Royal Caribbean changed the expectations for cruise line private islands when it launched Perfect Day at CocoCay. What had once been a beach where cruisers had to tender (ride in a small ship rather than directly dock) to the port has become something that’s a little more amusement park-like.
CocoCay offers a dock that can accommodate two of the cruise line’s largest ships, multiple pools, and a full-on waterpark. You can still have a beach day if you like, but the new standard is to offer much more.
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That’s a standard Carnival is copying as it builds its Celebration Key, which Royal Caribbean is bringing to its “Beach Club” concepts, added-fee private island-like experiences being built in Nassau and Cozumel. The cruise line will also bring that same aesthetic to its upcoming Perfect Day Mexico in Costa Maya.
While some passengers miss the quiet old beach days, most seem to be embracing the Royal Caribbean model as CocoCay is routinely the cruise line’s most popular destination.
Carnival Cruise Line, however, has decided to make Half Moon Cay, its classic private island experience, more modern, but not fully transform it.
CocoCay can accomoadate two of Royal Caribbean’s largest ship.
Image source: Daniel Kline/Come Cruise With Me
Carnival will update Half Moon Cay
Half Moon Cay, is being renamed RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay in support of its upcoming enhancements and the experience guests can expect as they are immersed in this tropical paradise.
Carnival Cruise Line and its sister brand Holland America are partnering on the changes, which will include an expanded beachfront experience, lunch venues, a variety of bars and other features that will reinforce the destination’s natural beauty and tropical appeal.
A newly constructed pier on the north side will allow ships to dock, including Carnival’s Excel class ships that will be able to visit the island for the first time.
Guests will arrive at distinct welcome plazas on the island’s south and north sides, spanning over one mile of white-sand beach. The existing development on the south side will receive a refreshing Bahamian touch-up, a new beach club, an updated lunch venue, and renovated facilities.
The newly developed north side will feature two lunch venues and a variety of island-themed bars. There will also be a new tram service, making getting around easy and convenient. In addition, lounging areas will be expanded, cabanas added, and a new shore excursion pier on the north side will connect guests with recreational activities. All RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay upgrades are designed with nature in mind, including architecture that complements the island’s stunning authenticity.
“Holland America guests have loved Half Moon Cay for its natural beauty since it opened as a port of call in 1997,” said HA: President Beth Bodensteiner. “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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Carnival President Christine Duffy explained the company’s plans in more depth.
“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,” she said”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.”
The destination’s enhancements will begin to be completed by summer 2026 and continue through the end of the year. Further details will be shared in the coming months.
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