrive at Lighthouse Point, they’ll be greeted by distinctive, sweeping architecture in bright, saturated hues. This style was inspired by nature and created in partnership between Walt Disney Imagineering and local artists.

The curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. Upon closer inspection, guests will discover artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of Junkanoo parades. Throughout the destination, references to playful folklore characters will evoke the warmth and charm of the local culture.

Respect for the environment is at the heart of the design at Lighthouse Point. At least 90 percent of the destination’s electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit impact on the landscape.

Let’s start with a first look at the arrival point, Mabrika Cove, with brand-new concept art released by Disney Cruise Line in November 2023.

“Mabrika” means “welcome” in Taino, the language of the Lucayans, who are considered the indigenous people of The Bahamas. While the language is no longer used, a few words remain – one of them being “Mabrika.” At this colorful arrival point, guests will immediately experience the warmth of Bahamian culture.

The Goombay Cultural Center (pictured below) will embody the essence of “Junkanoo,” a Bahamian festival filled with joyous music and vibrant parades that will come to life in many ways across Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Goombay is one of the traditional music styles of The Bahamas, involving singing, dancing and drumming.

The brilliantly colored cultural pavilion and its Junkanoo-inspired arch will invite guests to embrace the traditions of The Bahamas, along with the sights, sounds and spirit of the country’s signature festival.

There will be plenty of family entertainment in store at Triton’s Trumpet Stage. And fun fact: The gazebo’s name is inspired by one of the stunning natural wonders found among the Bahamian beaches – a large, spiral seashell commonly called “Triton’s Trumpet.” And for you Disney fans, if Triton sounds familiar, you might recognize it as the name of the mighty king from the beloved Disney animated classic “The Little Mermaid.”

Of course, we must mention the shopping opportunities! Treasures of Eleuthera will be the retail shop featuring locally made gifts and artisan crafts. What I really love is how the shop will spotlight Bahamian artists through an array of unique items that families will be able to bring home with them as a special keepsake.

And now, the question you might have been asking … is there going to be an adults-only space on the island? The answer is yes! I’m delighted to share that Serenity Bay will be a relaxing retreat exclusively for adults 18 years of age and older. For those of you who have sailed with Disney Cruise Line before, you might recognize Serenity Bay as a must-visit location on Disney Castaway Cay! At Disney Lookout Cay, Serenity Bay will feature a tranquil beach experience with a dining area and private cabanas available for reservation.

Disney Cruise Line’s visitors to Lighthouse Point will have the opportunity to be surrounded by the wonders of nature and get a glimpse into the efforts taking place to conserve wildlife and their unique island habitats.

At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and discover authentic Bahamian storytelling alongside favorite Disney characters. As with DCL’s other private island, Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group.

Families can relax and play along white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the expansive family beach on the east side of the Lighthouse Point, which will be centrally located near market-style dining, recreation and other amenities.

A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide DCL visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.

Lighthouse Point’s interactive family water play area will include two slides, water drums, fountains and more. This play area will also feature a dedicated space for toddlers.

North of the family area will be Lighthouse Point’s adult beach. This stretch of sun-drenched serenity will offer Disney Cruise Line guests a dedicated dining area for convenient access to food and drinks throughout the day, plus six private cabanas available by reservation.

Children ages 3 to 12 will splash and play at a kids’ club under the care of Disney Cruise Line counselors. The kids’ club will offer a splash pad inspired by favorite undersea creatures from “The Little Mermaid,” plenty of shade, as well as a dedicated dining area.

Set away from the activity of the main family area, a peaceful beach along Lighthouse Point’s southwestern shore will be lined with 20 premium family cabanas available for DCL guests to rent, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups and offer massage services.

Additional recreational activities will be available for guests of all ages, including a covered gaming pavilion, volleyball court, gaga ball pit, watercraft and bicycle rentals, nature trails for hiking and biking, and more. New Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera.

Lighthouse Point is being thoughtfully designed to provide a hassle-free experience for families, including complimentary beach essentials (towels, chairs and umbrellas and lunch), and tram transportation.

First Sailings to Lighthouse Point Private Island

In June 2024, Disney Cruise Line will debut its new private island destination, Lighthouse Point, on Eleuthera in the Bahamas. Cruises aboard the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will visit this vibrant beach retreat designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with sustainability and conservation at its core.

