Carnival Cruise Line has revealed details about Celebration Key, its private beach destination under development on Grand Bahama.
Celebration Key will feature five “portals” stationed around a sprawling lagoon-style pool with beach entry.
Guests will enter the beach via the Welcome Portal, where they can find information to guide them through the island. Upon arrival, Carnival said guests will hear live music and catch a glimpse of a large sandcastle-like structure.
The Family-Friendly Portal will offer beach access to the lagoon pool, a splash pad, a pair of racing waterslides around the sandcastle structure, sports courts, a beach with loungers and a variety of dining options. Carnival said the area will also have a variety of cabanas, including beach cabanas, floating cabanas and villas with personal slides into the pool.
The Adult-Friendly Portal will have a high-energy vibe courtesy of a DJ, said Carnival. The area also will feature a swim-up bar, access to the lagoon pool and the opportunity to lounge on a white-sand beach and swim in the Bahamian waters.
There will be a variety of cabanas similar to those offered at the Family-Friendly Portal, plus several dining venues, including a full-service restaurant serving a variety of cuisines. Some dishes will have Bahamian flavors.
The Private Club Portal will offer an adults-only premium experience for guests seeking a relaxing day. The private club will have an infinity pool overlooking the sea and loungers beneath palm trees, Carnival said. A dedicated section of the beach will provide premier and private access, plus elevated dining experiences.
Per an agreement with the Bahamas Port Authority, Celebration Key will offer a Bahamian experience that highlights the local culture. The Retail Portal will feature Bahamian artisanal goods and local Bahamian retailers, along with duty-free stores.
Guests will find food and beverage options serving Bahamian flavors. The area will have murals painted by Bahamian artists.
Carnival plans to share more details for each of the portals over the coming months.
Celebration Key is the first private destination designed by Carnival Cruise Line for CCL guests. It is slated to open on Grand Bahama in July 2025. The pier will be able to simultaneously accommodate two Excel-class ships (Carnival’s largest). Carnival expects the destination to welcome 2 million passengers annually.
The cruise line anticipates a future expansion, including the development of a waterpark and zipline.
