Ahoy, Jennifer!
Thank you for sending in another great question to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! My son was 18 months old his first time to
Castaway Cay, and I can still picture him toddling around in the sand and squealing with delight splashing around in the water. Since the water is so calm on Castaway Cay, I did bring his inflatable float from home, and he enjoyed floating around in the water with his sister and cousins. I packed a few small sand toys (there are also some available to purchase at the gift shops on the island), which kept him busy for awhile. We also spent lots of time at Spring-a-leak, which is a water play area perfect for little ones! I recommend two other fun activities we don't typically miss when we visit-the Character Dance Party at the Island Gazebo and the Family Whale Dig at Monstro's Point. Both of these typically take place in the early afternoon so you may want to plan your sailor's time in the nursery in the morning.
The ship is about a 10-minute walk to the first family beach area or a quick tram ride to the Scuttle's Cove stop. I would plan a few minutes to go through security when heading back to the ship so around 20 minutes to get to the nursery. The second beach area near Pelican Point is a bit further so you may want to stick to the Castaway Family Beach by Scuttle's Cove. There are complimentary wagons and strollers to use at both tram stops. I loved this because it kept the stroller we used on the ship sand free! You'll also find plenty of beach chairs (great for pulling down to the water), loungers and umbrellas.
Jennifer, it's been a pleasure assisting you with your cruise plans for your week on the
Disney Fantasy. Please reach back out to us if we can help you further.
Have a magical day!
Nancy