by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 1:10 PM ET, Tue December 10, 2024
Half Moon Cay, the private island destination in The Bahamas, is being renamed RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.
Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line are partnering to make several enhancements to the destination, including an expanded beachfront experience, lunch venues, a variety of bars and more.
“Calling this piece of paradise RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay reinforces our commitment to preserve the attributes that make the destination so appealing as we expand access and welcome more guests to the destination’s crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches and lush landscapes,” says Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Many of our 2026 and beyond itineraries will feature both RelaxAway and Celebration Key, providing guests with complimentary experiences enjoying both idyllic and ultimate beach days.”
They will also construct a new pier on the north side that will allow Carnival’s Excel class ships to dock. In the future, guests will be able to arrive at distinct welcome plazas on the south and north sides.
The existing development on the south side will get a makeover, including a new beach club, an updated lunch venue and renovated facilities. The newly developed north side will have two lunch venues and island-themed bars.
The destination will also have a new tram service, expanded lounge areas, new cabanas and a new shore excursion pier on the north side. Work is slated to begin in the summer of 2026 and will continue through the end of the year.
“Holland America guests have loved Half Moon Cay for its natural beauty since it opened as a port of call in 1997,” says Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. “The south side of the island, where Holland America has always visited, will remain the secluded paradise our guests are accustomed to and a marquee destination for almost every cruise visiting the Caribbean. The new beach club and refreshed food and beverage spaces will embrace and preserve the island’s pristine beauty while enhancing our award-winning experience.”
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