Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas) – Experience report & travel tips

CocoCay – officially Perfect Day at CocoCay – is Royal Caribbean’s exclusive private island in the Bahamas and is one of the most popular cruise stops in the Caribbean. The island was specially designed for cruise guests and combines dream beaches, lagoons and entertainment offerings such as the Thrill Waterpark, the helium balloon “Up, Up and Away” and the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. We visited CocoCay as part of a cruise on the Icon of the Seas and spent a whole day there. In this travel report, we share our experiences and give an overview of the different areas of the island, activities and beaches. You will also find practical tips on the schedule, food & drink, costs, equipment and organization so that you can prepare your own day at CocoCay in the best possible way.

What is Perfect Day at CocoCay?

Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s exclusive private island in the Bahamas and is now one of the most modern and best-equipped cruise islands in the world. The island is part of the Berry Islands (location in Google Maps) and has been extensively redeveloped over several years. Royal Caribbean invested more than 250 million US dollars in the new development from 2017 and the reopening in 2019. CocoCay is around 1.5 kilometers long and covers an area of around 100 to 125 hectares. Depending on the season, one or two cruise ships can dock there each day, which means that on particularly well-booked days there can be up to 10,000 guests on the island at the same time. All facilities are specially designed for cruise vacationers, from extensive beaches and pools to leisure and water sports facilities.

Where is CocoCay actually located?

Geographically, CocoCay is located in the Berry Islands of the Bahamas, just 90 to 100 kilometers northwest of the capital Nassau and around 160 to 180 kilometers east of the Florida coast near Miami. The island can only be reached by cruise ship and is only served by Royal Caribbean International and some Celebrity Cruises. For a long time, guests had to be brought ashore in tender boats. Today, CocoCay has its own pier, which is large enough to safely moor even the largest ships in the fleet, such as the Oasis or Icon Class. This makes shore leave much quicker and more relaxed.

History of the island – From Little Stirrup Cay to Perfect Day

The island was originally called Little Stirrup Cay. Many years ago, Royal Caribbean used it as a simple beach stop on its Caribbean routes. Back then, the infrastructure consisted mainly of a beach, simple bars and a barbecue area. The big change began in 2017, when Royal Caribbean developed the Perfect Day concept and extensively modernized the island. In addition to the construction of a permanent pier, new beach and pool areas, restaurants, bars and a large water park were built. In May 2019, the island was officially reopened under the name Perfect Day at CocoCay and has since become a permanent fixture on many cruise itineraries.

What makes CocoCay so special?

CocoCay is not a classic bathing island, but a mixture of tropical beach resort and leisure park. The wide range of offers is particularly noteworthy. Guests will find quiet areas to relax as well as numerous attractions for families and active vacationers. One of the best-known highlights is the Thrill Waterpark with the 40-meter-high “Daredevil’s Peak” slide, which is considered one of the highest water slides in North America. There is also the Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas, as well as several long sandy beaches with crystal-clear water. Another trademark is the helium balloon “Up, Up and Away”, which rises up to around 135 meters in good weather and provides an impressive view over the island and the sea. There are also zipline facilities, beach clubs and exclusive cabanas.

Many services such as beaches, pools, sun loungers and buffet restaurants are already included in the cruise price. Other attractions such as the Thrill Waterpark, the helium balloon or access to the Coco Beach Club are subject to a charge. Prices vary depending on the season and occupancy, but typically range from around 40 to 150 US dollars per person for the water park and over 100 US dollars per person for beach club access. Cabanas and private beach areas can cost several hundred to over a thousand dollars per day.

Difference between CocoCay and other private islands

Many shipping companies own or lease private islands in the Caribbean. Disney Cruise Line operates the private island Castaway Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line owns Great Stirrup Cay, Carnival Corporation uses Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays. However, CocoCay clearly stands out from classic beach stops. While other islands often offer rather quiet bathing days without any major infrastructure, CocoCay is strongly experience-oriented. The island has modern facilities, a large leisure and water park area and numerous resort-level services. The fixed pier eliminates the need for tendering, which makes the process much more convenient. At the same time, there is a large selection of free offers so that guests are not forced to book additional activities. The island is well prepared for large numbers of visitors, with clear signage, numerous staff, lifeguards and easily accessible service points. This makes the day seem structured and relaxed for many guests, despite the large number of visitors.

