WHAT HAPPENED to Coco Cay? Royal Caribbean's Private Island, then and now - CROWDED and EXPENSIVE

[@donmartin986]

I was just there last week on the Celebrity Apex with the monstrous Icon of the Seas. TOO MUCH. TOO MANY PEOPLE. Headed to Cove Beach, the furthest away and there were no chairs left with shade. Later, when I walked alone and almost everyone had left, I imagined what it must have looked like many years ago. I clearly saw the cut in the Coral rock that created a basin for the tenders and realized that area was where it all began. Thanks for showing what I imagined.

[@jackredmond6023]

We were there in 2014 - on Grandeur of the Seas - not too long after you - and I remember it just as you described. We were there again last year - on Serenade of the Seas - it was so crowded, we did nothing other than grab a beer and return to the ship. You did a great job with your comparison! Thank you.

[@joannekearney5329]

You can understand why some ports want to reduce the number of cruise ships. I think the mega ships will end up accelerating the number of ports who want fewer passengers. Last cruise, we didn't get off the boat at Coco Cay.

[@Dawho99]

They need to build more of these private island locations around the world… i read somewhere thats what the plan actually is

[@donmartin986]

These outrageously guady " ships " are the beginning of the end in world cruising all over the world. I'm so thankful I experienced cruising so many decades ago and remember the blessings of small ships. Unfortunately most will never know what St. Thomas was like 50 years ago. Sorry.

[@moniquemc4553]

CoCo Cay was one of the ports we had on our honeymoon in 1991, and I can assure you it wasn't even anything like it was when you went there 13 years ago. I remember a BBQ shack, restrooms and some lounge chairs and tiny grass umbrella type coverings. lol We met another couple and the four of us tried hiding from the rain during a sudden storm under one of those coverings. It didn't work very well, but it was an amazing and unforgettable time. I get progress, but the way it was before was so beautifully amazing. Memories we will never forget.

[@SAubin-z2y]

Thank you for this video! I personally prefer the nature & peacefulness of a private island which is the perfect getaway to unplug and recharge. This island is just so crowded and built up now that it’s no longer appealing. That’s what greed does Royal Caribbean!

[@Jazzykatt23]

It was beautiful, but it was so crowded when we went a couple of years ago that we couldn’t even find two chairs side-by-side anywhere. Lineups for everything and just chaos.

[@Aquariangirl126]

Was there another ship dock there at the time?

[@Jazzykatt23]

@@Aquariangirl126 yes

[@Aquariangirl126]

@@Jazzykatt23That explains it. When I was on Symphony of the Seas our ship was the only ship docked there for the day. I don’t like crowded beaches and I hate waiting in lines.

[@douglasgilbert486]

Wake up earlier, grab coffee and exit the ship expeditiously. You'll find all the seating you desire.

[@alk61695]

What a fantastic video comparing the island from what it used to look like to what it is now. I visited the Coco Cay twice before it was changed so that brought back some memories. I also remember watching your original video many many years ago. My, how a lot has changed.

[@SusieQ-x6g]

I was there in December of 2002 for my husband's 40th birthday. I don't remember the exact location, but we were the only ones around. He took a nap in a hammock. He said it was his best birthday ever at that point. It was our first cruise and we were on Symphony of the Seas.

[@AlwaysBeVacationing]

What a fun video! Our first visit to CocoCay was on Majesty of the Seas. We tendered in and jumped on a snorkeling excursion. During the excursion our Captain told us about the zip lines and waterslides that were being built on the island. Back then it was hard to imagine. Today, I still love Perfect Day at Coco Cay, mainly because there are no hawkers on the beach. Yet, I do miss the deserted island feel.

[@AidaJof]

Oh my goodness, what a drastic change and not necessarily for the better😢 Thank you, Captain Morgan🙏

[@maestroteague]

Been waiting for this video since you teased it. We were there in Oct. 2003 on our first cruise. It was very rustic, and we loved it. It was our first time ever snorkeling, and we fell in love. Have not been since the waterpark was built.

[@Determination212]

CocCay is okay. My issue is stopping there replaces visiting another port. My favorite thing to do are excursions. At CocoCay, excursions are limited. My opinion, if I wanted to lay back and sit at the beach all day, I could do that in Flordia.

