Half Moon Cay to undergo name change; major upgrades

Half Moon Cay in The Bahamas is being renamed RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay in support of its enhancements and the experience guests can expect as they are immersed in this tropical paradise.

The announcement was recently made jointly by Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line.

The two cruise lines are partnering on the enhancements, 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.

“Holland America guests have loved Half Moon Cay for its natural beauty since it opened as a port 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 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.”

“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,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “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.”

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.

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.