Royal Caribbean's Coco Cay : Compiled info

[WarmWaters]

I have cut and pasted all the questions and answers regarding Coco Cay from the most recent to the last time I updated this thread. This now covers all questions and answers from about June 2008. Please add any useful info that might be helpful to those going for the first time as a one stop shop regarding info on this beautiful island.

 

What happens if we miss Coco Cay?

 

" Do we just head to Key West a day earlier then scheduled? If we do dock at Key West early, are we allowed off the ship before the scheduled 10am time the following day? If the weather prevents you from disembarking at any port, you will most likely get another sea day. While it is possible for the ship to just continue on to the next port, it is unlikely. There might not be dock space at the next port for the ship to arrive a day early. If you get there earlier, you'd be allowed off the ship earlier. Getting there earlier is a big if. We missed Coco Cay due to winds. Seems like it's frequently missed. What we did was float around out there for a few hours, with the island in the distance, & then started back north after awhile. I've notice a lot of posts saying this stop is often cancelled when the winds kick up. It the seas are even a little rough, they won't tender over there. Rough seas make it dangerous to transfer back and forth from the tender to the ship. We missed it last week on the Celebrity Mercury. FWIW, we were told the previous day around 5 PM, that based on forecast winds of 20 to 25 MPH, we were going to stay in Nassau another day rather than even attempting to go to Coco Cay. The problem is that to increase tendering capacity, the cruise lines use vessels based on the island(s) that are more like ferry boats and which are not as sea worthy as the tenders that travel with the ships. If there are 25 mph winds, a beach day isn't going to be that enjoyable anyway.

 

Coco Cay Pictures –

 

Beautiful pics here: http://good-times.webshots.com/album/569878382IABeyE?start=12

Navigator of the Seas - Grand Suite Album.

 

More info - www.cococay.info

 

 

Food / Drinks / Shopping / Free Activities –

 

There will be a nice BBQ lunch served that is free. Think of it as an extension of the ship ... they have food to eat and alcoholic drinks to purchase with your ship's card. Bars/waiters are there to sell beverages. There will be bars set up and your Set Sail card will be used for purchases.

 

If you like fruity drinks there is a staff member that walks around with a pitcher of drinks called coco locos, very recommended you can get them virgin or full strength. Had forgotten about Coco Locos ... always a must buy for me and I hardly ever purchase alcohol onboard. When you order a Coco Locos, order it with Coconut rum. One hundred times better. These drinks have a very strong liquor taste if you order it the regular way. I still don't understand why they do not mix the alcohol in their drinks. RC just pours the alcohol on top of their frozen drinks. Very strange. Be prepared to mix it up after you get it. A very frozen drink almost like Ice cream, not at all like slush Ice or frozen margarita and a pour of hard liquor over it. I could have used a spoon to eaten it since it was impossible to drink it all thru the straw. I believe it is called a "floater". My DH loves them that way but, I like you, don't care for it.

 

I've had both sinker and floater. The time I had the booze on the bottom was when we went to the bar instead of getting a mostly melted one from the guys walking around. The bartender poured the rum before adding the slushy part from the machine. He got distracted and kept up the pour until it was a good 1/3 of the container. It didn't mix with the slushy addition, and the first sip was all rum! I only needed the one to make me Loco that day.

 

In addition to the bars, there is a little market area with shops. You can buy lot of souvenirs at Coco Cay. I was looking for some of those eye glasses holders, the ones that you attach to each side and then you can hang them around your neck. I think they sell some at the wave runner hut. If not, I bought mine in the gift shop on the Monarch.

 

Does anyone know if they have free activities, like stuff they would have by the pool. I thought I read somewhere there is a volleyball tourny anyone knows? I believe there is volleyball. Coco Cay is a beach day... most folks just chill on the beach, eat, drink and relax!

 

Massage on Coco Cay?

 

Yes, there is a spa set up there (sort of by the tip of the island). Exit the tender to the left and you will find it. It is near the cabanas. I had an excellent massage there - it was not outdoors but the room had a very nice sea breeze. Enjoy! Seem to recall it being a special - maybe 50 minutes for $99 - I thought the price was fair. The therapist was from the ship.

 

Will the casino be open on the ship?

 

Can anyone tell me if the casino is open when a RCCL ship stops at Coco Cay? Neither the casino nor the shops were open when we were at Coco Cay. The casino and shops were open on the Monarch last week.

