Helmets and bikes are included but guests should bring their own sunscreen. Snorkel the Seas This will be noted in the specific shore excursions description. Enjoying the perfect (PERFECT) weather, the warm sunshine, light breeze and nature. There are lifeguards on duty who monitor the main beaches. Exactly how you do that is up to you: a whole host of water sports equipment is available to rent here (we recommend pre-reserving before you arrive). Youll find all kinds of watersports rentals at Princess Cays including kayaking, windsurfing, dinghy sailing, paddlewheelers, stand-up paddleboarding and banana boat rides that always end it with a dunking! This post is sponsored by Carnival Cruise Lines. Need some alone time? More advanced snorkelers wanting a better experience away from the crowds can take a boat tour that includes snorkel equipment. One of the major advantages of participating in shore excursions sold through Carnival is that we closely monitor the excursion departures and returns. You can swim out from this little beach and to the left to view live corals and thousands of colorful fish. Prepare to get dusty! Princess Cays is a private resort owned by Carnival Corporation that is located on the southern tip of the island of Eleuthera It is a port of call for ships. Lockers are available in several locations around Princess Cays. Unfortunately, it does happen that some of the more popular shore excursions will sell out. Apart from the free experiences, everything needs to be booked ahead of time, so dont get caught out! Opens in a new window. The Medallion is scanned by thousands of sensors on the ship, as well as in the Port Everglades terminal and on Princess Cays, enabling cabin doors to be unlocked by the time the rightful occupant . Youll also find some light snacks insideusually fresh fruit and chips, salsa, and guacamole. Surrounded by clear warm waters and coral reefs teeming with marine life, it's a beautiful. But it wasnt empty and boring. The WiFi is not accessible to guests visiting on a Carnival cruise. Opens in a new window. It is owned by Carnival Corporation, [1] which owns Princess Cruises, among others. Please allow 7-10 business days for the credit to post to your account. You can also enjoy adventuring by bicycle or on a clear-bottom kayak. 2019, Carnival plc trading as Princess Cruises. You must complete the medical history form and the liability waiver/release form that will be provided either onboard, or by the tour operator at the beginning of the excursion. If youre cruising with younger kids, theyll love Pelicans Perch, a small fenced-off play area with a playground, swimming pool, and a covered activity pavilion. Yes. Hi Linzey, I'm so happy you enjoyed reading my Princess Cays guide (and that your son is now old enough to enjoy it!) Infants ages 3 and younger sitting on a parents lap and therefore not occupying a seat, are not charged for most shore excursions. Plan to head back to the ship at least an hour before the last tender to avoid the rush hour crowds. Medallion Net WiFi is available (for a fee) for guests visiting Princess Cays on a Princess ship. We had 2 more family members arrive later, we sailed on Carnival. The southern tip of Eleuthera is reserved for cruise guests, while the rest of the island is populated and open to the public. We spent the day here. Its a unique opportunity to stroke their velvety skin as you hand-feed them. Opens in a new window. What is included in the basic Carnival cruise fare? Or you can book on board if youre a last-minute decision maker. Waiters will occasionally come by offering drink service, and the open-air Bungalow Bar is also just steps away from the bungalow area. The 40-acre retreat is located in the southern part of Eleuthera, a 100-mile long island east of the capital Nassau. Like so many parts of The Bahamas, Princess Cays lets you snorkel without having to venture too far out into the ocean. If you like a more active day, there are volleyball and basketball courts for joining in some team fun. Princess Cays is Princess Cruises' tropical island resort, which is actually a small section in the south of Eleuthera island in The Bahamas. The trip includes a visit to a saltwater lagoon and the bottomless ocean hole at Rock Sound. The Caretakers House, a small ranch-style home with a lovely screened porch, is just off the paved path near the shops and straw market. To snorkel in the live reefs and see the colorful marine life would be amazing. I hope you're able to visit and try all the activities there. It is recommended that you print your order summary as proof of purchase and bring it with you on your cruise. We can think of staying there for a week as well. External site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, Do Not Sell Or Share My Personal Information. Thank you Carnival for letting us explore the magical island of Princess Cays, we loved it. Given the warm climate and the more rustic conditions in the Caribbean and Central America, we strongly suggest that you wear light, casual clothing and comfortable, low-heeled walking shoes or sneakers. Once onboard, you may see the Shore Excursion Manager for assistance. Princess Cays is a private island destination in the Bahamas for both Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line. The resort boasts outstanding amenities while carefully preserving this natural paradise. Youll only need cash if youd like to purchase souvenirs from the straw markets. Be sure to check out my Princess Cays FAQ at the bottom of the page, where I answer the most commonly asked questions about this exclusive port of call. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'shouldbecruising_com-square-1','ezslot_31',676,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-square-1-0');After a morning of fresh air and activity, a hearty island lunch will be just what youre looking for. Consider it a relaxing, guilt-free beach day when you . We have placed a symbol next to the water-related excursion descriptions, for which we suggest you wear your bathing suit, cover-up and hat. Here are 10 other reasons to love this beautiful pocket of The Bahamas, which is found on the island of Eleuthera. We'll send you the latest cruise updates daily to your inbox. Details Bungalow: Finally, a private island experience that is truly private. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'shouldbecruising_com-small-rectangle-1','ezslot_26',677,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-small-rectangle-1-0');Tip: Take along a refillable tumbler (I like this one from Yeti with an attached straw) to avoid waiting in a long line for drink refillsthe cups they provide on the island are tiny! Or you can take your food back to your loungers and enjoy it on the beach or under a swaying palm tree! Cigarette smoking and vaping is permitted at Princess Cays, but only in designated smoking areas around the resort (look for signs or standing ashtrays). Away We Go. Page will reload to reflect new bookings. Large glass windows allow you to look down and admire fish feeding and swimming through the corals and anemones. Follow the coast to the tip (you can see the point at the top of the photo above) to reach a secluded area where all you can hear is the crash of waves and the plaintive cries of seabirds. For 2024 sail dates, please check back in late Spring of 2023. There are also some shore excursions that require that each guest purchase a ticket, regardless of age. We suggest you visit your local library, bookstore or a pertinent website to determine where you would like to go. British educated with a diploma in journalism she has traveled the world, writing about her experiences with wonderful clarity and eyewitness detail. Princess Cays See all things to do Princess Cays 4 603 reviews #9 of 38 things to do in Eleuthera Islands Visit website Call Write a review What people are saying " Fun Day & Island Bike Adventure " Nov 2022 Surprisingly, there were plenty of recliners, water activities, excursions, and Carnival Team led games and activities. If you have any medical conditions that may affect your ability to participate safely in the diving excursion, please contact the Shore Excursion Department at. Well, we were more than happy with what we found. Excursions for 2023 sail dates are available for purchase. to your friend going on one of our cruises! Also, many of our longer excursions include a shopping stop. Im so glad youre here! Guests sailing on a Carnival cruise who book a shore excursion through us can be completely confident they are getting the best price and best value with the introduction of our Shore Excursion Best Price Guarantee. Popular shore excursions at Princess Cays include: For a complete list of shore excursions (including prices) for your cruise line, check out these resources: Tip: Guests with early shore excursion tickets through the cruise line can take advantage of priority tendering to Princess Caysyou wont need to wait in line for a tender ticket! The shops also sell a nice selection of typical souvenirs including t-shirts, mugs, shot glasses, and other trinkets with a Bahamas theme. Head to the south side of Princess Cays to avoid the crowds at the main beach. This will be the cruise line's second Florida port. In order to make any change to your shore excursion orders after the cut-off time, you will need to see the Shore Excursion Manager once you are onboard the ship. Princess Cays has its own Craft Market selling handcrafted items made in the Bahamas. Equipped with a kiddo pool and a sinking crab. Many first-time visitors dont even know that this part of the resort exists! More unusual souvenirs in these shops include crystal jewelry, dinnerware, leather accessories, and decorative wood carvings. Cast a line and see what you can hook on this 2.5-hour fishing tour. It's such a beautiful island! The island is a popular port of call for many of Princess and Carnivals Caribbean cruises. Find your own patch of sand and enjoy. Guests are provided with a snorkel vest and water shoes. It depends on the type and degree of the disability. Princess Cays is Princess Cruises' private island destination in the Bahamas. This is one for the serious adventure-fiends. Hi Mijia, that sounds like such a fun day! Guides provide a safety briefing and some interesting facts about stingrays before participants enter the waist-high water. This, however, was our very first time at Princess Cays! Guided bus tours are available and will transport guests in air-conditioned comfort on a scenic drive. The warm waters are teeming with brightly-colored fish and other sea creatures. Youll often see artisans weaving or making jewelry and other souvenirs you can purchase. Princess Cays is a private island destination in the Bahamas for both Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line. Members; 3 October 4, 2019; Georgia External site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, Twitter. Yes, with one 'common group booking number' as well as a minimum of 35 guests you may customize shore excursions. Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary byshipand destination. This Private Island has over 100 acres of white-sand beachfront access, with a portion of the land belonging to . Hang on Tight Experience true Bahamian life with local churches, schools, and markets. Spend time floating in the warmest ocean temperatures of the year, or sunbathe on the golden beaches of the Western Caribbean during their driest month. The lifeguards dont patrol this section as closely as in the busier areas, so snorkel and swim at your own risk. They are available Monday through Sunday, 7:00am to 1:00pm. Thanks for sharing! Free expert cruise tips and news from Cruise Hive! Yes, youve just been on a boat, but cruise ships offer smooth sailing. Summers average high temps are around 88F (31C). Be sure to book guided water sports before your cruise (via the cruise lines online planner) for the best availability. The Princess Cays beach is a beautiful white sand shoreline with very few rocks, so it's a great place to play. This makes the port of call unsuitable for those with limited mobility. These shore excursion providers know that Carnivals guests expect a positive, fun-filled excursion. In the event of a cruise booking cancellation within the cut-off window, a full refund will automatically be posted to the form of payment used to pay for the order. Port arrival and departure times are approximate and subject to change without notice. There are three beach areas: the Main Shore; Little Bay which is a short walk from the marina, and the adults only beach at The Sanctuary. The Coastal Cruise, Snorkel, and Float combines a boat trip on a 35-seater motor vessel with time for snorkeling offshore. You are not obligated to book shore excursions through Carnival in order to leave the ship. One hundred miles long and only two miles wide, Eleuthera offers unspoiled beaches. Shore excursions may be cancelled by Carnival or the Tour Operator due to inclement weather conditions, or any other reason whatsoever. Or spend your time on the island enjoying water sportsthe choice is yours! Thanks for stopping by and commenting :). Each bungalow is equipped with a ceiling fan, a table and four chairs, and an outdoor shower. Princess Cays has two indoor shopping venues: the Bahama Treasures Shop and Tropical Treasures Shop, both centrally located just north of the First Aid Station. Standards of transportation vary considerably throughout the world. Yes, depending on the length of each applicable shore tour relative to the amount of time the ships stay in port. Millions of travelers rely on Cruise Hive in the United States, Europe, Australia, and around the world. Learn more: Everything You Need to Know About Tender Ports on a Cruise. With my favorite little love. My top picks would be paddle-boarding, snorkeling, or sea kayaking. If you missed the purchase window, check with us once you're on board we'll help you find what youre looking for. You might be wondering how you can possibly fill a whole day of your vacation on an isolated sandy island, so lets show you around! External site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, Pinterest. While youre exploring Princess Cays, there are a few other points of interest you might like to check out. A lookout point to tour from above. Consult with the cruise line before your cruise (and again with the crew on board) if you use a mobility device. Princess Cays is located 70 miles east of Nassau, on the southern tip of Eleuthera, one of the Bahamas' Out Islands. . 2023 Cruisers' Choice Awards! External site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, Twitter. Retreat like a VIP Most areas on Princess Cays are wheelchair-accessible with wide, paved paths from the tender dock to the dining venue and bars, restrooms, straw market, and bungalow areas.However, wheelchair access to the island is at the captains discretion and is not guaranteed on the tender boats to and from the island. Keep your eyes open for sponges, giant clams, stingrays, dolphins, and turtles. External site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, Pinterest. A general rule of thumb is one dollar per person for a half-day excursion and two dollars per person for a full-day excursion. Princess Cays does not have a water park. They plan to develop their own cruise port resort at a cost of around $400 million. If youre visiting on a Carnival ship, your drink package wont work on the island. Princess Cays is a Carnival Corporation owned island/port tucked away in the islands of the Bahamas and oh man what a dream. Its idyllic! These are usually the more active type excursions such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, horseback riding, etc. Well, we were more than happy with what we found. Surrounded by clear warm waters and coral reefs teeming with marine life, its a beautiful place to experience life in paradise! For all golf excursions, collared shirts and either long pants or Bermuda-style shorts (no cut-offs, bathing suits, etc.) During the daytime, bask in typical Caribbean cruise weather ranging from the mid-70s to upper 80s. Princess Cays is a Carnival Corporation owned island/port tucked away in the islands of the Bahamas and oh man what a dream. Or just relax on the sand in one of the loungersthere are plenty here in both sunny and shaded spots. Points of interest include gorgeous pink sandy beaches, quaint towns such as Rock Sound, caves, and unusual geological formations such as the Glass Window Bridge. Overview Reviews Things to Do Popular Things to Do in Princess Cays Banana Boat Ride (15 minutes; available all day) Island Bike Advenure (1.5 hours) Surf Fishing (2.5 hours) Coastal Cruise. Choose a locker rental thats in a location close to where youll be hanging out. A former flight attendant, she now prefers cruise ships over airplanes and spends several months each year cruising and exploring cruise ports. Most cruises to the resort are short trips that will call at Nassau and Princess Cays before returning to the US coast. Take in the views from the observation tower. This island is located on the southern edge of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. The tenders drop you at the Love Boat Marina just a short walk from the beach. There is a boat excursion for more experienced snorkelers. Shore excursions may be booked prior to sailing up until the Pre-Sail cut-off time, 11:30pm ET the evening prior to the cruise departure. However (as with many tender ports) wheelchair or scooter access on the tender boats isnt guaranteed. But it seemed like everyone at Carnival just went an extra mile there to make us feel on vacation. Although there isnt an exclusive dining venue for suite or Sanctuary Bungalow guests, anyone renting a bungalow also has the option to order a gourmet picnic lunch, delivered right to your door for an additional