A three-night preview cruise on the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale is scheduled for June 6, 2024 and will feature a sneak peek of Lighthouse Point with limited access to some areas. Throughout Summer 2024, Lighthouse Point will be a featured stop on select three-, four- and five-night sailings to The Bahamas and Caribbean on the Disney Magic out of Fort Lauderdale. These South Florida-based itineraries will vary stops between Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, with five special sailings including both Disney Cruise Line island destinations.

A 7-night inaugural cruise to Lighthouse Point aboard the Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral, Florida will occur on June 8, 2024. This ultimate Disney Cruise Line island destination itinerary will feature not one, but two stops at Lighthouse Point … and that’s not all! One day of sun-drenched serenity at Castaway Cay also awaits your family on this once-in-a-lifetime sailing.

One special 10-night Southern Caribbean sailing aboard the Disney Fantasy will give your family another opportunity to visit Lighthouse Point with additional visits to the islands of Antigua, St. Lucia, Dominica, Tortola and Castaway Cay.

In terms of commentary, I don’t have a lot to add. The concept art makes this look really nice, like a cross between Castaway Cay and Aulani. We love both Castaway Cay and Aulani, and I’m sure this will be awesome. Having the private island lean more towards authenticity is great, even if I do enjoy the Imagineered vibe of Castaway Cay. (That reminds me a bit of Typhoon Lagoon, whereas I suspect this will not.)

All in all, we expect Lighthouse Point to be a great destination for Disney Cruise Line guests. Based on the description, it sounds like DCL and Imagineering have learned lessons from what worked and didn’t with Castaway Cay, and this is essentially the next generation of that. It appears that practical improvements have been made, giving Lighthouse Point a greater sense of fun and luxuriousness, along with the increased emphasis on authenticity. That’s just my impression based on the concept art and press release, though.

I stopped paying close attention to the Lighthouse Point saga a while ago, but have nevertheless been expecting an update on this for the last couple of years . You might recall that ex-Imagineer Joe Rohde was the face of the Lighthouse Point project when it was first announced almost 4 years ago.

Renowned for his culturally-respectful work on Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Aulani Resort & Spa in Hawaii, Villages Natures in Paris, and a variety of other independent projects, Joe Rohde was unquestionably Disney’s best ambassador when it comes to conservation and projects that highlight cultures.

When Lighthouse Point was announced, Joe Rohde shared how he was embarking on an in-depth cultural tour of the Bahamas meeting with local artists and cultural experts. He explored cultural sites across New Providence and Eleuthera, from Junkanoo shacks to noted art galleries, gathering samples, hearing from locals, and determining the best approach for telling their stories.

If anyone could “sell” a project like this to conservation groups or those otherwise opposed or on the fence, Joe Rohde is that person. He has an effortless way of passionately speaking about pretty much anything, doing so in an earnest and engaging way. He comes across as genuine and easy to trust. Unlike some stuffed shirt, if he says Disney will focus on culture and conservation, you believe him. Or at least, you want to believe him .

At that time, Lighthouse Point was a controversial project that was still awaiting an Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Management Plan, along with approval by the Government of The Bahamas and public consultation. There was a lot of backlash pre-pandemic, but the plan was to open Lighthouse Point by last year or this year. Obviously, construction delays were an inevitability with the border closures and cruise industry essentially pausing for over a year.

There was also Joe Rohde’s “retirement” in late 2020. At that point, all of the design work and assessments would’ve been completed, but it seemed like Rohde was still important as the face of the project–just as he had been with Aulani until (and even after) its opening. That along with everything else led us to wonder whether Disney Cruise Line had abandoned Lighthouse Point.

Disney Cruise Line aggressively proceeding with its fleet expansion (not to mention the surprise acquisition of another partially-completed ship) made it likely that Lighthouse Point was going forward. Still, we hadn’t heard anything about it and were surprised when no updates were offered at the most recent D23 Expo.

Ultimately, Lighthouse Point looks like it’ll be a fantastic destination for Disney Cruise Line guests. The environmental issues it poses do give me pause, and I hope Disney wasn’t just paying face to these issues in order to secure approval. While the company’s track record with Aulani is good, this is a bit different in nature. Hopefully Disney is sincere in its statements that Lighthouse Point will be minimally disruptive to the natural environment and that the island destination will be used in an environmentally-responsible way.

