More than 120 Loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings embarked on their first adventure when they dug out of their nest chamber and made their way to the ocean at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.  

As the first record of hatchlings on the island since Disney’s involvement, over 10 years ago, Castaway Cay Crew Members immediately took inventory when the nest was discovered and guarded it so the eggs could incubate undisturbed.  The crew members also assisted in the release once the eggs had hatched.  

“This is very significant because Loggerhead sea turtles are a threatened species, and their population has continued to decline over the past 10 years,” said Jane Davis, Disney Aquarium Curator.  “As a threatened species, it is very important for the hatchlings to successfully make it to the ocean.”  

As part of the hatching process, hatchlings dive into the ocean surf, riding the undertow out to sea, beginning a continuous “swim frenzy” that lasts between 24 to 48 hours.  

Once grown, the female sea turtles return to the same geographic area to lay their own eggs.  As a result, Castaway Cay could very well be home to new nests in the future.  

Overseeing the success of the sea turtle nest is only one step that Castaway Cay has taken to promote environmental conservation efforts.  Two marine biologists reside on the island and actively participate in ongoing marine conservation projects. Furthermore, by teaming with research biologists from Disney’s Animal Programs at Walt Disney World, Castaway Cay crew members have transplanted Long-Spine Sea Urchins in an attempt to keep reefs surrounding Castaway Cay healthy and productive.  

Crew members help to educate thousands of guests who visit the island on the importance of protecting the natural world of the ocean. Many of those guests respond by contributing to the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund, which works to support conservation efforts around the globe.  

“It's up to all of us to help educate our guests on the importance of protecting wildlife and wild places for years to come," said Allen Wilson, Disney Cruise Line Castaway Animal Manager.  "Every crew member on Castaway Cay is committed to ensuring that the natural beauty of the island remains a haven, not only for our guests, but also for the wildlife that call the Bahamas home."