Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (Private Island) Port Q&A
30 Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (Private Island) traveler questions & answers
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A: Really depends on your motives on having a cabana. Cabana 1 is closer to the better snorkeling area; 3,5, &6 are nearest the restrooms; 15 is the furthest from the Welcome Center and would have the least amount of foot traffic & chance of squatters.... The excursion desk ckerk can help when you go to pick your location on embarkation day.See More
Answered by maryred on June 2, 2024
A: I don’t think you get a choice. They armed
Answered by Babsie1963 on June 2, 2024
A: I don’t think you get a choice. They are typically first come first serve. Mainly because there are accessible ones.
Answered by Babsie1963 on June 2, 2024
A: Depends on which cruise line you are on. If you are on Holland America, you can book in advance just like any excursion, and we always book cabana 8. The next trip we are in cabana 6. Both are excellent locations, but the beach in front of the cabana... s is always busy. If you are on a Carnival ship, I honestly do not know how they schedule them. Just know that they are very expensive now.See More
Answered by NVRae on June 8, 2024
A: You have to use your ship card, but the drinks are not included. Anything you drink on the island will be posted on your shipboard account.
Answered by abbylane on May 2, 2024
A: No, drinks are not included even if you have the Cheers package. You are able to use your sail and sign card for charges.
Answered by Fam2Cruise on April 30, 2024
A: 3 different cruise lines owned by Carnival Corp stop here. Each has their own policy as to if their drink package applies, even though all bars on the island are stocked & run by ship's personnel. See the FAQs for your cruise line. Filtered iced wat... er, iced tea, and at least 1 other nonalcoholic drink is in the buffet self service machines. You ship's card works for bar beverage service.See More
Answered by maryred on May 1, 2024
A: like vegassphere said, they have a drink pass for HMC.
Answered by crusin4gramma on May 1, 2024
A: when I was there the drink pass did not work at half moon cay
Answered by Ellen413 on April 30, 2024
A: Your drink package does not work on 1/2 moon. Sorry
Answered by ggeane on April 30, 2024
Q: I know there are clam shells but for people who choose not to rent one are there plenty of beach chairs like there is in Princess Cays?
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A: also, if you want some free shade, with a breeze (clam shells block it all), and are willing to stroll along the beach, once at the water line and turn right. way past all the bungalows and the last life guard tower, is an area not normally used. T... here are lounge chairs stacked up in that area so you will need to pull one down on your own. downside of going that far down the beach is lack of cocktail service, but the solitude and quiet is well worth it. last time we were there, we had the entire beach to ourselves for the fist half of the daySee More
Answered by DACruiser57 on December 10, 2023
A: I don’t know if this on minutes or months but yes. The clam shells are on an angle and uncomfortable, also hot-blocks breeze.
Answered by teddee2corona on December 10, 2023
A: Not on the beach. There are 5 restrooms but no traditional beach bathhouse. 1 is in the Welcome Center Plaza, the second near the seating for the cookout lunch buffet, the 3rd about halfway through the nature trail on the opposite side of the island,... the 4th by cabana #7, and the 5th out at the stables.See More
Answered by maryred on December 7, 2023
A: I would put it on in the cabin before going.
Answered by JGP12 on December 2, 2023
A: agree, put it on before going ashore, not really a whole lot to do/see on the island where non-bsthing suit attire is not common. just where it under something.
Answered by DACruiser57 on December 3, 2023
A: Yes and you get a free lunch if you are cruising with Carnival, drinks are extra, the beach is gorgeous.
Answered by okhappy493 on November 11, 2023
A: The whole island is free with many included activities. It is leased by Holland America Lines & open for use by all Carnival Corp cruise lines. Each distinct line that stops there has it own list of amenities and at fee upgrades you can choose to do.... See your ship's website for more port info.See More
Answered by maryred on November 11, 2023
A: It’s usually rated as the best private island and the main reason is that beautiful beach. Access is free, loungers are free. Water sport equipment, cabanas and premium drinks, like on board are all extra charge. There is a free bar b q lunch with... basic beverages for free.See More
Answered by hobbsey on November 11, 2023
Q: Can anyone tell me if the faster to the fun gets them off the ship earlier here than the tickets they hand out to get on the water shuttle? And what time you were able to get off?
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A: yes, you get priority for the water shuttle. you'll be able to disembark earlier as well, there really is no set time. it's whenever customs clears the ship. you'll get off after suite, diamond and platinum guests. I've gotten off as early as 745am... and as late as 10amSee More
Answered by cortneyb on October 17, 2023
A: If you have FttF yes you get priority handling of boarding of tenders at an anchor port. A letter with specific instructions to claim the priority will be delivered to your cabin the day/night before. Cruise line sponsored excursions will still have... highest priority so if you bought tickets or did a rental follow those special instructions for fastest transit to HMC.See More
Answered by maryred on October 17, 2023
A: I wouldn't get it even off they offered it. Royal Caribbean has the Key meaning people get priority for things. We didn't buy it.
