Carnival Cruise Line is preparing to unveil its brand-new private destination, Celebration Key, which will welcome its first guests on July 19, 2025. Already one of the most searched cruise destinations on Google, this highly anticipated Bahamian paradise is designed to deliver the ultimate day ashore. Guests can look forward to a combination of relaxation, adventure, and exclusive experiences tailored for every type of cruiser.
Here’s a preview of what to expect when Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy officially opens the destination.
A New Addition to the Paradise Collection
Celebration Key is the newest member of Carnival’s Paradise Collection, joining the popular Half Moon Cay and Isla Tropicale. Both destinations are known for their natural beauty and laid-back island experiences and will be enhanced further in 2026.
Welcome to Paradise Plaza
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by the Sun Portal, a radiant, sun-shaped archway that provides the perfect backdrop for vacation photos. Just past the portal is Paradise Plaza, the main orientation hub where guests can find information and guidance to help plan their ideal day at Celebration Key.
The Suncastle: An Iconic Centerpiece
At the heart of Celebration Key stands the Suncastle, a 10-story landmark topped with massive conch shells. This is the focal point of the destination and features two water slides, each over 350 feet long.
The slides wind through and around the structure, creating a colorful, high-speed adventure that ends with a fun splash at the bottom.
Caribbean’s Largest Freshwater Lagoons
Celebration Key is home to the largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean, totaling more than 275,000 square feet.
- Calypso Lagoon is designed for adults seeking a fun and lively atmosphere. Highlights include DJ Island and Mingo’s Tropical Bar & Kitchen, which features the world’s largest swim-up bar with 166 in-water seats.
- Starfish Lagoon offers a family-friendly environment with space for kids and parents to play and relax together.
Luxury Retreats: Super Villas and Beach Club Options
Guests looking for a more private and upscale experience can reserve one of the Over-the-Lagoon Super Villas, which accommodate up to 10 people. These villas offer shaded lounge areas, a stocked mini-fridge, sun loungers, hammocks, water loungers on a private sun shelf, and a personal water slide into the lagoon. Guests are also greeted with snacks and drinks, along with lunch delivery.
Options include:
- 2 villas at Calypso Lagoon (adults only)
- 2 villas at Starfish Lagoon (family friendly)
- 2 Beach Super Villas at the family beach
- 2 Beach Super Villas at the adults-only beach
The Pearl Cove Beach Club is another exclusive adults-only retreat. Guests will enjoy an 11,000-square-foot private infinity pool, stylish sun loungers with pink-striped umbrellas, a swim-up bar, and a full-service restaurant and lounge with both indoor and outdoor seating.
A DJ provides laid-back tropical music throughout the day. Access packages include club entry with drink service, a drink-inclusive option (up to 10 drinks), or an all-inclusive package with food and beverages.
Family-Friendly Features and Water Fun
Families will find plenty of options designed with younger cruisers in mind.
- AquaBanas are sturdy floating cabanas in Starfish Lagoon that seat up to eight people. These can be reserved and provide a shaded, floating spot to relax with your feet in the water.
- Guppy Grotto Splash Pad is a colorful coral reef-themed splash zone and shallow wading pool perfect for toddlers and small children.
Final Thoughts on Celebration Key
Celebration Key is shaping up to be one of the Caribbean’s top cruise destinations. With exciting new experiences, private retreats, record-breaking lagoon features, and family-focused fun, this all-new port of call has something for everyone.
Whether you are looking for adventure, a quiet beach day, or a little of both, Carnival’s Celebration Key is set to redefine what a perfect port day looks like.
The countdown is on for its grand opening on July 19, 2025.
Do you plan on visiting Celebration Key on an upcoming cruise? Please let me know in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan