Carnival Cruise Line unveils latest ‘portal’ plans for new private island

 

Carnival Cruise Line has revealed details for Paradise Plaza and Calypso Lagoon, two of the five ‘portals’ at its new Celebration Key private island. The island is in Grand Bahama in the Caribbean and will open in July 2025.

 

Paradise Plaza will welcome guests and provide wayfinding and destination information to help them plan their day. The plaza itself will include an eye-catching promenade and sun-shaped arch, flanked by a 10-storey-high Suncastle.

 

Calypso Lagoon includes the largest freshwater lagoon in the Caribbean, a sports court and a beachside bar with nearly 50 swings for guests who want to dip their toes in the water while enjoying a drink. Two dedicated full-service restaurants, as well as a variety of casual snack shacks, will also be available.

 

A section of Calypso Lagoon and the adjacent beach will be designated as an adults-only area, and include a swim-up bar with DJ, cabanas, daybeds and loungers.

 

Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line president, said: “When guests see our Suncastle as they arrive at Celebration Key, they’ll know immediately they’re in for big fun. Paradise Plaza will be the perfect welcome spot and will set the tone for the entire visit to this truly unique destination.

 

“These new details show the creative design that’s gone into the development of each portal, with Calypso Lagoon offering a wide variety of options to fill the day, while honouring the beauty of Grand Bahama and celebrating Bahamian culture.”

 

Three other portals have been announced, comprising a family-friendly area, a private retreat and a retail space. Further details will be made available in due course, with Carnival also planning a second phase of the destination that will add new features including a waterpark.

 

Celebration Key will be on more than 500 itineraries, via 18 Carnival ships sailing from nine US homeports. Up to two Carnival ships will dock at an adjacent cruise pier that allows guests direct access to the island.

 

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