In a press release sent to media on Tuesday (May 21 2024) Carnival Cruise Line clearly signalled that they are looking to make Celebration Key a real competitor to Royal Caribbean’s “Perfect Day at Coco Cay“.
Set to open in July 2025 on Grand Bahama, they have revealed that Celebration Key will include a family-focused attraction called Starfish Lagoon. This new destination promises a wide range of activities designed to cater to guests of all ages.
What Will Starfish Lagoon Feature?
At the heart of Starfish Lagoon is one of the Caribbean’s largest freshwater lagoons. This central feature will serve as a hub for a variety of attractions and amenities.
Among the highlights are:
Flash Flamingo and Mach III Marlin Water Slides
Named after The Bahamas‘ national bird and fish, the pink Flash Flamingo and blue Mach III Marlin water slides extend over 350 feet each. These slides will offer thrilling races, weaving through and around the ten-story Suncastle, ending in a splashing, photo-worthy finish.
Guppy Grotto
Designed for toddlers and young children, this coral-reef themed splash pad features a shallow two-foot-deep wading pool, water toys, a dump bucket, and interactive elements. Parents can relax in shaded seating nearby, with an ice cream shop conveniently close.
Game Pavilion
This area includes foosball, ping pong, and corn hole tables, along with comfortable seating areas perfect for socializing.
Sports Court
Adjacent to the Game Pavilion, the sports court will offer volleyball, basketball, and pickleball courts (yay!!!).
Floating AquaBanas
These floating cabanas provide a unique relaxation experience. Available for rental, they can accommodate up to eight people and include a solid table, non-slip surfaces, and steps for easy access to the lagoon.
A dedicated bar on a nearby peninsula ensures that refreshments are always within reach.
Swim Up Bar
Adults can enjoy a variety of drinks, including specialty frozen rum cocktails, without leaving the water.
Hammocks
Situated near the Suncastle, these hammocks allow guests to relax and enjoy the scenic views over the water.
Beach Area
Guests can rent kayaks and paddleboards, play beach games, or simply relax on sun loungers with umbrellas. The beach will also feature beachside cabanas and space for building sandcastles.
Dining Options
A variety of dining venues will offer diverse culinary experiences, including restaurants, snack bars, and even Bahamian food trucks.
A “Piece of Paradise”
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, expressed enthusiasm about the new family-friendly offerings.
“At Carnival, we carry more children than any other cruise line. We’ve designed Starfish Lagoon specifically for family fun. Toddlers, teens, and adults alike will find their own piece of paradise,” Duffy said.
Activities such as racing down water slides, playing pickleball, or relaxing on floating AquaBanas cater to a wide range of preferences.
Starfish Lagoon will be part of Celebration Key’s five distinct portals. The other areas include Paradise Plaza, the welcome area; Calypso Lagoon, an adult-friendly zone; and Lokono Cove, the shopping village. Details on an adults-only private retreat will be announced soon.
Celebration Key is expected to welcome its first guests in July 2025. Over 500 itineraries featuring visits to the new destination are currently available for booking, spanning 18 ships from ten U.S. homeports.
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