Carnival Cruise Lines has confirmed two tragic drowning incidents at its newly opened private island resort, Celebration Key, in the Bahamas. The incidents occurred just over a month after the $600 million destination officially welcomed its first cruise passengers. A 79-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman were reported to have died following separate water emergencies on Friday. The Royal Bahamas Police Force provided initial details, noting that the man became unresponsive while snorkeling at a beach and was later found unresponsive in the water, while the woman became unresponsive while swimming in a pool.
Carnival’s spokesperson confirmed the deaths, stating that their lifeguards and medical teams responded to two separate water emergencies—one in the lagoon and one at the beach. The cruise line expressed condolences to the families of the victims, stating that their Care Team is providing support. The deaths have sparked renewed concerns about safety measures at the luxury resort, which opened to the public on July 19 and is designed to offer a range of amenities, including a 10-story sandcastle, racing watersides, and an adults-only retreat. While the island aims to provide an exclusive and exciting experience, the incidents highlight the potential risks associated with such high-end destinations.
The deaths have also brought increased scrutiny to Carnival’s safety protocols and customer management at such unique attractions. Carnival’s spokesperson emphasized that the company is committed to ensuring the safety of all guests, particularly in aquatic environments, and is working closely with local authorities to review and improve emergency response procedures. Autopsies are ongoing to determine the exact causes of the incidents, and the cruise line has pledged to provide further updates as the investigation progresses. Carnival’s latest venture, Celebration Key, is part of its broader strategy to expand its luxury cruise offerings, leveraging the unique geography of the Bahamas to create a new kind of travel experience.