A corner of this protected habitat for migratory birds has been developed into a top-rated private island destination for passengers of the Holland America Line.
Half Moon Cay, locally known as Little San Salvador Island, is the perfect place to get your land legs back while on a cruise. You’ll still have access to similar comforts as on your cruise ship, but you’re free to roam and can even stay the night in a private villa or cabin.
The cay was purchased by the Holland America Line in 1996. The new name of Half Moon Cay refers to both the island’s crescent-shaped white sand beach and the name of the ship that is featured on the logo of the Holland America Line. The company soon added the Landing and Welcome Center, a Bahamian Village, the Tropics Restaurant, an Aqua Park and a small wedding chapel.
Start with an ice cream at the Welcome Center, then visit the information booth to see what’s on. Linger a while to buy some souvenirs or beachwear at the Bahamian market.
Follow the marked paths out to the beach. There are watersports centers to rent beach equipment from. Go snorkeling, sailing or kayaking and get a massage on the beach afterwards.
When it’s time for lunch, take a tram to the Tropics Restaurant to enjoy a buffet-style barbecue feast under an open shelter. Or, at the Lobster Shack, indulge in a seafood lunch served with local coconut beans and pineapple salsa.
Guided tours are great options for an active afternoon. Go horseback or bike riding, sign up for a stingray adventure or enjoy an informative Eco-tour in a glass-bottom boat. The kids will love the pirate-themed Half Moon Lagoon waterpark.
If you choose to stay on the island itself, you can soak in a private hot tub in one of the exclusive Beach Villas. The Private Oasis, with 15 cabanas, is for larger groups.
Around sunset, visit one of the island’s bars. One is a huge venue by the beach, one is part of the Welcome Center and the other is a little bar by the lagoon, next to Stingray Cove.
Little San Salvador Island is less than 100 miles (160 kilometers) south of Nassau in the Bahamas. The cruise liners drop all passengers off in smaller tenders and the main facilities on the island are wheelchair accessible.
