By: Mary Alys Foutz, a Marvelous Mouse Travels agent
Marvelous Mouse Travels was invited to attend the Grand Opening Ceremony of Carnival Cruise Line’s brand new Relax Away Half Moon Cay. And let us be the first to tell you, this private destination and its upgrades do not disappoint!
Before we got to the actual ceremony, we were able to walk down the brand new pier. Now this may not sound super exciting to you, but previously guests had to tender onto the island. That’s no longer the case! All guests, including those in wheelchairs and mobile scooters, are now able to easily access the Half Moon Cay.
At the end of the pier we were greeted by Junkonoo dancers on stilts, Bahamian officials, and Carnival Cruise Line leadership. President Christine Duffy dedicated the island, followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony that included special guest, Jonathan Bennett.
After the ribbon cutting ceremony, we were whisked away to a private breakfast on the brand new Coconut Line tram system. Boy did our breakfast view leave a lasting impression! This dining location will be open for lunch during normal operating hours. Imagine dining beachside with this gorgeous view!
We then continued along the new tram route where we learned that each tram stop has a beach section with a corresponding umbrella color. This makes it easy to distinguish each beach area.
Stop 1: Mango Station-- features the Orchid Beach Grill and Bar
Stop 2: Lime Station-- home to the Lil’ Tiki Bar
Stop 3: Pineapple Station
Stop 4: Guava Station-- features the Hibiscus Beach Grill and Stay Awhile Beach Shack
Stop 5: Avocado Station-- home to the Luna Tide Beach Bar
Alternatively, guests can take the scenic Papaya Pathway between each station or even to walk to and from the pier. The walk can be a bit long in places, but there are maps that designate estimated walking times between each station. This makes it easy to determine if you want to walk or ride. We will say that some sections of the pathway feature photo opportunities with the amazing beach backdrop, so you may find yourself wanting to walk.
After we toured the full beach length of Relax Away Half Moon Cay, it was time to experience the gorgeous beach ourselves. It is a serious understatement to say this beach is “pretty”. Words cannot describe how stunning the Bahamian water is here, nor the attention to detail that Carnival Cruise Line has included to enhance the beauty of the beach.
It’s important to note that by the time we had gotten to our cabana area, most of the guests had ventured to the beach to stake out their spots for the day. Our ship, the Carnival Sunrise, holds thousands of people and yet the beach still felt empty. There is no shortage of beach chairs, clam shell loungers*, or cabanas*. This means guests don’t have to get anxious about finding a spot and we have to say-- there’s really no bad spot. That’s right, every view is pretty much the same… just gorgeous white sand and crystal clear waters.
Snap Shot! Let’s Take a look at Relax Away Half Moon Cay by the Numbers:
Ready to plan your day at Relax Away Half Moon Cay? Reach out to Marvelous Mouse Travels to be connected to a travel agent to start planning your Carnival Cruise Line getaway today.
*Additional fees apply.