Again, Lighthouse Point will open for Disney Cruise Line guests on select sailings in summer 2024. Stay tuned for more details about inaugural itineraries, signature entertainment, dining, retail and excursions, and additional information.

Planning to set sail aboard one of the Disney Cruise Line ships? Read our comprehensive Disney Cruise Line Guide to prepare for your trip, plan entertainment and other activities, and learn what to expect from your Disney cruise! If you want personalized recommendations for Disney Cruise Line itineraries, ships, and more, click here to get a cruise quote from a no-fee Authorized Disney Vacation Planner . They can find you all of the current discounts, and help you plan the details of your cruise!

Your Thoughts

What do you think of the Lighthouse Point? Does this new private island destination look better or worse than Castaway Cay? Did Joe Rohde’s involvement make this more interesting to you? Do you agree or disagree with our assessment? Any questions? Hearing feedback about your experiences is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

I have tremendous respect for Joe Rohde and enjoy everything he’s designed so I’m sure this will be wonderful—but I love Castaway Cay (and it’s heavy Imagineering) so much that I am just not excited about it’s alternative. I assume we will eventually get there on an itinerary that visits both islands, but in my heart of hearts, I’d rather double dip at CC.

The only thing that really surprised me was that they didn’t build way more cabanas. I think at minimum, even if they ran out of coastline, they could have gotten away with a second row “obstructed view” that cost slightly less and still printed money on them. I guess I should be congratulating Disney on the decision not to sacrifice more shoreline for many so they can squeeze out an extra (estimated) $3000/cabana per week.

I’m still dreaming they’ll build an Aulani-type resort in the Caribbean for us non-cruisers!

I have mixed thoughts on this, which probably reflect my overall ambivalence about Caribbean cruising in general. Part of me has an aversion to the concept of “traveling” to a place that’s innately fairly artificial. On future sailings that will no doubt visit both private islands, the idea of a guest saying they “went to the Bahamas” seems somewhat dubious since they will have never left the Disney bubble.

On the other hand, I fully understand that the areas around most “real” Caribbean cruise ports are often crudely commercial and don’t reflect the people, culture, beauty, or history of those islands (imagine a tour of US national parks where your only activity is stopping to shop, eat, and ride aerial tramways in gateway towns like Estes Park, Gatlinburg, or Springdale). And stepping ashore with thousands of other cruisers doesn’t exactly enhance the ambience or authenticity. Thinking about Nassau specifically, the cruise port-adjacent zone is tacky/industrial, whereas excursions to Atlantis or Blue Lagoon island are basically just upcharged versions of Castaway Cay.

Now of course I get the irony of griping about artifice on a Disney blog site, and I did enjoy most aspects of my one and only voyage on DCL. But leaning into suspended disbelief within the spectacularly imaginineered pretenses of the theme parks just feels different to me than sailing hundreds of miles to a place where you’re really not “there.”

What I don’t understand is at Lighthouse Point you can rent a Cabana are they letting people stay on the island? I can’t imagine renting for the few hours you get to stay like at Castaway.

We are planning to sail in July 24 so maybe we will get lucky and get to go to Lighthouse Point. It looks really relaxing

Is the plan for DCL to replace Castaway Cay entirely with Lighthouse Point? If not, has there been talk about certain sailings including Lighthouse in lieu of or in addition to Castaway?

They need the second private island with the growing fleet. I have no clue if certain itineraries will include both stops, but I’m guessing so at some point (albeit maybe not in 2024). That would be a popular itinerary for DCL diehards.

We are taking the plunge and giving DCL a try this coming December, so this won’t be available yet. Oh well. It looks cool, and I’ll be curious to hear about it. I had no idea they were even close to completing this.

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NEWS: Disney Cruise Line Announces Early 2023 Itineraries

In early 2023, Disney Cruise Line will return to top tropical destinations in the Bahamas – including Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay – as well as the Caribbean and the Mexican Riviera, delighting guests of all ages with one-of-a-kind vacations at sea. A variety of enchanting itineraries will set sail coast-to-coast from U.S. home ports including Miami and Port Canaveral, Florida; New Orleans; Galveston, Texas; and San Diego. Bookings open to the public on October 21, 2021. Learn more below.

