Carnival Cruise Line is making waves this World Autism Acceptance Month by announcing that Celebration Key — its exclusive destination in Grand Bahama — has been officially certified as the first cruise destination to earn KultureCity’s prestigious sensory inclusion certification.
With more than two million guests visiting Celebration Key, this groundbreaking achievement highlights Carnival’s commitment to making every guest’s experience inclusive and fun, including families with sensory needs.
For the last six years, Carnival has partnered with KultureCity, a leading nonprofit organization that creates sensory-inclusive spaces for individuals with invisible disabilities such as autism, dementia, PTSD, and sensory processing disorders. KultureCity is recognized worldwide for certifying venues to better serve individuals with sensory sensitivities.
At Celebration Key, more than 400 guest-facing team members are now trained to help guests with sensory needs navigate the unique vacation environment and have fun.
Complimentary guest sensory bags with noise-reducing headphones, fidget tools, and glasses with filters to block-out strobe and bright lights are also now available. The bags also include a VIP lanyard featuring a headphone logo and light bulb symbol to discreetly signal to Carnival team members that the guest may require additional support or accommodations as well as a feelings thermometer that allows non-verbal guests to point and communicate their emotions.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said that: “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.”
Celebration Key’s certification adds to the fleetwide efforts Carnival has implemented through its partnership with KultureCity, which include training of shipboard staff and shoreside call center representatives who interact with guests during the booking process.
Uma Srivastava, executive director of KultureCity, explained that: “Creating truly inclusive experiences means anticipating the needs of every guest before they arrive—and meeting them with empathy, understanding, and thoughtful support. 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.”
Sail on over to www.carnival.com for more.
