Celebration Key Welcomes Dual Docking: Mardi Gras and Carnival Pride Arrive Together!

On July 25, 2025, Carnival Cruise Line (CCL) achieved a remarkable milestone at Celebration Key in the Bahamas, as two of its ships—Mardi Gras and Carnival Pride—docked simultaneously at the newly opened private cruise resort on Grand Bahama Island. This event marked the first visit of the Mardi Gras, known as CCL’s first Excel-class ship, to Celebration Key, where it joined the Carnival Pride at berth. Together, the vessels welcomed approximately 9,000 passengers to the expansive 65-acre facility.

The dual arrivals took place during the inaugural operational week of Celebration Key, which officially opened to cruise traffic in mid-July. Mardi Gras was on an Eastern Caribbean sailing that departed from Port Canaveral on July 19, while Carnival Pride visited as part of a Bahamas itinerary from Baltimore, which commenced on July 20.

Celebration Key is envisioned as a flagship location in Carnival’s strategy for regional itinerary development, designed to host large passenger volumes. The destination boasts a mix of beachside recreation, culinary offerings, and top-notch amenities, including a 1.5-mile coastline, five themed areas, and several standout facilities. These features include what are reported to be the Caribbean’s largest freshwater lagoons, the world’s largest swim-up and swings bars, over 30 dining and beverage venues, and a private beach club that is the most expansive of its kind in any cruise port.

Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line, remarked on the positive guest feedback regarding Celebration Key. The simultaneous docking of the two ships exemplified the destination’s capability to provide high-quality experiences for a large number of guests, with 9,000 visitors in a single day underscoring its impressive scale and appeal.

Celebration Key is set to be featured in the itineraries of 20 CCL ships, departing from 10 homeports across the USA. This destination is a crucial part of Carnival’s ongoing investment in private locations and tailored experiences within the Caribbean, enhancing the overall cruise experience for passengers.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.