Cruise lines are investing heavily in their private island and destination experiences in the Bahamas and Caribbean as cruisers are growing tired of stops at places such as Nassau, and are looking for more resort-style experiences that offer a day of relaxation rather than high pressure from local mechants and sub-par shore excursions.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) just announced a major update coming to its private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay, and it’s only the latest in a string of significant enhancements from the cruise industry’s biggest players.
Great Stirrup Cay Enhancements – Including a Pier!
Let’s start with Norwegian. In order to offer guests more relaxation, more activities, and more ways to enjoy time off the ship, Great Stirrup Cay is being reimagined. Debuting in late 2025, this revitalized private island will feature an expansive new pool complex—complete with a swim-up bar and a dedicated splash zone for kids. Guests will also find a new tram system and welcome center to make getting around easier, especially as a new multi-ship pier eliminates the need for tender boats. (Can I hear a loud, collective “thank you!” for that?)
Other additions include an on-island version of Vibe Beach Club, the adults-only lounge known from Norwegian’s ships, and Horizon Park, a family-friendly space with lawn games and shaded seating areas. For those seeking serenity, a new relaxation zone with hammocks and tiki-inspired vibes will also be part of the expansion.
Expect some of the new amenities and areas to come with an up-charge, as this is becoming common as lines roll out things like private beach clubs.
But NCL isn’t the only one investing heavily in the private destination experience, Carnival Corporation is upping the game too.
What’s Coming to Relaxaway, Half Moon Cay?
Over at Relaxaway, Half Moon Cay (I just can’t get used to that new name), Carnival Corporation is preparing a major refresh and expansion of the private island that’s long been a guest favorite. Used by both Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line, the island is being split in a new way to better serve both brands. A new section of the island is being developed exclusively for Carnival ships, and it will feature a brand-new pier capable of handling the line’s largest vessels—no more tendering for Carnival guests.
Meanwhile, the existing area of Half Moon Cay used by Holland America Line will remain operational but will also receive upgraded amenities, including a private beach club. However, passengers sailing with HAL will continue to reach the shore via water shuttle.
This isn’t the only project Carnival has in the works. Later this year, they’ll debut Celebration Key, a completely new resort-style destination (not an island) designed to offer sun, sand, pools, shopping, and dining right off the ship. Like Half Moon Cay’s new Carnival area, it will also include a pier that simplifies the arrival experience.
Disney and Royal Caribbean Are Also Making Moves
Disney Cruise Line recently opened Lighthouse Point, their newest Bahamian destination on the island of Eleuthera. With its design inspired by Bahamian culture and a strong emphasis on conservation and community, it brings Disney’s signature storytelling ashore in a way that’s visually stunning and family-focused.
Not to be left behind, Royal Caribbean is also expanding its private destination portfolio. The line recently announced plans to open Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, a premium beach day experience located just across from the cruise port in Nassau, Bahamas. This is in addition to their recent purchase of the Costa Maya cruise port in Mexico, where the brand plans to develop Perfect Day Mexico—bringing their signature over-the-top private destination concept to the western Caribbean in 2027.
Don’t Forget MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is continuing to enhance its already amazing Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas. The line recently opened a second dining hall and a new Marine Conservation Center, along with the addition of more beach bars and upgraded amenities throughout the island. Ocean Cay has always stood out for its focus on sustainability and natural beauty, and MSC continues to invest in that vision.
A New Era for Private Island Experiences
It’s clear the cruise industry is entering a new chapter—one where private islands and destinations are why cruisers are booking certain itineraries. These new resort-style experiences are designed to rival the best land-based resorts while keeping cruisers in a controlled environment.
For cruisers like me who use many port days as “stay on the ship days,” that means one thing: whether you’re sailing to the Bahamas, Mexico, or beyond, port days are about to get a whole lot better. And I, for one, can’t wait to step off the gangway and into these reimagined island escapes.