fee. Hurricane season in the Bahamas runs from June 1 through November 30. For more info, please read myDisclosure Policy. As part of the agreement with the Bahamian government, they will donate 190 acres, including the southernmost tip of Eleuthera, as a protected national park. As a private cruise line destination, Princess Cays is only accessible to guests visiting on a cruise ship. I rescued him, naturally. Be sure to take a selfie with the perfect unobstructed view of your ship just offshore! Somewhere among the palm trees you might spy the exclusive adult-only retreat. It is approximately 70 miles east of Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas archipelago. This helps maintain the diversity of marine life including sharks and rays. Carnival ships had scheduled a total of 40 visits to Princess Cays in 2017, and 98 in 2018. There are two categories of bungalow on Princess Cays: Private Bungalows and Sanctuary Bungalows. Opens in a new window. Thanks for reading! In fact, it is the 8th largest island in the Bahamas (out of over 700 islands and 2,400 cays spread across 5,358 square miles). Most visitors flock to the main beach with its easy access to the Grill Crazy buffet lunch venue, restrooms, bars, and souvenir shops. Children between the ages of 4 to 12 years and teens between the ages of 13 to 18 years will be charged full adult price, or special child/teen prices when applicable and noted. Sit back and admire rolling hills and the fragmented coastline edged with soft white sand and gentle waves. * Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional per person. Outside there are several local vendors selling handmade crafts straw-market style. But Im okay and grateful for these moments and memories regardless. External site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, Facebook. And we were in nature heaven. Princess Cays, The Bahamas Cruise to Princess Cays and you'll come ashore in Love Boat Marina a sign that this private resort on the island of Eleuthera, Bahamas was designed to be classic cruising perfection. Any guest whose weight is 250 pounds or more will be required to purchase a seat and a half. Standard bar prices apply. Booking(s) successfully added to your profile and cruise companion group. We try to choose the most reputable companies available to provide your excursions. Although you can pay with your cruise card or medallion at the indoor shops, most of the local vendors accept cash onlyalthough now a few are starting to accept credit/debit. This booking number and last name combination could not be found. However, there is no discount taken off the price for the tour. See the Coast Princess cruisers can use their drink packages at the private island destination. Located Eleuthera island and a cruise line private destination. Opens in a new window. The sun and salt, sand and air are a magical thing. Locals, including the salespeople at the straw markets, tend to call the area Princess Key. This post was created forAway We Go with Carnival,the destination for getting in the getaway state of mind. Couples will love having their own private escape with a Beach Clamshell rental that includes two comfortable beach chairs for lazing. Carnival is not responsible for any losses, damage, death, injuries or claims whatsoever arising from, connected with, or related to any activities engaged in by guests while off of Carnivals ships or tenders in any port of call. For an even more secluded beach experience, head to the southern end of Princess Cays. Despite being an inhabited island, the resort is an oasis surrounded by trees, beaches and crystal clear water teaming with fish. If the shore excursions are cancelled prior to the sailing, you will receive a refund directly to the form of payment used to pay for the shore excursion order. Heres everything you need to know to enjoy your day at Princess Cays. Or head to Lagoon Lookout on the south side behind the restroom block. Opens in a new window. Youll see the sleepy Bannerman Town and beautiful church ruins, and travel over both bumpy back rounds before reaching the pink sands of Lighthouse Beachwhere you can finally catch your breath. Also, remember to bring sunscreen, a towel and a camera and to leave your valuables onboard, in your staterooms. Recommended Posts. Visit Nassau and Princess Cays, Bahamas. Have you been to Princess Cays on a Caribbean cruise? indicates external site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, indicates page is not optimized for a mobile device. Get into the Water (Sports) This summary will contain all necessary information regarding the excursions you have purchased, including: the confirmation number, the total cost of the order and which guests are participating in each tour booked. The island of Eleuthera has over 11,000 inhabitants and offers some fascinating highlights best discovered on a guided tour (see below). The warm sunny climate makes it perfect for all types of outdoor activities or relaxing and doing absolutely nothing at all! External site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, Instagram. Situated on the island of Eleuthera, Bahamas, Princess Cays started welcoming Princess guests in 1992. It looks so fun and that playground looks amazing. For assistance with this website, or to report an issue of a technical nature, please contact our Support Desk. Princess Cays is a tender port, meaning that guests reach the island via complimentary water shuttles from the cruise ship. The freshwater wading pool is very shallow, perfect for little ones to splash around. To make the most of your fun day at Princess Cays you can rent a full range of equipment for your visit. Additionally, shouldbecruising.