All the private islands, resorts, and exclusive destinations you can visit on cruises
Updated . First published
If you're setting sail in the Caribbean or Bahamas, it's likely your ship will visit a private island or resort owned by the cruise line.
The destinations are becoming increasingly lavish, with huge pools, private villas and adventurous activities on offer.
They're usually like a ship, but on the shore, with some of your food included - and often drinks if you have a package.
Australia is also getting its first private island, in Vanuatu.
Here are the private islands and exclusive resorts or destinations you can visit with the major cruise lines.
Sandy Cay, MSC Cruises
A new luxury private island is being launched for cruisers.
Sandy Cay will be a a new luxury private island destination adjacent to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas.
It is due to open in 2028.
It will only welcome guests from MSC Cruises and upmarket cruise line, Explora Journeys
"Conceived as an intimate complement to Ocean Cay, Sandy Cay offers a more secluded, elemental escape – inviting guests into a quieter, deeply immersive connection with the natural rhythms of the ocean and the spirit of the Bahamas," bosses say.
"Pristine aragonite sands – among the purest and brightest in the world – give Sandy Cay its name and its character, shaping an island defined by serenity."
Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Lines
Norwegian Cruise Lines was the first firm to buy an island for guests to visit, in 1977.
Great Stirrup Cay in The Bahamas offers clear turquoise waters and sandy beaches.
You can also get more active with kayaking and ziplining on offer.
You can even treat yourself to a private villa for the day at the exclusive Silver Cove, for an extra charge.
Vibe Shore Club is an adults only area.
The island is undergoing a big revamp.
The mammoth Great Life Lagoon is the standout new feature of the island which is visited only by the firm's ships.
There's also a kids waterpark.
A bigger waterpark is also on the way later this year, and a pier has been built which negates the need for tenders.
The pristine beaches have crystal clear water lapping the sand, and there are plenty of sunbeds to relax and soak it up.
A huge waterpark with multiple slides, pools and a lazy river is on the way later this year for Great Stirrup Cay.
Lelepa , Royal Caribbean
Cruise company Royal Caribbean has confirmed it will start welcoming cruisers to Lelepa in Vanuatu in the South Pacific in October next year.
All South Pacific cruises from Sydney and Brisbane on Anthem of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas will make a stop at the island
The island will have two beaches to visit, including an adults-only retreat and a family beach with activities.
A scenic nature trail and snorkelling will also be on offer.
There will also be 10 bars and "unlimited" island food, the company says
Like on a cruise, umbrellas, loungers and towels will all be included at no extra cost.The island is off Efate, the main island where the capital of Port Vila is located.
Previously, the island has only been accessible via day trips for holidaymakers staying on the mainland, but it's now being revamped by the cruise line.
Castaway Cay, Disney Cruise Lines
Castaway Cay in the Bahamas brings all the Disney magic to a tropical island.
It has plenty to offer, from lounging on the beach to playing sports, volleyball and soccer at the Sports Beach.
Waterslides and pools are plentiful, and if you're feeling active, Take off on a spectacular 5K around the island – finishers receive an Disney Castaway Cay medal.
You can even post a card from the post office, complete with a Disney Castaway Cay postmark.
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Lookout Cay, Disney Cruise Lines
Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, also in the Bahamas, is a glittering stretch of shore also enjoyed by Disney cruisers.
It has spots for families as well as a secluded beach for adults.
It even has Sebastian's Cove, a splash pad inspired by Ariel's grotto from The Little Mermaid.
A BBQ lunch is offered - and some of the Disney characters will be there too.
Perfect Day at CocoCay, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises
Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas.
Sunbake on the beach or swim at this home away from your ship.
You can pay extra for experiences like the thrill waterpark which boasts the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean a zipline and the Up, Up & Away, helium balloon to give you a bird's eye view of paradise.
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