They should be open...Coco Cay is "part" of the ship...it's not really a "foreign" port. Coco Cay is NOT part of the United States and it is NOT part of the ship. It very much IS a foreign port. I believe the shops remain open, but I'm not exactly sure about the casino. Coco Cay is nice though, why would you want to stay on board? The ship isn't American....RCI owns (or leases) Coco Cay....it's not a "foreign" port, to them! Coco Cay is an island that part of the country of Bahamas. So to a US citizen it is a foreign port.

 

Cabanas / Loungers / hammocks beach chairs?

 

Cabanna's are free to use. As are the clamshells. Since discovering them on my last cruise I will be sure to always try and snag one. Such a beautiful view. Do you reserve/pay for any of the Loungers / hammocks / beach chairs? I am so looking forward to sitting on the beach and having a shady spot if needed. I'm not really sure but I think they're all free & first-come. I slept on a lounger in a clam shell (for shade) & there was no fee. The clam shells are to the left as you get off the tender. There are MANY loungers around all the beach areas. It's very nice. The hammocks are located to the left of the tender - no fees for hammocks, loungers, etc.

 

Best bug spray ?

 

I think any bug spray with Deet in it should do. Be sure to try it ahead of time if you haven't used a product with Deet before. Some people are allergic to it. I just purchased some Off deep woods with 25% deet. Deep woods off? Can you spray that onto your skin or do you have to spray it onto your clothing? The directions say hold container 4 to 6 inches from skin or clothing and spray. Do not apply over cuts, wounds, irritated or sunburned skin. Use just enough to cover exposed skin or clothing. To apply on face, spray a small amount on hands and apply sparingly avoiding eye area.

 

Snorkelling - Which area is best for snorkelling at your own?

 

The more populated beaches are the worst, on satellite pics it looks like the area to the right of the tender area (if heading ashore) is less populated, so I suppose the snorkelling would be better there? How about the area called "Lands end"? If you come ashore, and basically hug the shoreline to your left, you will get to a pretty good area, past a lot of sea grass. Last time I snorkelled there, we saw a bunch of fish and some "artificial reefs" (basically lounge chairs thrown in the water). I did snorkel, and saw tons of fish, and other sea life including an eel, and sting ray. It going to be cheaper to snorkel and my guess is you are going to see most of the same things.

 

We want to snorkel but don't have our own equipment. Is it ok to not sign up for the snorkelling excursion, but wait to rent equipment once we're on the island? Would we still get the orientation for beginners? I'm hesitant to sign up in advance in case it's too cold to want to snorkel. Wait at least until you're on the ship to book...you'll have a better idea of the weather and if you really want to do it. Rent the equipment once you get to the island if you think the water might be too cold for you. We bought our own equipment at BJ's since we snorkel on every cruise. I can't use a snorkel someone else has but that is just me. The plane isn't too far out but if you try to snorkel out where it is without a vest, the will send you back Yes; you can rent the Snorkel and most of the equipments required. I'd recommend this site for more info www.cococay.info Do you have to rent the vests or are they free?? Yes, you can rent the vests for around $7-8. You can rent all the snorkel equipment as a package or just the pieces you need. We now rent fins and vests to save room in the luggage.

 

They have nice snorkelling and have a sunken plane you can snorkel to. They also have a platform to rest on in the water. Just watch out for the jelly fish, we swam right through a large school of them when we were there. The water is so clear, that you really don't even need to stick your face in the water to see what's there...just walk out, and stand, and look! Wait till you get there. You can not stand and look at the fish out by the plane, the water is too deep. The water is also too deep to stand out by the boat that is submerged too. To snorkel out where the plane is, you are required to wear a snorkel vest or a lifejacket. If you don't have one on, the lifeguard who is stationed out there will send you back. They will require you to wear a snorkel vest that you can inflate as little or as much as you are comfortable with.

 

Snorkelling with small kids –

 

Are there any areas to 'snorkel' that are extremely shallow (< 3ft)? I'm wondering if I should bring snorkels for my children (7 & 3.) There are several areas where I could see a bunch of different fish (sting ray, and eel included) where I could reach the bottom with my hands. The submerged boat, and plane will be too deep for you children, however there is a large rock wall that protect the beach, and most of that area is very shallow 1-3 feet, and IMO you see more around that area. Why do you think the submerged stuff is too deep for the children? Are they not permitted to go out there? My kids at 6 and 8 snorkelled off Kona HI in 50-75 deep water, they learn to snorkel young -they won't be afraid if they can swim. 6 year old wore a life vest but 8 year old did it entirely independently. Is there something I need to know?

