By definition, the private islands and destinations offered by many cruise lines are already secluded retreats away from most other ships. So, why would you want to pay extra for a cabana?
Well, actually there's plenty of reason to.
Yes, a private island may be away from other ships, and generally there are plenty of beaches to spread your ship's guests around comfortably. However, it still is a bit of a free-for-all when it comes to setting up camp. Finding that ideal chaise lounge with the right amount of shade for the entire length of the day can indeed be a challenge when hundreds to thousands more have the same goal in mind.
Still, the main benefit to this is that it's free of charge, and the early bird gets the worm. The sooner you seek out your spot, the more rewarded you will be.
Alternatively, if you prefer to be pampered and not rushed, a private cabana can be the best way to go because it's all yours, reserved exclusively.
Of course, variations exist from island to island and from cruise line to cruise line, but the idea is generally the same regardless of the destination. A covered open-air or air-conditioned cabana accommodates a party of guests with dedicated amenities such as any combination of loungers, tables, chairs, outdoor hammocks, showers, fans, refrigerators and more. They are often directly serviced with food and drinks-ether included or extra-as well.
The immediate consideration is certainly cost and whether or not it's worth spending hundreds of dollars on such a facility.
The answer is yes in many cases, particularly if you are planning on sharing it with the maximum capacity. Once that number is split evenly, the individual price becomes far easier to swallow.
Another I've personally tried are the ones on Holland America Line's Half Moon Cay, which also has impressive double-decker villas available for rent.
Our single-story cabana was still wonderful, and I especially enjoyed plopping into the hammock and resting under the shade. We also liked the included fresh fruit, vegetables with dip and chips and salsa, as well as selection of soft drinks and bottled water. Its close proximity to the beach was also greatly appreciated.
Although I have yet to try them personally, Norwegian Cruise Line's cabanas are really starting to up their game with fully air-conditioned villa varieties at the brand's new Harvest Caye.
Carnival Cruise Line similarly provides air conditioners for its cabanas at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic as does Princess Cruises at Princess Cays. Otherwise, Royal Caribbean International's at Labadee and CocoCay are more of the traditional open-air versions.
Next, it will be interesting to see how MSC Cruises finally outfits the cabanas at its first Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve when it opens in October 2018.
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