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes receive a commission from purchases made through our links. From my visits to Princess Cays, Ive picked up a few tips and best practices to help you have the best beach dayespecially if its your first time on the island! Tour Operators require that all guests be able to participate safely in the excursions. Some excursions require a waiver to be completed and signed before participation. Bookings were added Successfully. (Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises) The tender island of Princess Cays, found on Eleuthera in the Bahamas (about 70 miles from Nassau), covers 40 acres. Make landfall and discover an island's worth of vacation fun and amenities. Please verify your flight time prior to booking this type of shore tour. Mckoy15. Carnival has chosen the selected providers because these providers enjoy the best reputation in their respective ports. For both these cruises, Half Moon Cay is replaced with Princess Cays. Check with your cruise line and the crew on board before your port day to see if youre able to tender to the island. These excursions are indicated with the 'Infants Free' advisory. The word cay, meaning a small, low island, is generally pronounced like the word key. Princess Cays is an exclusive port of call for those enjoying a Princess Cruise to the Bahamas. What Equipment Rentals are Available at Princess Cays? Pelicans Perch isnt a drop-off location like the kids clubs on the ship, so a parent or guardian needs to stay when their kids are enjoying the facility. Princess Cays is owned by Princess Cruises, which in turn is owned by Carnival Corporation. If you have an operational question about an excursion or you need additional information, please send an e-mail to. The private island destination opened in 1992, and underwent significant renovations in 2018, including constructing a larger marina, installing WiFi connectivity, building new guest services stations, and extensive landscaping improvements. Average highs in the winter months are around 75F (24C). The Bahamas enjoys a tropical climate with very little variation in temperature throughout the seasons. Eleuthera Save zoolilly 7 6 Visit to Princess Cays with Carnival Review of Princess Cays Reviewed March 8, 2018 We had a great experience there. Its a good idea to take some smaller bills with you for shopping because youll likely receive change in Bahamian dollars. After that, the islands economy focused on tourism, which is now the main source of income. For those who prefer to explore the water on their own, available water sports rentals include: (All prices are in USD and are current at time of publication). Princess Cays is a tourist resort at the southern end of the island of Eleuthera, Bahamas. You can read more about me and about Should Be Cruising here. You must purchase the specific helicopter excursion for guests over 250 pounds or you will be refused service. Princess Cays is Princess Cruises private island destination on the island of Eleuthera. Follow a guide along the back roads while driving your own Dune Buggy to a beautiful pink sand beach. Princess Cays features white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a variety of beach activities and amenities. HomeBlogCruise Tips Cruise News Cruise DestinationsAboutContactResourcesFeatured PressPrivacy PolicyCookie PolicyDisclosure PolicyTerms of Use. This applies to scuba diving, Snuba, power snorkel, underwater scooter, and sea trek excursions. There were so many tiny treasures to discover. With sandy expanses stretching toward crystal-blue water, Princess Cays offers cruisers a relaxing beach day. Carnival's private island, Princess Cays, is located on the southern tip of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. Get up early and be among the first in line for the tenders to avoid a very long wait. Princess Cays sits on 40+ acres of land and features more than a half-mile of sandy beaches. For existing excursions we can work with groups of 12 guests or more. Princess Cays covers an area of 40 acres at the south end of Eleuthera Island. You can read about them all on CruiseHive! If you want to rent snorkel equipment, kayaks, paddlewheelers, beach bungalows, cabanas and water sports, you must complete a Tour Order Form onboard and hand it in at the Customer Relations Desk well ahead of the visit. Sign up for a Dune Buggy tour and explore the southernmost tip of Eluethera Island. More experienced snorkelers will love this beach! Followers 2. Which I do miss. (In no particular order.). We stopped there for one day from one of our cruise trips. There are small private bungalows for rent on Princess Cays, including adults-only bungalows in the exclusive Sanctuary area. Princess Cays is owned by Carnival Corporation which operates Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line. Whether youd like to pick up a few Bahamas souvenirs or just some essential beach day items you forgot to pack, there are several shopping spots at the resort to suit your needs. While there are rows and rows of beach chairs for you to use at your convenience, at any time you wish, we were ready to explore. She uses her personal journals and memories to write about her many cruise experiences around the Caribbean, Mediterranean, trans-Atlantic, Norwegian Fjords, Panama Canal and South America including Cape Horn. Cruisers often ask me if you can use your drink package at Princess Cays. The word Eleuthera comes from the Greek word for free. Please be aware that if you make your own arrangements, or leave an organized excursion, you will be on your own and it will be up to you to make sure you return to your ship on time. I love the clear, turquoise water. Our private resort at Princess Cays is situated on more than 40 acres and features over a half-mile of white-sand shoreline, all at the southern tip of the island. External site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, YouTube. You will engage in all such activities off of the ship at your own risk. 4.0 Very Good Overall Caroline Gladstone Cruise Critic Contributor Carnival Legend is the third ship in the Spirit Class, which introduced some significant firsts for Carnival, including. Many of our excursions