Two American tourists tragically drowned at Carnival’s newly opened Celebration Key resort in the Bahamas on August 15, 2023. This incident occurred less than a month after the grand opening of the $600 million resort, located on Grand Bahama Island.
According to the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the victims were a 79-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman, both American nationals. The incidents involved guests from two different Carnival cruise ships. A spokesperson for Carnival Cruise Line confirmed that lifeguards and medical teams responded to two separate “water emergency incidents” at the resort, one in a lagoon and the other at the beach.
The first drowning occurred shortly before noon when the man, who was snorkeling, became unresponsive. Lifeguards quickly pulled him from the water and performed CPR, but he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. The second incident took place around 14:30, when the woman was found unresponsive in a swimming pool.
Officials are conducting autopsies to determine the precise causes of death. One of the passengers had been enjoying a six-day Eastern Bahama cruise aboard the Mardi Gras, departing from Port Canaveral, Florida, while the other was traveling on the Carnival Elation for a four-day trip from Jacksonville, Florida.
In response to the incidents, Carnival stated, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the guests and their families, and our Care Team is providing assistance.”
Celebration Key, which opened on July 19, 2023, is described as the “Key to Paradise” and is exclusively available to Carnival guests. The resort features several attractions, including the largest freshwater lagoon in the Caribbean, comprising two lagoons—Starfish and Calypso—and an 11,000 square foot infinity pool at the Pearl Cove Beach Club. The adult-friendly Calypso Lagoon is noted for having “the world’s largest swim-up bar,” accommodating 166 seats.
During their stop at the resort, guests can engage in various excursions, including paddleboarding, dining experiences, and bar options. The resort also hosts a pier that can accommodate two ships, with plans for future expansions to welcome additional vessels.
Carnival Cruise Line’s President, Christine Duffy, lauded the new resort as an “extraordinary milestone” and emphasized its role in celebrating the Bahamian paradise. She stated, “Celebration Key is more than just a beautiful place; it’s a celebration of the Bahamian paradise our guests love, complemented by an impressive variety of incredible new experiences and offerings.”
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the families affected by this tragic event at a location designed to provide joy and relaxation for its visitors.