Our first stop was at Half Moon Cay – a private island that’s exclusively open to cruisers sailing with Holland America and Carnival Cruise Lines. Although other cruise lines have their own private islands and beaches Half Moon Cay is usually listed as the number one favorite amongst cruisers. This is mainly due to the extensive white sand beach and many diverse activities that can be done there such as horseback riding and water sports. The loungers are free to use – although private cabanas can be rented – and there are many stores and a few bars accessible to the visitors. The Cay is currently undergoing a large renovation and expansion; more restaurants and entertainment areas are being built and a pier for cruise ships is under construction and almost completed. But for now cruise ships must be anchored offshore and tenders taken to shuttle passengers between the ship and the beach.
We took a tender from the ship to the small terminal on the island and wandered down the beach until we found a nice spot to sit and relax. It was nice to lie back, have a drink, and just generally relax and take in the scenery, the ocean, and people strolling by 😊. The weather was excellent, the sun was hot, the beer was cold, and it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience to be on the beach and then wander back to the tender checking out the stores along the way 😊.