Ahoy, Kimberly!
Thank you for another excellent question about your upcoming sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line! We are so happy to be able to assist you with all your magical plans.
The Castaway Cay 5K is a great way to kick off your day in
Disney's island paradise. It can be hot so be sure your crew hydrates before your head ashore (there are a few water stops along the way). Your eight-year old will be able to check in to Scuttle's Cove, the youth club on the island, while the rest of the family runs. They open early to accommodate situations just like yours! On the morning of the run, plan to meet at the designated location on the ship to check-in and pick up your official runDisney race bibs before you head ashore. Since you will need to check your daughter into the club, you'll want to go on ahead of the group as long as the ship has been cleared for disembarkation. Scuttle's Cove is about a 10-minute walk from the pier or located by the first tram stop. After your daughter is securely checked-in, head to the starting line near the Bike Rental location close to the Pelican Point Tram Stop (again a short walk or tram ride away). After the race, you can head back to the ship to change into your beach attire or use the bathrooms on the island. Your daughter can stay checked in or you can drop by to get her on your way over. Scuttle's Cove was always a hit with my sailors when they were younger!
Kimberly, I've enjoyed running in this event on my past sailings and have my Castaway Cay 5K medals proudly displayed at home. I've also purchased a Castaway Cay 5K t-shirt from Buy the Seashore (the gift shop right by the starting line) and love to wear it as a reminder of this fun event from my Disney Cruise!
It was a pleasure assisting you again with your vacation plans. We hope you'll continue to visit us here at the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
Nancy