Cruisers Clash Over Celebration Key’s New Age Policy in Calypso Lagoon
Carnival Cruise Line is already tweaking operations at its brand-new private island, Celebration Key, and the latest change is stirring up debate among cruisers.
Starting September 6, 2025, the popular Calypso Lagoon daybeds—previously restricted to guests 18 and older—will now be open to anyone aged 13 and up.
A Shift From Adults-Only
Calypso Lagoon has been marketed as a go-to retreat for adults at Celebration Key, which just opened on Grand Bahama Island in July 2025. The freshwater lagoon features a swim-up bar, swing-seat bar stools, beach access, and rentable water daybeds that cost $119.99 per day for two guests.
Carnival notified guests with reservations about the update in an email, acknowledging the original 18+ restriction but explaining that the new rule would expand access:
“Effective September 6, 2025, we are updating the age requirement to 13 years and older, allowing a broader range of guests to enjoy the space.”
It remains unclear if the updated policy applies to the entire adults-only section of Calypso Lagoon or just the daybed area. Guests unhappy with the change have been told they may adjust their reservations via the Carnival HUB App or website.
Pushback From Cruisers
While the update broadens access for families with teens, many cruisers are frustrated. Some believe Carnival is simply loosening rules to make enforcement easier.
“So instead of enforcing the 18+ rule, they change it to 13+ which they still won’t enforce,” one guest remarked.
Others expressed concern about the daybeds’ location near the swim-up bar, fearing underage guests might gain access to alcohol or accidentally take someone else’s drink.
“The swinging bar needs to be adults only. Takes just one drunk to not see a kid get their drink,” another cruiser warned.
The Bigger Issue: No More Free Adults-Only Space
Perhaps the strongest criticism is that Carnival has effectively eliminated a free adults-only option at Celebration Key. The only true 18+ space remaining is the Pearl Cove Beach Club, located on the western side of the island.
Pearl Cove offers private cabanas, daybeds, and its own bar and dining options, but access requires a paid pass ranging from $99.99 to $179.99 per person, depending on whether guests choose add-ons such as open bar privileges or restaurant dining.
Some guests feel Carnival is pushing adults who want a kid-free experience into paying for the Beach Club.
“Well they weren’t making any money off the Calypso Lagoon. But you notice how they’re directing you to go pay more,” one cruiser observed.
Another added, “Honestly, I think this is wrong. It also seems they are forcing you to buy the admission to Pearl Cove.”
Early Days for Celebration Key
Since Celebration Key only welcomed its first visitors in July, it’s not surprising that Carnival is still fine-tuning operations.
However, this decision has already sparked a wave of criticism from adult cruisers who had been excited about a complimentary, kid-free zone.
Whether the new age limit improves guest satisfaction or drives more adults toward paid upgrades remains to be seen.
