Hello Georgeann!
Thank you for bringing your question to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! I personally understand that because of certain health-related needs, the importance of planning ahead and researching all there is to know about an upcoming vacation is immeasurable! This is why I'm so excited to help you decide whether or not renting a cabana on
Castaway Cay is right for you!
The cabanas found on both Castaway Family Beach and Serenity Bay (adults-only beach) are so beautiful! If you reserve one, you will be guaranteed an abundance of shade along with comfortable seating, a beverage refrigerator, safe, ceiling fan and so much more! If you're planning on spending an entire day exploring all that Castaway Cay has to offer, renting a cabana in advance allows you to have a "home" away from your stateroom; there, you'll be comfortably out of the sun while taking in the breathtaking views. My family and I love renting the cabanas on Castaway Cay every Disney Cruise we can and think they're absolutely worth reserving!
Unfortunately, you can't reserve an umbrella, in advance, on either the Castaway Family Beach or Serenity Bay. With that being said, I've never had a challenge finding an empty lounge chair under the shade of an umbrella on the adults-only beach during the cruises when we were unable to reserve a cabana.
I wish you nothing but health in the New Year and stress-free planning for your upcoming Disney Cruise Line vacation!
Beth