A new cruise port is to be built to handle large new generation Carnival Cruise Line ships in the Bahamas.
The Carnival Grand Bahama cruise port destination, expected to open in late 2024, is being developed on the south side of the island.
The cruise pier will allow Grand Bahama to accommodate up to two of Carnival’s larger Excel class ships such as the 5,282-passengerMardi Gras and sister Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)-powered vessel Carnival Celebration which is due to enter service from Miami later this year.
Passengers will be able to explore Grand Bahama by sea via a dedicated shore excursion dock or by land using a dedicated ground transportation hub.
The cruise port will also feature an area designated as a nature reserve and an interior pool feature, along with many Bahamian-operated retail, food and drink options.
Additional details on the design, features and name will be revealed over the coming months as Carnival “finalises its plans to maximize the fun for their guests and the opportunities to partner with local businesses and other stakeholders”.
Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy, speaking at a ground breaking ceremony in collaboration with Grand Bahama Port Authority and the Bahamas government, said: “Our guests already love The Bahamas, and we are certain this new project will give them even more reason to want to visit.
“As we celebrate our 50-year partnership with the Bahamas, today’s groundbreaking on our incredible new Grand Bahama destination represents an opportunity to collaborate with the government and people of Grand Bahama – to contribute to the local economy through job and business opportunities, meaningfully engage with local communities, and further expand our experience offerings for our guests who will have a breath-taking new port of call to enjoy,”
Grand Bahama Port Authority acting chairman Sarah St George said: “The new Carnival cruise port destination will have a monumental impact on our island’s economy, including a panoply of new business opportunities, a huge surge in tourist visitors, as well as increased activities for established businesses. It is transformational in the true sense of the word.”