Law enforcement in Grand Bahama is conducting investigations into the deaths of two American tourists who appear to have drowned while visiting a private island destination associated with Carnival Cruise Line.
Carnival recently introduced Celebration Key, a $600 million vacation spot on the southern part of Grand Bahama Island, designed exclusively for Carnival’s guests. The resort offers features such as lagoons, beaches, infinity pools, swim-up bars, and a variety of activities.
Tragically, on August 15, two tourists drowned at this new holiday destination. In a statement released on August 16, Grand Bahama police reported two separate incidents occurring within hours of each other; the first just before noon and the second shortly after 2:30 pm.
The first incident involved a 79-year-old man who became unresponsive while snorkeling at a beach. He was brought on board a commercial vessel, but despite CPR efforts, he was declared deceased by a medical professional.
Police stated: “A lifeguard assisted him from the water, and CPR was administered, but to no avail. As a result, the male who is reported to be an American national was pronounced deceased by a medical doctor.”
A few hours later, the authorities were notified about a 74-year-old woman who became unresponsive while swimming in a pool. Similar to the first incident, a lifeguard provided assistance and CPR was performed, but she was also pronounced dead by a medical professional.
The authorities plan to conduct autopsies to determine the precise cause of death for both tourists.
A Carnival spokesperson confirmed the incidents in a statement, noting that lifeguards and medical teams responded to two separate water emergencies—one occurring in the lagoon and another at the beach.
“One guest was sailing with family on Mardi Gras and one guest was sailing with family on Carnival Elation,” the Carnival representative stated.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the guests and their families and our Care Team is providing assistance.”
Carnival promotes Celebration Key as a destination offering various activities and adventures, where visitors can engage in snorkeling, kayaking, ATV rides, dolphin swimming, guided island tours, and more.