Incredible private islands owned by cruise lines you’ll want on your bucket list

Holidaying on a private island sounds like something reserved for the A-list, but it turns out there is a way for us mere mortals to have the experience too.

It turns out the secret is cruise holidays !

In fact there are a host of cruise lines which own some incredible private islands which they open exclusively to passengers.

Think huge water parks, picture-perfect white sand beaches, beach clubs with luxury cabanas and gourmet restaurants, spas… the list goes on and on.

Then of course the destinations are all those sun-soaked, idyllic spots on our bucket lists, ranging from the Bahamas to the Caribbean.

We take a look at eight dreamy private islands owned by cruise lines you'll want to add to the bucket list immediately…

1. Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's new £191million private island in the Caribbean is sure to be a hit with families.

After all, it's home to the Thrill Waterpark which boasts 13 waterslides, Adventure Pool with an obstacle course, and even boasts the Caribbean's largest wave pool.

Meanwhile the 135-foot-tall Daredevil's Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America, is sure to be a hit with thrill-seekers.

The island also offers specially-designed beaches, heaps of restaurants from gourmet to laidback dining, luxury cabanas for a touch of indulgence, a zip line and a range of sports from volleyball to paddle boarding.

Tempted? Royal Caribbean has a handy list of sailings with Perfect Day at CocoCay on the itinerary.

2. Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises' highly-anticipated island in the Bahamas is due to open in November 2019 but it's already going on our wishlists.

After all, it's sure to be total luxury; the company has already revealed it will have a lush spa where you can indulge with treatments, beach yoga sessions and fitness classes.

Then there are the white sand beaches and crystalline swim-friendly waters, the jam-packed activities programmes tailoring to both parents and children, and an impressive array of dining spots from a swish beach bar to an ice cream parlour.

The reserve will have an ecological focus, predominantly the restoration of coral reefs, so there won't be any motorised sports but there will be snorkeling excursions, paddle boarding and kayaking.

You can already book MSC Cruises with Ocean Cay as a port of call. Looking for a deal?

Mirror Cruise has offers on MSC Cruises sailings with perks such as free handpicked hotel stays and drinks offers.

3. Princess Cays, Princess Cruises

The isand of Eleuthera in the Bahamas is also home to the private resort of Princess Cays, where passengers can enjoy everything from exclusive beach parties to lazy beach days on the white sand shores.

Princess Cays offers over 40 acres of land and half a mile of white sand shores. (The whole island is one hundred miles long and two miles wide).

Think beach barbecues, local shops, craft markets, water sports, snorkel adventures, banana boat rides and plenty more opportunities for a day out to remember.

You can find out more about Princess Cays on the Princess Cruises website . You can also keep an eye out for Princess Cruises deals on Mirror Cruise .

4. Disney's Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Line

Disney's private island is reserved exclusively for passengers on its sailings to the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Think pristine white beaches, turquoise waters, palm trees, and of course those all-important Disney Character Greetings, including a Dance Party with Lilo and Stitch!

There's heaps of adventure to be had thanks to activities such as sailing, kayaking, snorkeling in the lagoon, beach barbecues, lively music and a wide array of sports.

There are dedicated zones for teenagers and kids' clubs, as well as the adults-only Serenity Bay.

Other highlights include the water play areas for kids such as Pelican's Plunge and Spring-A-Leak.

Disney Cruise Line predominantly sails from the USA but if you are tempted you can find packages with the Walt Disney Travel Company .

5. Labadee, Royal Caribbean

Labadee is a luxury private resort nestled on Haiti's northern coast which has everything from spectacular beaches to heaps of adventures for thrill-seekers.

Highlights include the adrenaline-inducing Dragon's Breath zip line, a Dragon's Tail Coaster, and even an inflatable watery world in the Arawak Aqua Park.

Expect plenty of sandy beaches and crystalline waters, activities from snorkeling to parasailing, and a wide array of foodie experiences whether you're after a beach barbecue or want to try out the rum cocktails to be found.

You can find Royal Caribbean cruises with Labadee online .

Mirror Cruise also has a range of Royal Caribbean deals with perks such as free hotel stays and drinks offers.

6. Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL owns this breathtaking private island in the Bahamas where you can expect those pristine white sand beaches and crystalline waters filled with colourful fish and sea turtles. (Basically, a snorkeler's paradise!).

Relax in a beachfront cabana, tuck into some delicious tacos, or take on sports like kayaking to explore the breathtaking region.

There are quite a few family-friendly activities too if you're travelling with the kids, such as eco-boat tours and games, not to mention there are heaps of dining venues whether you fancy a burger or simply want to sip on cocktails while taking in the views.

You can find out more about Great Stirrup Cay on the Norwegian Cruise Line website . 

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