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)
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.