Answered by enjoyurdaysmile on October 17, 2023
A: many of the ships are not offering ftf anymore because there are so many Diamond & Platinum members onboard. That being said, if they do offer it you would get off after those groups, so maybe a little quicker!
Answered by crusin4gramma on October 17, 2023
A: One maybe 2, they don’t want the island to sink due to the weight of to many people.
Answered by SAW06 on August 20, 2023
A: I've been there with 2 ships. they're usually isn't anymore than 2
Answered by cortneyb on August 19, 2023
A: It’s a small island and capacity controlled. No more than 2 ships, I’m not sure what it’s like with one of the bigger Carnival ships but was there with two HAL ships and there were no crowding issues.
Answered by hobbsey on August 20, 2023
A: it is owned by Carnival and shared with Holland America, there have been two cruise ships there before at one time.
Answered by lucindancarl on August 19, 2023
A: usually one at a time but 2 at a time on occasion
Answered by CherieBurke on August 19, 2023
Q: I'm glad I bought a pop up beach tent for $30 to take with us. I see the Clamshell+ 2 chairs has gone up from $36 to $50 now.
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A: Love Half Moon Cay! We got the little wooden cabana/rental. A/C was nice but pricey
Answered by nannie57cruiser on June 28, 2023
A: That was a great idea and a good investment. We are getting one for our summer vacation. I will remember to pack it for the Jubilee cruise!!
Answered by mary0909 on June 29, 2023
A: been taking my pop up tent all my cruises to hmc.
Answered by punkinpie on June 29, 2023
A: And drink packages do not work there.
Answered by TheVegasSphere on June 22, 2023
A: Sort of. The lease is in Holland America Line's name and HAL is owned by the Carnival Corporation. Carnival Cruise Line does get to use the island since it is also owned by the same Corporation but they are not the direct lease holder.
Answered by maryred on June 22, 2023
A: But you do have to pay for chairs and thing like that but food is free lockers are not
Answered by Fishlady on June 22, 2023
A: Yes it’s owned by carnival the food etc. is free because it’s owned by carnival corporation
Answered by Fishlady on June 22, 2023
A: Just make sure you’re not the furthest out in the water. You’ll hear the screaming before the shark gets to you and can make a break for it.
Answered by TheVegasSphere on June 16, 2023
A: How can you tell if there are sharks in the water? Taste the water. If it is salty, there are sharks in it.
Answered by ccsvolsfan on June 16, 2023
A: The water was very clear. I'm always looking because we fish and catch sharks here in Texas.I was never scared there and the swim area is roped off
Answered by mary0909 on June 16, 2023
A: I have never seen a shark there but one time there was a big stingray right in the shallow water
Answered by Jlbnebjr123 on June 15, 2023
A: Never seen a shark in the swimming area and have been there at least 10 times. The lagoon where the glass bottom boat goes for the eco- tour is a different story. We have seen sharks there but they were juvenile nurse sharks.
Answered by maryred on June 12, 2023
A: No. We've been there several times. It's our favorite beach. Gorgeous every time. But definitely no sharks. Fish, yes. Even a seaturtle once. But never any sharks.
Answered by HLaktonen on June 12, 2023
A: I can't see why not as long as it is not too big while packed, so it's easy to carry and not take up too much room in the tender. ⛱️
Answered by esrescuer on May 23, 2023
A: Depends if the casino manager pays the Bahamian government for a temp gaming license. If they do then the casino can fully open at noon.
Answered by maryred on April 17, 2023
A: I thought Casino is closed at Port of Calls
Answered by fetacheesy on April 18, 2023
A: I do not believe so, I know it was open in Bermuda. Good luck and have fun.
Answered by sross95comcastnet on April 17, 2023
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Q: STINGRAY We are traveling on Carnival Sunshine to Half Moon Cay at the end of April. We are scheduled for the first Stingray session of the morning. * What is it like?* Should we bring any special clothing or shoes?* Am I allowed to bring my phone to take my own pictures?* Is there anything you wished you'd know ahead of time?
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A: The stingray snorkeling is in a "fenced in" portion of the lagoon with an observation pavilion overlooking it. I you have your own snorkeling equipment do bring that as it will fit you better than the included ones. Evenin morning reef safe sunscreen... us recommend. Towel service is provided at the arrivals Plaza. If waterproof you can use your own camera.See More
Answered by maryred on March 18, 2023
Q: What kind of documents do you need for Nassau and Half Moon Cay? Is a birth certificate and driver license enough for adults? Is a birth certificate enough for a child?
