Every island on Private Island Insider gets an Editor's Score from 0 to 5. Here's exactly what that number means — and, just as importantly, what it isn't.
We weigh five things, then translate them into a single 0–5 number so islands are easy to compare at a glance:
Sand quality, swimming conditions, space and how the beaches handle a full ship.
Whether the ship docks or tenders, walking distances, shade and stroller/mobility friendliness.
Breadth and quality of activities — from free beaches to waterparks, snorkeling and wellness.
How much you get without paying extra, and whether the paid add-ons are worth it.
The overall vibe and how well the island absorbs crowds at peak times.
| # | Island | Cruise line | Editor's Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Castaway Cay | Disney Cruise Line | 4.8 |
| 2 | Half Moon Cay | Holland America & Carnival | 4.8 |
| 3 | Ocean Cay | MSC Cruises | 4.7 |
| 4 | Lookout Cay | Disney Cruise Line | 4.7 |
| 5 | Perfect Day at CocoCay | Royal Caribbean | 4.6 |
| 6 | Celebration Key | Carnival Cruise Line | 4.5 |
| 7 | Harvest Caye | Norwegian Cruise Line | 4.4 |
| 8 | Great Stirrup Cay | Norwegian Cruise Line | 4.3 |
| 9 | Labadee | Royal Caribbean | 4.2 |
| 10 | Princess Cays | Princess Cruises | 4.1 |
Islands change — new ships dock, attractions open, pricing shifts. We date every guide and revise scores as the facts change. Spotted something out of date or been to an island yourself? Email us — reader input genuinely improves these guides.