Perfect Day, Every Day? Why Private Islands Could Lead the Next Wave in Cruising - Wealth of Geeks (2025)

In a move that could reshape the cruise industry in the Caribbean, Mexico planned to impose a $42 immigration fee on all cruise passengers starting January 1, 2025. They have just announced that they are postponing the start of this fee, but they are not waiving it.

This charge, coupled with an existing $5 per-person state fee, has ignited concerns among industry leaders and sparked a broader conversation about the future of cruise itineraries. Critics warn that the new tax could make Mexico one of the most expensive cruise destinations globally, potentially driving ships to alternative ports.

The Mexican Association of Naval Agents (AMANAC) predicts dire consequences, including losing up to 10 million cruise passengers and over 3,300 ship calls in 2025. Michele Paige, CEO of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), echoed these worries, highlighting that such unexpected costs could lead cruise lines to bypass Mexican ports altogether.

The Mexican Senate recently passed legislation imposing the $42 immigration fee on cruise passengers, ending their long-standing exemption from tourist taxes. Now set to take effect on July 1, 2025, the fee will apply to all passengers listed on a ship’s manifest, regardless of whether they disembark. Mexican officials state that the fee is intended to align cruise passenger charges with those already paid by air travelers, with a significant portion of the revenue earmarked to fund the nation’s military and infrastructure projects.

Pushback from Popular Destinations

Mexico’s announcement follows a global trend of destinations opposing cruise tourism due to over-tourism and environmental concerns. Greece has implemented a €20 tax for visitors to Santorini and Mykonos, two islands overwhelmed by cruise traffic. At the same time, Venice has diverted ships away from its iconic canals to protect fragile ecosystems. Juneau, Alaska, recently capped daily cruise ship arrivals to preserve its natural landscapes.

Cruisers' disappointment and frustration have been evident in cruising forums across the internet. Recently, while sailing, I asked a fellow cruiser, Jaxon, about his thoughts on the tax; he shared: “As someone who cruises to Mexico frequently, this new $42 tax feels like a slap in the face. With so many other beautiful and affordable destinations in the Caribbean, I’m seriously considering changing my itineraries in the future.”

A Shift Toward Private Destinations?

Amid this tightening regulatory environment, cruise lines may increasingly turn to cruise-line-owned ports as a solution. These exclusive destinations, such as Disney Cruise Line's Castaway Cay and Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay, allow companies to bypass many government-imposed fees while offering tailored experiences to their passengers. With Mexico’s new tax threatening its standing as a cruise hub, industry leaders are questioning whether private islands represent the future of cruising.

Jessica Allen, a frequent cruiser, is excited about the possibilities of more private destinations on cruise itineraries. She states, “I’ve always loved visiting the cruise line's private islands — they’re so relaxing, and everything feels designed to make your day effortless. With all these new taxes and restrictions in popular ports, I’m starting to appreciate private islands even more. They’re becoming the highlight of my itineraries!”

Cruise Line Private Destinations

1. Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line): Located in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay is Disney's 1,000-acre private island featuring family-friendly beaches, adult-only areas like Serenity Bay, and various recreational activities such as snorkeling and biking. The island is designed to immerse guests in Disney magic amidst a tropical paradise. I love visiting here; Disney has done a great job of bringing the Disney feel to a tropical location.
2. Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point (Disney Cruise Line): Situated on Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, Lookout Cay opened in 2024. Developed with an investment between $250 million and $400 million, it blends Bahamian culture with Disney's signature experiences, offering pristine beaches and cultural activities. I enjoyed my time on Lookout Cay. It's absolutely gorgeous, and I love the fact that parts of it are still untouched and natural.
3. Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean International): Formerly known as Little Stirrup Cay, this Bahamian island underwent a $250 million transformation. Perfect Day boasts North America's tallest waterslide, a massive wave pool, and the Oasis Lagoon — the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool — catering to thrill-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts.
4. Labadee (Royal Caribbean International): Located on Haiti's northern coast, Labadee offers five distinct beaches, a zip line over the ocean, and a water park. Royal Caribbean has leased this area since 1985, providing guests with adventure and relaxation.
5. Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island (Royal Caribbean International): Currently under construction near Nassau, Bahamas, this exclusive beach club will offer premium amenities and experiences, further expanding Royal Caribbean's private destination portfolio.
6. Half Moon Cay (Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line): Also known as Little San Salvador Island in the Bahamas, Half Moon Cay is celebrated for its unspoiled beauty, featuring white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. Guests can enjoy horseback riding along the shore and various water sports, although an excursion is unnecessary. In terms of beauty, Half Moon Cay stands above the rest. I’ll never pass up an itinerary featuring this destination.
7. Princess Cays (Princess Cruises): Situated on the southern tip of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, this 40-acre retreat offers snorkeling, kayaking, and private cabanas. It provides a serene escape with locally inspired cuisine and entertainment.
8. Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian Cruise Line): As the first cruise line private island, acquired in 1977, this Bahamian destination offers white-sand beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and various water sports, setting the standard for private island experiences.
9. Harvest Caye (Norwegian Cruise Line): Located in southern Belize, Harvest Caye features a large pool with a swim-up bar, a saltwater lagoon for water sports, and access to the Belize Barrier Reef. It emphasizes eco-tourism and adventure.
10. Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve (MSC Cruises): This Bahamian island focuses on environmental sustainability. It offers overwater cabanas, a spa, and marine excursions, allowing guests to connect with nature in a preserved setting.
11. Sir Bani Yas Island Beach Oasis (MSC Cruises): Situated off the coast of Abu Dhabi, UAE, this destination offers safari experiences, pristine beaches, and cultural tours, providing a unique blend of adventure and relaxation in the Middle East.
12. Bimini Beach Club (Virgin Voyages): Partnering with Resorts World Bimini in the Bahamas, Virgin Voyages offers an exclusive beach club experience featuring pools, private cabanas, and vibrant entertainment, reflecting the brand's chic and modern vibe. Bimini is a very small island with limited on-shore activities for cruisers. I’ve found that having the beach club to go to has been an excellent addition to itineraries stopping here.
13. Amber Cove (Carnival Corporation): Located near Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, this 25-acre port features a sprawling pool area with a swim-up bar, water slides, and shopping.

Are Private Islands The Future Of Cruising?

While private islands won't solve all the challenges the cruise industry faces, they offer an alternative to overcrowded ports and destinations fighting over tourism. For cruisers, these destinations provide convenience, exclusivity, and all-inclusive options.

However, for those who love exploring new cultures and experiencing local traditions, like myself, shifting toward private islands as the primary focus of cruising could mean missing out on the rich diversity that makes travel unique. Whether private destinations will dominate future itineraries or coexist with traditional ports remains to be seen.