In short: CocoCay combines Caribbean beach idyll with modern leisure and resort infrastructure – exclusively for Royal Caribbean guests and precisely tailored to a perfect, but time-limited cruise day.

Perfect Day at CocoCay – Fast Facts

In the following overview you will find some interesting facts and figures about the island of CocoCay in the Bahamas.

Arrival day on the island: what to expect

The day on CocoCay usually starts early in the morning when the boat moors at the long island pier. Depending on the shipping company and route, a certain length of stay is specified, which is usually between eight and ten hours. We docked with the Icon of the Seas at 7 a.m. and at 5 p.m. it was “all aboard” again. As it is not a traditional port, but a pure leisure island without any public infrastructure, the process is very uncomplicated and completely tailored to cruise guests. After disembarking from the ship, you get directly to the pier, from where a wide path leads to the island. The colorful water slides, the helium balloon and the bright sandy beach can already be seen on this short walk, which immediately creates a vacation atmosphere.

As CocoCay has a modern jetty, there is no need for the usual tenders at island stops. This means that you can leave the ship as you would in a normal port. It is important to take your boarding pass with you, as it will be checked both when you leave the ship and when you return. A passport is not required, as you do not officially enter the island, but move within the cruise system.

Towels are handed out directly on the ship and can be returned there later. You can also get towels free of charge on the island. Anyone who has booked paid activities such as the water park or the beach club will find the corresponding tickets in the on-board app or receive instructions on where to report. As a rule, payment on the island is not made in cash, but exclusively with the boarding card. This makes the process very relaxed and you don’t have to take your wallet with you.

Thanks to the short distances, you can of course return to the ship at any time and use the facilities on board. As many guests are on the island during the day, it is therefore very quiet on the ship 🙂

Orientation – A map of CocoCay with the individual island areas

As soon as you leave the pier, you enter the Welcome Plaza, from where the various areas are spread out over the island in a star shape. The first impression is usually that everything is very spacious, clean and clearly structured. Large maps and signs make orientation easier. On one side is the Thrill Waterpark with its high water slides and wave pool. A little further inland on the island is the Oasis Lagoon, a huge freshwater pool with a swim-up bar and shallow entry areas. There are several beaches along the coast, including Chill Island with its tranquil atmosphere and crystal-clear water and South Beach, which is more suited to sporting activities. For a more exclusive experience, the Coco Beach Club offers a secluded quiet zone with its own restaurant and infinity pool.

Restaurants, bars, sunbathing areas and sanitary facilities are evenly distributed between these main areas. The paths are laid out in such a way that you can reach almost everything on foot (even with a baby carriage), and there are staff everywhere who are happy to help. Overall, CocoCay looks like a mixture of Caribbean resort, theme park and island paradise – but very well organized and structured.

The highlights of CocoCay at a glance

Perfect Day at CocoCay is designed to offer something for everyone – from pure relaxation to adrenaline kicks. The island is divided into different adventure zones, each with its own character. Some attractions can be used free of charge, others can be booked as an option. It is precisely this mix that makes CocoCay so attractive and varied for many guests.

Thrill Waterpark – Water Park with spectacular slides

The Thrill Waterpark is the centerpiece for all those who love action and water slides. It is one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean and is home to the spectacular “Daredevil’s Peak” slide, which is one of the highest water slides in North America at around 40 meters high. The park consists of several slide complexes with different levels of difficulty, so that both families with children and the more adventurous get their money’s worth here. In addition to the slides, there is a large wave pool, an obstacle course in the water and various pool areas. Admission is subject to a charge and varies according to capacity and season. Visitors to the park usually spend several hours here, as the many attractions make time fly by. At the same time, the area is well organized, with lifeguards, lockers and catering facilities.

Oasis Lagoon – Largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas

The Oasis Lagoon is the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas and a real highlight of the island. The pool is so spacious that it is divided into different zones. Some areas are calmer and shallower, ideal for families with children or guests who simply want to relax in the water. Other sections are livelier, especially around the swim-up bar, where many adults congregate. The pool features gently sloping entrances so that you can glide comfortably from the “beach ramp feeling” into the water. There are countless sun loungers and parasols all around. What is particularly pleasant is that this area – just like most of the beaches – is already included in the cruise price. So you can spend the whole day by the pool at no extra cost, jump into the water in between and simply enjoy the atmosphere.

