Ahoy there, John!
Welcome aboard planDisney! You’ve set sail on a question as tricky as deciding between Dole Whip and Mickey Bars—and trust me, that’s no easy task! Picking between Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay really depends on what kind of island adventure you’re looking for, the ages of your crew, and how you like to soak up the sun.
Now, if you ask me,
Castaway Cay is the place to be—but if you ask my wife, she’ll tell you Lookout Cay is where it’s at. My daughter loves Castaway Cay’s food but prefers
Lookout Cay’s beaches and amenities, while my son is all about the waves and exploring at Lookout Cay. So, with three against one, I might be outnumbered—but let me tell you why Castaway Cay still has my heart!
Castaway Cay’s enclosed cove makes for a peaceful, relaxing beach day, perfect for younger kids who want to splash around without battling the waves. The snorkeling area is fantastic, especially for those who aren’t the strongest swimmers—it’s much calmer, making it easier to find the hidden treasures beneath the sea. We’ve had some incredible encounters with sea creatures, including sea urchins, loads of tropical fish, a giant starfish, stingrays, and even sea snails! Another big plus? The ship docks super close to all the fun, meaning it’s just a short walk or tram ride to the beaches and activities.
Okay, I’ll admit it—
Lookout Cay is stunning. The architecture and design give it an authentic Caribbean island vibe, and if you love playing in the waves and enjoying soft, pink-sand beaches, this is your spot. When we were there, we wandered down the beach and found some amazing hidden photo spots—including a trail leading to the island’s historic lighthouse, where we snapped some beautiful pictures with the ship in the background. And if you’re interested in immersing yourself in Bahamian culture, don’t miss the Junkanoo Celebration at the Goombay Cultural Center. It’s a fantastic way to experience the rhythms, colors, and energy of the Bahamas—something unique to Lookout Cay!
Now, I will say— Lookout Cay shares some similarities with Castaway Cay, which makes it feel familiar, but I was hoping for a more unique experience in certain areas. That said, it’s a brand-new destination with stunning scenery, vibrant cultural touches, and plenty of potential to evolve. I can definitely see why my family loved it so much!
At the end of the day, choosing between these two islands is like choosing your favorite Disney movie—impossible, because they’re both magical in their own way! If your itinerary includes both stops, consider yourself lucky—you get the best of both worlds!
Sea ya real soon with love in the air and magic everywhere,
Dustin