Vacations to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Florida

Disney Cruise Line will create even more fun in the sun like never before with an array of departures from the Sunshine State in early 2023, visiting tropical destinations throughout the Bahamas and Caribbean. Two ships will sail from Port Canaveral near Orlando, Florida, and a third ship will depart from Miami. Every cruise from Florida includes a visit to Disney’s private island oasis, Castaway Cay.

Departing from Port Canaveral, the Disney Wish will sail into 2023 with three- and four-night voyages to Nassau, Bahamas and Castaway Cay. Cruises aboard Disney’s newest ship combine enchanting new entertainment and storytelling, with the unparalleled service and magical moments that guests love when sailing with Disney.

Also from Port Canaveral, the Disney Fantasy will begin the year with seven-night sailings to several favorite destinations in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Plus, one unique eight-night sailing includes two days in beautiful Bermuda, where guests can sunbathe on the island’s pristine pink sand beaches, enjoy exhilarating water sports or explore the island’s spectacular underground Crystal Caves.

From Miami, the Disney Dream will embark on an assortment of four- and five-night cruises to locales including Grand Cayman, Nassau, Castaway Cay and Cozumel, Mexico. Even more private island enjoyment is on deck with one special five-night cruise that includes two stops at Castaway Cay.

On all Florida departures, guests can delight in a voyage that provides something for every member of the family, combining the adventure and relaxation of tropical destinations, the ease and indulgence of an ocean cruise, and the world-class entertainment and service of a Disney vacation.

Tropical Escapes from Texas and New Orleans

In January and February, the Disney Magic will sail from Galveston, Texas, on a variety of four-, five-, six- and seven-night itineraries to the Western Caribbean. Tropical ports of call on these sailings include Grand Cayman as well as Cozumel and Progreso, Mexico.

In February and March, the Disney Magic is “going down the bayou” for the first time during a debut season in New Orleans. Departing from the heart of the The Big Easy, along the mighty Mississippi River, the four-, five- and six-night sailings will call on the tropical destinations of Grand Cayman and Cozumel.

Before or after their Disney cruise, guests can venture into the Crescent City to savor the distinct flavors of famous New Orleans cuisine, revel in the sweet melodies of world-renowned jazz music and recognize the iconic sights and sounds that inspired the beloved animated film “The Princess and the Frog.”

All early 2023 Disney Magic voyages include two or three days at sea to enjoy the unlimited fun, entertainment, relaxation and memories onboard.

Baja Peninsula Getaways from San Diego

The Disney Wonder will return to the West Coast, sailing from San Diego in April and May. Cruises to Baja, Mexico and the Mexican Riviera will transport guests to sunny shores filled with vibrant culture, glittering sand beaches, active outdoor adventures and exciting water activities.

Sailings from San Diego will range in length from three to seven nights. Some sailings to the Baja peninsula will call on the charming coastal city of Ensenada, known for its turquoise blue water and rugged mountainous terrain. Many departures will include a visit to Cabo San Lucas, a favorite destination with dramatic rock formations and white sand beaches.

Seven-night itineraries will sail to Mazatlan, the “Pearl of the Pacific,” filled with breathtaking natural wonders, thriving culture and colorful history, and to Puerto Vallarta, the beautiful seaside escape nestled along the curve of the Banderas Bay and bordered by the stunning Sierra Madre mountains.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent.

For a no obligation, FREE Quote on a Disney vacation package, please contact our travel partner Magical Vacation Planner at 407-442-0227 (407-442-0215 for Spanish). You can also request a FREE quote online by Clicking HERE.

Chad & Cindy Nykamp

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Disney Cruise Line Announces Inaugural Sailings to Lighthouse Point

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: March 23, 2023  - Last updated: March 25, 2023

Disney’s first cruises to Lighthouse Point, the company’s newest private island destination, will sail in early June 2024.

On March 23, 2023, Disney Cruise Line announced the inaugural dates and select itineraries for Lighthouse Point . DCL’s new private island destination in the Bahamas will debut in June 2024.

Along with the first sailings to Lighthouse Point, Disney also released details about summer 2024 sailings to the Mediterranean , northern Europe ,  Alaska , and the Caribbean .

