Carnival's RelaxAway Pier Opens, Ending Tenders to Half Moon

Carnival Cruise Line guests sailing to Half Moon Cay from 2026 will no longer need to take a tender boat to reach the private island. A new 1,005-foot pier built on the north side allows ships to dock directly, a change that also opens the destination to Excel-class ships for the first time. The island has been rebranded as RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay as part of an investment exceeding $80 million in pier and landside development.

The new north side area for Carnival guests features a 2.5-mile beach served by a hop-on, hop-off tram system with six stops. The development includes two food halls, multiple bars, and extensive beach rental facilities while intentionally avoiding features like waterparks or pools. The architecture uses natural materials and subdued colors to blend with the surroundings.

What's included in your visit

Beach chairs and umbrellas are provided at no extra cost across the island, with over 9,000 chairs and 4,600 umbrellas available. Guests must bring their own towels from the ship. Lunch is included at two beach grills, offering an extensive buffet with items like hamburgers, grilled chicken, pulled pork, rice and peas, and a coastal salad bar. Basic non-alcoholic drinks like lemonade, tea, and water are also complimentary.

Your Carnival shipboard WiFi package does work across the north side of RelaxAway. However, the Cheers beverage package does not work on the island, and all other drinks must be purchased and charged to your shipboard account. Lockers are available for rent at $11.99 per day, though they are sized for small bags only.

Shore excursions and rental options

A variety of paid shore excursions and equipment rentals are available. Tours include horseback riding in the water, stingray encounters, snorkeling trips, and guided tram tours. Guests can also rent water sports equipment and reserve shaded seating.

Cabanas should be reserved in advance via Carnival's Cruise Planner or the HUB app. Beach wheelchairs are available for free on a first-come basis, and accessible trams run regularly. Scooters are permitted but must be fully charged before arriving, as there are no charging stations on the island.

A different experience for Holland America guests

Because Holland America Line owns Half Moon Cay, its guests have a separate experience on the south side of the island. They arrive by water shuttle to an area with its own dining, including the Island Market Grill and Lobster Shack, and bars like On the Rocks. Currently, Holland America's WiFi and drink packages do not work on the island, though some sailings offer an exclusive island drink package for purchase.

Guests can walk between the north and south sides, but the tram does not connect the two areas. For now, ship keycards only work on the side designated for each cruise line, though integration of the point-of-sale systems is planned. Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald advised guests to "Get off the ship after breakfast, especially when multiple ships are visiting."