are only a few hours in duration, leaving you with plenty of time in most ports for shopping, sightseeing or even participating in another tour. There are also salads and side dishes, along with a selection of desserts. Long-line fishing is banned in local waters around Eleuthera. Carnival Corp.'s (NYSE: CCL) Princess Cruises line will begin trips from Port Canaveral for the first time starting next year. The only guarantee of its kind in the cruise industry, the program is now available fleetwide for all Carnival Cruise Lines shore excursions on ships sailing from North America. Contact the Shore Excursion Manager onboard if you have any concerns. You will see plenty of colorful marine fish, anemones, different types of corals, and other sea creatures if youre lucky. However, there are many complimentary benefits that cruisers will enjoy. And a tiny bump. Youll hear the ships crew and other passengers referring to the private destination as Princess Key, Princess Keys, Princess Kay, or Princess Kays. Share More sharing options. Youll find a BBQ pit already fired up for lunch, and a supervised kids area ready to receive the little ones. Yes. At this time, shore excursions can only be purchased prior to your cruise or once onboard. We didn't book an excursion and we were so happy that we didn't. But dont worry that youll be far away from amenitiesthis section also has restrooms, bars, a small straw market, and a BBQ buffet lunch that serves the same choices youll find on the busier side of the resort. All of the shore excursions sold through Carnival include an English-speaking guide except where otherwise noted in the tour description. Things to Do Cruiser Rating 3.8 Average 687 reviews Filters Cruise Line Ship Destination Show more filters 1 - 10 of 687 Princess Cays Cruise Reviews Review for a Caribbean - Eastern Cruise on. Opens in a new window. Bring bug spray to combat the sand fleas on the beach. Cruisers have the opportunity to buy tickets to feed and interact with friendly stingrays at a cove near the tender dock, or try your hand at surf fishing just offshore. The Federal Aviation Administration requires guests weights and names for weight and balance calculations as well as flight manifesting. Id love to hear from you in the comments below! Log Into shop food, entertainment and gifts for yourself or a friend! All the bars on Princess Cays are open to all cruisersthere are no exclusive bars set aside for suite or Sanctuary guests. At this time, shore excursions can only be purchased prior to your cruise or once onboard. Carnival plc is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 04039524 whose registered office is at Carnival House, 100 Harbour Parade, Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom, SO15 1ST. The island was originally settled by Arawak Indians, who had migrated from South America in the 9th century. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates. There is a motorized cart that provides transport to the private beach bungalows. Hi Pafoua, I'm so glad you liked my post on Princess Cays, and I know you're going to love your first cruise. See the main highlights of this 110-mile long island which has just one main highway. If you're cruising to the Eastern region, soak up the summer sun on any of the dazzling . A buffet-style beach BBQ lunch is provided for all guests at no charge. Page will reload to reflect new bookings. In some cases, the transportation used will be open-air safari buses, minivans, taxis or otherwise noted. However, none of the bars offer fountain sodaonly cansso youll have to pay for soda even with a beverage package. My favorite little bungalow for sure. Pack reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the live corals surrounding the island. Carnival Freedom leaving Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida for 4 nights from May 16, 2024. Youll be fishing from a stretch of rocky coastline using a spinning reel. Certain excursions have minimum guest participation requirements and shore excursions may be cancelled or modified depending on the number of guests participating. Without a deep harbor for docking, guests reach the port via tenders. Be sure to stop by the free fruit stand (its just outside of the venue) to load up on freshly-sliced tropical fruit to complete your meal. Theres music and organized entertainment if you want to join in. The buffet includes burgers, hot dogs, salad, side dishes, desserts, fresh fruit, and a selection of beverages including iced tea, lemonade, and water. And lets be honest, relaxing on a beach chair all day is AMAZING, but better reserved for adult only trips And so we said hi and by to the endless rows of relaxing chairs and took off to adventure. I'd also like to spend a week on Eleuthera, even though you can't visit Princess Cays that way. You will see these listed under your debarkation port name. You may contact them by calling 13 31 94 or by email at, For assistance with this website, or to report an issue of a technical nature, please contact our Support Desk. Ideal for families, these brightly colored bungalows are equipped with beach chairs and provide shade overlooking the beach. From the tender port, walk past the main beach to find the smaller North Beach. If you do choose to exit through the gate, be sure that all members of your party (including kids) have their passport or birth certificate / ID, cruise card or medallion, and vaccination card to re-enter the resort area. Cool off inside your own air-conditioned cabana, or lounge on the patio or under your umbrella. Youll need to wear water shoes or waterproof sandals to navigate the terrain, but the short hike is so worth it! This one-hour Coastal Cruise is the perfect way to enjoy the calm water and stunning scenery as you sail around the southern tip of Eleuthera Island. I've never been on a cruise before, but now I'll need to consider one to visit Princess Cays! Any guest whose weight is 113 kilograms or more will