“We are delighted to take families to new places during the summer 2024 season, including our newest island destination at Lighthouse Point in The Bahamas,” said  Sharon Siskie , senior VP and general manager of Disney Cruise Line.

“We’re also thrilled to return to Europe with new ports of call and offer exciting adventures to Alaska and the Caribbean. All of these Disney Cruise Line sailings provide the unique experiences that our guests have come to expect from Disney, from world-class dining and dazzling entertainment to character encounters and legendary guest service,” Siskie continued in a press release.

Bookings for summer 2024 Disney cruises will open to the public on March 30, 2023.

Read more: Disney Cruise Line Will Open Lighthouse Point in Summer 2024

DCL’s first sailings to Lighthouse Point

In June 2024, Disney will debut its newest Bahamian destination at Lighthouse Point on the island of  Eleuthera . The cruise line says that guests visiting the new destination will discover a “vibrant beach retreat designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core”.

Disney will offer a three-night preview cruise  on the Disney Magic sailing on June 6, 2024 roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale . Guests on this sneak peek cruise will visit Lighthouse Point, but will have limited access to some areas.

The seven-night inaugural sailing aboard the Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral on June 8, 2024 will feature two stops at Lighthouse Point along with one day at Castaway Cay .

Following the inaugural voyage, Lighthouse Point will be a featured port of call on select three-, four- and five-night sailings to the Bahamas and the Caribbean aboard Disney Magic . Itineraries will vary by date, with some sailings stopping at Lighthouse Point and others at Castaway Cay. Five special departures will include both of Disney Cruise Line’s private island destinations.

DCL also announced other summer 2024 itineraries

In addition to the summer 2024 Lighthouse Point sailings, Disney also announced sailings to the Mediterranean, northern Europe, Alaska, and the Caribbean.

European destinations including new ports

Disney Dream will return to Europe to visit destinations in the Mediterranean, the Greek Isles, the British Isles , and popular locations in the Norwegian fjords and  Iceland .

European sailings will feature a number of new ports of call, including Valencia , Spain; Haugesund , Norway; and Hamburg , Germany. For the first time since 2014, Dream will also visit Catania , Italy; Kusadasi , Turkey; and  Valletta , Malta.

Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises from  Barcelona  and Civitavecchia (Rome) will range from five to 11 nights. Northern Europe and British Isles sailings will offer itineraries from three nights to a 12-night voyage including the Norwegian fjords, three days in Iceland, and an overnight stay in Reykjavik .

Alaska adventures on DCL

Disney Wonder cruises to Alaska from Vancouver will return from May through September 2024, with five-, seven-, and nine-night sailings. Itineraries feature stops in Alaskan ports including Juneau , Skagway , and Ketchikan , along with glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap .

Related: What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise – Plus Free Packing List!

Bahamas and Caribbean sailings from Port Canaveral

Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will sail in the Bahamas and Caribbean from Port Canaveral in the 2024 summer season. All itineraries will feature a visit to private island destination Castaway Cay.

Wish will feature three- and four-night Bahamian vacations, while Fantasy will visit the eastern and western Caribbean on seven-night sailings.

One five-night Disney Fantasy voyage in July will take cruisers to  Nassau  with two stops in Castaway Cay. A special ten-night southern Caribbean sailing will stop at both Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay with additional visits to the islands of  Antigua ,  St. Lucia ,  Dominica , and Tortola .

Related: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

More Disney Cruise Line News

Resources to help plan your Disney cruise

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• Disney Wish: Everything You Need to Know About DCL’s Newest Cruise Ship

Do you enjoy visiting cruise line private islands? Plan on visiting Disney’s Lighthouse Point once it opens in summer 2024? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

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NEW Addition Announced for Disney Cruise Line’s Private Island

By Kayleigh Henniger Leave a Comment

2023 marks the 25th Anniversary of Disney Cruise Line and Disney’s private Island — Castaway Cay.

Disney Wish docked at Castaway Cay

Aboard the five ships that currently make up Disney’s fleet, you can honor this celebration by purchasing special snacks, merchandise, entertainment, and more!  Well, in honor of the 25th Anniversary of setting sail, Disney Cruise Line is honoring some of its most devoted passengers! Check it out! 

