DESTINATION
CoCo Cay
For decades, the concept of a "private island" in the cruising world meant a quiet stretch of sand with a basic BBQ lunch and a few hammocks. That changed in 2019 when Royal Caribbean completed a $250 million transformation of its Bahamian retreat, Little Stirrup Cay, into the award-winning Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Today, it stands as a masterclass in destination design, offering a "choose your own adventure" experience that balances high-octane adrenaline with sophisticated relaxation.
The skyline of the island is dominated by Daredevil’s Peak, a 135-foot slide that holds the title of the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean. It serves as the centerpiece of Thrill Waterpark, a ticketed area featuring 13 slides, the region’s largest wave pool, and an obstacle-filled adventure pool.
For those who prefer their thrills with a view, the Up, Up and Away helium balloon carries guests 450 feet into the air—the highest vantage point in the Bahamas. If you’d rather move fast than high, a 1,600-foot zip line traverses the island, providing a bird’s-eye view of the turquoise harbor below.
If your version of a "perfect day" involves a cocktail rather than a vertical drop, CocoCay delivers on a massive scale. Oasis Lagoon is the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool, designed with distinct coves to cater to different vibes.
One end features a family-friendly sloped entry, while the other houses a high-energy swim-up bar equipped with underwater speakers so you never miss a beat.
For a classic beach experience, Chill Island and South Beach offer miles of powdery white sand and crystal-clear water. These areas are complimentary and provide plenty of umbrellas and loungers.
South Beach, in particular, has become a favorite for those seeking a livelier atmosphere, featuring beach volleyball and a floating bar just a short wade into the ocean.
As part of its ongoing evolution, Royal Caribbean has added premium "neighborhoods" for guests seeking an elevated experience:
Coco Beach Club, an exclusive retreat, offers the first over-water cabanas in the Bahamas, complete with slides that drop you directly into the sea. It features a private infinity pool and an upscale restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired fare like steak and lobster.
Hideaway Beach opened in early 2024, this adults-only (18+) beachfront party zone is the island’s answer to a Vegas day club. It features a massive heated pool, dedicated DJs, and "Slice of Paradise" pizza, making it the go-to spot for those looking to skip the family crowds.
One of the most significant upgrades to the island was the addition of a fixed pier. This allows even the massive Icon-class ships to dock directly, eliminating the need for slow tender boats.
Once on land, a complimentary tram service runs every 15 minutes, making the 125-acre island fully accessible for families with strollers or guests with mobility needs.
Dining on the island is equally seamless. Between Chill Grill, Skipper’s Grill, and various Snack Shacks, guests have access to complimentary tacos, burgers, and the famous "Shack Burger."
Perhaps the best perk for many is that Royal Caribbean’s onboard beverage and Wi-Fi packages extend to the island, ensuring your "Perfect Day" remains as connected and refreshed as your time at sea.
Whether you are racing down a record-breaking slide or dozing in a Bora Bora-style cabana, CocoCay has redefined the private island port, proving that sometimes, you really can have it all in one day.
Nautical Mile Magazine
