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Introduction
Carnival Cruise Line’s newly opened private resort, Celebration Key, was the scene of two separate drowning tragedies on August 15, 2025. Less than a month after its debut, the resort witnessed the deaths of a 79-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman in unrelated water incidents occurring only hours apart.
Details of the Incidents
Snorkeling Fatality:
- A 79-year-old American man, snorkeling near the beach at midday, became unresponsive in the water.
- Resort lifeguards retrieved him, and medical staff administered CPR, but he was pronounced dead shortly after.
- The man had traveled aboard Mardi Gras, which departed from Port Canaveral, Florida.
Swimming Pool Fatality:
- Approximately two and a half hours later, a 74-year-old American woman was discovered unconscious in one of the resort’s freshwater pools.
- Despite immediate medical response, she too was declared deceased.
- She was a passenger from Carnival Elation, sailing from Jacksonville, Florida.
Carnival’s Response:
- Carnival Cruise Line confirmed lifeguards and onboard medical teams responded quickly to both incidents.
- The company extended condolences and stated its Care Team is assisting the affected families.
- No broader guest impact was reported, and resort operations continued under investigation protocols.
Investigations:
- The Royal Bahamas Police Force has opened formal inquiries into both deaths.
- Autopsies have been ordered to establish official causes of death.
- Authorities have not released preliminary findings, but both incidents are believed to be accidental drownings.
Background on Celebration Key:
- Celebration Key opened on July 19, 2025, following a US$600 million investment by Carnival.
- The facility features expansive lagoons, an infinity pool, swim-up bars, and a pier accommodating two large cruise ships simultaneously.
- Activities include snorkeling, paddleboarding, dining, and relaxation amenities marketed as a safe, resort-style cruise destination.
- The twin fatalities raise concerns over water safety management, particularly for elderly passengers engaging in strenuous activities in pools or open water.