Two American tourists tragically died in separate drowning incidents at Carnival Cruise Line's newly opened Celebration Key resort in the Bahamas. The incidents occurred on Friday, August 15th, less than a month after the $600 million private island destination welcomed its first guests.
Details of the Incidents
According to the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), the first incident involved a 79-year-old man who became unresponsive while snorkeling at a beach. Lifeguards pulled him from the water and administered CPR, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The second incident occurred later that day when a 74-year-old woman was found unresponsive in a swimming pool. Lifeguards again responded and performed CPR, but were unable to revive her.
Both victims were American nationals traveling on separate Carnival cruises. One was sailing with family on the Mardi Gras, while the other was on the Carnival Elation.
Carnival's Response
A Carnival spokesperson confirmed the deaths, stating that their lifeguards and medical team responded to both water emergency incidents, one in the lagoon and one at the beach. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the guests and their families and our Care Team is providing assistance," the spokesperson added.
Autopsies are being performed to determine the exact cause of death in both cases. The RBPF is also conducting investigations into the incidents.
Celebration Key officially opened on July 19, 2025, and is designed as a luxury destination for Carnival cruise passengers, featuring beaches, a large freshwater lagoon, and various recreational activities.
This tragic news casts a shadow over the resort's recent opening and raises questions about water safety measures at the new destination.