CARNIVAL Cruise Line has opened its US$600 million Celebration Key, its new exclusive destination, with Carnival Vista making the first official visit.
President Christine Duffy, Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal, Carnival Corporation CEO Josh Weinstein and Vista Captain Paolo Severini turned the key (pictured) that “unlocked” the gates to the iconic 10-storey Suncastle, the signature attraction on the new destination on Grand Bahama.
The Suncastle is the world’s tallest sandcastle, and is home to two racing water slides.
O’Neal also made the first shot at the basketball court, while the trio cut the ribbon to open Lokono Cove, Celebration Key’s shopping village.
The destination was then toasted with champagne at Pearl Cove Beach Club, Celebration Key’s adults-only retreat.
Other highlights of Celebration Key include the world’s largest swing and swim-up bar; the Caribbean’s largest freshwater lagoons, and more than 30 food and beverage outlets.
“Today marks an extraordinary milestone for Carnival as we open the first phase of our initial $600 million investment, with more to come,” Duffy teased.
“Celebration Key is more than just a beautiful place; it’s a celebration of the Bahamian paradise our guests love, complemented by an impressive variety of incredible new experiences and offerings.
“We’ve built the ultimate beach day for our guests whether they crave fun in the sun or relaxation under a palm tree.”
Celebration Key will initially bring more than two million guests a year to Grand Bahama,
This number is expected to grow to four million by 2028, with an extension to the destination’s pier to allow it to accommodate two more ships. MS