[@TheRiverPirate13]

Brandon our first cruise to Coco Cay was Dec 2015 on Enchantment of the Seas and the ocean was too rough to tender to the island. It was 2 years later in Dec 2017 on Majesty of the Seas that we finally got to set foot on the island. Some development had started however it was largely still like your earlier video you showed! Loved it! Felt like barely anyone was even on the island! We visited Coco Cay on Feb 2024 for the first time since Dec 2019. Holy crap! The island was jam packed on all the nearest beaches! Hideaway Beach was fun at $35 per person price point I paid as it had just opened and was not crowded. MSC's Ocean Cay is what Coco Cay once was...a quiet tropical relaxing Bahamian island! I hope MSC keeps it that way! I have no desire to visit Coco Cay again.

[@donmartin986]

Hideaway Beach pass was $69 last week!! With NO GUARANTEE of even of one chair. It's a shame that RCCL has chosen mega sizing their ships. They are crude and just plain ugly. Awful.

[@PeteLehtinenMKL]

We visited CocoCay in 2013. We found Barefoot Beach thanks to your video, and we were there alone whole morning. A perfect experience on a small tropical island! Now the whole place looks like a horrible plastic nightmare, too many people, too much noise, nature and beaches destroyed.

[@RBickersjr]

It's kind of sad in a way, because the popularity of some destinations is the cause of the buildup of infrastructure like that. Many people like the whole feeling of being in the middle of nowhere and leaving the world behind. However, the more people that keep coming literally change the feeling of disconnecting. And of course, with increased interest and tourist dollars, comes the building of more infrastructure to handle more people (and profits). It's kind of like its own popularity is its worst enemy.

[@kgates4220]

Loved the comparison! We were there many times over the years and most recent was 2023. It is not the relaxful, serene place it used to be. It was very crowded, noisy and the lines for snacks was too long for us. We did the beach bbq, walked around to get pictures and went back to the very quiet ship. Enjoyed the pool and service from the staff onboard.

[@e.g.5764]

I love Coco Cay! Because I live in a place with beach access, I prefer the pools but especially the pool in the hideaway beach area (worth every $). My strategy though is ALWAYS get off the ship as early as they allow and secure the seating area that you want and enjoy an hour or two while it is relatively quiet. We normally are always back on ship by 1 or 2 PM. Thanks for this video it was really cool to see what it looked like before I started cruising.

[@baldgiraffe]

I am with you. Less development keeps the charm and the peace. It’s the same reason that Royal has Oasis class ships. Mo money. Mo money for a Royal means Mo problems for us guests. We tried to visit Coco Cay four times on Bahamas cruises and only landed once…in February they have rough seas so they had a lot of grumpy guests because nobody wants to miss what was a slice of paradise …because tendering was not safe. We have the fondest memories from Coco Cay because we saw our first fever of spotted eagle rays which was amazing. I would take a single BBQ shack and day and less developed island any day of the week.

[@cruisepryor]

You have been talking about dong this comparison video for a while . Well it’s finally here and well worth the wait . Great job!!

[@jeremychoo934]

If you think it’s crowded with 2 Oasis class ships, just imagine what it will be like in a few months when there could be 2 Icon class ships at Coco Cay 🤦‍♂️

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Nooooo thank you!

[@deepshotone]

Agreed back in 2022 I was on Symphony of the seas and docked next to us at Cocoa Key, was grandeur Of the seas the island felt way overcrowded

[@firesunearthmoon8999]

My 1st trip to CC was 2006, 2nd was cancelled due to turbulent water in 2019, 3rd visit was mind blowing from all of the changes in 2023. We were 1st to arrive at the back of the island, furthest away from the ship & it was amazing & quiet with very accommodating bar to ourselves. The staff seemed tired & overwhelmed as they’d been hit with several huge crowds the days before us.

[@travelingaquanauts3137]

Agree about the pool! I don't even visit the pool on ship. Give me the ocean and sea life ANY day over a pool! My closest ocean is 300 miles away so I am certainly spending my time there. btw..you are definately the "Rob Lowe" of vloggers..you have aged very well over the last 13 years! Enjoyed the look back at the differences in Coco Cay.

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Wow, I need to make an award for my wall saying I won the "Rob Lowe of Vloggers" prize :-)

[@rasbo4317]

I love the new adult area especially the pool. I rarely get in the pool on the ship. So when I go to the adult area I like to chill in the pool and listen to the DJ love music and a little dancing.

