Carnival Opens Celebration Key, Unveils $600M Bahamian Cruise Destination

Carnival Cruise Line has officially opened its highly anticipated 65-acre private destination, Celebration Key, on the south side of Grand Bahama Island. The grand opening took place on July 19, 2025, when Carnival Vista made the inaugural call. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Carnival President Christine Duffy, joined by Carnival Corporation CEO Josh Weinstein and Chief Fun Officer Shaquille ONeal. In the days following, additional ships arrived, including Carnival Glory and Carnival Conquest in a first two-ship call on July 22.

Grand Opening and Investment

Described by the cruise line as its largest single-port development to date, Celebration Key represents an initial $600 million investment, with more enhancements planned in a second phase. The cruise line expects more than two million visitors annually in the early years and aims to grow that number to four million by 2028. Carnival executives highlight this as the first major development on Grand Bahama in decades, emphasizing the local employment and economic opportunities created. According to Carnival, hundreds of sustained local jobs are directly tied to the project, with additional support for small businesses, artisans, and cultural initiatives.

“Opening this new exclusive destination marks an extraordinary milestone for Carnival as we open the first phase of our initial $600 million investment, with more to come,” said Christine Duffy, President, Carnival Cruise Line. “Celebration Key is more than just a beautiful place; it’s a celebration of the Bahamian paradise our guests love, complemented by an impressive variety of incredible new experiences and offerings.”

Key Features and Themed Areas

Celebration Key is organized into five themed “portals” designed to cater to different guest experiences, along with a signature architectural centerpiece known as the Suncastle:

• Paradise Plaza: The main arrival hub located just beyond the Sun Portal arch, featuring live music and guest services.
• Suncastle: A striking 10-story structure that Carnival touts as the world’s tallest sandcastle and a visual icon at the destination. Two 350-foot racing water slides intertwine around it.
• Calypso Lagoon: An adults-focused zone centered on a lively social atmosphere and home to the world’s largest swim-up bar, with 166 in-water seats. Mingos Tropical Bar & Kitchen serves Bahamian cuisine, and DJ Island offers music for guests.
• Starfish Lagoon: A family-focused area with toddler-friendly splash pads (Guppy Grotto), gently flowing freshwater for calm swimming, and AquaBanas floating cabanas.
• Pearl Cove Beach Club: A premium, adults-only retreat with an 11,000-square-foot infinity pool, private beach access, and an elevated dining experience.
• Lokono Cove: A dedicated space showcasing Bahamian artisans, culture, and live entertainment through a craft market setting.

Premium Spaces and Private Rentals

Guests have access to a range of private or premium experiences across the destination. Over-the-Lagoon Super Villas at Calypso and Starfish Lagoons offer space for up to 10 guests, with shaded seating, stocked mini-fridges, hammocks, swing chairs, lunch delivery, and private water slides. Beach Super Villas provide similarly upscale amenities at dedicated family and adults-only beach zones. Families may also reserve AquaBanas, floating cabanas with shaded seating for eight people.

Dining and On-Island Logistics

Celebration Key features more than 30 food and beverage outlets, with both complimentary and à la carte options. One included meal per guest is available at specific venues offering casual dishes such as burgers and shawarma, with vegetarian and vegan choices on the menu. Upscale outlets, like Gills Grill, specialize in seafood, while unique bar experiences, such as a swim-up bar and swing seating over the water, are located throughout the property.

The destination operates on a cashless model, where transactions must be made with a cruise Sail & Sign account or credit card. Carnival’s onboard beverage packages do not apply ashore. The pier allows ships to dock directly, removing any need for tendering. For those needing assistance, ADA-accessible carts and trams are available, and personal mobility scooters can be used up to the main entrance.

Scaling Up and Future Plans

Carnival is actively deploying up to 20 ships from 10 U.S. homeports to include Celebration Key in their sailings. The current pier can host two large ships simultaneously, and a planned expansion in 2026 will increase berthing capacity to four vessels, including the line’s Excel-class ships. According to Carnival, phase two also includes widening the pier and adding further guest amenities. The company intends for Celebration Key to anchor its Paradise Collection, alongside Isla Tropicale in Honduras and RelaxAway at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, both slated for 2026 enhancements.

In remarks at the opening festivities, Carnival executives underscored their commitment to partnering with local communities on Grand Bahama. The cruise line cites cultural programming at Lokono Cove as a key element of its strategy to authentically integrate Bahamian heritage into the visitor experience. Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation, also noted the long-term collaboration with the island’s government, emphasizing sustainable growth and recurring guest demand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When did Celebration Key open and which ship arrived first?

Celebration Key opened on July 19, 2025, when Carnival Vista made the inaugural call during a morning ceremony led by Carnival President Christine Duffy and CEO Josh Weinstein.

What makes Celebration Key unique compared to other cruise line destinations?

Celebration Key offers a 10-story Suncastle at its center, multiple expansive freshwater lagoons, and the world’s largest swim-up bar. These elements combine large-scale entertainment with laid-back beach and lagoon experiences.

Is Celebration Key accessible to all guests?

Yes. Ships dock at a pier without tendering, and ADA-accessible transportation, such as carts and trams, is available for those requiring mobility assistance. Personal mobility scooters are also permitted in designated areas.

How many ships can Celebration Key accommodate, and what is planned for 2026?

The pier currently hosts two large ships. A planned expansion in 2026 will allow up to four vessels to dock simultaneously, including Excel-class ships, as part of Carnival’s larger investment in the destination.

Do onboard beverage packages apply while ashore?

No. Carnival’s beverage packages may not be used at Celebration Key. Transactions on the island are cashless, requiring a Sail & Sign card or credit card.