Chill Island – Dream beaches to relax

Chill Island lives up to its name. The focus here is on tranquillity, crystal-clear water and soft sand. The beach stretches along a long coastline and offers numerous sun loungers with and without sun protection. If you are longing for a classic Caribbean beach idyll, this is the place for you. The sea is usually calm and ideal for swimming or snorkeling. As the guests are spread over a large area, the area often feels pleasantly relaxed, even on busy boat days.

South Beach – Sports & activities on the beach

South Beach is aimed at anyone who wants to make their day more active. There are sports facilities such as beach volleyball, basketball and water sports activities (some for a fee). This beach also offers the typical Caribbean backdrop of fine sand and turquoise blue water, but is a little livelier overall than Chill Island. Those who like it more dynamic will quickly find suitable offers or simply like-minded people for a relaxed match in the sand. At the same time, there are plenty of sunbathing areas for resting so that you can switch between activity and relaxation in a relaxed manner.

Coco Beach Club – Exclusive area on CocoCay

The Coco Beach Club is the most exclusive area on the island and is only accessible with a paid day pass. The surcharge is not low and depends heavily on the season and demand, but is often in the three-digit dollar range per person. In return, you get access to a quiet premium area with a limited number of guests, your own infinity pool, high-quality loungers and a private beach area. The overwater cabanas, which are built directly over the sea and convey a touch of the Maldives feeling, are particularly well-known. The price also includes a higher-quality restaurant with à la carte service. Whether the extra charge is worth it depends very much on your own travel style: those who value peace, service and exclusivity often find the Beach Club one of the best experiences of the trip. Those who prefer to spend the day actively or use the free beaches can be just as happy and save money at the same time.

Up, Up and Away – Helium balloon experience

Another special highlight is the helium balloon “Up, Up and Away“. This is not a hot air balloon, but a firmly anchored helium balloon that – in good weather conditions – rises to around 135 meters. From the top, you have a spectacular panoramic view of the entire island, the sea and the cruise ships at the pier. This experience is subject to a charge and highly dependent on the weather, as operations may be restricted in windy conditions. For many guests, however, the flight is an unforgettable moment and an extraordinary opportunity to experience CocoCay from a bird’s eye view.

Zipline – Adrenaline & views

The zipline facility on CocoCay is aimed at anyone who wants a little adrenaline rush. Several zip lines run across lagoon and beach areas and offer a great view of the island during the ride. Here, too, access is subject to a charge and is usually booked in advance or directly on board. Safety is paramount, which is why there are detailed instructions and professional support.

Splashaway Bay – The free water park for children

Splashaway Bay is a colorful water play area especially for children, where everything revolves around safe splashing and frolicking: shallow pool areas, splashing water cannons and jets, small slides and interactive climbing and play elements ensure that younger guests are kept busy in a variety of ways.

Hideaway Beach – Adults-only area

The Hideaway Beach is the adults-only area (18+) on Perfect Day at CocoCay and functions like a beach club with a separate day pass (i.e. a charge is made in addition to the otherwise free island access). There you get that beach feeling plus a temperature-controlled infinity pool, swim-up bar and, depending on the area, party vibes or more relaxed lounging; plus upgrades such as cabanas that can be reserved (including in “The Hideout” area).

Harbor Beach – Family-friendly beach

Harbour Beach is a family-friendly beach around Harbor Lagoon – due to its sheltered location, the water looks more like a calm lagoon (usually with far fewer waves than on more open stretches of beach). A central fountain characterizes the atmosphere, and the area is particularly suitable for children or anyone who wants to splash around in the shallow water. The proximity to the arrival area/central island area is also practical and therefore often a quick way back to the ship.

Food & drink on CocoCay – all-inclusive or extra costs?

A large part of the gastronomic offer is already included in the price of the cruise, so you can eat and drink throughout the day at no extra cost. However, some premium offers such as special restaurants, certain cocktails or drinks outside the drinks package are subject to a charge. Overall, the selection is surprisingly large and covers everything from quick snacks on the beach to full meals.