[@marianacary425]

I first time to coco cay was 1994 . It was beautiful and true and experience , super rough. There is nothing left from that time

[@ScottTaylorRealtor]

Awesome video Morgan!!! I much preferred Cococay before the renovations. It was more relaxing and prettier to me. I know a lot of people like it more now but to each his own. It now reminds me of an over-crowded water theme park.

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Totally agree!

[@victoriavirgo]

Love the compare and contrast videos, Morgan - Yes! We visited in September and headed straight to The Cove! Lovely and quiet, just what you want on an island. A great tip is to have a big breakfast so you don't have to eat on the island. Then you can enjoy your whole day in the sun and get back on the ship for a snacks.

[@ronv6637]

Take snacks from the ship

[@victoriavirgo]

@@ronv6637 Absolutely!

[@conspiracybeliever1749]

But the food on the island is included--I don't get it??

[@victoriavirgo]

@@conspiracybeliever1749 Yes, the food is free but it is not that close to the cove. And it can get crowded. Hehe.

[@Carol_in_Spain]

I am sorry to say that my favourite Half Moon Cay (was Holland America's now they share it with Carnival) is going the same way. It used to be a beautiful, quiet tropical paradise island. Now it is being spoiled.

[@jimf710]

I visited Little Stirrup Cay in 1984. Much different experience than CoCo Cay today.

[@live2skide1]

WOW what a contrast. I have never cruised with Royal, but have seen the changes beginning on Princess Cay. Still tender there, and have missed it twice. (Got our port fees back!) My favorite private island to date is the MSC island. Lots of places to roam, and your drink package works on the island. It is lovely.

[@JMG0590]

I loved exploring the old Coco Cay but the new one is definitely more exciting for the masses. You can still get the old Coco Cay experience from some of the other cruise lines and their traditional private islands.

[@PsRohrbaugh]

Edit: I do support the addition of the pier. It was rare, but occasionally bad weather would come up SO fast they couldn't get all the passengers back on the ship on the tenders and they'd have to spend the night on the island. Also, there were staff accommodations on the island at least as far back as 2007 - mostly maintenance people. All the bartenders and food service workers came from the ship back then. I first went to Coco Cay in 2004 and was last there in 2019. The really early days were SO simple. I managed to convince them to give me a "behind the scenes tour" in 2007. I have photos but no video given the era. Anyway, I have many fond memories of exploring the back side of the island and the woods, and you're right, that "deserted island" vibe was amazing and is missed. Even in 2019 with one Oasis class ship in port it felt too crowded for my liking. I can't imagine what it's like with two of them! Anyway thanks for sharing the changes. If I ever go again this will definitely be another "ship day" for me like nasty Nassau. I haven't cruised since lockdown,

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Thank you so much for your special support! If you haven't cruised since lockdown, maybe it's time to get back to it!

[@PsRohrbaugh]

​@@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides I sold my engineering firm to care for my grandparents who need 24/7 care. Once that's not needed (nursing home or otherwise), I will definitely get back out there. Gotta enjoy my Diamond Plus benefits on RC before they take em all away 😂

[@DM-jn8sm]

Morgan, I have been there several times before and remember all those things way back. Tender boat and a small lighthouse stand looking out to the ship. I have been back two times since the up grade and like the adult only beach the best. Thanks for the memories......

[@NezukoChan6366]

W😮W‼️ This is so Amazing. The whole island has been changed. My first trip to Little Stirrup Cay was in 2019. I came again in 2021, 22, 23, and 3 times this year 2024. Now it's (3) three Snack Shack, a Skippers Grill, and Chill Grill. Coco Cay was completed refurbished. This video is Priceless❣️💯😎

[@2ofeachmom426]

We love coco cay!! There are lots of free things to do, you don’t need to spend a cent!

[@hochutiem2678]

The pool in the adult area Hideaway Beach is heated to 90F an ideal place to be in January or February unless you like to swim in the 60F ocean water.

[@JaniceCrowell]

Yes, I was there in 2008. It was nothing to write home about back then.

[@jeremyforino2933]

I've been waiting for this one. Great job. I've been there three times and only made it on the balloon once. They built it knowing full and well that it would be grounded more than it would be flying. I was told that the max population there is 12,500. They expanded the newest section to include the increased capacity of TWO Icon class ships. Big nope. I would never. The pool is the largest fresh-water pool in the Caribbean.

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. Two Icon class ships is going to be ridiculous.

