Check Out Photos of the Big Changes Made to Carnival’s Relax Away, Half Moon Cay

Sure, Celebration Key has been getting a lot of attention since opening. But this week, Carnival Cruise Line gave that private destination spot’s big sis, Relax Away Half Moon Cay, some love as they unveiled some big changes which have recently been made to the much-loved hot spot.

What’s New at Relax Away, Half Moon Cay

Already one of the most popular destinations visited by Carnival’s ships, the latest additions have majorly upped Half Moon Cay’s game. And perhaps the most important change is one which guests have long awaited: A new pier which puts an end to the need for tendering.

Carnival new pier at Relax Away Half Moon Cay. Photo by Doug Parker/Cruise Craio
Pier at Relax Away, Half Moon Cay (Photo by Doug Parker/Cruise Radio)

Just in case you haven’t eaten enough on the ship, Relax Away, Half Moon Cay has also upped their food and beverage game with venues such as the Orchid Beach Grill, Hibiscus Beach Grill and several other locations.

Our personal favorite upon a recent visit? The Luna Tide Beach Bar, with its potent cocktails and the kind of view that vacations (and great Instagram pics) are made for.

People relax away at Suna Tide Beach Bar under a wooden pergola with a thatched roof on Half Moon Cay. Pink umbrellas and the ocean create a vibrant backdrop for this sunny Carnival getaway.
Pull up a chair… trust us, you’ll stay a while. (Photo by Doug Parker/Cruise Radio)

Getting From Here to There

With the island having majorly expanded its footprint, there’s a lot to see. Those wanting to take in all the sites at their own pace can walk along the Papaya Pathway. But never fear, there are also regularly-running trams which run from the Coconut Line Tram Station (stop No. 1) to the Avacado Station (where you’ll find the great bar we mentioned above).

A signboard displays a map of Coconut Line tram stops with numbers, names, walking times, and corresponding activities listed below, set outdoors on Half Moon Cay with plants and sand visible in the background—a perfect way to Relax Away during your Carnival getaway.
On a hot day, the tram will be a lifesaver! (Photo by Doug Parker/Cruise Radio)

According to the map, walking the entire route would take approximately an hour… which should give you some idea of just how big the newly-expanded destination is.

Half Moon Cay relax away new beach with loungers. photo by Doug Parker/Cruise Radio
Photo by Doug Parker/Cruise Radio

While there are plenty of free loungers and umbrellas scattered about, there are also cabanas of varying sizes which can be rented for the day.

Everything Old Is New(ish) Again

The already existing side of the island has also received a bit of a makeover. The existing amenities have been upgraded, while many activities and excursions will still be found here.

A large wooden pirate ship play structure with a blue sky and ocean in the background, situated beside a playground with various equipment and a crowd of people in the distance. It's one of the delightful things to do in Half Moon Cay.
(Photo courtesy of Cruise Radio)

With 22 ships currently making calls to Relax Away, Half Moon Cay, Carnival says the Paradise Collection — including Celebration Key — now comprises the largest portfolio of exclusive cruise destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Read Next: Celebration Key marks a major milestone