Discover Half Moon Cay: A Paradise in the Bahamas

History of Half Moon Cay

Half Moon Cay was once known as Little San Salvador Island in the Bahamas. It was renamed by Holland America Line to pay tribute to the small ship that Henry Hudson sailed, which is depicted in the Holland America Line logo. This beautiful flat, sandy island offers visitors a stunning crescent-shaped beach along with a variety of thrilling water activities. Located approximately 100 miles from Nassau, this paradise seems worlds apart from the bustling shopping and historical city.

Excursions and Activities

While Half Moon Cay features a small straw market, an ice cream shop, and a few bars, most cruise passengers are drawn to the island’s beach and are eager to participate in exciting shore excursions. Options include:

• Kayaking
• Parasailing
• Deep-sea fishing
• Horseback riding
• Personal watercraft riding
• Bicycling
• Hiking
• Snorkeling
• Swimming with stingrays

Visitors can also indulge in a delicious barbecue lunch on the island, eliminating the need to return to the ship for meals.

Natural Preserve

Although a fraction of Half Moon Cay has been developed by Carnival Corporation and Holland America, creating accessible trails and tram services, a significant portion remains an untouched nature preserve. The commitment by Holland America to maintain the island’s natural beauty has resulted in one of the most idyllic private islands in the Bahamas.

Tenders and Accessibility

The tenders based on the island boast a larger capacity compared to those on cruise ships, making the boarding and disembarking process both quicker and easier.

Quiet Zones

Some visitors prefer to walk along the beach to find a more serene spot, distancing themselves from the busier areas.

Beach Facilities

The beach near the bar tends to be quite busy; however, guests can easily migrate to calmer areas if desired.

The beach bar at Half Moon Cay is a popular spot among guests, offering refreshing drinks in a lively atmosphere.

Overall, Half Moon Cay is a breathtaking destination that combines beautiful scenery with exciting recreational activities, making it a must-visit location in the Bahamas.