[@jahzeelmumford832]

Thank you for this video. This takes me back to when I was an entertainer on the Sovereign of the Seas with Royal Caribbean. I definitely remember when it was the old Coco …. Just beaches, a few activities and buffet ….. I’ve been to the new one and definitely couldn’t place where anything was previously lol great video.‼️

[@AmyS79]

Loved this video. I really appreciated the comparison to the old footage. I'm a pool person - don't want sand, rocks, or sea life.

[@minillagamez8904]

Went to Coco Cay in 2018 aboard Mariner of the Seas. Crazy to see how much it has changed in 6 years.

[@happycruiser]

LOL...I am one of those pool people. I don't like the ocean, the seaweed, the fish, the slimy things, jelly fish, the sharks...have a major fear. I did the snorkel thing when I was younger, but now just old and sensible. LOL

[@bcboop2686]

Same here. But even pools can scare me. I can't swim, so I don't go in with crowds of strangers.

[@hollypotter6989]

I'm a pool person too. I absolutely hate sand in my nether regions. Being older and unsteady on my feet shifting sand in the ocean is not my friend. I'll stick to pool noodles and fresh water.😊

[@John_Locke_108]

Same here. The ocean is about 30 minutes from me but no thanks. Granted it's Connecticut so not the nicest beaches but regardless. Give me a heated pool any day of the week.

[@Spiritwonder420]

Old yes senseble no

[@Dawho99]

There could be shark or crocodiles in certain pools too, always be vigilant 😂

[@vanessawyndham8791]

The CoCo Beach Club is nice but it's pricey. However they limit the number of people so getting a spot at the pool or the beach is easy and the food options are top notch.

[@stellawiltshire8007]

Excellent job comparing then and today. As you were panning around, it occurred to me that you were demonstrating the shift RCL has taken in their passenger demographics. They have been actively marketing to a younger crowd. A more active group of individuals who have grown up with the internet and have the attention span of an ant and need constant mental stimulation and instant gratification. Thus, the megaships focusing on activities and constant dizzying noise and visual stimulation. So since I enjoy cruising for the voyage to new and different places and I'm quite capable of sitting quietly enjoying a good book. Like "Getting Stitches on a Cruis Ship". I will not be cruising on RCL in the future. Celebrity cruiseline has become my main choice recently.❤

[@GiGi52020]

Cruised on RC last year, we went to CoCo Cay and the prices were so outrageous it was ridiculous. It was over $100 per person for the water park and your only there for a few hours. I have no interest in returning at all.

[@jonathanburks7291]

For anyone that would prefer a private island without all the commercialization, try MSC’s Ocean Cay. It really feels like you’re on a beautiful secluded island and it’s easy to get away from the crowds!

[@patti1044]

We had a lovely day - headed out to South Beach and got chairs with a bit of shade. Only money spent was a drink.

[@whoisryanp]

9:57 I'm sorry, they're called WHAT‽

[@indowneastmaine]

Seriously. Who says it like this?

[@shanagaskill3473]

Same thing is happening to the Fl Keys. Part of the reason we left. Got tired of living in a “ hotel”

[@TracyKMainwaring]

We never got to the old Coco Cay. We went when the make over was pretty new, in Sept 2019. We had an overstuffed Symphony of the Seas. It felt crowded every where. And it was a short day there. The draw for the pool was that it's the largest in the Caribbean, and obviously bigger than the ones on the ship. We have been to Labadee a few times, pre-dock and post dock. It's lost a lot of charm too. When it's Royal going to learn that many people want a more rustic, personal, experience on these islands?

[@bendav]

On our very first cruise we were scheduled to go to Coco Cay and it was cancelled. We did eventually get there before all the upgrades and as you said, now it feels more like an amusement park. Our last visit was when the Beach Club was new and they weren't charging an arm and a leg for it so we paid for the upgrade. It was nice, but not nice enough for the price they are currently charging. We are scheduled to visit again in December and have booked Hideaway Beach to see what it is like.

[@TheFtm22]

This was really cool! You looked like a child in that older video!

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

I agree I look super young, although I was 37 years old!

[@TheFtm22]

@@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides excellent genetics! You still look pretty young, just like an adult!

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Aww, thanks.

[@RogerWilco1]

She thought you were cute, she was right. You still are. I think the reason for the pools is most people learn to swim in pools, and the waves in the ocean make swimming harder... for me, its taken me quite awhile to adapt to it. Especially for little kids the waves can be hard I imagine.

