Ahoy, Raina!
Welcome back to planDisney! I’m so glad you asked this question—because
Castaway Cay is full of magic, even for those in the not-a-kid, not-yet-a-teen zone. It sounds like your family is preparing for an incredible day of fun in the sun, and your 13-year-old is definitely not forgotten when it comes to island adventures.
You’re absolutely right that the age ranges listed for Disney's youth spaces on Castaway Cay can look a little tricky at first glance. While Scuttle’s Cove is for the younger kids and Teen Hideout is typically geared for ages 14 to 17, tweens and young teens like your seafaring sidekick are still very much part of the fun—it’s just a little more “off the map” (Captain Jack would be proud).
Here’s how it works:
Edge, the onboard space for ages 11 to 14, doesn’t have a permanent “hangout” area on Castaway Cay, but they do host pop-up events and activities throughout the day! You’ll want to keep a close eye on your
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app once you board. That’s your treasure map for everything happening—both onboard and on the island. The schedule might say something like “Edge Invades Teen Hideout on Disney Castaway Cay” or “Edge at In Da Shade,” which are code for “here’s where the cool kids are right now.”
These events are organized by the incredible Youth Activities Counselors who sail with the ship, and they always plan age-appropriate games, competitions, and hangouts for Edge Guests. Whether it’s scavenger hunts, sandcastle contests, or just time to chill in the shade, they’ll find ways to make
Castaway Cay feel like their own personal adventure island.
Here’s a fun tip from my own crew’s experience: if your 13-year-old wants a little independence on the island, you can grant them permission to check off and on the ship by themselves
during your Online Check-In. It’s a simple checkbox that gives them a bit more freedom (and gives you a chance to sneak off to Serenity Bay for a grown-up moment of peace). If they decide they want to meet up with friends or head back to the ship early, they’ll be able to do so without needing to wait for a parent escort.
And of course, they’re welcome to explore the island with you, too! There’s so much to do—bike rentals, snorkeling, kayaking, and the Pelican Plunge water slides are all open to the whole family. A family bike ride through Castaway Cay’s nature trail is one of our favorite ways to explore the island together before splitting off for solo adventures.
I hope this helps chart a smooth course for your family's day on Disney’s island paradise! With just a sprinkle of planning and a dash of curiosity, your 13-year-old will feel right at home—whether they’re catching waves, making new friends, or living their best Olaf life in the sunshine.
Sea ya real soon with a July full of fireworks at sea and memories that sparkle like pixie dust,
Dustin