Half Moon Cay Expansion Plans Announced & Renamed to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay with New Pier for Carnival Ships
RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay © Carnival Corp
Half Moon Cay, the highly-rated and award-winning exclusive destination known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters in The Bahamas, is embarking on a new chapter as it is renamed RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay™. Announced jointly by Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line, the rebranding reflects the enhanced guest experiences and the island’s continued status as a tropical paradise.
The enhancements include an expanded beachfront experience, new and refreshed food and beverage venues, additional lounging spaces, and a variety of island-themed bars. A key development is the construction of a pier on the island's north side, which will allow ships to dock for the first time, including Carnival’s Excel-class ships. This new feature will eliminate the need for tender boats, providing a more seamless and convenient arrival experience.
Is There a Pier at Half Moon Cay? Do I Need to Use a Water Shuttle to Get to Half Moon Cay?
Exciting news for cruise travelers—RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is undergoing a major transformation with the construction of a new pier on the north side of the island. Once completed, this state-of-the-art addition will allow Carnival Cruise Line ships to dock directly, eliminating the need for tender boats. Holland America Line ships will continue to tender on the south side, ensuring the secluded and exclusive experience guests have always enjoyed. The pier, which will accommodate even larger vessels, is expected to be ready by 2026.
Distinct Experiences for the South and North Sides
The island will now offer two distinct guest experiences. The south side, where Holland America Line has always welcomed visitors, will remain the tranquil haven guests have come to love. Enhancements include a new beach club, updated lunch venues, and improved restroom facilities. Holland America Line ships will continue to tender on this side, ensuring an exclusive experience for their guests.
On the north side, Carnival Cruise Line ships will dock at the newly constructed pier, offering guests access to expanded beach areas, vibrant food venues, bars, and a separate shore excursion pier. This development creates a natural separation between the two areas, ensuring that guests on both sides enjoy their visit to the fullest.
RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay Beach Rendering © Holland America Line
Why the New Name?
The rebranding as RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay reflects the island’s unique crescent-shaped beach and the tranquil experience guests seek when visiting. “The new name combines the island's signature shape with the essence of why guests love to visit: a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful white-sand beaches,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line.
A Longstanding Favorite for Holland America Guests
Holland America Line ships will continue to feature the island as a marquee destination on almost every Caribbean cruise itinerary. “The south side of the island, where Holland America has always visited, will remain the secluded paradise our guests are accustomed to. The enhancements will embrace and preserve the island's pristine beauty while elevating the award-winning experience,” Bodensteiner added.
Exciting Features on the Horizon
Among the highlights of the upcoming changes is a highly anticipated new beach club on the south side of the island. Details about this premium offering will be announced in the coming months, promising an upgraded luxury experience for guests. On the north side, Carnival Cruise Line guests will enjoy exclusive access to vibrant new venues and recreational opportunities, ensuring a memorable visit for all.
Timeline for Enhancements
Construction on the new pier and other upgrades is set to be completed by summer 2026, with further enhancements rolling out through the end of the year. All upgrades have been thoughtfully designed to preserve the island’s natural beauty while enhancing its appeal for visitors.
Carnival Cruise Line’s Expanding Offerings
As part of its exciting growth, Carnival Cruise Line is also set to debut its all-new exclusive destination, Celebration Key, on Grand Bahama in summer 2026. With RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key, guests will enjoy two idyllic destinations for ultimate beach days.
For more updates about the transformation of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, stay tuned for announcements in the coming months.