[@dpfeifer2194]

I am glad I was there years ago when it was less like a theme park. They destroyed the beauty. Makes me sad.

[@stephaniekeen4772]

Thanks for this video. I miss the old coco cay and we talk about “ what was here back in the day”. The area where the water park and beyond was labeled as a nature trail. You could have a guided tour of it. Less crowded and nice.

[@DavidThompson-mn3rc]

Morgan, I totally agree with you when it comes to the pool vs the ocean. I will never go to an island and go to a pool, and some pools you have to pay to get in. It's the ocean for me. Great job on the then and now.

[@anncampbell5952]

I went to Coco Cay on Soverign of the Seas a long time ago- actually my first cruise! The crew from the ship had to go over first and set up the food and beverages being offered. It was basic hamburgers, hot dogs- that is all I remember. The shop with the snorkel equipment was there but not much else! Just chilled in the ocean snorkeling and playing in the ocean. Things change- big time!

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

I liked the old way better! (Except for the food.)

[@BuddySchauland]

We went to Coco Cay that same year, on the same ship. We feel the same way. I remember being in the water and no one was around back then. Now you can't go into the water without someone being close to you. We are going to try Hideaway Beach in a couple of weeks. Hopefully it will be better. We got a picture of us at the Wacky Seagull Bar back then. Now, every time we go, we get a new picture.

[@itr0863]

my wife and i went in summer 22'. we went straight to south beach and were the first ones there. and first ones at the floating bar! such a fun time. our next cruise will always have to include cococay.

[@rasbo4317]

I been to the old coco cay I like the new island mainly because of the pools.I like the options of the pool or the beach.

[@lizva1022]

Yes if you don’t mind walking, Cove Beach past South Beach only had two other couples on it when we were there last summer. Great, quiet afternoon! Water is only knee deep though for quite a ways out!

[@susanwestfall2051]

I loved the “original” Coco Cay for its quiet beauty. We have been there several times since the development but were so disappointed we only stay on the ship now. I just hope they don’t “improve” Labadee!

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

I agree. Labadee is kind of the perfect mix of natural and theme park.

[@trbstang]

Wow, our first time there was way back in 1995 and it was quite a bit more primitive than even when you first went. The big thing I remember was the large snorkeling area with a few sunken items to swim out to and a fence across the entrance to keep sharks out! I'll have to look for the pictures we took with our waterproof Kodak camera! 😂 Thanks for the video.

[@leeleezuni9094]

My first time at Coco Cay was in 2011 and it was magical. Trees, sand, beaches, roosters, goats and one place to get burgers and hotdogs. Went back in 2015 on Quantum of the seas and it was sooo different and commercialized. We hated it. Now we don't bother getting off at this spot

[@jamestimkey3770]

I Agee in comparison to today, the old layout looks less busy. However, we have been there at least 10 times since it opened as Perfect Day and I can honestly say that we have never felt crowded or had any trouble finding chairs and umbrellas. Like noted in the video, get there early to get the best selection. Also, people tend to leave very early from the beach and lagoon area so if you come late or just stay longer, you will have more time for yourself with fewer guests around. The last trip we had an Oasis class ship and a Voyager class ship.

[@TotesMAGoats69]

Thats cool you have befire and after. If you want a pre 2019 Coco Cay, just stop next door to Norwegians island Stirup Cay. Its a complete drag. I think they have a light house and a couple pools to enjoy. You really do feel bad looking over and seeing their tender boats

[@xplorefurther]

The idea was great. When two Oasis class ships docked, it was so crowded. There is no way to swim and always somebody hitting you. My usual itinerary on the island was jet ski, lunch then go back to ship.

[@marlavillari4046]

Great video! My first visit to Coco Cay was when it was new. I think it was 1989. I remember the beach was full of rocks. Over the years I have seen the growth and development. I kind of miss some things about the old days....when the chairs were just piled up and you dragged them to a spot. Back then there were no umbrellas either, and from what I recall, very few trees for shade. I also remember Labadee way back when...I always preferred Labadee because there were many more shaded areas.

[@ready2roamrv289]

Enjoyed the comparison. I was just there last February for my first time. There were two ships, but we went somewhat early and found plenty of open chairs/lounges and no lines for lunch. It did get more crowded as the day progressed, but there still seemed to be open chairs...you may have had to choose another pool or beach, though. I enjoyed my Day at Coco Cay!

