Does Disney Cruise Line Go to Little St James Island Find Out Here

No, Disney Cruise Line does not visit Little St. James Island—the private island is owned by billionaire Larry Ellison and is not a port of call for any major cruise line, including Disney. Disney Cruise Line focuses on exclusive destinations like Castaway Cay and Lighthouse Point, offering family-friendly experiences instead of ultra-private, restricted-access islands like Little St. James.

Key Takeaways

• No direct visits: Disney Cruise Line does not stop at Little St James Island.
• Private island focus: Disney prefers its exclusive destinations like Castaway Cay.
• Limited access: Little St James is privately owned and rarely open to cruise lines.
• Check itineraries: Always review Disney Cruise Line’s official route maps for updates.
• Alternatives available: Explore St. Thomas or other Caribbean ports nearby.

Does Disney Cruise Line Go to Little St James Island? Find Out Here

If you’re a Disney enthusiast with a passion for tropical getaways, you’ve likely imagined a cruise where Mickey Mouse greets you on a white-sand beach, and Goofy leads a snorkeling tour. Disney Cruise Line is renowned for its family-friendly itineraries, magical onboard experiences, and exclusive destinations. But what about the more secluded, luxurious, and lesser-known islands—specifically, Little St. James Island in the U.S. Virgin Islands? This private island, nestled in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, has piqued the curiosity of many travelers. With its pristine beaches, celebrity connections, and reputation for exclusivity, it’s a dream destination for some. But does Disney Cruise Line sail there?

The short answer is: not directly. However, the story behind Disney’s island destinations, their strategic port choices, and the unique appeal of Little St. James Island is far more nuanced. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether Disney Cruise Line visits Little St. James Island, what alternatives exist, how Disney’s private island model compares, and what you can expect if you’re hoping to combine Disney magic with a stop at this exclusive Caribbean gem. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a romantic escape, this post will equip you with the insights you need to make an informed decision about your next cruise adventure.

Understanding Little St. James Island: The Ultimate Private Paradise

A Brief History of Little St. James Island

Little St. James Island, also known as “Little St. Jim” or “Hilton Head” in the 1980s, is a 175-acre private island located approximately 1.5 miles off the southeastern coast of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Historically, the island was used for cattle grazing and coconut farming. In the 1960s, it was purchased by the Hilton family and transformed into a luxury resort. Over the decades, it changed hands multiple times, eventually being acquired in 2017 by billionaire Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle Corporation.

Under Ellison’s ownership, the island underwent a massive transformation. He built a state-of-the-art wellness and medical research center, the Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine, alongside a private estate, helipad, and eco-friendly infrastructure. The island now serves as both a personal retreat and a hub for health innovation. Its remote location, lack of public access, and high-profile ownership make it one of the most exclusive private islands in the Caribbean.

Why Is Little St. James So Exclusive?

What sets Little St. James apart from other Caribbean islands is its complete lack of public infrastructure. There are no hotels, no restaurants, no shops, and no public beaches. Access is strictly controlled and typically limited to:

• Private guests of the owner (Larry Ellison)
• Researchers and staff affiliated with the Ellison Institute
• High-profile visitors by special invitation

Even yacht owners must request permission to anchor nearby, and drone usage is heavily restricted. This level of privacy and exclusivity is rare in the Caribbean, where most islands have at least some form of tourism infrastructure. The island’s appeal lies not just in its natural beauty—crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and lush vegetation—but in the mystery and prestige surrounding it.

Could a Cruise Line Ever Visit?

Given its private status, it’s highly unlikely that any commercial cruise line—Disney or otherwise—would be granted docking rights or shore excursion access to Little St. James. The island lacks the facilities to handle hundreds or thousands of cruise passengers, and its owner has shown no interest in commercial tourism. In fact, Ellison has been known to restrict airspace and water access to maintain privacy. This means that even if a cruise ship were to sail close by, passengers would not be allowed to disembark or participate in organized tours.

Disney Cruise Line’s Private Island Strategy: Castaway Cay

What Is Castaway Cay?

Disney Cruise Line’s flagship private island is Castaway Cay, located in the Bahamas. Acquired in 1996 and opened to guests in 1998, Castaway Cay is a 1,000-acre island in the Abaco Islands chain. Unlike Little St. James, Castaway Cay was specifically designed for cruise tourism. Disney invested over $250 million to transform it into a fully operational, family-friendly destination with:

• Beaches for kids, adults, and families
• Snorkeling trails and water sports
• Character meet-and-greets (Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy)
• BBQ restaurants and open-air bars
• Nature trails and bike rentals
• Private cabanas and a teen-only beach

Castaway Cay is a core part of Disney Cruise Line’s itinerary. Most Bahamian and Caribbean cruises include a stop here, making it one of the most visited private islands by cruise passengers—over 1 million guests annually pre-pandemic.

