This guide was rebuilt against current port, cruise-line and tourism sources on September 26, 2026. Berths, opening hours, day-pass rules, prices, weather and excursion availability can change; your cruise line's sailing-day instructions control.
Arrival and getting around
Port / landing: RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay has historically used tenders, and 2026 improvements are being introduced in phases. Follow your ship's current arrival instructions rather than relying on older pier plans.
Getting around: The destination is largely walkable once ashore, with internal transport/tram enhancements being added as part of the 2026 redevelopment.
Money and local time
- Local currency
- Bahamian dollar (BSD)
- Exchange reference
- B$1 = US$1 (fixed parity)
- Do they take USD?
- Yes. U.S. and Bahamian dollars circulate at par; clarify which currency a posted price uses.
- Local time
- Eastern Time (EST/EDT); The Bahamas observes daylight saving time. Always use the ship's stated time for all-aboard.
Beach, pool and facilities
- Pool
- The core included experience is the beach rather than a large public resort pool. Premium facilities may add additional water features as redevelopment phases open.
- Free / public beach
- Yes. The main white-sand beach is the central included experience; standard beach chairs/towels are offered to visiting guests, while upgraded seating/cabanas cost extra.
- Water access
- Yes. Ocean swimming and water-sports rentals are available when conditions permit.
- Restrooms
- Restrooms and guest facilities are available in the developed beach areas.
- Day pass / beach club
- Cabanas, clamshells, daybeds and other upgrades are paid. A new premium Beach Club is scheduled to begin operating in the 2026 fall rollout; verify whether it is open for your exact sailing.
“Free/public beach” means beach entry or public shoreline access — not necessarily free transportation, loungers, umbrellas, food, showers or restrooms. Sea conditions, sargassum and temporary closures can change the practical beach experience.
Standout excursion types
- Main beach + Island BBQ day.
- Water-sports rental or horseback/boat excursion depending on your cruise program.
- Premium cabana/Beach Club experience when available.
Low-logistics day: Tender ashore, choose a section of the main beach, use the included BBQ/standard amenities and keep your tender-return buffer conservative.
Cruise lines and terminal notes
RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is a Carnival Corporation private destination most closely associated with Holland America Line and Carnival Cruise Line itineraries.
Cruise-line patterns are useful for planning, but no guide should override your actual itinerary. Always confirm the ship name, date, terminal/berth, tender instructions and all-aboard time in the cruise line's app or daily program.
Practical port-day tips
- As of September 26, 2026, redevelopment details are still being phased in; do not assume every announced feature is operating yet.
- Tender timing can matter more here than at docked private islands.
- Premium beach seating sells independently from the standard included beach experience.
- Keep a return buffer that reflects traffic, tender queues or boat transfers — not just map distance.
- For accessibility, confirm gangway/tender rules, vehicle loading, beach access and excursion physical requirements with the cruise line or operator.
- Carry photo ID and any ship-required documents exactly as instructed onboard; entry and reboarding requirements vary by itinerary.
Sources and updates
- Holland America: RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay ↗
- Holland America: 2026 RelaxAway updates ↗
- Bahamas tourism: currency and visitor FAQ ↗
Audited September 26, 2026. Port Perfect Travel summarizes sources for cruise-day planning; conditions can change without notice. Send a correction or updated local detail.