If you are comfortable with your children's ability, I would say go for it. I don't see any issue with a 6 or 8 yr old if they are comfortable in the water. The day we were there, the water was very calm and perfect for snorkelling. My son and I just floated around for hours looking at fish. Is it safe to snorkel if you can't swim? Obviously with a life vest on. My 7 yr old can swim (better than I actually.) But my 3 yr old...well, she's 3! Neither have been snorkelling before. If your 3 yr old is a non-swimmer, then no, I wouldn't go out to the plane snorkelling. I would try a mask and snorkel in shallow water and see if she can get the idea of how to use it. Have her look for rocks or shells. As for your 7 yr old, if she can snorkel and not panic, then go out a little over her head and see how she handles it. I would just make sure you can still touch so if she panics, you can grab her. I would think it would be quite hard for a non swimming 3 year old. Our kids swam VERY young and very comfortably at a young age. Adding the breathing through a snorkel is a different skill totally. You will also have a hard time finding equip. for a 3 year old that will fit, especially the face.

 

Plane wreck at Coco Cay

 

The "plane wreck" is just off the beach about 100 yards and is easy to get to without any excursion required. The plane wreck is just a collection of several different pieces of various planes that were placed in the bay.

 

Is this a requirement if you use your own mask and snorkel? What if just using a mask or swim googles? If so, how are they enforcing that rule? You are required to use a snorkel vest which you can rent on the island for about $ 7 each. There is a lifeguard tower out by the plane; they will send you back in if you do not have a snorkel vest on. We used our own equipment but rented snorkel vests. Anyone can use their own equipment but they enforce the wearing of snorkel vests. Is this just by the plane? I can’t imagine that the lifeguards would be checking every swimmer with goggles or mask on the different beaches?

 

You don't need a vest if you're just playing in the water. If you're snorkelling in deeper water, they want a vest on you...saves them from rescuing out of shape vacationers! No, it is not just by the plane that they require snorkel vests. There is also a part of a ship that is out to the right of the plane that people like to snorkel around. There are also areas to the left of the plane that are shallower and grassy that we saw fish. If you are snorkelling, they require a snorkel vest. There are lifeguards on every beach that will tell you if you need a vest; we saw them call people in that were snorkelling without them. If you are just swimming with a mask or goggles, they shouldn't stop you. I was just there last weekend, and here is what I observed. If you had a snorkel mask, snorkel & fins with no jacket they sent you back in to get a vest. I saw this with any or all of the equipment listed.

 

If you were out "playing" in the water with no equipment they left you alone to enjoy your day.

No, you don't need to pay for that excursion. If you have the proper gear they can't force you to leave that area. It’s only in the snorkelling area where they have lifeguards where they enforce the vest rule.

We walked all the way to the other side of the island, and there were no people there except a few persons also walking. I jumped in and snorkelled and saw a shark for the first time in my life! My heart doubled but it turned around faster than a torpedo and was out of sight in a split second. But the snorkelling wasn't anything special in this area. Even though it was artificial it was better in the snorkelling area, I saw squid, octopus, stingrays and a lionfish there

 

Wave runner tour

 

On this tour, you need to state if you are a driver or passenger. For those that choose to drive, will they be paired with a passenger even if they don't know the person nor will they let one person take the wave runner by themselves? In our group everyone wants to drive but didn't know if we would have someone else with us. No, they will not pair you with anyone. Having a passenger is optional. But there are a limited number of wave runners. Book early. When we did this excursion, there were 10 wave runners in each group. One excursion is out while another is seeing the movie and getting ready to go out. Just make sure that everyone who will be a driver has their license with them. We were told they check ID for anyone under 21. The day we were there they would not let an 18 yr old drive because she hadn't brought her license ashore. I don't know if I would have thought about the driver’s license. Did you enjoy the tour? Did you think it was worth the price? Do you have free time on the wave runners to just have fun? I have read it is very popular. It's a "follow the leader" sort of thing...you don't get to go and do what you want. The faster folks are always being made to stop and wait for the slowpokes. The slowpokes are always trying to catch up to the group.......no free time to do as you wish...stay in line! I really liked it and would do it again. My husband drove and I hung on for dear life. There is a line-up. Everyone is given a number - that is the order you ride in. There are 2 tour guides. They will ask who in the group will want to go fast and will put them in the front of the line (we were #3), the people less experienced or slower will be at the end. One guide will lead and one will be at the end to help the slower riders catch up. I didn't mind stopping every now and then to wait up for them. I got to take a dip, our guide dove down and brought up a couple of starfish for us to pass around and he pointed out some landmarks on land. It was beautiful being out there on the water. Even though it is follow the leader, you are able to go full throttle and you keep a big distance between one another. Well worth it. I have done it both times in Coco Cay and it's probably an excursion I will do every time in Coco Cay.

