Carnival Cruise Line has officially opened Celebration Key, its stunning new exclusive destination on Grand Bahama, marking a significant milestone in the company’s $600 million investment. The Carnival Vista made the inaugural visit, bringing nearly 5,000 guests to experience the “ultimate beach day.”
Guests immediately dove into the fun, exploring unique attractions such as the iconic Suncastle – the world’s tallest sandcastle and home to two thrilling racing waterslides. Other firsts include the world’s largest swing and swim-up bar, and the Caribbean’s largest freshwater lagoons.
The grand opening ceremony was a star-studded affair, with Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, Carnival Corporation CEO Josh Weinstein, and Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal “unlocking” the Suncastle gates. They also cut the ribbon for Lokono Cove, the new shopping village, and O’Neal even made the first shot on the basketball court, followed by a champagne toast at the adults-only Pearl Cove Beach Club.
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy said:
“Today marks an extraordinary milestone for Carnival,”
“Celebration Key is more than just a beautiful place; it’s a celebration of the Bahamian paradise our guests love, complemented by an impressive variety of incredible new experiences and offerings.”
Your Guide to Celebration Key: Carnival’s New Exclusive Destination
Carnival Cruise Line has just opened Celebration Key, its highly anticipated exclusive destination on Grand Bahama. This $600 million investment promises an unparalleled vacation experience, with the Carnival Vista having just completed its inaugural visit with nearly 5,000 guests.
Here’s a look at the five distinct areas waiting to be explored:
- Paradise Plaza: The vibrant main entrance, welcoming guests with lively music.
- Starfish Lagoon: A family-friendly haven featuring one of the Caribbean’s largest freshwater lagoons (275,000 sq ft), a splash pad, sports courts, and the thrilling Suncastle body slides. Dining options include Captain’s Galley Food Hall, Gill’s Grill Seafood, and the Parrotfish Swim-Up Bar.
- Calypso Lagoon: An adult-friendly zone with an equally expansive lagoon (275,000 sq ft), a DJ Island, the world’s largest swim-up bar (166 in-water seats), and the unique Sunshine Swings Bar. Enjoy bites at Surf N’ Sauce BBQ & Brew and Calypso Food Trucks.
- Pearl Cove Beach Club: The largest adults-only retreat at any cruise destination, boasting an 11,000-square-foot infinity pool overlooking a white sand beach, alongside luxurious cabanas, supervillas, and elevated dining.
- Lokono Cove: A charming retail village offering unique shopping and showcasing authentic Bahamian culture through local art and handmade goods.
Across the destination, guests will discover over 30 food and beverage venues, live entertainment like Junkanoo parades and DJs, and a mile of pristine white sand beach. For those seeking action, sports courts, water activities, and shore excursions are readily available.
Economic Impact: Celebration Key is set to welcome over two million guests annually to Grand Bahama initially, a number projected to double to four million by 2028. This substantial growth will create hundreds of long-term jobs and significantly boost the local economy. The destination features an adjacent cruise pier accommodating two of Carnival’s largest ships simultaneously, with an extension already underway to welcome two additional vessels.
More details on Celebration Key can be found at Carnival Cruise Line’s website.
Are you planning a cruise to Celebration Key? Leave a comment below or join us on the Talking Cruise Community forums.
