Carnival Cruise Line has lifted the curtain on its much-anticipated private destination, Celebration Key. The new private island destination promises to redefine luxury and fun in the Bahamas.
Celebration Key is set to welcome its first guests in July 2025.
Located approximately 20 miles east of Port Lucaya Freeport, between Mather Town and Freetown, Celebration Key is poised on the southern coast of Grand Bahama Island. The island is a mere 120 miles from Miami, making it an accessible paradise for Carnival’s itineraries.
The essence of Celebration Key lies in its innovative design, featuring five distinct “portals” that offer a kaleidoscope of experiences to its visitors.
Celebration Key boasts the largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean, a sprawling white sand beach, and an array of dining venues and libation stations, all set against the backdrop of Grand Bahama’s natural beauty and culture.
Celebration Key’s five portals include:
- Welcome Portal: The gateway to the island, guests are greeted by an iconic sandcastle, live music, and essential information to kickstart their adventure.
- Family-Friendly Portal: The perfect spot for families to spend the day with a large freshwater lagoon, colorful splash pad, exciting waterslides, and sports courts. Cabanas are available for rent, and there are nearby dining areas to indulge in.
- Adult-Friendly Portal: A haven for adults seeking relaxation and fun. It features a freshwater lagoon, a beach with soft white sands, a vibrant swim-up bar, and a live DJ. The multiple dining venues include a full-service restaurant serving various cuisines, emphasizing local Bahamian flavors.
- Private Club Portal: A luxurious, adults-only retreat for a tranquil day in paradise. It features a stunning infinity pool with breathtaking views of the Bahamian waters, surrounded by loungers set amidst palm trees and lush foliage. Guests enjoy exclusive beach access and sophisticated dining experiences in a serene, premium setting.
- Retail Portal: Showcases Bahamian featuring stunning murals by local artists and various shopping options, including authentic artisanal goods and Bahamian retailers, complemented by Duty-Free stores. Guests can also enjoy various food and beverage choices offering Bahamian flavors.
The destination’s meticulous planning is evident in its ability to accommodate two of Carnival’s Excel-class ships simultaneously at its dedicated pier, ensuring seamless access for guests. In addition to its recreational offerings, Celebration Key has an events pavilion for hosting weddings and other special occasions.
Carnival’s commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction is further highlighted by the planned expansion of Celebration Key. Future developments include a waterpark, zipline course, and other attractions to enhance the guest experience.
“No one does FUN like Carnival and we are designing Celebration Key, and its five portals, with endless ways for our guests to unlock their own kind of fun in this incredible paradise that also celebrates the beauty of Grand Bahama,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Celebration Key is uniquely positioned to bring an island experience to our diverse range of guests, in a way that lets them choose their slice of ‘paradise.’”
As the anticipation for Celebration Key builds, Carnival Cruise Line promises to reveal more details and offerings in the coming months. With its diverse appeal and luxurious amenities, Celebration Key is poised to become a coveted destination for travelers seeking a slice of Bahamian paradise.