 

Eco Adventure Boat Tour –

 

The boat tour is the only authentic "Bahamian" experience on the island. It's a 90 min. narrated tour through the Northern Berry Islands where you will learn about the culture and history from Lucayans to pirates and view marine life in the shallows such as stingrays, sharks and turtles. The guides will also stop and pick up giant starfish, conch and land crabs to pass around the boat. The tour is informative and entertaining. "

[gskline]

Very helpful information. Thank you:D

[WarmWaters]

I have cut and pasted all the questions and answers regarding Coco Cay from the most recent to the last time I updated this thread. This now covers all questions and answers from about June 2008. Please feel free to add any useful info as this thread might be helpful to those going for the first time as a one stop shop regarding info on this beautiful island.

 

 

What to do at Coco Cay?

 

What is Coco Cay like and what shore excursions are offered ? We love Coco Cay. We usually do the waverunner tour in the morning and then snorkel the rest of the day. They have a good BBQ lunch. You can also do ...parasailing, kayak.etc or just chill on a float mat. It is a lot like Labadee, but the beach and water is allot nicer. The women in our group are not big beach relaxing type. I was wondering what ladies can do while men are enjoying beach activity ? If you're not "into" the beach, then staying on the ship is the best option. The pool is open, there's food, drink, and air-conditioning. They can come and go back and forth as they wish...it's not like they have to stay all day.

 

 

Chance of missing Coco Cay in May?

 

I know that due to high wind that this port can be missed. Does anyone know how often that happens in late May? There's no way to tell....you'll be at Mother Nature's whims.

 

 

Where to find the weather forecast for the private islands ?

 

Eleuthera, Bahamas would be the closest populated area. Try a search for that. Weather underground is a great site to check weather conditions worldwide.

 

 

Lounge chairs & Cabanas

 

There is no charge to use the chairs or loungers. There are a ton of clam shells and a few cabanas in the spa area that weren't even used, maybe they were too far from the main beach. We hung out in a cabana all day and it was wonderful - shady and breezy. It looked like there were plenty of lounge chairs on the beach. Where are the cabanas located and what is the shortest route to make sure I can claim one ? There are several different kinds of cabanas. There are some that are enclosed on 3 sides and some that just have curtains on 4 posts that surround a couple of lounge chairs that are set up on cement. As you get off the tender head toward your left. They are near the "lookout tower" and face out to where the ship is anchored. There are also lounge chairs with covers over them (clamshells) in that same area. And there is a bar there also! The cabanas are free, first-come-first serve. When we were there in June, they were hardly used. I loved the cabana, it was so breezy and peaceful.

 

 

Drinks

 

When you order a Coco Loco, order it with Coconut rum. One hundred times better. These drinks have a very strong liquor taste if you order it the regular way. RCC just pours the alcohol on top of their frozen drinks. Be prepared to mix it up after you get it. "Floating" the booze on top is an old bar tenders trick to make you think your drink is stronger than it really is! I found that if you mix it up, take a good sip, and tell your server on the island/cruise to "Make It Right" ; they will normally top of your drink with another bit of rum! The Coco Locos are very good! The reason they put the liquor on top....many people get them for their kids as a virgin drink and so they add the liquor last. If you don't ask for the "coconut rum", what alcohol do they normally put in it? They will use "bottom shelf" rum.

 

 

Soda Fountain Packages work on Coco Cay?

 

If I purchase a soda package, will I be able to use it on Coco Cay? Yes you can show your card on the island and get soda at no charge. The only time it doesn't work is for room service!

 

 

Fisher Price Power Wheels Track ?

 

Does anyone know if this is something they still have, what the ages are, and any pictures? We were there in October and they had the power wheels track, my girls 6 and 13 just loved it, they had a great time! If I remember right they had about 12 differents cars for the kids to choose from. Although my 13 year old participated I do think the age cut off was 12.

 

 

Water shoes or not?

