Castaway Cay: What Is Free and What Costs Extra on Disney's Island (2026)

Where these numbers come from

Castaway Cay is Disney Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas, and it is one of the easier ports to budget. The ship docks at the island, so there is no tender wait, and a courtesy tram carries guests between areas. A 2026 guide notes that the walk from ship to sand is short, unlike at Disney's newer Lookout Cay.

The included list covers most of what families want. Beaches, swimming and towels cost nothing. The beach barbecue buffet feeds you at three locations. Snorkeling is free if you bring your own gear, and two water play areas, Pelican Plunge and Spring-a-Leak, are open to all. Character meet-and-greets and live music are included too. Most purchases go on the room key card, and cash is needed only at the post office.

Paid items fall in three groups. Small rentals come first: a bike is $19 for an hour by the January 2026 guide, which is up from the $15 an older guide listed, and all-day snorkel gear was $34 for adults in January 2025. Next are guided activities: a stingray encounter at $54 to $64, parasailing at $140 and a jet ski adventure at $183. Last are comfort rentals, where cabanas started at $523 for the adults-only Serenity Bay and $963 for a family beach cabana in March 2025.

Worked example, family of four with rentals. Four stingray encounters at $64 are $256. Snorkel gear at $34 for two adults is $68, and two one-hour bike rentals at $19 add $38. The day totals $362 before drinks. Keep the stingray at the lower $54 price and the total falls to $322.

Worked example, free day. Eat the included barbecue, swim, and snorkel with gear you packed. The island cost is $0. Two adults who add parasailing at $140 each spend $280. Because pricing shifts by season and by cruise date, treat any printed price as a starting point and check the Disney planner before sailing.

Compare this with CocoCay for a bigger upgrade menu or Half Moon Cay, then enter your choices in the cruise excursion budget calculator.

Sources

• Magic Guides: Castaway Cay tips (published 2026-01-29)
• EverythingMouse: Castaway Cay activities and prices (updated January 2025)
• The Points Guy: Castaway Cay cabana prices (2025-03-28)

Figures checked on September 30, 2026.

This page is general information, not legal, insurance or travel-agent advice. Fees, rules and limits change, so confirm the figures with the official sources listed above before you book or travel.