New Pier and Expanded Amenities Ready for Carnival at Half Moon Cay
Carnival Cruise Line’s new pier as well as new amenities and upgrades to the existing ones at its exclusive destination, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, are now open.
“RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay’s natural beauty has always made it a favorite for our guests, and with the new pier, more ships can now easily access this incredible destination,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.
“We’re excited that more guests than ever will be able to experience the stunning beachfront and turquoise waters.”
Thanks to the expansion, guests can enjoy new complimentary loungers and umbrellas, plus reservable cabanas and daybeds.
Furthermore, food and drink venues offering island-style meals, full buffets and beverages in shaded, beachfront settings have been added and upgraded.
These include Orchid Beach Grill, Hibiscus Beach Grill, Luna Tide Beach Bar, Stay Awhile Beach Shack and Lil’ Tiki Bar.
A scenic Papaya Pathway has been added as a walking route for those wishing to explore the destination on foot, while others can take advantage of a new tram service connecting all areas of the island.
The company added that the existing south side of the island is also being refreshed with new design elements and food and beverage venue upgrades.
The destination is part of the Paradise Collection by Carnival, a portfolio of exclusive cruise destinations across the Caribbean and The Bahamas, including the recently reimagined Isla Tropicale in Roatán, Honduras.
Norwegian Cruise Line cancelled the cruise that was set to take place onboard the Norwegian Joy on April 12, 2027.
According to a statement sent to booked guests, the sailing will no longer go ahead due to a full-ship charter.
Sailing roundtrip from PortMiami, the vessel was set to offer a five-night cruise to the Bahamas and Mexico.
In addition to Cozumel, the itinerary included a visit to the company’s private island destination of Great Stirrup Cay, as well as two days of cruising in the Caribbean.
Norwegian said that guests will receive a full monetary refund of the fare paid for the cruise, which will be automatically returned to the original form of payment. In addition they will be getting a future cruise credit (FCC).
“We recognize this change wasn’t part of your original travel arrangements, and as a token of our appreciation for your patience, we’re pleased to offer you a 10 percent discount in the form of a Future Cruise Credit,” the company added.
The FCC can be used toward any of Norwegian’s published sailings through December 31, 2027, the statement added.
The company also said that its teams are available to book guests on alternative sailings, suggesting three similar cruises departing from Miami.
Highlighted cruises include two departures of the Norwegian Viva, sailing on April 13 and April 18, 2027.
The first sails to the Bahamas and the Dominican Republic over the course of five nights, while the second is a seven-night cruise to the Western Caribbean and the Bahamas.
Norwegian also suggested a four-night cruise to the Bahamas onboard the Norwegian Getaway on April 12, 2027. All of the options also include a visit to Great Stirrup Cay.
Joining the Norwegian Bliss, the Norwegian Encore and the Norwegian Jade, the vessel offers a series of seven-night cruises departing from Seattle.
More Information
A full-ship charter for a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) vessel generally ranges from £1 million to over £12 million ($1.3 million to $15+ million USD) for a week, depending on the ship’s size, age, and itinerary. Chartering requires covering the equivalent of all stateroom fares, food, entertainment, and a 10% or higher initial deposit. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Key Considerations for Full-Ship Charters:
Costs: Rates often base on roughly $150–$200+ per passenger per day, plus taxes and gratuities, which on a 4,000-passenger ship can exceed several million dollars in total.
Capacity & Timing: Costs vary based on the ship class and season; smaller or older ships (e.g., Norwegian Sky) cost less than larger, modern vessels (e.g., Norwegian Encore).
Payments: A non-refundable deposit is required at signing, typically with the full balance due 90 days to several months in advance.
All-Inclusive Nature: The charter fee covers food, entertainment, and standard amenities, but usually excludes alcohol, spa treatments, and special excursions.
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