Carnival Corp. to Expand, Rename Half Moon Cay

Carnival Corp. is changing the name of its popular private beach destination Half Moon Cay, most commonly used by Holland America Line and Princess Cruises. The newly renamed RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay will also undergo an expansion and enhancement that will include an expanded beachfront experience, additional lunch venues, a variety of bars, and “other features.”

A newly-constructed pier on the north side will allow ships to dock, including larger ships, such as Carnival Cruise Line’s Excel Class ships. (Holland America ships will continue to tender at the island.)

“Holland America guests have loved Half Moon Cay for its natural beauty since it opened as a part of call in 1997,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. “The south side of the island, where Holland America has always visited, will remain the secluded paradise our guests are accustomed to…”

The island will boast two welcome plazas, one each on the island’s south and north sides. The existing development on the south side will receive a touch-up, a new beach club, updated lunch venue, and renovated facilities.

When a Holland America ship is in port, it will have exclusive access to the south side.

The new north side development will feature two lunch venues, a variety of island-themed bars, cabanas, and a new shore excursion pier.

There will also be a new tram service, and lounging areas on the island will be expanded.

“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…” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “Many of our 2026 and beyond itineraries will feature both RelaxAway and Celebration Key…”

Holland America and Carnival Cruise Line are partnering on the project, which 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.