CCL-Carnival Cruise Line has officially revealed the name of its upcoming exclusive cruise port in the Bahamas as "Celebration Key." This new destination is set to open its itineraries in late September, welcoming cruises to the eagerly anticipated Grand Bahama Port located near/to the east of Lucaya/Freeport.
The name "Celebration Key" reflects the overarching theme of the destination, which aims to offer a joyful and memorable vacation experience, bringing together the best of Carnival's offerings and the beauty of The Bahamas.
The development of Celebration Key marks a significant milestone for Carnival Cruise Line, as it represents their first port destination exclusively designed for their guests. This collaboration is a result of close cooperation with the Government of The Bahamas and the Grand Bahama Port Authority. The intention is to showcase the unique culture and natural splendor of Grand Bahama while infusing it with Carnival's signature fun-filled atmosphere.
With a capacity to accommodate up to two million guests annually, Celebration Key is poised to be a remarkable addition to the cruise industry. The destination is designed to cater to a diverse range of preferences, ensuring that each guest can craft their own celebratory experience. Drawing inspiration from the captivating landscapes of Grand Bahama, Celebration Key will offer a range of engaging activities and amenities.
Grand Bahama itself is renowned for its picturesque beaches, verdant surroundings, and warm hospitality. Celebration Key aims to encapsulate the Bahamian essence by featuring a pristine one-mile stretch of white-sand beach and a variety of authentic Bahamian-operated retail and dining options. The adjacent cruise pier, capable of hosting two of Carnival’s Excel-class ships simultaneously, will enable seamless disembarkation for guests, allowing them to quickly immerse themselves in the Celebration Key experience.
Having marked its groundbreaking ceremony in May 2022, the project is now progressing steadily with design, engineering, and construction efforts underway. As the anticipated launch date approaches, Carnival Cruise Line is planning to unveil further specifics about the destination in late September. At that time, they will also open bookings for the first itineraries, spanning over ten ships and multiple homeports, which will include stops at Celebration Key. The inaugural cruises to this exciting destination are scheduled for July 2025.