 

I am not particularly fond of water shoes and wonder how rocky/hard on the feet the walk into the water is. Unless you plan on being VERY active in the water, flip-flops will do on the beach...I go barefoot into the water. Don't bother with them. I was just at Coco Cay (april 12) Coco Cay does have rocks for the first 2-3 feet walk into the water. I was barefoot and I must say I had to pick my way out to go swim. Once you are out in the water it's great... no rocks. And there are no rocks on the beach in Coco Cay, I was barefoot the whole time. I did pick my way out in Coco Cay. You won't need them at any other ports... so I would say go without. Or buy some with the intent of throwing them out later... they take up too much space in my suitcase. Usually this time of year we take our yearly trek to Wall Marts to purchase their cheap water shoes. After we travel, we throw them away, thus having less to bring home. This year Lands End had an offer for free shipping for their sturdy water shoes. We bought a total of three pairs, and they look nice. We use them on the excursions that we will be doing beach days, or snuba. They are comfy. I'm wearing a pair...Even though they're ugly I'd rather be ugly than worry about stepping on a sea creature. I always wear them.

 

 

Best bug spray ?

 

I use Repel Lemon Eucalyptus and it works extremely well to keep all kinds of bugs away. I have purchased it at Target and Walgreens. Target I found it in the camping section, Walgreens had a special display near the other repellents. Usually it is a seasonal issue and only a problem in the shade or cabanas/bungalows. We've never had a problem with any sort of bugs in the spring/early summer....sometimes, late summer/fall will have more "pests" ...they've had time to mature! On those private island "beach days", you want something to spray on skin....you won't be wearing long pants and such! Cutter is now selling a Lemon Eucalyptus repellent. Saw it today at my local grocery store with all the other repellents.

 

 

Jelly Fish ?

 

I was there once before in September and was so bummed because I was so afraid to go into the water due to those jelly fish. We snorkeled in early May with no Jellyfish problem. It was a cool day and the water it still not very warm so we rented wetsuits.

From what i have been told by my aunt (did Coco Cay 8 times last year) the Jelly Fish are around early fall area. I was there in December and there wasn't any. We've never had a jellyfish issue in either April or May....that doesn't mean you CAN'T have some...we just never have! We were at Coco Cay in June 09 and I was concerned about the little "jellies" while we snorkeled. My husband dismissed my fears when he ID'd them as ctenophores (the "c" can be a "p" in science journals but neither one is pronounced...so it's TEN-O-FORES). Google either spelling and look around for indications of stinging--we couldn't find any in a quick look there and in an invertebrate zoology text. I enjoyed our snorkel time a lot more after he told me they weren't jellyfish. The cruise line would probably close the water if there were actual jellyfish in the water.

 

The first two times I went there, I never saw the first jellyfish, yet last August it was a jellyfish minefield. I have heard that they can get bad during late summer early fall. We were there a few years ago and my daughter got stung when we were snorkling in the area just off the beach. I recently found a product that is suppose to be effective for protection against jellyfish stings. It is called Safe sea. Here is the link: http://www.buysafesea.com/ .

 

We were there at the end of May. There were many jelly fish but they were very small out by the plane wreck. My kids and husband swam to the wreck and saw them but were not bothered by them there. A couple of hours later both of my girls were stung by them on the opposite side of the water park play area. My kids are young and complained a bit but never even cried. They felt like it was not as bad as a bee sting. We got them some of the spray at first aid and they were fine. We got vinegar from first aid and saline, it stopped the sting immediately. It didn't hurt as bad as a bee sting. I don't think it should keep people from enjoying themselves. Don't let it keep you away it was a lot of fun. We usually cruise in the spring, and haven't noticed any jellies....If there are a lot, I won't go in the water....they are quite a bit more painful (IMO) than a bee sting! My girls both were stung by jellies this past week the May 23, 2010 sailing. I have to say though that they were very mild. I never saw any jellies myself I swam out to one of the floats from the first beach and had no trouble. We were there at the end of May. There were many jelly fish but they were very small out by the plane wreck. My kids and husband swam to the wreck and saw them but were not bothered by them there. Jellies migrate there in early to late fall Aug - October. We were swarmed with them in September and again in October. Locals explained that this is typical for that time of year. So many that you couldn't even rent the $10 mat to try to avoid them, they were everywhere. We just sat at the water's edge and built a few sandcastles We were at Coco Cay on July 5th. Thankfully, NO jellies. Have been there five times including in the fall and have never seen one. We have seen lots of stingrays though. Swimming right along the shore. We were there August 09 and it was a jellyfish minefield. Just watch out for the jelly fish, we swam right through a large school of them while snorkelling when we were there May 2010.

 

 

Lockers available for rent ?

