Carnival cruise passengers drown on same day at $600m private island

Two Carnival cruise passengers have tragically died in drowning incidents at the cruise line's private island.

The incidents were completely unrelated, but took place within hours of each other at the newly opened Celebration Key on Grand Bahama Island on 15 August.

According to a statement from the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the victims were a 79-year-old man and a 74-year-old woman, both from America, who had been travelling on separate cruises.

Reports say the 79-year-old man became unresponsive while snorkelling at the beach just before midday.

A lifeguard rushed to his aid and CPR was administered but he was pronounced dead at the scene shortly afterwards.

According to the initial report, a couple of hours later, at around 2.30pm, the 74-year-old woman was found unresponsive at a swimming pool on the island. She also received CPR from a lifeguard but was sadly pronounced dead.

"An autopsy will be performed on both victims to assist with determining the exact cause of death," the police confirmed. "The investigation continues in both matters."

A spokesperson for Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed the incident in a statement provided to a number of news outlets.

"Our lifeguards and medical team responded to two separate water emergency incidents at Celebration Key on Friday - one in the lagoon and one at the beach," it said.

"Sadly, both guests have passed away.

"One guest was sailing with family on Mardi Gras and one guest was sailing with family on Carnival Elation.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the guests and their families and our Care Team is providing assistance."

Carnival's Celebration Key only opened its doors to guests on 19 July after the cruise line invested more than $600 million in developing the resort.

The tropical resort is expected to welcome around four million guests per year by 2028 and is already expanding its docking capacity to handle many large ships at once.

It is split into five different areas, including an adults only area with the world's largest swim up bar and an artisan market and shopping area. The island also boasts an incredible 10-story 'Suncastle', two 350-foot water slides, 275,000 square foot lagoons and an 11,000 square foot infinity pool.

Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy previously said: "Celebration Key is more than just a beautiful place; it’s a celebration of the Bahamian paradise our guests love, complemented by an impressive variety of incredible new experiences and offerings.

"We’ve built the ultimate beach day for our guests whether they crave fun in the sun or relaxation under a palm tree."

LADbible has contacted Carnival Cruise Line for further comment.