Carnival Cruise Line is just weeks away from opening the doors (and the slides) to Celebration Key, its insane new private island party spot in the Bahamas, and it’s already lighting up Google searches like a bonfire on the beach. Mark your calendars: July 19, 2025, is the day it all kicks off – and Carnival Prez Christine Duffy will be there to cut the ribbon on what they’re calling “the ultimate day in paradise.”
Paradise Starts with a Selfie
Guests will step into vacay mode through the eye-popping Sun Portal – a giant, sun-shaped arch made for Instagram flexing – and head straight to Paradise Plaza, where you choose your own adventure in this adult-meets-family paradise.
Suncastle = WATER SLIDE ROYALTY
At the center of the hype? The 10-story Suncastle – yeah, TEN FLOORS – topped with giant conch shells and flanked by two 350-foot water slides that scream “race ya!” Think twists, turns, LED light shows, and splashdown bragging rights.
Lagoon Life Hits HARD
Celebration Key is also home to the largest freshwater lagoons in the Caribbean – no cap – clocking in at a massive 275,000+ sq. ft..
Calypso Lagoon: Adults-only zone with DJ beats, tropical cocktails, and the world’s largest swim-up bar (hello, 166 in-water seats.
Starfish Lagoon: Total family mayhem – think splashpads, slides, and floaty fun for all ages.
Super Villas = Super Extra
Want the real VIP treatment? Rent one of the Over-the-Lagoon Super Villas – total bougie paradise for 10 people with private slides, hammocks, stocked fridges, fans, snacks, AND lunch service. There are only a few of these bad boys, so you’d better book fast.
Pearl Cove = Adults Only, Baby
This is where the grown-ups go to live their best lives – we’re talking a jaw-dropping infinity pool, chic striped umbrellas, DJ lounge vibes, and poolside service that actually slays. Want more? Grab an all-inclusive pass with open bar and gourmet eats.
AquaBanas and Guppy Grotto: For the Kiddos (and Tired Parents)
Families, rejoice – you’ve got AquaBanas, aka floating cabanas with comfy seats, shade, and room for the squad. Meanwhile, the littlest cruisers can run wild at Guppy Grotto, a coral-themed splash pad designed to keep the toddlers splashing – and you relaxing.
Here are the highlights for the July 19, 2025 opening day of Celebration Key, as Carnival President Christine Duffy officially unveils the island paradise:
Ribbon‑Cutting Ceremony
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy will lead the grand opening ceremony, officially launching Celebration Key with the first cruise ship arrival
Photo‑Worthy Arrivals
Guests will make their debut under the iconic Sun Portal—a giant sun‑shaped arch framing the entrance to Paradise Plaza, perfect for the first-ever “I’m here!” celebration shot.
Live Entertainment
Expect DJ sets, live music throughout the plazas, and even a Junkanoo parade, adding Bahamian festival flair to the opening celebration.
Water‑Park Fanfare
The colossal Suncastle, with its twin 350‑ft slides, will officially open for slide races—complete with lights, color, and splashdown excitement .
Swim‑Up Bars & DJ Island Access
The adults‑only Calypso Lagoon and its Mingo’s Tropical Bar & Kitchen (with 166‑seat swim‑up bar and DJ island) go live—sun, sea and beats combined
Lagoon & Beach Fun
Both freshwater lagoons—Calypso (adult‑friendly) and Starfish (family‑friendly)—will host their first full day of activities, including lagoon lounging, sports, and beachside fun
VIP Villa Debuts
The exclusive Over‑the‑Lagoon Super Villas, accommodating up to 10 guests, will start hosting their first groups—complete with private slides, hammocks, stocked fridges, and lunch delivery service
Pearl Cove Inauguration
The adults‑only Pearl Cove Beach Club, with its grand infinity pool, striped daybeds, swim‑up bar, and upscale restaurant, officially opens its doors for the first wave of guests
Island Eats & Local Culture
Local Bahamian food trucks and kiosks in Paradise Plaza and Lokono Cove will start serving island specialties, seafood, and tropical bites—plus artisan shopping and local art displays .
