Carnival Cruise Line has officially opened Celebration Key on Grand Bahama island with the arrival of Carnival Vista.
The ship docked at the new private destination, joined by the media, travel advisors and Carnival leadership.
The debut of the $600 million project was ushered in by fireworks and marching bands at the weekend.
“There’s been a dream to have an exclusive destination in the Bahamas other than Half Moon Cay – A place where we would be able to bring our biggest ships,” said Carnival President Christine Duffy.
“I think people have finally figured out what a great value a cruise vacation is and how there is really something for everyone.”
Celebration Key is made up of five separate zones with different atmospheres, such as family-friendly relaxation or a party vibe.
Highlights include a huge 10-story sandcastle, freshwater lagoons, beaches and what it calls the largest swim-up bar in the world.
There are more than two-dozen food and beverage options.
The cruise line says Celebration Key will generate abig economic impact for the local economy and creates hundreds of long-term jobs.
It currently has capability to host two cruise ships but the company has already announced plans to increase this to four.