Disney has shared that on its Castaway Cay private island, a new piece of artwork will be put in place to celebrate the families who have sailed 50 or more times with Disney Cruise Line. Wow! That’s a LOT of cruising!

Castaway Cay

This art will be displayed in the form of a fence, with the names of the families who’ve sailed 50 or more times on the planks.  It’ll be located near the island post office.

Those families who qualify for such an honor will get to choose from the following list of icons to accompany their names!

We love that Disney Cruise Line is celebrating and recognizing their loyal cruisers! We’ll continue to keep you updated with more Disney news and updates, so make sure to follow along for more.

Oh, and if you’re planning a Disney cruise, make sure to check out our friends over at Small World Vacations! They’ll help you out with the planning process from start to finish — and you might even be able to snag some discounted rates along the way.

DON'T DO IT ALONE!

Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise.

So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you 🙂

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A unique Disney experience: Here's what you can't miss on Disney Cruise Lines

D isney Cruise Line is synonymous with family vacations at sea, so you might think that every Disney cruise in 2024 will be a good choice for families. And having sailed on every one of Disney's cruise ships myself, I can say the simple answer is yes, that's absolutely true. But some Disney cruise experiences hold an extra special place in my family's heart, and they've made me realize that certain Disney cruises can go above and beyond even DCL's usual family-friendly standard. 

I'm thinking about when we met Disney’s "Frozen" friends in person on a Norway sailing or laughed to tears over dinner with Crush the Sea Turtle ("cha dude!"), or completed a 5K race with my daughter on Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay . That's why my picks for the best Disney cruises for families in 2024 are all about these kinds of extra special experiences, the ones that aren't just the usual level of Disney cruise line magic but will elevate your family vacation into once-in-a-lifetime "cherished family memory" territory.

Find a deal: Kids sail free: 6 cruise lines that let kids cruise for free  

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There will be no shortage of these kinds of opportunities on Disney Cruise Line (DCL) in 2024. From being among the first to visit Disney's brand-new private island destination to enjoying an immersive Pixar-themed day at sea to setting sail on the maiden voyage of Disney's newest ship , here are the Disney cruise experiences I think will go above and beyond in 2024. 

1. Disney Magic to Lighthouse Point, DCL's newest private island destination

One thing my family looks forward to during any Disney cruise is a stop at DCL's private island, Castaway Cay. In 2024, Disney Cruise Line will unveil its second private island destination, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. And I can’t wait to see how they plan to outdo the already incredible Castaway Cay experience. 

Family cruises: 7 best cruise lines for families (and their 12 most kid-friendly ships)

Similar to when Disney created its Aulani resort in Hawaii , Disney Imagineers have been working with local artists and cultural experts to design an authentic Bahamian island experience at Lighthouse Point. Curvilinear buildings are meant to evoke scattered seashells along the shore, and a Bahamian Art and Culture Pavilion will feature special programs and local artists that celebrate Bahama traditions. 

A special preview cruise to Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the Disney Magic departs from Fort Lauderdale in June 2024.  

2. Alaska and Australia cruises on the Disney Wonder in 2024

When my youngest daughter graduated from high school, my wife and I asked where she wanted to go for our family vacation to celebrate her milestone . Her top choice was Alaska. In the summer months, Disney Cruise Line positions one of its smaller ships, the Disney Wonder, out west so families can take weeklong sailings from Vancouver to the "Last Frontier." Along the way, you can experience majestic wildlife and stunning scenery while calling on Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap. 

No hidden costs: 7 best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world  

But that's not all the Disney Wonder gets up to! In 2023, Disney also began offering Australia and New Zealand cruises onboard the ship, and that will continue in 2023 and 2024. Disney Cruise Line has announced a new season of sailings in the region from October 2024 through February 2025. 

The Disney Wonder is one of DCL's original class of ships, and with a capacity of 2,713 passengers, it remains one of the line's most intimate vessels. That's a reason to love it. Both the Wonder and its sister ship, Disney Magic, are especially great Disney cruise options in 2024 if your family is new to cruising . Far from being a drawback, the smaller size makes it less likely to feel overwhelming to first-timers.

