Holland America Line opened four pickleball courts at its private island Relax Away, Half Moon Cay, bringing the cruise line’s signature sport to its Bahamas destination.
The new courts debuted December 6 with a tournament between passengers from Rotterdam and Eurodam.
Cruise Line’s Pickleball Partnership Expands
As the official cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association, Holland America already features pickleball courts on all fleet ships. The new island courts allow passengers to continue playing in what the cruise line calls “one of the most stunning settings imaginable.
The courts are located in Half Moon Cay’s sports area alongside basketball, volleyball, and soccer facilities. Beach activities include tai chi, beach ball relays, scavenger hunts, and sandcastle contests.
Pickleball has become one of our most popular activities across the fleet, so adding courts to our private island lets guests enjoy the game in one of the most stunning settings imaginable,” said Michael Smith, senior vice president of guest experience and product development.
Island Enhancements Beyond Pickleball
The pickleball courts are part of broader Half Moon Cay upgrades. Holland America refreshed all 15 private cabanas with new umbrellas, beach loungers, fresh paint, and new decking. Each cabana rental includes complimentary snacks, beverages, floating mats, and snorkel gear.
The cruise line added 500 beach chairs along the crescent-shaped shoreline and introduced new clamshell loungers arriving before the holidays. Upcoming renovations include upgrading the two-story villas this winter and opening a new food pavilion next season to complement the existing Island Barbecue venue.
28 Years of Half Moon Cay
December 2025 marks the 28th anniversary of Holland America’s private island opening. Half Moon Cay consistently ranks as the highest-rated Caribbean port among Holland America passengers, known for its 700-acre natural lagoon, children’s waterpark, white sand beaches, and dining at venues like Lobster Shack.
