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All Cruise Newsletters
CruiseCompete Currents
Cruise News and Information
October 31, 2005
Butler Service on a Private Island?
Picture yourself in an air-conditioned, open-air cabana a few steps from the
warm, blue, pristine waters of a secluded Caribbean beach. A private butler
is nearby to meet your every need. Is this heaven? Not quite, but Holland
America's private island in the Bahamas - Half Moon Cay - is but the latest
example of how many cruise lines continually look for outrageous ways to
pamper their guests.
During the past several years, cruise lines have purchased large tracts of
land and developed exclusive tropical getaways on some of the Caribbean Sea'
s most picturesque islands. Turquoise waters, stunning coral reefs,
beautiful beaches and native fauna and wildlife draw the awe of visitors
disembarking from their cruise ships for the day.
Several of the larger cruise lines offer private island stops:
Holland America - Rated "Best Private Island" by Porthole Cruise Magazine.
Royal Caribbean - Coco Cay is located on a secluded 140-acre private island
in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. The tropical paradise was recently
updated with new aquatic facilities, nature trails and tons of places to
relax.
Norwegian Cruise Line - Travelers set foot on Great Stirrup Cay, located 120
nautical miles east of Fort Lauderdale in the Bahamas. There are two
maintained beaches on the island, plus several more isolated beaches.
Disney Cruise Line - Disney's Castaway Cay provides plenty of magic for
people of all ages. Only ten percent of the three-mile long island has been
developed, providing plenty of opportunities for guests to enjoy its natural
beauty. Attractions include the Castaway Family Beach, Serenity Bay, Teen
Beach and Scuttle's Cove for kids.
Most of the private islands offer:
Island fun includes seaboards, aqua bikes, Hobie Cat sailboats, paddle
wheelers, banana boats and transparent hull kayaks. For those who just want
to relax, there are plenty of beach umbrellas, tiki huts and hammocks slung
between shady trees. Other popular activities include wave runner tours,
snorkeling and parasailing.
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