Why Disney Chose the Bahamas Over the U.S. Virgin Islands

Disney’s decision to focus on the Bahamas rather than the U.S. Virgin Islands (where Little St. James is located) was strategic:

• Proximity to Florida: Disney Cruise Line’s primary homeports (Port Canaveral, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale) are much closer to the Bahamas, reducing sailing time and fuel costs.
• Ease of Development: The Bahamian government welcomed Disney’s investment and provided the infrastructure needed for cruise operations, including docking piers, customs facilities, and waste management.
• Regulatory Simplicity: As a U.S. territory, the Bahamas offers a stable legal and tax environment for American companies.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The Bahamas has a long history of tourism, making it easier to train staff and ensure safety and service standards.

In contrast, the U.S. Virgin Islands, while beautiful, have more complex logistical challenges. Many islands lack deep-water ports suitable for large cruise ships, and the region is more prone to hurricanes. Additionally, Disney likely wanted to avoid competition with existing resorts and maintain full control over the guest experience—something easier to achieve in a less-developed area like the Abacos.

Could Disney Ever Develop a New Private Island in the U.S. Virgin Islands?

While not impossible, it’s highly improbable that Disney would acquire or develop a private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands to compete with Castaway Cay. The company has invested heavily in Castaway Cay, including a $250 million expansion in 2015 to add a new pier, expanded beaches, and a family water play area. Disney also operates a second private destination: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, a 700-acre site on Eleuthera, Bahamas, set to open in summer 2024.

Given these existing assets, Disney’s focus remains on the Bahamas. Acquiring land in the U.S. Virgin Islands would require navigating complex local regulations, environmental protections, and community concerns. Moreover, the region’s smaller size and higher population density make it less suitable for the large-scale development Disney requires.

Disney Cruise Line Itineraries: Where Do They Actually Sail?

Current Caribbean Routes and Ports

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of Caribbean itineraries, ranging from 3-night Bahamas cruises to 10-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages. Here are some of the most common ports of call:

Port of Call	Country/Territory	Typical Activities	Distance from Little St. James
St. Thomas	U.S. Virgin Islands	Magens Bay, shopping, snorkeling, island tours	1.5 miles (by water)
St. Maarten	Caribbean (Fr./Dutch)	Beaches, casinos, Philipsburg, water sports	100 miles
Grand Cayman	Cayman Islands	Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City, diving	1,200 miles
Jamaica	Jamaica	Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River Falls, zip-lining	1,400 miles
Castaway Cay	Bahamas	Disney-themed beach day, snorkeling, character visits	1,000 miles

As you can see, St. Thomas is the closest major port to Little St. James Island. Disney Cruise Line frequently stops here on Eastern Caribbean itineraries. However, while the ship docks at the Crown Bay or Havensight piers, passengers are not taken to Little St. James. Instead, they enjoy shore excursions to Magens Bay, Coral World Ocean Park, or the island’s historic sites.

Can You See Little St. James from St. Thomas?

Yes—on a clear day, you can see Little St. James Island from the southeastern shore of St. Thomas, particularly from areas like Sapphire Beach or Secret Harbour. From the cruise port, it appears as a small green dot on the horizon, about 1.5 nautical miles away. Some passengers report spotting the island during scenic sailaways or from the ship’s deck. However, no official Disney excursion includes a visit or even a close-up boat tour to the island.

That said, you can arrange a private charter from St. Thomas to sail near the island. Several local operators offer catamaran or powerboat tours that circle Little St. James, offering views of the coastline, Ellison’s estate, and the surrounding reefs. These are not affiliated with Disney, but they can be booked independently during your port day. Tip: Book in advance and confirm that the tour includes a stop near the island—some operators only pass by at a distance.

What Disney Shore Excursions Are Available in St. Thomas?

Disney Cruise Line offers a curated selection of shore excursions in St. Thomas, all designed to be family-friendly and safe. Popular options include:

• Magens Bay Beach & Snorkel: A 4-hour beach day with snorkeling gear, beach chairs, and a light lunch. Magens Bay is consistently ranked one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
• St. Thomas Island Tour: A guided bus tour covering historic sites like Blackbeard’s Castle, Skyline Drive, and the 99 Steps.
• Coral World Ocean Park: An interactive marine park with touch tanks, a shark exhibit, and a semi-submarine ride.
• Shopping in Charlotte Amalie: A walking tour of the capital city’s duty-free shops, perfect for souvenirs and luxury goods.

None of these excursions include or even mention Little St. James Island. Disney prioritizes experiences that are accessible, safe, and scalable for large groups—something a private island simply cannot offer.

Alternatives to Little St. James: Disney’s Best Private & Nearby Experiences

Castaway Cay: The Gold Standard for Disney Private Islands

If you’re looking for a truly exclusive Disney island experience, Castaway Cay is your best bet. Unlike Little St. James, it was built from the ground up for cruise guests. Highlights include:

• Family Beach: Shallow, calm waters perfect for young kids.
• Serenity Bay: An adults-only beach with cabanas and a bar.
• Castaway Air Trail: A ropes course and zip line for older kids and teens.
• Disney Characters: Daily appearances with photo ops.
• Private Cabanas: Bookable for up to 6 guests with butler service (extra cost).

