Holland America Line adds new pickleball courts in latest Caribbean private island upgrade

RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay – the private island shared by Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line – is in the middle of a major multi-year transformation.

First announced for 2026 sailings, the programme includes new facilities on both the north and south sides of the island, expanded dining options and upgraded beach areas. Now Holland America Line has revealed the latest addition: four new pickleball courts.

What is new for RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay?

Carnival Half Moon Cay changes

The island’s enhancement plan is rolling out in phases. On the north side, work is underway on a new pier that will allow Carnival’s Excel-class ships to dock for the first time. The area will also gain a tram system, a dedicated pier for shore excursions, expanded lounging zones, 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.

Holland America Line Half Moon Cay changes

The south side – the area Holland America Line guests know best – is being refreshed with an updated beach club, a revamped lunch venue and renovated facilities designed to preserve the island’s laid-back atmosphere.

Holland America Line has also introduced four pickleball courts, located in the sports area, which already features basketball, volleyball and football. Guests on Rotterdam and Eurodam inaugurated the new zone with a friendly tournament on 6 December.

The pickleball announcement is part of a wider enhancement programme. Cabanas and day beds have already been refreshed, 500 extra beach chairs have been added and new clamshell loungers will be installed in the coming weeks. Holland America Line also plans to renovate the two-storey Villas on RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay and open a new food pavilion.

Extra activities now include tai chi on the beach, plus family-friendly events such as beach ball relays, scavenger hunts, sandcastle contests, ring toss and shell-collecting challenges.

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When will RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay open?

The full programme of enhancements is expected to come online from summer 2026 with work continuing through the rest of the year. RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay already features on most Holland America Line Caribbean itineraries and the cruise line is gradually introducing upgraded experiences ahead of the island’s refreshed debut.

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.”

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