Half Moon Cay has no cruise pier — all ships anchor offshore and tender passengers to the island marina.
💡 Pro move: A new pier for Carnival Excel-class ships is under construction on the island's north side, expected to open mid-2026. HAL guests will continue to tender.
Half Moon Cay is a tender-only port; ships anchor offshore and ferry guests to the island marina.
| Cruise Line | Typical Berth / Arrival | Dock or Tender |
|---|---|---|
| Holland America Line | South Arrival Plaza (Welcome Center)📍 | Tendered |
| Carnival Cruise Line | South Arrival Plaza (new north pier under construction for Excel-class)📍 | Tendered |
Excursions range from the island's famous horse-swim to stingray encounters and eco-kayak lagoon tours — book early through your cruise line as popular ones sell out.
Half Moon Cay's signature experience: ride horses through the island's trails, then guide them into the turquoise ocean for a swim alongside you. One of the best excursions in the Caribbean.
Find horseback riding tours →Wade into Stingray Cove to feed, touch, and snorkel alongside southern stingrays in a calm, shallow setting. Great for all ages.
Find stingray tours →A guided kayak through the island's saltwater interior lagoon — mangroves, nesting seabirds, and remarkably clear water. 98% of the island is nature reserve.
Find kayak tours →Guided jet ski tour around the island's coastline — open ocean, clear water, and dramatic views of the ship at anchor.
Find jet ski tours →Private cabanas include AC, fridge, snorkel gear, and snacks. Two-story villas add a hot tub and upper deck. The Private Oasis (12 guests) includes a private chef and water slide.
Book a cabana or villa →The island is compact and mostly flat — the beach walk is the main route, with a free tram for those who'd rather not walk.
Walk the full length of the crescent beach from the Welcome Plaza toward the far quiet end. The first 5 minutes are crowded — keep walking for empty loungers, calm water, and far fewer people. The sand stays cool even in full sun.
🗺️ See full route in Maps →Paved and dirt trails wind through the protected nature reserve toward the inner saltwater lagoon. Look for nesting seabirds in the wild bird sanctuary — over 98% of the island is undeveloped.
📍 Open in MapsClimate normals for Half Moon Cay, Bahamas (2014–2023 averages). Pack for the month you sail — highs, lows, and how many rainy days to expect.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainy Days | Sunrise | Sunset |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 79°F / 26°C | 76°F / 24°C | 17 | 6:51 AM | 5:38 PM |
| Feb | 80°F / 27°C | 77°F / 25°C | 8 | 6:39 AM | 5:59 PM |
| Mar | 80°F / 27°C | 78°F / 26°C | 7 | 7:14 AM | 7:14 PM |
| Apr | 82°F / 28°C | 80°F / 27°C | 5 | 6:43 AM | 7:27 PM |
| May | 83°F / 28°C | 81°F / 27°C | 9 | 6:21 AM | 7:42 PM |
| Jun | 84°F / 29°C | 81°F / 27°C | 16 | 6:16 AM | 7:55 PM |
| Jul | 84°F / 29°C | 81°F / 27°C | 17 | 6:25 AM | 7:56 PM |
| Aug | 84°F / 29°C | 81°F / 27°C | 19 | 6:39 AM | 7:38 PM |
| Sep | 85°F / 29°C | 81°F / 27°C | 22 | 6:51 AM | 7:08 PM |
| Oct | 84°F / 29°C | 80°F / 27°C | 23 | 7:03 AM | 6:37 PM |
| Nov | 82°F / 28°C | 78°F / 26°C | 21 | 6:21 AM | 5:17 PM |
| Dec | 81°F / 27°C | 77°F / 25°C | 18 | 6:42 AM | 5:18 PM |
Source: Open-Meteo ERA5 (10-yr daily averages)
Transport options from the pier — taxis, shuttles, transit passes, and whether ride-share apps work here.
Ships anchor offshore and passengers are ferried to the island by complimentary tender boats. No charge — just join the tender queue.
A complimentary tram runs continuously from the Welcome Center Marina along the beach to key areas of the island. Easiest way to get around without walking.
The developed portion of the island is compact and walkable. Most beach areas, the food pavilion, and activity zones are reachable on foot.
Bike rentals are available on the island for exploring further along the beach and quieter areas. Book via the cruise line shore excursions desk.
The Island Tram Calypso Tour is a guided ~45-minute tour of the island. Book in advance through Carnival or Holland America Line.
Upcoming cruises that call at Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. Dates, prices, and ports of call change — always confirm with the cruise line before booking.
Itineraries and prices change — always confirm with the cruise line before booking. Some links are affiliate links that may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.