You’ll find Princess Cays on the southern tip of Eleuthera island in The Bahamas. This private paradise welcomes only Carnival and Princess cruise guests.
The island offers you:
- Clean, white-sand beaches
- Crystal-clear waters for swimming
- Water sports equipment hire
- Local Bahamian marketplace
- Traditional island dining spots
- Easy-to-navigate paved paths
- 25 air-conditioned beachfront cabanas
You can spend your day:
- Snorkelling in the coral reefs
- Riding dune buggies across the island
- Shopping for local crafts
- Relaxing on the beach
- Tasting Bahamian dishes
You’ll need to book cabanas in advance to ensure availability during your visit.
These provide a comfortable base for your beach day with cooling amenities.
Map of Princess Cays (Carnival & Princess Private Island)
What Makes Princess Cays Unique
Princess Cays welcomes you to its exclusive beach retreat on Eleuthera Island’s southern tip. You can walk easily between all areas thanks to well-maintained pathways connecting the beaches, dining spots and activity zones. You’ll enjoy a free beach barbecue during your visit, whilst local vendors offer authentic Bahamian crafts in the marketplace. Each facility sits within easy reach, letting you focus on relaxing and enjoying your time ashore.
Essential Planning Tips for Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Princess Cays
You need these essentials for a smooth visit:
- Get to the tender station early to avoid queues and secure prime beach spots
- Pack water shoes to protect your feet on the rocky beach areas
- Bring your own snorkelling equipment for better fit and value
- Keep your belongings safe in a lockable beach bag
- Book a clamshell in advance to guarantee shade
- Leave the beach 30 minutes before final tender to avoid crowds
These simple steps will help you make the most of your time at Princess Cays.
Best Activities and Experiences
You’ll find exciting activities for every interest at Princess Cays. Choose from active water sports like snorkelling, windsurfing and banana boat rides. Try peaceful activities such as clear-bottom kayaking or glass-bottom boat tours to see marine life. Join a guided stingray encounter to meet these gentle creatures up close. Take a dune buggy ride to Lighthouse Beach for stunning coastal views and photo opportunities.
Cabana Options and Beachfront Relaxation
Your Cabana Options at Princess Cays
You’ll find 25 private cabanas across Princess Cays, located in two areas:
- Main beachfront section
- Adults-only Sanctuary
Each cabana offers you:
- Air conditioning
- Private deck
- Drinks and snacks at no extra cost
- Beach essentials (towels, loungers)
- Fast-track tender service
- Golf cart transfers
Key details:
- Fits up to 6 people
- Starts at £168 (converted from $210)
- Available for full-day rental
You can book your cabana through the cruise portal or at the shore excursion desk. The earlier you book, the better your location choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if There’s Bad Weather on the Day We Visit?
During bad weather, your cruise will adapt in two main ways:
- Your ship will follow alternative routes to safer ports
- You’ll receive automatic refunds for any cancelled excursions
The cruise line’s priority is your safety, so they’ll always have backup plans ready. If your original plans change, the crew will keep you updated and help you make the most of your adjusted itinerary.
Are There Medical Facilities or First Aid Stations on the Island?
The island offers basic first aid care through trained staff members. You can access simple medical treatments for minor injuries and ailments. For serious medical conditions, the staff will arrange your transport to mainland hospitals. Your safety remains the priority, with clear evacuation procedures in place when needed. Keep the local emergency numbers handy during your stay.
Can Visitors With Mobility Issues Easily Navigate the Island?
You’ll find accessible features like concrete paths and ramps across the island, but some areas present mobility challenges. The rocky beach, steep tender ramps and sand areas may be difficult to navigate independently. We recommend bringing a companion or requesting assistance during your visit to ensure a comfortable experience.
Are There ATMS or Cash Machines Available on Princess Cays?
Princess Cays has no ATMs or cash machines. You can use your ship card for all purchases on the island. Most local vendors accept major credit cards. Your onboard account links directly to your ship card for easy transactions.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Princess Cays?
The best months to visit Princess Cays are November to early December, when temperatures hover at 27°C with minimal crowds. You’ll experience dry, sunny days and comfortable conditions for beach activities. January and February offer similarly pleasant weather with low rainfall, making them excellent alternatives for your visit.
