Info on Half Moon Cay...

[whalers4ever]

Sailing the Westerdam 1/4-1/9 with a stop at HMC. Is there enough to do if you just get off the ship? :confused: Some of the excursions we are looking are already full.

Also, is it worth getting a cabana?

Thank in advance for your input!:p

[shipcafe]

In my opinion it is truly worth it to go ashore. I enjoyed just watching others enjoy things like the beach horseback riding, etc. It was just the neatest thing to see the horses playing in the water, etc. Of all of the cruise line private islands I've been to (NCL, RCI), HAL's HMC is the BEST by far. It was before and now with the enhancements, that much better ...

Steve

[UA835]

whalers4ever ... the wife and I stopped at HMC on the Volendam last year, and did not do any shore excursions. We were perfectly fine just walking on the beach, swimming, resting in hammocks, and eating lunch (don't expect much from lunch.) We did not rent a cabana, but found you could get away from the crowds by walking a little further down the beach, and taking advantage of some lounge chairs and tree shade.

Don't forget your camera! HMC is ideal for taking pictures of the ship(s) from a distance against the ultra-blue sea, without any distractions. My wife and I enjoy these pictures more than many others taken on our trip.

Enjoy!

[whalers4ever]

Thanks to both of you! I really didn't want to stay on the ship and my husband is not much of a beach goer. I just hope the weather holds up for us!

[Toad]

BIG TIME DITTOS TO UA! Have been to HMC many times and never done an excursion. If you like to walk, swim or snorkel on your own, you will be fine. There are lots of places to get out of the sun(I am very fair) but still lots of places to just wade in the water etc. A very relaxing day!

[Krazy Kruizers]

Whenever possible we always go ashore in HMC. Find a quite bar along the beach - enjoy the sun, beach, water, and a couple of drinks.

[sheephugs]

HMC is the only destination we don't do excursions. We have our own snorkel equipment and spend hours snorkeling over the artificial reefs and out by the rocks. It is truly a day in paradise!

[localady]

Half Moon Cay, in my opinion is the best reason to take a Caribbean cruise. The beach is heaven on earth for sure and you can do as little as you want and still enjoy the day! I would recommend a cabana if you are travelling with folks that need to stay out of the sun, or if you just want to be spoiled a bit. Our cabana boy, Randy, was fabulous, and we had a lovely day on the island last week. Even if your husband stays aboard, I recommend you take the tender and visit!:cool:

[doone]

I think, HMC is the highlight of any Holland America caribbean cruise. Yes, please at least get off the ship and enjoy this beautiful island. I don't think you will be sorry.