Carnival completes expansion of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay for Excel-class

Carnival Cruise Line has completed a major expansion of its private Bahamian destination, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, adding new guest facilities and a pier that will allow larger ships to call at the island for the first time.

The upgrades are expected to significantly increase the destination’s accessibility across the fleet, including for Carnival’s Excel-class vessels, which previously could not visit the island due to the absence of docking facilities.

The project includes an expanded beachfront, new food and beverage venues, additional seating and accommodation options, and improved transportation infrastructure across the island.

“RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay’s natural beauty has always made it a favourite for our guests, and with the new pier, more ships can now easily access this incredible destination,” said Christine Duffy, President, Carnival Cruise Line.

“We’re excited that more guests than ever will be able to experience the stunning beachfront and turquoise waters,” she added.

Among the new additions are complimentary loungers and umbrellas, alongside reservable cabanas and daybeds. Several new dining and beverage venues have also opened, including Orchid Beach Grill, Hibiscus Beach Grill, Luna Tide Beach Bar, Stay Awhile Beach Shack, and Lil’ Tiki Bar.

The new facilities are designed to increase capacity while spreading visitors more evenly across the island.

A tram service has also been introduced to improve movement between different areas of the destination, while the new Papaya Pathway provides a dedicated walking route for guests wishing to explore on foot.

Carnival said upgrades are also continuing on the island’s southern side, where existing food, beverage and public areas are being refreshed.

The completion of the new pier represents one of the most significant aspects of the project.

Previously, ships visiting Half Moon Cay relied on tender operations to transport passengers ashore. The new infrastructure allows vessels to berth directly alongside, reducing transit times and expanding the range of ships able to visit.

The destination, located in The Bahamas, forms part of Carnival’s Paradise Collection portfolio of private cruise destinations across the Caribbean and The Bahamas.

RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay remains one of Carnival’s most visited destinations, with 22 ships from across the fleet currently scheduled to call there.

The project complements the development of Celebration Key, Carnival’s new exclusive destination in Grand Bahama, which is set to play a central role in the company’s Caribbean deployment strategy.