Castaway Cay also offers behind-the-scenes tours and special dining experiences, making it more than just a beach day. It’s a fully immersive Disney environment.

Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point (Opening 2024)

Disney’s newest private destination, Lookout Cay, is set to redefine the cruise island experience. Located on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, it will feature:

• Over 700 acres of pristine land and beaches
• Eco-friendly design with solar power and water conservation
• A new pier to accommodate Disney’s largest ships
• Cultural experiences highlighting Bahamian heritage
• Expanded cabanas and family zones

While not as remote as Little St. James, Lookout Cay offers a more authentic Caribbean experience with a strong focus on sustainability and local culture. It’s Disney’s answer to travelers seeking something beyond the typical resort vibe.

Private Charters Near Little St. James (For the Adventurous)

If you’re determined to get close to Little St. James, consider booking a private boat charter during your St. Thomas stop. Companies like Island Time Charters, Blue Tang Yacht Charters, and Caribbean Sea Adventures offer 3- to 6-hour tours that include:

• Snorkeling at nearby reefs (e.g., Flat Cay)
• Circling Little St. James for photos
• Visiting nearby cays like Buck Island or Water Island
• Onboard snacks and drinks (some include rum punch!)

Tip: Prices range from $800 to $2,000 depending on boat size and duration. Book through the cruise line’s Port Adventures portal or directly with a licensed operator. Always confirm that the captain is experienced and the boat is insured.

Why Disney Won’t (and Shouldn’t) Visit Little St. James Island

Logistical and Operational Challenges

Even if Disney wanted to visit Little St. James, the island lacks the infrastructure to support a cruise ship. There is:

• No deep-water dock or tender landing zone
• No customs or immigration facilities
• No waste or water management systems for 2,500+ passengers
• No emergency medical or evacuation services

Disney Cruise Line ships are among the largest in the fleet (e.g., the Disney Wish carries over 4,000 guests). Docking at a port without proper facilities would be unsafe and impractical.

Brand and Experience Alignment

Disney’s brand is built on family-friendly, inclusive, and magical experiences. Little St. James, by contrast, is a symbol of exclusivity, privacy, and wealth. These values are at odds with Disney’s mission to create accessible fun for all ages and budgets. Bringing thousands of families to a billionaire’s private island would undermine both the island’s mystique and Disney’s brand identity.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Larry Ellison has invested heavily in making Little St. James a model of sustainable development, including solar power, water recycling, and coral reef restoration. Introducing mass tourism could damage the delicate ecosystem. Disney, which has its own environmental initiatives (e.g., reducing plastic, protecting marine life), would likely avoid any destination that risks ecological harm.

Conclusion: The Magic Lies Elsewhere

So, does Disney Cruise Line go to Little St. James Island? No—and it likely never will. The island’s private status, lack of infrastructure, and owner’s strict privacy policies make it inaccessible to commercial cruise lines. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on a magical island experience.

Disney Cruise Line offers its own world-class private destinations—Castaway Cay and the upcoming Lookout Cay—that deliver the same sense of wonder, exclusivity, and family fun, all within a safe, accessible, and fully supported environment. For those who dream of seeing Little St. James, a private charter from St. Thomas can offer a tantalizing glimpse from afar—without compromising your Disney vacation.

The key is to redefine what “exclusive” means. For Disney, it’s not about billionaire estates or private helipads—it’s about creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones, where every detail is designed to spark joy. Whether you’re snorkeling with Goofy or watching the sunset from Serenity Bay, the real magic isn’t on the island you visit—it’s in the experience you share.

So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to set sail. The Caribbean is full of wonders—and Disney Cruise Line will take you to the ones that matter most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Disney Cruise Line go to Little St James Island?

No, Disney Cruise Line does not currently sail to Little St James Island. The cruise line focuses on destinations like the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Alaska, with private island experiences at Castaway Cay.

Is Little St James Island a Disney Cruise Line destination?

Little St James Island is not part of Disney Cruise Line’s itineraries. The island, privately owned by Larry Ellison, is not open to commercial cruise lines or public tourism.

Why doesn’t Disney Cruise Line visit Little St James Island?

Little St James Island is a private, exclusive retreat with no infrastructure for large cruise ships. Disney Cruise Line prioritizes accessible ports and family-friendly destinations like its own Castaway Cay.

Are there any Disney cruises that stop near Little St James Island?

Disney Cruise Line’s Eastern Caribbean itineraries may pass near the U.S. Virgin Islands, but they don’t dock at Little St James Island. St. Thomas (nearby) is a more common port of call.

What private islands does Disney Cruise Line visit instead?

Disney Cruise Line offers exclusive access to Castaway Cay in the Bahamas, featuring beaches, water activities, and Disney-themed amenities tailored for families.

Will Disney Cruise Line add Little St James Island to future routes?

There are no plans to include Little St James Island in Disney Cruise Line itineraries. The island’s private status and lack of tourism infrastructure make it unlikely for commercial cruise access.