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A: BC and license will work but if you plan to continue to cruise best to invest in getting your passport for Adults. At the private island, all you need is your sail card.
Answered by esrescuer on February 21, 2023
A: yes your child's birth certificate is enough. but passports make it alot faster.
Answered by krisandvickie on February 20, 2023
A: you don't need your birth certificate to get off the boat at any port. just your photo id ( if over 16 ) and your sail and sign card. you will need passport or birth certificate to board at embarkation 1st day and de-barkation last day.
Answered by krisandvickie on February 20, 2023
A: yes, I bring my own float and snorkeling gear. now I must say the water is so clear you don't need to put your face in the water to see the fish! we bring cereal to feed the fish and then use my gopro to video them. have fun! we will be there in Apri... l!See More
Answered by seviedebi on February 18, 2023
A: I have snorkeled at Half Moon. the beach area is so processed that there are no fish to be seen. Haven't gone to anotge part of island
Answered by karenrhayes on March 5, 2023
A: The two best snorkeling spots are near the largest cabana close to where the tenders dock and we'll down the beach near the point opposite the tender area.
Answered by jeffreyschill on March 5, 2023
A: Please do not feed the fish cereal. This is not good for them, especially highly processed sugared cereals.
Answered by Shanethesailor on February 28, 2023
A: wow never thought to feed the fish cereal! thanks for that tip. I am going at the end of May and will be doing that.
Answered by seaturtlebus on February 19, 2023
A: You actually need to log on asap when you have decided you want to do one, and book it via the cruise ship app. These sell out quick so DO NOT wait until you get on the ship like someone suggested. Good luck and I have done 2-3 of these , so speaki... ng from personal experience.See More
Answered by kdublv on February 18, 2023
A: I also would like to know! Thanks for asking
Answered by SassyTexasMomma on February 17, 2023
A: Go to the shore excursions link for your cruise.
Answered by jeffreyschill on February 17, 2023
A: To book the villas, login to your booking, go to Shore Excursions and use filter for HMC excursions. There you can purchase the villa. Once onboard the ship, go ASAP to the Excursion Desk to pick out which villa you are interested in.
Answered by tennesseeduo on February 17, 2023
A: They have a burger and hotdog buffet at half moon cay. It is behind the pirate ship, and it is free.
Answered by summermyers on February 13, 2023
A: They have a large buffet the ship staff cooks and serves on the island. All kinds of veges,fruits fish,potatoes etc plus desert.
Answered by mary0909 on February 13, 2023
A: yes a buffet is set up by the cruise ship. Free.more then burgers and dogs. chicken, fish, salads.Enjoy
Answered by Marnia on February 13, 2023
A: Yes. The chairs (not in a clamshell) on the beach are free to use.
Answered by TheSaleAways on October 25, 2022
A: Yes!! I would suggest heading down the beach past the pirate ship. Usually they have games and music at the pirate ship. But the farther you go the quieter it is
Answered by SAW06 on October 25, 2022
A: If you want far enough down the beach you can have a complete private beach to yourself we walk down so far that we were completely alone we had a wonderful time!!!!!
Answered by marjan131313 on October 25, 2022
A: You can prepay for a clamshell via the shore excursions link for your cruise. once you get to the island, it is first come relative to which clamshell you will get. I suggest walking down the beach a ways. There will be attendants to get you to a sp... ot and to set it up for you.See More
Answered by jeffreyschill on March 5, 2023
A: I'll be on The Spirit in Oct. For the clamshell rentals do I pay for it thru the hub app or once I get to the beach
Answered by Louisianagurl67 on March 5, 2023
A: From our experience…. The Cheers package does NOT include:Drinks in souvenir glassesBottles of liquorDrinks offered at the gangwayRoom service or mini barSharing cocktails, pitchers, floaters, tubes and buckets Self-service wine machinesFreshly squee... zed orange juice in the Havana BarDrinks purchased off the ship including Princess Cays and Half Moon CaySee More
Answered by JnJLuvCruzin on October 9, 2022
A: No, onboard drink packages do not work at Half Moon Cay, but they’ll sell you one for the island with a 15 drink limit for $25.
Answered by TheVegasSphere on October 9, 2022
A: Carnival DOES NOT include drinks on HMC, even if you have the drink package. It says so on their website.
Answered by dkantouth on October 8, 2022
A: sorry, I was incorrect. doesn"t seem right somehow since Carnival ownes island!
Answered by crusin4gramma on October 9, 2022
A: You also typically pay much more for drink packages on Celebrity & Royal Caribbean so it’s kind of a trade off. What you can do on HMC is being a drink off with you, preferably in an insulated cup but you could also use a water bottle and then go to... the buffet lunch area and get a cup of ice.See More
Answered by ElizabethOregon on October 12, 2022
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