Carnival Cruise Line has officially unveiled its highly anticipated private island port in the Bahamas—Celebration Key—poised to become the crown jewel of Caribbean cruise itineraries. Strategically located on the southern coast of Grand Bahama Island, this 68-acre destination delivers the perfect fusion of pristine beaches, freshwater lagoons, premium leisure experiences, and seamless access to Bahamian culture and adventure.
Designed exclusively for Carnival guests, Celebration Key is not just a stop—it’s a complete Bahamian escape crafted to suit every kind of traveler. Whether you’re seeking quiet corners to unwind under the sun, looking for thrilling water fun, or eager to explore the cultural charms of Grand Bahama beyond the beach, this private port caters to all.
A Multi-Zone Island Built for Exploration and Comfort
Celebration Key is intelligently organized into five thematic “portals”, each offering guests a distinct experience—from serene lagoons and family play zones to Bahamian shopping districts and adventure-filled hubs. One of its most family-friendly highlights is Starfish Lagoon, where kids and parents alike can enjoy splash zones, paddle areas, and shaded play areas.
Guests can walk the entire island in under 30 minutes, but for those preferring convenience, **two tram lines—Starfish Tram and Calypso Tram—**circulate between key locations such as Starfish Lagoon, Calypso Lagoon, and the shopping and dining district Lokono Cove. Accessibility is also prioritized, with beach wheelchairs and service animal areas available.
Luxury Meets Leisure: Lounging in Style
Complimentary lounge chairs dot Celebration Key’s shoreline and lagoon areas, making it easy for guests to sunbathe in comfort. For those seeking an upgrade, private daybeds, waterfront cabanas, and opulent supervillas offer exclusive, shaded sanctuaries with concierge-style service. Hammocks, swing benches, and picnic tables provide alternative ways to unwind, allowing guests to fully appreciate the island’s lush, tropical landscape.
Caribbean’s Largest Freshwater Lagoon and Iconic Suncastle
At the heart of the island lies one of the Caribbean’s largest man-made freshwater lagoons, holding a staggering 350 million gallons of water. These expansive lagoons offer ample space for swimming, lounging on floaties, or simply cooling off from the Bahamian sun.
Towering above the lagoon is Suncastle, a magnificent sandcastle-themed water attraction that has become Celebration Key’s visual signature. Not just a great photo op, it also features two twisting water slides and panoramic viewing points from the top—perfect for capturing the turquoise vistas of Grand Bahama.
Beyond the Beach: Gateway to Grand Bahama
What sets Celebration Key apart from other cruise-exclusive islands is its easy access to the wider Grand Bahama Island. Many private ports are built to keep guests confined, but Carnival has made exploration a core part of the experience.
From Lokono Cove, visitors can easily arrange transportation via taxis or rental cars to explore local attractions such as Freeport, just 25 minutes away. Shore excursions curated by Carnival and independent operators offer access to Lucayan National Park, famous for its underwater cave system, and Port Lucaya Marketplace, known for local crafts, dining, and cultural shows.
Grand Bahama also offers eco-tours, horseback riding on the beach, kayaking through mangroves, and guided visits to the Garden of the Groves. Carnival’s integration of Celebration Key into the broader Bahamian tourism ecosystem supports sustainable growth and deeper visitor engagement.
A Strategic Win for the Bahamas and Carnival
Celebration Key represents a significant investment in the future of Bahamian cruise tourism. According to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, cruise travel contributes more than $400 million annually to the national economy, and the introduction of Celebration Key is expected to create hundreds of local jobs and stimulate small business development.
Carnival has also partnered with Bahamian officials to ensure environmental responsibility in the construction and operation of Celebration Key, including marine habitat protection, low-impact development practices, and renewable energy integration.
Ideal for All Types of Travelers
Whether you’re a couple seeking tropical tranquility, a family looking for all-ages activities, or an adventure-seeker planning your next underwater dive or eco-tour, Celebration Key offers a curated Bahamian experience unlike any other.
Carnival’s guests can now expect an island destination that mirrors the onboard energy and comfort of its fleet while delivering an authentic Caribbean escape. With over 100 Carnival sailings scheduled to call at Celebration Key in 2025 alone, the port is already emerging as a must-visit highlight for cruise enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Celebration Key is not just another cruise stop—it’s a comprehensive vacation experience in its own right. With a blend of natural beauty, world-class amenities, and cultural exploration, it represents the next evolution in Caribbean cruising. Whether you’re basking in the sun on a private beach, enjoying family time at Starfish Lagoon, or setting off to explore Grand Bahama, Carnival’s Celebration Key delivers the best of the Bahamas with style and ease.
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