Carnival & Holland America Line reveal huge change to Caribbean private island

Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line have jointly announced that the Bahamian private island, previously known as Half Moon Cay, will be renamed “RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay”, as part of a series of planned enhancements designed to elevate the Caribbean cruise vacation experience.

What is new for RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay?

These improvements will include a new pier on the island’s northern side, enabling Carnival’s Excel-class ships to dock there for the first time. On the north side, guests will find a new tram system, a dedicated pier for shore excursions, expanded lounging areas, new cabanas, two lunch venues and several island-themed bars.

This enhanced area will allow visitors to enjoy the Bahamas private island atmosphere, indulge in fresh Caribbean flavours and take advantage of new cruise shore excursions.

On the southern side, the existing development will feature a refreshed beach club, an updated lunch venue and renovated facilities. These changes aim to preserve the island’s natural beauty and enhance guests’ Caribbean itineraries, offering a secluded paradise for those seeking an idyllic tropical retreat.

– READ MORE: Inside Royal Caribbean new Caribbean private island –

When will RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay open?

Guests can begin enjoying these new cruise vacation experiences from summer 2026, with the upgrades continuing through the remainder of that year. The improvements reflect a commitment to providing an exceptional Caribbean travel destination that appeals to guests sailing with both Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line.

Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said: “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.

“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.”

Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, added: “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.”

– READ MORE: We sailed with Holland America – this is what happened –