Carnival Corp Sets Sights On New Frontier: Luxury On-Land Resorts To Replace Oceanic Getaways

Carnival Corp is charting a new course in the vacation industry, shifting its focus from oceanic getaways to immersive on-land experiences. The cruise giant has announced plans to invest $600 million in its private island portfolio, with the expansion of Half Moon Cay (now rebranded as RelaxAway) and the launch of an exclusive resort, Celebration Key.

Half Moon Cay, a 27-year-old gem in the Bahamas, is undergoing a major transformation. By summer 2026, the island will be transformed into a vibrant entertainment hub, boasting over 30 food and drink venues, an adult-only beach club, and a kid-friendly lagoon. While it may seem counterintuitive for a cruise line to invest in land-based destinations, Carnival’s strategy is paying off with increased bookings and anticipation around Celebration Key.

Celebration Key, slated for debut in 2026, promises to be a game-changer in the vacation industry. The mile-long slice of Grand Bahama Island will feature 12 luxurious floating cabanas, perfect for rent, as well as a second pier designed to accommodate Carnival’s largest Excel-class ships. Upgraded food and beverage venues, a new tram, expanded lounges, and a revamped beach experience are also part of the expansion.

Travelers are already clamoring for tickets to Celebration Key, with itineraries starting at around $350 per person for a four-day cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida. The project’s success is seen as a “smash hit” in the works, with Carnival Corp’s CFO, Dave Bernstein, predicting an excellent return on investment.

Royal Caribbean has enjoyed significant success with its private islands, and Carnival is now following suit. With Celebration Key and RelaxAway poised to take center stage, the Caribbean island landscape is about to undergo a significant transformation. As the tourism industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that Carnival Corp’s shift towards on-land experiences will have a lasting impact.

The trend of land-based destinations attracting travelers through cruise lines is gaining momentum. With its investment in private islands and resorts, Carnival is redefining the concept of vacation and promising an unparalleled experience for its travelers. As the company looks to expand its land-based portfolio, one thing is certain – the future of vacations has arrived, and it’s coming ashore.