be required to purchase a seat and a half. If you need assistance getting to and from your bungalow and the tender dock, crew members can transport you via golf cart. Native Bahamians use this pronunciation. Love the pictures as well. As well as idyllic white sandy beaches and clear aquamarine waters, Princess Cays is ideal for watersports, fishing and snorkeling. Once onboard, you may see the Shore Excursion Manager for assistance. We walked far past that bend up there in the photo. Princess Cays has a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. The tour takes place on a private beach. When theres not a kayaking group getting ready to leave, you can enjoy gazing out at the water from the sandy beach behind Pelicans Perch. You may contact them by calling 1-800-845-2599 or by email at, Think you've found a lower price for your Shore Excursion? Keep in mind that you will have up until this time, unless otherwise noted in the excursion description, to make new shore excursion bookings, cancel all or part of existing shore excursion orders or change the designated contact person. O ur first stop on our Carnival Cruise to the Bahamas was the Princess Cays Island. We grabbed a few handful of oranges and apples on our journey. Princess Cays offers several amenities to make sure youre comfortable on the island. On the south side, youll find Sea Breeze Grill, located just over the bridge. Less-busy beaches may not have lifeguards on duty in all areas. Eluetheras most famous hub, Harbour Island, is a bit too far to visit in a day, but there are some small villages within reach of Princess Cays that you can visit during your time in port. The first is the main shore area. Any cancellations done afterwards must be handled on board. Try your hand at kayaking, windsurfing, paddle wheeling or sailing a Hobie Wave. The exit gate from Princess Cays is located near Love Boat Marina where the tenders dock. Opens in a new window. Swim out and to the left toward the reef to see colorful fish of all sizes, large corals, purple sea urchins, and other marine creatures. Public transportation is available at each port. Princess Cays. Both venues offer plenty of sheltered outdoor picnic table seating available to eat your meal. Soft drinks are available with your meal and four bars around the resort serve alcoholic cocktails, icy coolers and other drinks. External site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines, Facebook. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'shouldbecruising_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',199,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-medrectangle-4-0');Princess Cays sits on over 40 acres of land, and the resort features more than a half-mile of beaches for cruisers to enjoy. Ships from both Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line visit Princess Cays on select Caribbean itineraries. Eleuthera is about 50 miles (80 km) from Nassau and 263 miles (423 km) from Miami. The company . It generally falls as short-but-heavy afternoon showers which quickly pass. The Princess Cays resort is a 40-acre private beach resort with more than a half-mile of white sand beaches. Yes. Other cruisers can charge the drinks to their stateroom account. But you could also venture deeper by booking a tour of the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve. You can even enlist the guidance of a local Bahamian fishing expert upon request. We feel at home in many of the amazing islands down there. The . Princess Cays is used by both cruise lines as an exclusive port of call as part of a Bahamas cruise itinerary. Princess Cays is an exclusive port of call for those enjoying a Princess Cruise to the Bahamas. These smaller boats ferry groups of passengers between the cruise ship and the tender dock on the island. By Mckoy15, Yesterday at 02:16 AM in Carnival Cruise Lines. Instead, youll need to pay for all drinks at the bar with your Sail & Sign card. Yes, you do qualify. This answered any question I've ever had about Princess Cay.. and I had no clue what it looked like. Look up your reservation Share Details Cruise and Learn: Board a state-of-the-art glass-bottom boat and experience the beautiful underwater world of Eleuthera without getting wet. Bring beach towels from the ship (and take advantage of the towel exchange stand to swap any wet towels for dry ones). There are now several private islands and resorts in the Bahamas offering exclusive activities for cruisers. Learn more: Carnival Cruise Line Drink Packages: The Ultimate Guide or Princess Cruises Drink Packages: The Ultimate Guide. But taking a slightly longer walk in either direction will give you access to less-crowded beach areas that are still close enough to the action. Carnival Sunshine is the first in her modified "Sunshine". Thanks for reading :D. Im Carrie Ann, the writer behind Should Be Cruising. We recommend that you book all shore excursions as early as possible after booking your cruise and meeting all deposit requirements for each of the guests you are booking shore excursions for. The perfect occasion for enjoying fun activities during a Carnival cruise is any occasion youve got! Marlowe found coral, hermit crabs, sea slugs, tropical fish galore, and so much more. Now that my youngest is out of diapers, looks like we can go! Which Cruise Lines Serve Coke Products vs Pepsi? There are three different beach areas. The option to waitlist an excursion is not available at this time. It takes smaller vessels to get close to the coastline so you can really explore Eleutheras picturesque coves and rocky outcrops. During the winter, the islands have a dry, sunny climate making it the perfect place to escape from wintry weather in North America and Europe. Prices for bungalow rentals are as follows: Guests booked in any bungalow also enjoy priority tendering to Princess Cays (tendering back to the ship is on a first come first served basis). However, it is customary around the world, if