3. European vacations on the Disney Dream

In 2023, Disney Cruise Line sent the Disney Dream across the Atlantic for the first time. The ship will head back to Europe in 2024 with summer cruises in the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, British Isles, Iceland, and Norwegian fjords. These are the best 2024 Disney Cruises for experiencing new ports of call like Valencia, Spain; Haugesund, Norway; and Hamburg, Germany, along with three Mediterranean destinations (Catania, Italy; Kusadasi, Turkey; and Valletta, Malta) that Disney will visit for the first time since 2014.

Make memories: Why a Holland America heritage cruise Is perfect for a multigenerational family vacation  

In June, the Disney Dream sails from Civitavecchia (Rome) with stops in Naples and three different Greek Islands, including Mykonos and Crete. In July, the ship transitions to northern European cruises, including a 12-night voyage departing from England (Southampton) on July 24, heading through the Norwegian fjords, three days in Iceland, and an overnight stay in Reykjavik before returning to Southampton. 

My family sailed on Disney’s inaugural Norwegian fjords cruise in 2015, and it was hands down our best family vacation because of the Disney-specific experiences no other cruise line can offer, such as Anna and Elsa from "Frozen" posing for pictures at a Norwegian Village museum in Ålesund.

4. Disney Cruise Line's private island trifecta on the Disney Fantasy

Many fans of Disney Cruise Line’s private island get particularly excited when itineraries include a Castaway Cay "double dip," i.e., two stops at Castaway Cay. But in 2024, the Disney Fantasy ventures on a seven-night itinerary that calls on Disney’s private islands not once, not twice, but three times with a stop at Castaway Cay and two visits to the brand-new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. 

Splash zone: 50 best cruise ship water parks and private islands for kids  

I love Disney’s Castaway Cay and have enjoyed so many relaxing stops to the island. I especially remember learning the "stingray shuffle" and holding stingrays during Castaway Ray's Stingray Adventure. I love that this 2024 Disney cruise will give families plenty of time to explore Disney’s brand-new private island destination on the southernmost tip of Eleuthera without overlooking a day at the old favorite. 

5. Disney Wish theme park and cruise vacation

The Disney Wish is DCL's newest ship (for now), debuting in July 2022 and offering three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Florida . The close proximity of Port Canaveral to Walt Disney World makes it easy to combine an Orlando theme park vacation with a Disney Cruise. 

Know before you go: 6 things you didn’t know you could do on a Disney Cruise  

Disney land and sea vacations are the best of both worlds for families with theme park lovers who want to go, go, go, and other family members looking for a more laidback experience. My advice is to head to the theme parks first, get tired out from the walking, rides, and stimulation, and then sail off on a four-night cruise to decompress. My wife and I enjoyed the most expansive stateroom ever when we sailed on the Disney Wish last summer and it couldn't have been more relaxing.

6. Themed Cruises – Pixar, Marvel, and holidays

In January, I had the opportunity to experience Pixar Day at Sea , Disney Cruise Line’s newest themed cruise, on the Disney Fantasy. In my review for FamilyVacationist, I called it an " overflowing toy box of fun " and I'm excited for more families to experience it on a Disney cruise in 2024. The cruise was packed with so many Pixar character meets, themed-activities, special shows, foods, and treats that some of it spilled into additional days at sea. In 2024, Pixar Day at Sea returns to the Disney Fantasy on seven-night Caribbean sailings from January through March.

Set sail: These 6 cruise lines offer the best themed cruises  

Disney's themed cruise days aren't limited to Pixar, either. There's a Marvel Day at Sea on five-night Disney Dream cruises departing Fort Lauderdale from January through March, and when the festive season rolls around most of the ships offer holiday sailings with Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime cruises. 

I was so impressed with the Halloween tree in the ship's atrium when my family sailed on a Halloween cruise. Over the course of the cruise, the tree "bloomed" with spooky Jack-o-lanterns. In addition, Disney characters were decked out in costumes, there was trick-or-treating, and other special activities. And of course Very Merrytime cruises have a tree-lighting ceremony, Mickey and Minnie’s Holiday Party, carolers, special drinks and treats, and appearances by the guest of honor for the cruise, Santa Claus.

7. Disney Treasure Sets Course for Adventure

Last but not least, Disney Treasure joins the Disney Cruise Line fleet with its maiden voyage on December 21, 2024. Adventure is the theme for Disney's sixth cruise ship with spaces and entertainment inspired by "Aladdin," "Coco," "Zootopia," "Jungle Cruise," even "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." 

