Half Moon Cay, a long-time favorite private island destination in The Bahamas for cruise passengers, is being transformed into RelaxAway: Half Moon Cay, with enhancements designed to elevate the experience.
Holland America Line (HAL) and Carnival Cruise Line have partnered on this project to expand access while preserving the island’s natural beauty. In doing so, the island will now be divided into a north and south side.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s changing:
| Feature | South Side (Holland America Guests) | North Side (Carnival Guests) |
|---|---|---|
| Docking and Arrival | Guests tender ashore, retaining the secluded atmosphere. | New pier allows ships, including Excel-class vessels, to dock. |
| Dining | Upgraded lunch venues and refreshed food and beverage facilities. | Two new lunch venues with diverse dining options. |
| Beach Experience | Exclusive access to secluded beaches. | Expanded beachfront with additional lounging areas. |
| Bars and Cabanas | New beach club and renovated cabanas for relaxing in style. | Island-themed bars and additional cabana spaces. |
| Transportation and Access | Compact, walkable layout. | Tram service for convenient island-wide exploration. |
| Shore Excursions | Connection to traditional excursions like horseback riding. | New shore excursion pier and enhanced activity options. |
Why the Name Change?
The new name, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, reflects the island’s iconic crescent-shaped beach and its relaxing, tropical atmosphere.
Holland America’s Take
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,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line.
Carnival Cruise Line’s Take
“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.
What Guests Can Expect
- For Holland America Line Travelers: The south side remains a serene retreat, with upgrades that include a new beach club, refreshed dining spaces, and renovated facilities. Guests will continue to tender ashore, ensuring the secluded ambiance stays intact.
- For Carnival Cruise Line Travelers: The newly developed north side offers a more vibrant experience, with the convenience of docking directly at a new pier. Guests can enjoy expanded beachfront areas, themed bars, and easy access to shore excursions through a separate pier.
The new pier on the north side represents a massive change for Carnival Cruise Line. For the first time, its larger Excel-class ships (like Mardi Gras and Celebration) can dock directly at the island.
Previously, access to Half Moon Cay was limited by tender boats, restricting some of the larger vessels.
Eco-friendly Design
All upgrades are designed to blend seamlessly with the island’s natural beauty. Architecture and layouts are planned with environmental considerations, ensuring the destination retains its charm.
Looking Ahead
RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, is set to feature prominently in Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line itineraries, and the island will be included in many 2026 and beyond cruises.
Holland America Line first developed Half Moon Cay as a private island destination in 1997.
Read More: Celebration Cay vs Half Moon Cay