you are pleased with the excursion, to tip the tour guide. Cruising has become less of an all-inclusive vacation over the years, with cruise companies selling lots of add-ons to increase onboard spending. We went onto the island with full bellies and an open mind. Or venture a bit farther to the small cove across from the colorful bungalowsthis beach is open to everyone and features fantastic snorkeling! You can buy a locker ticket via your online cruise planner, or on-island at one of the three locker rental stations. Other shops are run by local vendors with plenty of souvenirs, T-shirts, hats, shells and other regional items. These include: Due to the shallow waters, cruise ships anchor offshore and guests are transferred ashore by tender (ships ferries). Eleuthera is part of the Great Bahama Bank, approximately 70 miles east of Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas archipelago. Pelicans Perch features plenty of loungers and bench seating for parents to relax while watching the kids, and theres also a small toilet facility for potty breaks. Should Be Cruising is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Most importantly, there are plenty of clean restrooms with changing areas! https://www.carnival.com/cruise-to/caribbean-cruises.aspx, What 7 Days On a Caribbean Cruise Looks Like. Beach Yourself Carnival Cruise Lines ; Princess Cays Please Read: COVID-related Discussion. And when our bellies were hungry again, we worked our way back through the path to the lunch area. They were still trying to get power restored and some bathrooms were still closed down. They are available Monday through Sunday, 8:00am to 10:00pm ET. However, you may want to bring money with you as some excursions stop in areas where you are able to purchase souvenirs, food and various other refreshments. Page will reload to reflect new bookings. If you book a morning tour, you will automatically be given priority boarding tickets for the tender. Equipment rentals are available to book before your cruise as well. Hi Ildiko, the snorkeling at Princess Cays is just fantastic! Yes, in many ports of call, shore excursions have been designed for guests with late flights. Most shore excursions for your day at the private destination operate right on the resort grounds or very close by. Princess Cays (Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise line) Sand bikes parked on the beach at Princess Cays, Princess Cruises' private island. Opens in a new window. While browsing the site, you are able to view details for all shore excursions within a destination and port regardless of ship or itinerary. Orders must be cancelled and no cancellation charges will be assessed if done prior to the pre-sail cut-off time (11:30pm ET, the evening prior to the cruise departure). Theres a full buffet and BBQ at Grill Crazy and the Sea Breeze Grill. November 9, 2024 - Replacing Princess Cays with Bimini The port times are being "slightly" modified for all the adjusted sailings. Some will even personalize items for gift-giving! Princess Cays is located at the southern end of Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas. Just a few days after moving back to the states (and a day before leaving our home to take off on this nomadic journey), we had the wonderful opportunity of taking off to the Caribbeanwith Carnival. Good to know! Unlike some private island destinations, Princess Cays isnt hugeyou can walk from one end to the other in about ten or fifteen minutes. We filled up on pineapple and veggie fried rice and then made our way back to the ship to unwind from a near perfect day. Lunch is usually served from 11:30 AM until 1:30 PM. You can rent equipment or use your own and snorkel right off the beach. Yes. Tip: Be very careful with the wooden chairs at the bars! All the bungalows at Princess Cays are located on the far end of the main part of the resort, past the main beach area and North Beach. Restrooms are located near the First Aid Station as well as by the Private Bungalows, and theres also a restroom block on the south side near the Sea Breeze Grill. It was a great day to relax and take in the sun, beach, and fun. A Sanctuary Bungalow is the best option if you want peace and quiet, though theyre a bit farther away from beaches and restrooms. There are certain medical conditions that may prevent your participation in a Beginners Scuba Diving or a Snuba excursion. There isnt a tram to get around the resort, but there are wide, paved walking paths from the tender area to the bungalows on the north side. On most ships, alternative dining is available so guests participating in shore excursions can dine at their convenience. Food and some drinks are provided free at Princess Cays. Additionally, theres usually a cold drink station set up near the picnic tables outside of Grill Crazy BBQ Pavilion to quickly grab bottles of water, soft drinks, and cans of beer. But you can still see the decorative rock piles that visitors have left in their memory at this peaceful place. When the ship is in port, the meal times are sometimes adjusted to accommodate the departure and return times of shore excursions booked through Carnival. If the shore excursions are cancelled while onboard, the amount of the refund will be credited to your shipboard account. The less crowded is the Little Bay area, which is just a 100 foot walk over the Love Boat Marina from the tender landing. If youd like to sightsee on your own, you can leave the resort areabut readily accessible transportation by taxi or bus is non-existent unless you make your own private arrangements before your visit. Walk back away from the water as if you were going to the southern part of Princess Cays, and youll see an open gate with a security guard on your left. Smoking and vaping is also allowed at many of the open-air bars (look for ashtrays on the bar). This is a great spot to watch colorful fish swimming around its piers. 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