Carnival Cruise Line is making waves in the Caribbean once again with the grand opening of its newest private island destination—Celebration Key. Located on the island of Grand Bahama, this purpose-built port destination represents not just a fresh holiday hotspot for cruisers, but a meaningful development milestone for the local Bahamian community. Designed to welcome millions of guests annually, Celebration Key seamlessly combines play, relaxation, and culture in one beautifully engineered destination.
The unveiling of Carnival’s Celebration Key marks a new era of tourism development in Grand Bahama.
It’s been over 20 years since Grand Bahama has seen a project of this magnitude. Carnival’s investment in Celebration Key brings long-awaited infrastructure and tourism upgrades to the island. This destination, built from the ground up, was crafted to accommodate both fun-seeking cruisers and to uplift the island’s economic future.
To commemorate the achievement, Carnival hosted a special preview event attended by government officials, local leaders, and Grand Bahama residents. The event included a first-look tour of Celebration Key’s major attractions and an opportunity for guests to experience some of its signature features firsthand.
Perhaps the most remarkable part of Celebration Key is the hands that built it. Hundreds of Bahamians were involved in the construction of the island’s facilities, and the project is set to provide sustainable employment and long-term partnerships. This is a destination crafted with pride—by locals, for the world.
Celebration Key isn’t your average private island—it’s an immersive, multi-zoned experience designed for varied tastes and travel styles.
Towering at the centre of the island is the eye-catching Suncastle, which serves as a beacon of fun and adventure. Its racing waterslides provide exhilarating thrills and panoramic views, making it an instant favourite for adrenaline-seeking travellers of all ages.
Craving a peaceful escape? Head to Pearl Cove Beach Club—an adults-only sanctuary with sun lounges, shaded cabanas, and handcrafted cocktails at the ready. It’s the perfect spot for couples or solo travellers looking to unwind under swaying palms.
Designed to delight families, Starfish Lagoon features interactive play zones, beach activities, and gentle waters perfect for young swimmers. Parents can rest easy knowing there’s space for everyone to enjoy their version of a perfect day.
Celebration Key isn’t just a scenic beach—it’s a technological and recreational marvel.
One of the standout features of Celebration Key is its massive freshwater lagoons—the largest in the entire Caribbean. These lagoons offer plenty of space for swimming, paddling, or simply lounging in the sun, redefining what it means to enjoy a beach day.
Carnival Vista is leading the way with the first official call to Celebration Key. The island’s thoughtful layout ensures that embarkation, shore excursions, and leisure transitions are smooth and stress-free, allowing more time to explore and enjoy.
While creating this destination, Carnival has worked to prioritise environmental considerations. While details are still emerging, early signs point to thoughtful development practices and a continued commitment to low-impact tourism.
Celebration Key offers a fresh way to discover the vibrancy of the Bahamas—one that goes far beyond the typical tourist trail.
Private island experiences have become a hallmark of premium cruise lines, but Celebration Key elevates the concept. With larger zones, more immersive infrastructure, and five unique experience areas, it’s a game changer in Caribbean cruising.
Beyond its beaches and lagoons, the destination promises to showcase Bahamian culture through food, music, art, and locally inspired design. This emphasis on authenticity helps Celebration Key feel rooted in place, not detached from it.
Carnival Vista’s inaugural call to Celebration Key sets the tone for future visits. As more ships begin to incorporate this destination into their itineraries, the story of Celebration Key will continue to unfold with each new guest.
With Carnival’s new destination now officially launched, it’s the ideal time to explore Caribbean itineraries that include this show-stopping port of call. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a cultural immersion, Celebration Key provides the perfect setting.
Curious about which cruises are heading to this sun-soaked retreat? Check out our Cruise Finder to discover ships, sail dates, and pricing that fit your travel plans.
Celebration Key is more than just a private island—it’s a symbol of renewal, connection, and the boundless fun Carnival Cruise Line is known for. With everything from record-breaking lagoons to cultural authenticity, this destination is poised to be a guest favourite for years to come. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this vibrant escape. Start planning your trip by reaching out to us today.