 

Are there lockers available to put your stuff in if you want to do any snorkeling? I hate the thought of just leaving a bag with a camera on the beach. I know they have lockers if you're doing one of the water excursions....don't know if you can rent one if you're just snorkling on your own! I was there in December 09 , and we left our things on the beach, and had no problems. My Aunt and Uncle are there 5-8 times a year and do the same thing, they have never had a problem with their stuff being bothered. I know that excursion lockers run around $5 to lock it, so if you plan on going into a couple times a day be prepared to fork over a whole lot of cash! I had my own snorkel gear and was able to rent a locker.

 

 

Snorkeling

 

Where is the snorkel area in relation to the tender landing? I think I read that the area is roped off so they can enforce the rule about life vests. Is there any shade around the snorkel area for those in the group that don't want to snorkle? The snorkel area is directly in front of the "main" beach on the busy side of the island. As you get off the tenders head to your left, and follow the beach area. The snorkel area is the first beach area you will pass. The area isn't really roped off, but there are several lifeguard stations that form imaginary lines around the swim/snorkel area. They do enforce the vest rule, but only if your are snorkeling, if you are just swimming they leave you alone. Most of that beach area has tons of palm trees providing shade for the non-snorkeling members of your party.

 

We liked snorkeling around the rocks on the left side and even out into the ocean. Many folks will bring their own equipment...and just rent the vest... You can rent it when you get there. There's a snorkel shack where you go to pick it up the equipment. You have to rent a safety vest and sign a waiver. My husband and I both rented vests and he rented fins. It was $6 for the vest, $15 for vest and fins. We brought our own masks and snorkels.

 

How would you rate the snorkling on Coco Cay? Is it better for just a relaxing beach day? There's plenty of time for both! And, the water's so clear, you can stand thigh deep and watch any "sealife" swim past. 1 to 10 scale I would put it around 6 or 7. While there is a whole lot to see fish wise, there isn't much to look at besides that. Also it seem that the more people that were out there the less you saw. I'm very much a person who tries to no disturb what i'm looking at, however while the large numbers of people who aren't that courteous the marine life seems to shy away. Get there early and you should be able to see lots of fish. Not much of a reef experience.. There isn't any of that type....lots of grass, and plain rocks. There are lots and lots of fish out there. I did see an eel, as well as a sting ray, don't know how many but saw them of 4 occasions within an hour or so, but like i mentioned before that was before most of the people got to the island....ahhhh the joys of the first tender! I liked snorkeling there. Make sure to take a couple bananas to feed the fish. They have a fake shipwreck and an airplane out in the water. Lots of snapper and other small fish. Even saw a hogfish. In the shallower spots you can see bonefish, small sharks, 'cuda DO NOT TAKE HUMAN FOOD AND FEED THE FISH! It dangerous for the fish, as their bodies aren't use to human food, and cannot digest it as well as their normal diets. It also causes the fish to become VERY aggressive, and many times inviting more aggressive species to take over the area. You know the life guard throws fish food at people while they snorkel? Having snorkeled places like Kona Hawaii, CozumelMexico, St. Maarten. I would rate Coco Cay's snorkeling as quite low. We did snorkel a bit and saw very little. A few fish, no coral, and jelly fish. You might as well give it a try but the beach is much better than the snorkeling. We have our own masks and snorkels so I just rented the kids a snorkel vest. I do know that more than once I have chased (followed) octopi and rays across the bay there. It was my only experience and I thought it was great, but I have nothing to compare. was there May 2010 and enjoyed the snorkeling. I have video posted at the link in my signature below and pictures at the webshots link in my signature below. http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1195024. Both the stills and the video were shot with a pentax optio w80. I was real happy with it.

 

I snorkeled when we were there May 2010. Not the best snorkeling, but much better than I thought it would be. I was just about the only one snorkeling out in the deeper part. Even tho the boat and plane are planted wrecks, they were still pretty neat to see. They have nice snorkeling and have a sunken plane you can snorkel to. They also have a platform to rest on in the water. Just watch out for the jelly fish, we swam right through a large school of them when we were there. Is there a charge to use the snorkeling equipment and where do you get it at? There is a charge. You would be better off (if you cruise or like snorkeling) to purchase your own. You will get better equipment, and you won't be making out with the person that used it before you!

YUK. Do I need to rent my snorkeling equipment before I get off the ship or can I rent it on the island? You can rent it on the island...we always wait until we're there,, to see if we really want/need what is offered.

 

 

Is renting a vest a requirement and what does it cost ?

