What to Expect on the Celebration Key Opening
When Carnival Cruise Line kicks off the Celebration Key opening on July 19, 2025, President Christine Duffy will ceremonially welcome guests ashore. Set on Grand Bahama Island, this beachfront destination – part of the Paradise Collection – joins RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, and Isla Tropicale to offer a fresh, resort-style experience.
Highlights of the New Destination
Sun Portal & Paradise Plaza: Guests enter through a giant sun-shaped arch that leads into a lively plaza – ideal for first selfies and trip planning.
Suncastle & Waterslides: The 10-story Suncastle towers over the island, featuring twin 350-foot slides that spiral down from the top to the water below.
AquaBanas & Guppy Grotto: Options abound for both kids and adults – a coral-themed splash pad welcomes little ones, while floating cabanas offer relaxation for groups.
Pearl Cove Beach Club & Super Villas: With an 11,000 sq ft infinity pool, swim-up bar, and private floating villas accommodating up to 10 guests, this is upscale island indulgence.
Calypso & Starfish Lagoons: These two freshwater lagoons span over 275,000 sq ft – Calypso for adults, Starfish for families – each offering immersive zones like swim-up bars and DJ platforms.
Why Celebration Key Stands Out
Celebration Key represents Carnival’s bold step into the premium private-destination space, directly competing with offerings like Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay. While Celebration Key isn’t a full-blown waterpark, it mirrors many key features – water slides, cabanas, adults-only retreats – designed to drive both demand and onboard spending. The island is already emerging as one of the most-searched cruise destinations online, reinforcing its appeal.
Sneak Peek Before Guests Arrive
Leading up to the big day, Carnival has shared images of its signature sun portal, Suncastle tower, spacious lagoons, floating AquaBanas, Pearl Cove Beach Club, and luxurious Super Villas. The private destination, completed in just over three years at a cost of around $500 million, is now ready for its debut.
With its modern amenities, multi-generational attractions, and exclusive clubhouse experiences, the Celebration Key opening is set to redefine cruise-stop excursions. This island getaway promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury – right in the heart of the Caribbean.