Cruise lines expand private islands and onboard water parks

Major cruise lines are expanding their private destinations and onboard amenities to compete for market share.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is investing in its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, which recently opened a new water park. Chief Experience Officer Mark Kansley stated that 64 percent of the island remains undeveloped, indicating a long-term strategic plan to enhance the destination. Private islands offer cruise lines strategic advantages, including optimized route planning and the ability to mitigate overtourism at public ports.

Meanwhile, Carnival Cruise Line has announced that its new Excel-class ship, the Carnival Festivale, will debut in May 2027 from Port Canaveral. The vessel will feature the ‘Carnival WaterWorks Ultra’, the largest water park ever installed on a Carnival ship, prioritizing family-oriented entertainment. The ship’s initial itineraries will include four-day cruises to the Bahamas, visiting Carnival’s private destinations, Celebration Key and RelaxAway (Half Moon Cay).