Carnival Cruise Line Inaugurates Celebration Key
Carnival Cruise Line has taken a remarkable step in the world of luxury cruising with the unveiling of Celebration Key, its new and spectacular exclusive destination located on Grand Bahama Island in The Bahamas.
This $600 million investment marks a major turning point for the company and promises to revolutionize the vacation experience for its guests with a unique offering that combines relaxation, entertainment, and local culture in a truly breathtaking setting.
The official debut of Celebration Key took place on Saturday, July 20, 2025, with the inaugural visit of the Carnival Vista, which brought nearly 5,000 guests eager to explore every corner of this new Caribbean gem. The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures in the cruise industry, including Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, Carnival Corporation CEO Josh Weinstein, Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal, and Carnival Vista’s Captain Paolo Severini.
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The highlight of the day was the symbolic “opening” of the Suncastle, a ten-story sandcastle and true landmark of Celebration Key, which features two thrilling waterslides. The ceremony also included a ribbon-cutting for the opening of Lokono Cove, the island’s shopping village, and an exclusive toast at the Pearl Cove Beach Club, an adults-only oasis.
Celebration Key has been designed to cater to every type of traveler, offering five unique themed zones that deliver a wide range of unforgettable experiences—from family-friendly adventure to the most exclusive relaxation. Paradise Plaza serves as the vibrant heart of Celebration Key and is the first area to welcome guests with a lively, festive atmosphere. Here, visitors are immediately immersed in the island vibe, accompanied by live music upon arrival. Before diving into exploration, it’s a must to stop for a handcrafted ice cream or snap a photo by the fountain inspired by Bahamian culture. Paradise Plaza is also the go-to spot for guest services and excursion bookings, while in the distance, the majestic Suncastle can be seen, complete with its breathtaking slides and panoramic viewing deck.
For families, Starfish Lagoon is the perfect destination. This area, designed for both kids and adults, boasts one of the largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean, with an impressive 275,000 square feet of aquatic fun. Children can safely splash around in a shallow-depth splash pad, while sports enthusiasts enjoy basketball, volleyball, and pickleball courts. The adjacent beach, outfitted with lounge chairs and private cabanas, offers a relaxing space overlooking crystal-clear waters. To satisfy every appetite, there are numerous dining options—from the casual Captain’s Galley Food Hall to seafood spots like Gill’s Grill, and the lively Parrotfish Swim-Up Bar.
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Adults seeking leisure and relaxation will find their ideal retreat at Calypso Lagoon, an area designed exclusively for them. Here, alongside an equally expansive lagoon, guests can unwind on comfortable loungers, enjoy a drink while sitting on swings at the world’s largest swim-up bar, which boasts 166 seats in the water, or simply have fun outdoors on the DJ island with music and entertainment. Culinary options abound, featuring local cuisine available from food trucks and restaurants such as Surf N’ Sauce BBQ & Brew. Moreover, the adults-only area is a true private oasis, perfect for those looking for a getaway filled with comfort and enjoyment.
For those desiring a refined and exclusive luxury experience, Pearl Cove Beach Club represents the pinnacle of adult-only cruise destinations. With its infinity pool spanning over 1,000 square meters overlooking a white sandy beach, luxury cabanas, and super villas, it offers an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. Here, guests can indulge in exceptional dining at the Pearl Cove Restaurant or sip sophisticated cocktails at the Pearl Cove Bar, with service available both in the pool and on the private beach.
Finally, for those who love to immerse themselves in local culture and take home a piece of the island, Lokono Cove is a must-visit. This lively shopping village celebrates Bahamian authenticity through colorful murals, exhibitions by local artists, and unique handcrafted products made by island artisans. The name Lokono itself pays tribute to the Lucayan, the peaceful first inhabitants of Grand Bahama. Here, in addition to souvenirs full of stories, visitors can find duty-free jewelry and diamonds for those seeking a precious keepsake.
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With such a wide variety of themed areas, Celebration Key establishes itself as an innovative and comprehensive destination, capable of offering each guest a tailored experience—from family fun to refined exclusivity—always immersed in the beauty and hospitality of the Bahamian Caribbean. But Celebration Key offers much more than just a day at the beach. With over 30 dining venues, ranging from casual eateries to gourmet options, and a wide array of live entertainment such as colorful Junkanoo parades, roaming musicians, and DJs, guests can enjoy moments of pure enjoyment. For those seeking privacy and comfort, numerous cabanas, daybeds, and private villas are available. Additionally, the area features sports courts, water activities, and shore excursions, catering to those who want to combine relaxation with adventure.
Celebration Key is not only an innovative tourist offering but also a significant economic investment for Grand Bahama. The new destination is expected to initially welcome over 2 million visitors annually, with estimated growth up to 4 million by 2028. This influx of tourism will support hundreds of long-term jobs, contributing to the island’s economic development. The adjacent cruise port is already equipped to simultaneously accommodate two of Carnival’s largest ships, with ongoing work to expand the pier and the capacity to host two more vessels.
With the opening of Celebration Key, Carnival Cruise Line has raised the standards of the cruise experience, offering its guests a unique blend of luxury, entertainment, and cultural immersion set in a stunning natural environment. This new exclusive destination not only enriches Carnival’s offerings but also represents a valuable asset for Grand Bahama, solidifying its position among the Caribbean’s most sought-after locations. The $600 million investment marks a clear long-term commitment and promises to transform Celebration Key into an unmissable landmark for all lovers of cruising and quality tourism.
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