Half Moon Cay Renamed as RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay Amid Major Enhancements

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Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line have announced a new identity for their shared private island destination in the Bahamas.

RelaxAway Half Moon Cay

The island, previously known as Half Moon Cay, will now be called RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, reflecting a renewed focus on calm, peaceful experiences and a deeper connection to the island’s natural beauty.

Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, highlighted the vision behind the new name.

“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.”

Christine Duffy

The rebranding is part of a larger project to upgrade the island’s facilities and expand its capacity to accommodate more visitors.

Key upgrades include two welcome plazas on the north and south sides of the island, a new beach club, enhanced dining options, and expanded lounging areas.

A tram service will also be introduced, making it easier for guests to navigate the island and access the new amenities.

These updates follow the earlier announcement in August 2024 that a new pier will be constructed at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay. This addition will allow Carnival’s largest ships, including the Excel-class Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee, to dock directly at the island.

Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, said the enhancements will add new features while preserving the island’s tranquil appeal.

“Holland America guests have loved Half Moon Cay for its natural beauty since it opened as a port of call in 1997. 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.”

Beth Bodensteiner

Both cruise lines are committed to protecting the island’s natural environment, with the new buildings designed to complement its authentic tropical charm.

What to expect from RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay

Renovations at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay are set to begin gradually, with select features opening as early as summer 2026. All upgrades are expected to be fully completed by the end of that year.

Guests can look forward to enhanced experiences, including modernised cabanas, a vibrant beach club, and updated dining options.

While the island has always been a haven for relaxation, the addition of the tram service and expanded lounge areas will make it easier for guests to move around and find the perfect spot to unwind.

The changes are being made to cater to the growing demand for private island destinations, which have become a key selling point for many cruise itineraries.

By offering both secluded beach escapes and family-friendly activities, the cruise lines aim to appeal to a broader range of travellers.

New itineraries for 2026 and beyond

With the introduction of the pier, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay will feature on a wider selection of itineraries from Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line.

The opportunity for larger Excel-class ships to visit the island is a major draw for many travellers, especially those sailing on Carnival’s newest and most innovative vessels.

The first visit to the renamed island by an Excel-class ship is scheduled for Carnival Jubilee on 23rd September 2026.

Departing from Galveston, Texas, on a 7-night Bahamas voyage, the ship will call at both Celebration Key and RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, offering passengers the chance to experience two of Carnival’s private island destinations on the same trip.

Two days later, Carnival Celebration will visit RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay during a 7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary from Miami. This cruise will also call at Celebration Key and Amber Cove, providing guests with multiple opportunities for exclusive, private island experiences.

On 28th September 2026, Mardi Gras will make its debut call at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay as part of a 7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary from Port Canaveral. The ship will offer guests the chance to experience the tranquillity of RelaxAway alongside the energy of Carnival’s other private island, Celebration Key.

Carnival’s approach of including both destinations on the same itinerary allows guests to enjoy the best of both worlds – the relaxed, peaceful atmosphere of RelaxAway and the lively, activity-filled vibe of Celebration Key.

While RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is intended to be a tranquil retreat, Celebration Key offers a more energetic experience, with waterparks, pools, and adventure-filled activities. This dual approach gives Carnival’s guests the chance to balance relaxation and excitement within a single cruise.

The new vision for RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay highlights Carnival and Holland America’s commitment to offering diverse and memorable experiences while preserving the unique natural beauty of the islands they visit.

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