Carnival Marks One Million Guests at Celebration Key in Bahamas
Carnival Cruise Line has reached a major milestone at its newest private destination, Celebration Key, welcoming its one-millionth guest just five months after the island officially opened in The Bahamas. The achievement highlights the rapid popularity of the destination among Carnival guests and underscores the cruise line’s growing investment in exclusive, guest-focused experiences ashore.
The milestone guest, Andrew Sexton, was surprised with a special celebration as he stepped ashore with his family during a holiday sailing. Sexton was traveling with his wife, Savannah, their three daughters, and extended family from Knoxville, Tennessee. The trip held added significance, as it marked Andrew’s and the children’s first-ever cruise, made possible through a holiday gift from the grandparents.
The Sexton family arrived aboard Carnival Vista, the vessel that made the inaugural call to Celebration Key in July 2025. Upon arrival, they were greeted by a lively Junkanoo band, setting the tone for a memorable day. Carnival Cruise Line also presented the family with a complimentary package of premium experiences, including a private cabana, food and beverages for the day, and unlimited access to the island’s popular waterslides.
Beyond the guest experience, Celebration Key is already delivering measurable economic benefits to the local community. The destination has generated more than 1,000 permanent jobs for residents and has partnered with 58 Bahamian-owned businesses that now operate on site. During the construction phase, Carnival worked with 29 Bahamian construction companies, with 96 percent of the workforce made up of Bahamian employees, reinforcing the cruise line’s commitment to local engagement and long-term development.
Speaking during an event on Grand Bahama Island on December 1, Pia Glover-Rolle, Bahamas Minister of Labour and Public Service, highlighted the destination’s broader impact. She noted that Celebration Key has helped create new employment opportunities and has enabled residents of the family islands to return home for sustainable, long-term work within their own communities.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said the milestone reflects the strong connection both guests and local residents have formed with the destination. She emphasized that the one-million-guest mark represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Carnival in The Bahamas, laying the groundwork for continued growth while delivering lasting economic and social benefits to the region and unforgettable experiences for guests.
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