Half Moon, full refresh: Holland America unveils island upgrades

Holland America Line is giving its private island destination in the Bahamas a refresh, unveiling new dining, beach and recreation experiences at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.

The enhancements arrive as the cruise line begins a yearlong celebration leading up to the destination’s 30th anniversary in 2027.

Among the biggest additions is a new food pavilion serving an island-inspired barbecue menu, as well as a new Beach Club experience offering guests an exclusive place to dine and unwind.

Other upgrades include refreshed cabanas, clamshells and daybeds, renovated bars and eateries and additional beach seating. Four pickleball courts, introduced last season, also give guests another activity to enjoy while ashore.

“Every enhancement at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is centered on creating an even more exceptional experience while building on everything guests already love about the island,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, in a press release.

“It’s exciting to unveil the Beach Club as we prepare to welcome our first visitors in October. These improvements reflect our commitment to invest in the guest experience, offering even more unforgettable moments in one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful destinations.”

New Beach Club coming in October

The new Beach Club incorporates Holland America Line’s signature blue, orange and cream palette alongside natural textures and open-air spaces designed to create a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere.

Day passes will become available for booking in early October.

Guests purchasing a Beach Club day pass will receive priority tendering from the ship to the island, along with dedicated waiter service and all-inclusive alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Beach accessories, specialty food and beverage offerings and other surprise experiences will also be included.

Elsewhere on the island, the new food pavilion will serve a complimentary menu exclusive to RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, while existing bars and eateries are undergoing renovations.

Holland America Line is also upgrading cabanas and adding more daybeds, beach chairs and canopy loungers for two.

Caribbean savings

The enhancements come as Holland America Line promotes its 2026-27 Caribbean season, including holiday sailings.

Through the cruise line’s Save on Sunshine promotion, guests can receive up to 50 per cent off cruise fares and free kids’ fares on select sailings.

Holiday itineraries in 2026 range from seven-day getaways to longer voyages combining popular Caribbean destinations with lesser-visited islands and historic ports. Some itineraries also include a Panama Canal experience.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.