Most guests take advantage of the free restaurants spread across the island. The best known is the “Skipper’s Grill”, a large buffet restaurant near the Oasis Lagoon. There are barbecue dishes, salads, various side dishes and a selection of desserts. The “Chill Grill” on Chill Island offers a similar, almost identical range of food, so you never have to walk far to get something to eat. Both restaurants function like buffet stations, but in the open air and with ample seating in the shade. Typical American-Caribbean dishes include burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, fish, corn on the cob, salads, tacos and side dishes such as rice or potatoes. Vegetarian options are also available, albeit more in the form of salads and side dishes. For families with children, it is particularly practical that you can simply pop in several times a day without having to pay extra.

In terms of drinks, CocoCay works in a similar way to the ship. If you have booked a drinks package, you can usually also use it on the island. This means that soft drinks, cocktails, beer, wine and certain coffee specialties are available at no extra cost, depending on the package. Without a drinks package, alcoholic drinks can also be purchased, but will be charged via the boarding pass.

Water, iced tea and often simple lemonades are available free of charge. Bars are spread all over the island, especially around the pools and beaches.

Costs & budget planning

A day on CocoCay can be either very cheap or rather luxurious – depending on which offers you take advantage of. The big advantage: a substantial part of the services is already included in the cruise price. This allows guests to enjoy their day on the island without having to plan for additional expenses. However, if you want to enjoy special experiences, exclusive areas or premium drinks, you should plan a corresponding budget.

What is included?

In principle, access to the island and many central services are already included in the travel price. This includes all public beach areas such as Chill Island or South Beach as well as access to the Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. Sun loungers and most parasols can be used free of charge, as well as showers and sanitary facilities. The buffet restaurants such as Skipper’s Grill and Chill Grill as well as Snack Shacks are also included in the price. Water, iced tea and simple lemonades are available free of charge.

Many guests – like us – spend the entire day exclusively in these included areas and get by without any additional costs. Children’s programs or simple activities such as beach games are also usually included.

What additional costs should I expect?

Additional costs are incurred in particular if you use premium offers. The Thrill Waterpark is chargeable and prices vary depending on the season, occupancy and ship, but often range from around 40 to 150 US dollars per person. The Coco Beach Club requires a day pass, which is usually well over 100 US dollars per person, sometimes even more. Cabanas – whether on the beach, in the water park or in the beach club – can cost several hundred to over a thousand US dollars per day, depending on the location, size and level of service.

Other fee-based activities include the helium balloon “Up, Up and Away”, the zipline and certain water sports such as jet skiing or guided snorkeling trips. Massages and wellness services are also charged extra. Drinks are subject to a charge if you do not have a drinks package on board, but are conveniently billed via the boarding card. Shopping plays a rather subordinate role on CocoCay, but smaller souvenirs or beach items are of course also associated with additional costs.

How we spent our day on Coco Cay

We had a leisurely breakfast on the ship and disembarked at around 10 am. Our first destination was Harbour Beach. This beach on Coco Cay is located in the protected lagoon near the center of the island and offers a particularly family-friendly swimming area thanks to its calm, shallow waters and central location. We spent several hours here and our kids were able to play perfectly in the shallow water and sand.

We had lunch at the Chill Grill and then walked around the island a bit. We visited Chill Island and Breezy Bay and also briefly explored South Beach. We then spent the rest of the day at the large Oasis Lagoon until we returned to the ship at around 4.30 pm.

Our conclusion – Is a visit to CocoCay worthwhile?

CocoCay was a nice swimming stop for us – but nothing more. Ultimately, CocoCay is a small island that is designed to accommodate 10,000 guests per day. But the real “Bahamas feeling” is hard to come by. And we know what we’re talking about, because we’ve already traveled extensively to the Tarum Islands of the Bahamas. Just take a look at our other travel reports 🙂

And was completely satisfied with the free offers on the island. That’s why we spent exactly 0 dollars extra on CocoCay. We also found it hard to understand why you would rent a private cabana for a day on an island – where almost everything is free – and spend an extra $500-2,500 dollars? We also found the price for the water park to be extremely high at around 50-140 US-$ per person (depending on the season), when you can use the water park on the Icon of the Seas completely free of charge.

Frequently asked questions about the destination Coco Cay in the Bahamas

Many guests who come to CocoCay for the first time have similar questions about the organization, costs and procedures on the island. As it is a cruise-only island, many things are regulated more simply than at normal destinations – at the same time, there are a few special features that you should know in advance.