[@TheJennilynn73]

We have only ever been to the new experience, got a cabana tucked away for some privacy and I had lovely, new, funny read called 'Getting Stitches on a Cruise Ship'.

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Oh wow, that books sounds really interesting and funny. I bet you wrote a review on Amazon, too, right? wink wink

[@TheJennilynn73]

@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides that's amazing how you knew what was first on my Monday 'to don't list. Can't wait for the next book...I sail again in January, May, and September next year. But no pressure 😎

[@tarance5]

I have not been there since 2005. I recall the old space. I’ll be back there August 2025. Excited to experience the new space.

[@pamelabrauer9450]

Coco Cay is my new favorite port. Specifically Hideaway Beach. Yes there is a charge, but when I go to other ports and take an excursion there is a charge and I’ve always gotten a very reasonable price at Hideaway Beach. And all the food offerings are included (and delicious); and with the drink package, so are your beverages. It’s wonderful. (Even without having to rent the expensive cabanas.) We were also there with two oasis class ships and it wasn’t very crowded at all. At least not where we were. I have not visited the other areas of the island, so I can’t speak to those. And another bonus is that Celebrity cruise ships are also allowed access now!👏🏻👏🏻

[@nwalston897]

Great video. I don't ever see myself paying for a cabana. Thanks for the final tip on secluded area.

[@DawnDevine]

Whoah - times have CHANGED!!! Love the side-by-side comparison style video. Thank you!

[@pw-sz6ds]

I don’t swim in a pool at home. I do it on a cruise ship. It’s part of my vacation fun that I look forward to.

[@MrChrisg0625]

Coco cay is greatly improved. I hated tendering years ago. And the food now is much improved. Cruising is more popular now than ever and there is no going back to the old days no matter how much whining.

[@ScottsCruiseChronicles]

Never had a problem finding a spot on the beach. Didn't spend an extra dime while on the island. But I do remember the old "Little Stirrup Cay". What a difference.

[@charlesturner1377]

We have been there 3 times before the renovation and we are going to the renovated coco cay next month so we shall see how it looks now.

[@cyoohoos]

swimming in a pool with birds.... I'll pass And cruisers wonder why towns have started passing ordinances limiting or prohibiting ships

[@Ally-vp4ks]

First visit was on 2008 and we took the tender boat, to the island. Last visit was in 2022 and yeah it feels like you’re entering a theme park. I get growth, but I miss the simplicity

[@lorimasterson8427]

I was at CocoCay once back in 1998. There was even a lot less than when you were there before! I am going again this week on Celebrity. I'm sure I'll be amazed with the changes, but probably not impressed. I still like a private island for a free, relaxing, quiet beach day. I doubt that will happen. 😮

[@mariebrooks7341]

I remember Cocoa Cay from back then when nothing was there and you had to get there by tender. It was actually nice just having the beach and a picnic. It was peaceful and relaxing. Now it's really crowded with enough free things to do HOWEVER paid stuff to do also and people everywhere. Since I don't do the water sports or get into the pool or the ocean, I go over and eat lunch, sit a while and people watch or read and then go back to the ship. Cocoa Cay is beautiful though. Nice video comparison.

[@dalegoembel6743]

We are in your video at about 6:26. When you look into the doc beach club. We were trying to stay out of the rain. Sitting on the right side. lol. Funny to see us!

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Thank you for letting me include your legs in the video :-P Were you on the Utopia or the Harmony?

[@melvinjacobs2328]

Yes, it gets crowded, but you don't have to spend a dime to enjoy yourself there or get decent food at the shacks.

[@Chelletube143]

Loyal RC cruiser. Definitely remember the difference in the island and the price. So many people on the beach that you can’t really enjoy the ocean anymore. We usually bite the bullet and pay for the overwater cabanas (which went up like crazy since COVID and I suspect based on the ship your on too). But the sea gulls are super aggressive in the overwater cabanas because of food being brought to you and last year 23’ we saw sharks near the cabanas so my kids went to the pool to swim.

[@martinsibilia7142]

Morgan I remember taking the tender boat over back in 2014. I’ve never been to the upgraded coco cay. Looking forward to checking it out in December with my young granddaughters. I think we’ll try the cove like you suggested. If you have any other suggestions I’d greatly appreciate it. By the way I enjoy all your videos. Thank you

[@ExTRAErrestrial_Travels]

The main thing that stops most people from getting in the ocean vs the pool is: the pool doesn’t have sea critters swimming in it. As someone who is getting into free diving, I give the ocean any day, but the ocean life is the deterrent for some. Also, some cancer patients can’t get in the ocean because of the risk of infection, sadly.

[@DTboy22]

When I went to Coco Cay for the first time it was 2008 and it is completely different.

[@kellymcdonell9687]

I remember the old days there as well, it was so nice! I did like the 18 and up beach area though.

[@colleenheath1597]

Great video. Agree that about the pools, I can do that on the ship. Ocean water is where it's at with your toes in the sand. I did the waterpark once and don't need to do that again. I am concerned that our visit might be impacted for weather. I am excited for my mom to experience a nice beach day.

[@moxiedps]

I was there in 1991. Nothing even close to the way it was for you in 2011. There was a cookout area where Royal cooked up Hamburgers and hotdogs. We just hung out on the white sand beach and blue water.

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Sounds fantastic.

[@user-zl1bh2gk1b]

We went there years ago before all of the improvements were done. It was very relaxing then. Kinda crazy now

[@davidbreakspear8776]

RCL gouging their guests for using water park,after already charging them a King's ransome for a 3 night cruise. But hey...fools and their money are soon parted.

[@JMFingerstyle]

Wow, this video made me pull out the scrapbook of our 2005 visit to Coco Cay on Sovereign of the Seas. It was even a bit less developed back then, without the slide and inflatable stuff out in the water. Just a perfect day, without all the nonsense, despite Hurricane Rita having passed through the area the day before our stop there. I may be yelling at clouds, but I think the development and addition of pricey options has ruined what used to be an idyllic paradise. Thanks for posting this video, it brought back memories of a simpler time!

[@VeryunOfficialTravelGuides]

Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I guess great minds think alike. Too bad it will never be changed back to what it was!

[@pm5951]

After a full day. on the beach we went to the pool just to cool down. Refreshing swim!!!

[@joleighva]

I’ve been cruising with Royal Caribbean for 20 years and been to Coco Cay many times, both prior to and after the makeover. If you’re looking for a quiet, secluded beach escape, you’re going to need to go somewhere other than there. Take a seven day cruise that goes to St. Thomas and Saint Martin, and you can find a secluded beach. I would like to point out that for older and disabled guests, the new set up atCoco Cay is so much better! The trams and paved walkways allow much better access than there used to be. It is now an island where you can choose your own level of adventure. Where before you got pretty much the same experience as everyone else. I may not be into the waterpark, but my son is, and it allows BOTH of us to have a great, safe day! He can have fun while I float in the beautiful clear water of the Caribbean with my drink. 😊

[@scottrellwi]

Pools were better than the ocean in March. The ocean was very cold. Loved the rest of the island.

[@notapplicable2636]

Bummer Morgan, honestly Labadee feels entirely different to me also... I mean when they opened it to multiple ships was one thing, but including other lines within the RCL family also has kind of wrecked Things too at least to me... Honestly anymore its not really worth it to leave the ship especially when a majority of the ship has left for the day... No lines at Sorrento's or other food locations onboard either...

[@JourneywithJosh]

FYI, it's Coco CAY. Royal bought it and named it. The Bahamian name is Little Stirrup Cay which you could pronounce key. But Royal named it CAY.

[@ChristianLehrer]

We are stopping there Sat on our way to Europe. Will be my first time. Not planning on paying any up charges, just going to walk around and see it. May be returning when my niece and nephew are older. 😅

[@MAEckhardt]

We were at Coco Cay in June, and it was as fantastic as our previous 2 visits. There were 2 Oasis class ships in port that day (Symphony and Allure) and it was not crowded on the island at all. The beaches had plenty of available chairs and the lines at the food venues were minimal. It really is not fair to compare a practically undeveloped Coco Cay plot of sand from years ago, to the current developed resort style. There is plenty to do on the island for families, as well as space to find a quiet beach to relax. While it’s true that some things have an extra charge at Coco Cay, it’s still easy to have a very nice day at Coco Cay without spending a dime. Why have pools at Coco Cay? Well, the beaches are certainly very nice and a great way to enjoy a beach day, a dip in the pool void of sand and seaweed with a swim up to the bar for a drink is a nice refreshing break. Some of the comments in this video an unnecessarily critical with a “Karen” (Ken) tone. It would be better without an effort to find something “wrong”.