Carnival’s Celebration Key earns sensory inclusion certification

Carnival Cruise Line has announced that Celebration Key, its exclusive destination in Grand Bahama, has become the first cruise destination to earn KultureCity's sensory inclusion certification.

The milestone, timed to World Autism Acceptance Month, builds on a six-year partnership between Carnival and KultureCity, a nonprofit that certifies venues to better serve individuals with sensory sensitivities and invisible disabilities including autism, dementia, PTSD and sensory processing disorders.

More than 400 guest-facing team members at Celebration Key have been trained to assist guests with sensory needs. 

The destination now offers complimentary sensory bags containing noise-reducing headphones, fidget tools and glasses with filters to block strobe and bright lights. 

The bags also include a VIP lanyard with a headphone logo and light bulb symbol to discreetly signal to team members that a guest may need additional support, along with a feelings thermometer for non-verbal guests to communicate their emotions.

"This milestone demonstrates Carnival's dedication to making vacations accessible and enjoyable for all, including families with sensory processing needs. By training our team members and offering tailored resources both on board and at Celebration Key, we ensure every guest feels supported, understood, and welcome," said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

The certification adds to Carnival's existing fleetwide accessibility efforts, which include training for shipboard staff and shoreside call centre representatives who work with guests during the booking process.

"Creating truly inclusive experiences means anticipating the needs of every guest before they arrive—and meeting them with empathy, understanding, and thoughtful support," said Uma Srivastava, executive director of KultureCity. 

"By certifying Celebration Key, Carnival Cruise Line is setting a new standard for the travel industry, ensuring that individuals with sensory needs and invisible disabilities can fully participate in and enjoy every moment of their journey."

More than two million guests have visited Celebration Key since its opening.

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