Before you book: Everything you need to know about river cruises in the U.S.  

As a fan of the Magic Kingdom’s Jungle Cruise ride and Skipper Canteen restaurant, I can’t wait to get immersed in the kitschy 1930s adventure vibe onboard the Disney Treasure. The ship will sail seven-night itineraries to the eastern and western Caribbean and have a theater-in-the-round restaurant at the Plaza de Coco as well as a cinematic dining experience at Worlds of Marvel. Because these are longer cruises than those available on DCL's other ship in the same class (Disney Wish), you can experience two distinct shows in each of these venues during a voyage. 

The article 7 best Disney cruises for families in 2024 appeared first on FamilyVacationist.com .

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The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

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Travel | Royal Caribbean breaks ground on Nassau beach club

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Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is a 17-acre development in Nassau, The Bahamas set to open in 2025. (Courtesy/Royal Caribbean)

Bahamas government and Royal Caribbean executives break ground during a cermony for the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau set to open in 2025. From left to right: Phylicia Woods-Hanna, director of investments of The Bahamas; Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer, Royal Caribbean International; Dr. Michael Darville, minister of health and wellness of The Bahamas; Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group; Philip Davis, prime minister of The Bahamas; Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International; I. Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation of The Bahamas; JoBeth Coleby-Davis, minister of energy and transport of The Bahamas; Philip Simon Jr., president and general manager, Royal Beach Club and Royal Caribbean International Bahamas; and Russell Benford, vice president of government relations – Americas, Royal Caribbean Group. (Courtesy/Royal Caribbean)

Royal Caribbean and the government of the Bahamas broke ground Monday on the joint venture to develop a strip of land in the cruise port of Nassau called Paradise Island.

The government in 2023 gave the OK for the cruise line to develop a 17-acre portion into what will be called Royal Beach Club Paradise Island when it opens in 2025. Cruise line executives and government officials, including Prime Minister Philip Davis, grabbed shovels along the white sandy beaches with turquoise water in the background.

“With the signing of the deal [for] Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, we embark on this project to further enhance the vitality of our tourism product,” Davis said. “Signing today’s agreement, we add another world-class experience to our tourism offerings. And even more importantly, we take a bold step toward greater Bahamian empowerment in the tourism industry.”

The site is on the western edge of the strip of land that runs alongside the waterway through which ships brought nearly 4.5 million passengers in 2023, making Nassau the world’s busiest cruise port of call.

Royal Caribbean’s site expects about 2,000 visitors a day. They will be ferried over from the port but then return by land going through downtown Nassau.

It’s the first site for the smaller-sized beach club private destination Royal Caribbean plans to build out as opposed to its private island and resort destinations such as Perfect Day at Coco Cay in the Bahamas and Labadee on Haiti’s northern coast.

The Paradise Island spot will play up Bahamian culture alongside traditional offerings such as the beach, cabanas, four food and drink venues and three pools with swim-up bars. The site is being designed by a Bahamian architectural firm, and will give space for local artisan work for sale and live local music.

The project is a public-private partnership under which Bahamians are invited to own up to 49% of it. The plan is for locals to manage the experiences offered at the resort.

The cruise line will own 13 acres of the property while 4 acres go to Crown Land, which is a territorial area owned by the state. The cruise line will also pay a new tourism levy in exchange for the development.

“Marking more than the beginning of the construction process, today’s groundbreaking event symbolizes partnership, momentum and continued economic development for so many Bahamian entrepreneurs and the entire community,” said Jason Liberty, the cruise line parent company Royal Caribbean Group’s President and CEO. “We are grateful to our partners for their support, especially the Bahamian government, who stand with us here today in celebration of what is to come.”

The additional attraction to the port augments a $300 million overhaul of the Nassau Cruise Port that had its grand opening last year.

Already the port has expanded its capacity to six ships, including the ability to dock three of the massive Oasis-class ships from Royal Caribbean at once.

The revamp includes a new terminal building, Junkanoo museum, 3,500-person amphitheater, living coral exhibit plus more entertainment, food, beverage and retail space. Once complete, the port’s capacity will jump to more than 33,000 passengers per day. It had been around 20,000 a day.

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