Carnival calls its new Bahamas port Celebration Key

Details about this, the brand's first private destination, are to be announced in late September when bookings open for itineraries featuring the port.

At least 10 ships to visit

Carnival said at least 10 ships from multiple homeports will visit Celebration Key which will have capacity for 2m visitors upon completion.

Celebration Key is located on the eastern part of the island near Lucayan National Park and will have a two-berth pier able to handle Excel-class ships.

Carnival said Celebration Key will offer a Bahamian experience with an abundance of features and amenities, including a one-mile stretch of white-sand beach, as well as Bahamian-operated retail, food and beverage options.

'People will go for the beauty of the destination'

In Seatrade Cruise Review's June cover story on the Bahamas, Juan Fernandez, VP operational strategy, Carnival Corp. & plc, said the port will be different from other destinations and the concept has 'tested very high with focus groups.' Nature preservation is key, and 'People will go for the beauty of the destination.'

Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, who doubles as tourism minister, expects a focus on eco-sensitive travel and a development that will strengthen the overall product offering of Grand Bahama with 'a lot of opportunity for entrepreneurs.'

'We are working very closely with the government of The Bahamas and the Grand Bahama Port Authority to ensure that we are highlighting the best of Grand Bahama and its culture, combined with fun like only Carnival can provide,' Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy said. 'Invoking the natural beauty of Grand Bahama every day at Celebration Key will be a celebration of our guests’ own making with a variety of experiences and something for everyone.'

$200m investment

The port represents a $200m investment. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in May 2022 and design, engineering and construction work is underway. Landfill was used to raise the site 12 to 15 feet above sea level to protect it from the impact of tropical storms.