In just a few weeks, Carnival Cruise Line will officially welcome guests to Celebration Key, its new private destination in the Bahamas—and a spot already topping Google’s most-searched cruise destinations. The new beach resort opens July 19, 2025, with Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy on hand to launch what the line hopes will be an ultimate “day in paradise” for cruisers of all ages.
Celebration Key joins Carnival’s Paradise Collection of private ports—alongside the always-popular Half Moon Cay and Isla Tropicale, both set for updates next year.
Cruisers stepping off the ship will pass through the giant, sun-shaped Celebration Key Sun Portal—an easy photo op—before arriving at Paradise Plaza, the hub for wayfinding, maps, and deciding how to spend the day.
At the heart of Celebration Key stands the 10-story Suncastle, crowned with five oversized conch shells and flanked by two colorful, 350-foot-long water slides. These twisting slides wrap around the castle, offering an adrenaline rush before guests splash down in a lagoon finish.
Nearby, two sprawling lagoons—Calypso Lagoon and Starfish Lagoon—offer over 275,000 square feet of freshwater fun. Calypso Lagoon caters more to adults, with an overwater DJ platform and the world’s largest swim-up bar. Starfish Lagoon is built for families, with room for kids to play and parents to relax.
For families with toddlers and little ones, the Guppy Grotto splash pad in Starfish Lagoon offers a shaded coral-reef-themed play space with wading pools designed for smaller guests.
Private Villas and Floating Cabanas
Those looking for a more private experience can reserve one of Celebration Key’s new Super Villas. Four Over-the-Lagoon Super Villas (two in each lagoon) accommodate up to 10 guests and include shaded seating, hammocks, swings, a private sun shelf with loungers, and even a slide into the lagoon. Guests also receive fresh fruit, snacks, stocked drinks, and private lunch service.
AquaBanas, also available to reserve in Starfish Lagoon, are floating cabanas with seating for eight around a central table—perfect for relaxing with feet in the water.
An Adults-Only Retreat
Pearl Cove Beach Club offers a premium, adults-only option with its private infinity pool, lined with chic loungers, daybeds, and a DJ spinning tropical beats. Guests can cool off in the pool or relax on the secluded beach beyond, complete with food and beverage service. Three reservation options are available, ranging from basic access with a welcome drink to all-inclusive packages that include drinks and meals.
With its mix of family-friendly fun, private spaces, and upscale adult options, Celebration Key is sure to become a go-to for Carnival cruisers heading to the Bahamas this summer. The destination officially opens July 19—just in time to add something new to your next Caribbean vacation.