 

Normally I just float around and enjoy, bringing my own mask and snorkel. No flippers. Yes! It's required. I'm an excellent swimmer and dove over 500 times. But, when the lifeguards saw me snorkeling without a vest, whistles were blowing like they sighted a Great White Shark! It all comes down to that pesky liability issue. You can rent the vests for around $7-8. You can rent all the snorkel equipment as a package or just the pieces you need. We now rent fins and vests to save room in the luggage. We've snorkeled on Coco Cay 3 or 4 times and loved it every time! My MIL isn't really comfortable in the water (says she can't swim) but she snorkled with us for hours! The vest made her feel more secure and she could lift her head up anytime she wanted. I really wouldn't take my 3 yo out there. Mine are 5 & 7 now. Whatever you do, don't forget to reapply the sunblock to your calves over and over! Was there July 7th, had a fantastic time snorkeling. Rented the equipment onboard the day before for $29 pp. There were lots of fish and the Cessna wreck was cool. Here are some pics from Cozumel and CoCo Cay. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pi...&id=1611355574

 

 

Can you wear Rx glasses when snorkeling?

 

First timer at snorkeling on Coco Cay, can't see well without my glasses. Was wondering if wearing your Rx glasses under the snorkel mask is possible ? No, you cannot wear glasses with a snorkel mask -- it won't seal around your face, and will bend the glasses! I need my glasses for everything (I am nearsighted and wear bifocals), but can see better than I expected with a snorkel mask. I've been told that it has something to do with the light, the mask, and the water. Very few places have what are known as "optical masks" which have built-in prescription lenses. You can also buy your own prescription mask. As stated above, no, glasses won't work. Contacts work great. The water magnifies so the objects you are looking at will seem bigger than they are. You won't need your glasses to snorkle. My wife is all but blind without her glasses and could see fine through the goggles without them. I have astigmatism, and the magnification provided by the mask and water is of no help what so ever. If you google search prescription goggles you can order a pair at a reasonable price as long as you know your prescription for your eyes. I just ordered mine last week online and saved 73% from what I would have paid at a local vision store. While we now have dive masks with prescription lenses, we used to use our glasses with the masks. However, to do that, we had to unscrew and remove the ear pieces (don't lose the tiny screws and bring along an eyeglass repair kit just in case) and tape (using medical adhesive tape or duct tape) the glasses inside the mask. Didn't always work perfectly, but it was better than nothing. The mask has to be a high-volume type and wide enough to be able to fit the glasses. Newer masks are low-volume and won't fit. I would suggest you buy your own mask and snorkel before the cruise and make sure the glasses will fit inside it (also for sanitary reasons as the masks/snorkels rented out aren't always cleaned well between uses). Do a google search for prescription snorkel mask - I bought mine 3 years ago for under $50 and it works fine. My husband has contacts only for snorkeling--but many of the excursion providers have special masks that have magnifying lenses for customers use. If you are booking a ships tour, the cruise line should be able to find out if they are available. My wonderful hubby bought me a prescription snorkel mask and it was the best gift I've ever received! I could see ok with just a regular mask but I can see perfectly with the prescription mask. It was such a difference that I started crying at how wonderful everything looked! If you like to snorkel it is well worth the money to buy the prescription mask (it's easy too!). The jet ski excursions are follow the leader. You will follow the person in front of you, and so on. There is NO opportunity to go off on your own. For the price of the excursion you can easily jet ski 2-3 times on non royal excursions.I have only done the excursion on Coco Cay and can tell you I felt very safe since there was a leader an 2 guides with us (10 jetskis) They took a headcount at each stop and were very experienced, you are following each other but still from quite a distance No matter where you do it, you will have no freedom to do your own thing....either/or! It really is a "follow the leader" sort of thing....if you go too fast, you'll end up waiting for the slowpokes, and if you're too slow, everyone will be waiting on you. If you want to get out and do your thing your way, do it at another beach...almost every public beach has waverunner/jetski rentals.

