Two cruise lines yesterday announced the renaming of a Bahamian private island destination to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.

Holland America Line and its Carnival Cruise Line parent, in a statement, said the move was undertaken to support improvements to the island and the enhanced experience guests will enjoy.

The two cruise lines are partnering on the upgrades, which will include an expanded beachfront experience, lunch venues, a variety of bars and other features that will reinforce the destination’s appeal. A newly-constructed pier on the north side will allow ships to dock, including Carnival’s Excel class ships that will be able to visit the island for the first time.

Guests will arrive at welcome plazas on the island’s south and north sides, spanning over one mile of beach. The existing development on the south side will receive a refreshing Bahamian touch-up, a new beach club, an updated lunch venue and renovated facilities. The newly developed north side will feature two lunch venues and a variety of island-themed bars.

There will also be a new tram service to make it easy and convenient for guests to move around. In addition, lounging areas will be expanded, cabanas added and a new shore excursion pier on the north side will connect guests with recreational activities.

“Holland America guests have loved Half Moon Cay for its natural beauty since it opened as a port of call in 1997,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. “The south side of the island, where Holland America has always visited, will remain the secluded paradise our guests are accustomed to and a marquee destination for almost every cruise visiting the Caribbean.

“The new beach club and refreshed food and beverage spaces will embrace and preserve the island’s pristine beauty while enhancing our award-winning experience.”

“Calling this piece of paradise RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay reinforces our commitment to preserve the attributes that make the destination so appealing as we expand access and welcome more guests to the destination’s crystal clear waters, white sand beaches and lush landscapes,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

“Many of our 2026 and beyond itineraries will feature both RelaxAway and Celebration Key, providing guests with complimentary experiences enjoying both idyllic and ultimate beach days.” The destination’s improvements will begin by summer 2026 and continue through the end of the year.