Island you can only visit on cruises has perfect beaches and all-inclusive drinks

It's such a Perfect Day - spent on a private island in the Bahamas. For 24 hours CocoCay was all ours as we sailed in aboard the world's biggest cruise ship.

It's one of the many treats in store when you set sail aboard Star of the Seas. The owners, Royal Caribbean, bought the tiny tropical paradise in 1988 and have turned it into a magical destination for its passengers.

It contains miles of white, sandy beaches and attractions you'd find in the world's top resorts. And most of it is free - including food, drink and sun loungers - for passengers who pull up for the day. There's water slides, balloon rides and lots of nature to discover. But it was pure magic simply to relax on the silver sands of Hideaway Bay, sip a complimentary cocktail and take in the view.

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Royal Caribbean boss Jason Liberty said: "We are ultimately creating unforgettable memories for millions of families and holidaymakers."

It started when we woke at 7am to draw back the curtains and see the island standing like a jewel in the glistening ocean. After breakfast on board, we headed down the gangway towards the island's giant welcome signs proclaiming "Perfect Day at CocoCay".

We were greeted by staff who offered to take us to wherever we wished about a mini electric train. First stop was the Coco Beach Club which boasts a magnificent swimming pool, bars and wooden cabanas which were available for private hire.

While bathing in the clear, shallow water we came across a 4ft lemon shark. No need to panic, as the lifeguard assured us, as they are not considered dangerous to humans. Still, it set the heart pounding to see such a magnificent creature swimming so close in barely three feet of crystal clear water.

The great thing about visiting this island is that it's a home from home for cruisers. Just flash your passenger identity card and you get complimentary food, drinks, towels and sunbeds, so you can leave your cash and credit cards in the safe in the cabin.

Even the free wifi you get on board works on the island and is part of your package. I sampled a Bahama Mama cocktail, enjoyed a refreshing dip in the sparkling, turquoise water and felt relaxed with a capital R.

At 4.30, I made my way back to the ship to take a shower and freshen up for dinner and the evening of lavish entertainment on board. As I finished getting ready, I glanced out of the cabin window to see we were setting sail again and waved goodbye to the magic island. It truly had been a Perfect Day.

Do you have a cruise holiday story you want to share with us? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com.