Carnival expands Caribbean cruises and private islands

Carnival Cruise Line has exciting plans lined up for 2026 and 2027, introducing new Caribbean itineraries from popular U.S. ports. They will also enhance their private island destination, Half Moon Cay, located in the Bahamas.

Travelers can look forward to embarking from Miami, Port Canaveral, Galveston, and Baltimore, with a range of voyages spanning 6 to 14 days. Notably, the new Carnival Journeys itineraries are included in this offering.

The itineraries are open for booking and promise calls to both Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key. The latter is set to launch as a new private destination on Grand Bahama Island by summer 2025.

Significantly, Carnival Cruise Line's Excel-class ships, including Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee, are slated to make their debut at Half Moon Cay following major upgrades to the island. Collectively, these ships can accommodate nearly 20,000 passengers.

Improvements on Half Moon Cay include expanding the beach area, adding more dining and beverage options, and constructing a new pier to facilitate easier access for guests.

Carnival Celebration will operate from Miami and include stops at Celebration Key on voyages lasting until spring 2027. These cruises will range from seven-day Eastern to Western Caribbean routes, featuring exotic ports such as Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Mahogany Bay, and Cozumel.

In a parallel endeavor, Mardi Gras, alongside the 5,200-guest Carnival Venezia, will be stationed at Port Canaveral. Passengers aboard these vessels will enjoy seven-day cruises across the Caribbean, with both Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay included in the itineraries.

Carnival Venezia, branded as one of Carnival's “Carnival Fun Italian Style” ships, will also host 14-day itineraries, providing guests with an extended cruising experience.

From Galveston, the newest ship, Carnival Jubilee, along with Carnival Dream and Carnival Breeze—each holding around 3,600 guests—will embark on various cruises. Starting September 2026, Carnival Jubilee's 6- and 8-day cruises will cover the Western Caribbean and the Bahamas, with longer routes visiting Nassau, Half Moon Cay, and Celebration Key.

Meanwhile, Carnival Dream will offer six to eight-day cruises to both Eastern and Western Caribbean destinations, frequently stopping at Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay. Notably, the ship will also provide 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises exploring the Eastern and Southern Caribbean.

Carnival Breeze will target Western Caribbean destinations in Mexico, featuring 4-day trips to Cozumel and 5-day cruises that extend to Progreso. An 8-day itinerary will take cruisers further afield, including stops at Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, and Costa Maya.

Cruisers departing from Baltimore will have the chance to board Carnival Pride, which will sail 7-day journeys to the Bahamas. These adventures will also feature stops at either Half Moon Cay, Celebration Key, or Princess Cays, along with Bermuda cruises that include an overnight stay.

There will also be exclusive 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises offered, with two trips to the Caribbean and one to Greenland and Canada, further diversifying travel options for guests.

Carnival Cruise Line has highlighted the appeal of its private destinations, identifying them as favorites among guests due to their exclusive nature and lively atmosphere. Celebration Key, in particular, is expected to become a must-visit port for many cruisers, featuring five distinct themed areas.

Details about Celebration Key have been revealed gradually, including the announcement of a premium adults-only area named Pearl Cove Beach Club. This exclusive section will cater to guests aged 18 and over, providing a serene environment away from family-oriented activities.

The centerpiece of the Pearl Cove Beach Club will be an impressive infinity pool spanning 11,000 square feet, complete with a swim-up bar and water loungers for ultimate relaxation. However, as this is a premium space, entry will require a fee, starting at $99.99 per person for the day.

The strategic expansion of offerings by Carnival Cruise Line signals their commitment to providing memorable experiences for cruisers. With exciting new itineraries, enhancements to existing destinations, and the introduction of innovative facilities, Carnival aims to cater to a variety of preferences and interests.

In summary, Carnival Cruise Line is not only expanding its routes and offerings but is also enhancing the overall experience for their guests. With their focus on private destinations, coupled with the launch of new ships, they are set to maintain their status as a key player in the cruise industry.

Conclusion

Carnival Cruise Line continues to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the cruise industry. Their ambitious plans for 2026 and 2027, as well as the improvements to destinations like Half Moon Cay, reflect a commitment to providing memorable and enjoyable experiences for their guests.

FAQs

1. What is Carnival Cruise Line's new private destination?

Carnival Cruise Line's new private destination is called Celebration Key, which will be located on Grand Bahama Island and is set to premiere in summer 2025.

2. What types of itineraries will Carnival offer from U.S. ports?

Carnival will offer a range of itineraries from various U.S. ports, including 6- to 14-day voyages with stops at Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key.

3. How many guests can Carnival's Excel-class ships accommodate?

Carnival's Excel-class ships, such as Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee, can accommodate up to approximately 6,500 guests each.

4. What are some features of the Pearl Cove Beach Club?

The Pearl Cove Beach Club will be an adults-only area featuring an infinity pool, swim-up bar, and lounge areas, with entry fees starting at $99.99 per person.

5. When will the Carnival Jubilee begin its voyages?

The Carnival Jubilee will commence operations in September 2026, offering cruises to various destinations, including the Western Caribbean and the Bahamas.