Everything You Need To Know About Castaway Cay Snorkeling

If you’re planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation, you’ve likely heard about Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island paradise.

But while the beaches, bike paths, and family-friendly activities are amazing, one of the true gems of this destination is the chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear Bahamian waters.

And trust me, as someone who’s been there, snorkeling at Castaway Cay is an experience you won’t forget.

What Makes Snorkeling at Castaway Cay Special?

Disney doesn’t just leave the underwater experience to chance. The 22 arcre Snorkeling Lagoon is dotted with hidden treasures that bring Disney magic to life beneath the sea. As you explore, keep an eye out for the buoys on top of the water, those will mark areas of interest “under the sea”. 🦞

Some of the fun things I found were Boo’s door, the submarine from 20,000 leagues under the sea, Prince Eric’s statue, Mickey, Minnie, a seat from Dumbo the flying elephant ride and Daisy Duck. There are plenty of more items hiding too, but the area is spread out and its alot of swimming to see it all.

These underwater surprises make the snorkeling lagoon a must-see for Disney fans, offering both a fun scavenger hunt and a magical glimpse of Disney history.

Is It Safe To Snorkel At Castaway Cay?

There is a net surrounding the lagoon where you snorkel keeping large marine life out, however, keep in mind, you are still in the ocean, and some fish, stingrays, jellies, and even small sharks can get in.

There are lifeguards keep in eye out, and you are required to wear a life vest, but you still need to be aware of your own abilities and not go out further than you can handle.

If your kiddo is under 13, you or another adult over 18 will need to go with them on their snorkeling adventure.

Is It Free To Snorkel At Castaway Cay?

Yes, and no. Don’t ya love that?

As a frequent cruiser and avid snorkeler, I usually bring my own equipment for comfort and familiarity. When I visited Castaway Cay, I brought my own snorkel gear but learned an important lesson: your snorkel vest matters! Mine was a less visible color, (aqua) and the lifeguards had trouble spotting me. For safety, they asked me to switch to one of their bright-yellow vests—which, by the way, was free. It’s just one example of how Disney prioritizes guest safety without adding extra costs.

If you don’t have your own gear, no worries. You can rent everything you need right on the island. The rental packages include a snorkel, mask, fins, and a vest, so you’re fully equipped to explore.

You can prebook these on your navigator app prior to your arrival at Castaway.

As of this writing (11/24) prices are $44.00 (ages 10 and up)$24.00 (ages 5 to 9).

You can head to Gil’s Fins and Boats or Flippers and Floats at any time during the day on Castaway and then return your gear to either location when you are done. The rental is valid for the whole day so no need to rush, you can go out and then take a break for a little lunch and then head back out again if you want to see even more.

Snorkel Zones for Every Experience Level

The Snorkeling Lagoon is designed for all skill levels. There’s a shallow area perfect for beginners or families with kids, and a deeper zone for more confident snorkelers. The farther you go, the more treasures you’ll discover, so pace yourself and enjoy the journey.

Start Early for the Best Conditions

If you want to avoid crowds and see the most marine life, head to the lagoon early in the day. The waters are calmer, and you’ll have more space to enjoy the experience. Plus, the lighting is perfect for underwater photos of those Disney treasures.

What Sets Castaway Cay Apart?

Unlike typical snorkeling excursions, Castaway Cay’s lagoon is carefully curated with both natural beauty and Disney magic. It’s not just about fish (though you’ll see plenty of them). The unique blend of tropical marine life and hidden Disney memorabilia creates an experience you won’t find anywhere else.

I love to snorkel in different locations around the world, but Castaway remains one of my favorites, because, where else can you swim along side the real Dory and run smack dab into an underwater Mickey?