 

 

Jet ski / Wave Runners

 

Is the waverunner rental done as a group activity as a follow the leader type ? Or perhaps a go where you want type of thing? Follow the leader....too me that is just a waste of time and money to do that. Almost every public beach in every port will have waverunners to rent...there's no need to do it at Coco Cay, if you want to go on your own! My husband and daughters did this tour the last two times we went. They loved it. We have rented jet skis on other island beaches but they thought this was a lot of fun. You went pretty far and got a nice tour. We booked the latest time and then they took them by golf cart to make the last tender. Would do it again. It's follow the leader, but since you keep a huge distance between you and the the person in front of you - there is plenty of opportunity to go full speed and have a blast. I've done it both times I've been to CocoCay and will do it everytime we visit there. Royal Caribbean has a tour that includes these vessels but my son does not want to participate in a 'tour' and would rather just rent a watercraft for a while. Does anyone know if these are offered as individual rentals on this island? It's a "follow the leader" thing....he will NOT be able to go off on his own. If that's his desire, it's best to do that at a different port/beach! Almost every public beach in the Caribbean will have watersport equip. for rent. The jet ski excursions are follow the leader. You will follow the person in front of you, and so on. There is NO opportunity to go off on your own. For the price of the excursion you can easily jet ski 2-3 times on non royal excursions. I felt very safe since there was a leader an 2 guides with us (10 jetskis) They took a headcount at each stop and were very experienced, you are following each other but still from quite a distance No matter where you do it, you will have no freedom to do your own thing....either/or! It really is a "follow the leader" sort of thing....if you go too fast, you'll end up waiting for the slowpokes, and if you're too slow, everyone will be waiting on you. If you want to get out and do your thing your way, do it at another beach...almost every public beach has waverunner/jetski rentals.

 

 

Jet Ski - Age requirement ?

 

How old do you have to be to drive the jet ski? My daughter is 14 and really wants to do this. You have to be 16 and a licensed driver to drive the waverunner. They will check ID for your teen, they did for mine. This is a "follow the leader" sort of thing....if you go fast, you'll be waiting for the slowpokes most of the time....If you go slowly, you'll be holding up the rest of the group. If you want to "do your own thing", this is NOT the place to do it. Almost every public beach in every port will have waverunners to rent...no "excursion" needed. You can go at your own pace, and do what you want. A 14 yr old will not be allowed to drive then either. Most beaches require you to be 18 and some 21 to be drivers. I found that weight limit is like 300 lbs total weight. I thought it sounded a little light for 2 people.

 

 

Doing both waverunners and parasailing - too much?

 

I want to do both of these, and can't choose. Would it be too much to do both? I know that tenders run from 7:30 to 3:15. Has anyone done either of these excursions? If you had to choose, which would you pick? Neither take much time...if you're willing to spend all that money, then go for it! Just know that the waverunners is not a "go it alone" thing....it's "follow the leader", so faster riders will spend a considerable amount of time waiting on the slowpokes, and the slower riders will be continually encouraged to "catch up"....if you want to do your own thing, a different port will be best!

[a5storyguy]

I must comment that when I was on Coco Cay Christmas Day 2011, the tide went out in the early afternoon which left the beach totally dry! I am guessing it was 1,000 ft of swamp to the water line. It was impossible to get to the water because of the sea grassy area needed to walk through. YOU CAN'T SWIM AT COCO CAY DURING LOW TIDE!

Also, during our short stay, there was a load speaker (very loud) being used by the leader (Royal Caribbean Employee) of the soccer players. You could hear his wailing all over the island! REDICULOUS! Made for a disappointing day.

[sjb.illinois]

Thanks for compiling this info - is VERY helpful, as I've never been to Coco Cay or any other private island, and wasn't familiar with how it all worked. Do you have to pay to rent snorkeling gear?

[wolfganghowell]

Great info - I hope more people will share info since a lot of this is several years old now. I was under the impression that cabanas are rented now and that they are offered to suites first and that they now have some perks like a separate lunch and a dedicated waiter for the area.

[LisaT91403]

Does anyone know if there are age and/or height limits for the Power Wheels track? Or what about the giant waterslide/floating water park?

 

Also, are there additional charges for these activities?

[Candleonwater]

Cabanas on Cococay... are there any available outside Island Oasis?

[Rysyonok]

This is a great thread! Does anyone have a Coco Cay map that shows the entire island unlike the RCCL map?

Edited August 6, 2012 by Rysyonok

[sharse]

This is a great thread! Does anyone have a Coco Cay map that shows the entire island unlike the RCCL map?

 

Almost 2 years later, I'm wondering the same thing! Haven't seen one! Is that because there aren't any facilities of any kind "south" of where the map cuts off?

 

Also, I have read that even if you bring your own snorkel mask they'll make you rent a vest. My kids and I don't really like to swim out and snorkel; rather we stand about waist high and just put out faces in the water to see whatever is there. If we wander to the much less populated beaches will we be allowed to do this, or do you think there will still be staff there telling us we can't? Thanks!