Bahamas: A New Course Toward the Future of Cruising
At Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, the Bahamas unveiled an ambitious and innovative vision for the future of its tourism sector. With over 12,000 participants, 600 exhibitors, and representatives from 121 countries, the event at the Miami Convention Center provided the perfect platform to announce the next evolutionary steps for the cruise industry in the Caribbean archipelago.
The Bahamian delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation I. Chester Cooper, participated with strong institutional and business presence. Alongside him were the Minister for Grand Bahama, Ginger Moxey, the Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, Latia Duncombe, and the CEO of Nassau Cruise Port, Mike Maura, who attended an exclusive press conference at the Loews Hotel.
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Among the most significant projects presented at Seatrade Cruise Global are ambitious infrastructure developments planned in several strategic areas of the archipelago. Norwegian Cruise Line, for example, is currently engaged in building a new pier at Great Stirrup Cay in the Berry Islands. This is a $150 million investment, with completion expected by 2025. The new dock will allow simultaneous berthing of two large cruise ships, significantly improving accessibility and the passenger experience on the company’s private island.
Carnival Corporation, on the other hand, is preparing to launch Celebration Key, its first exclusive destination, scheduled for July 2025. This new landmark for cruise tourism will be located in the southern part of Grand Bahama, backed by a substantial $700 million investment. The facility promises to offer an immersive, tailor-made experience for travelers, contributing to the revitalization of the island as a premier tourist destination.
Looking further ahead, summer 2026 will mark the opening of a new dock on the north coast of Half Moon Cay, which will be renamed “RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.” For the first time, ships—including Carnival’s Excel-class vessels—will be able to dock directly on the island. The project also includes beach expansion, enhancement of dining areas, and the introduction of new bars, offering visitors an even richer and more comfortable experience.
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Finally, great attention is also focused on Freeport Harbour, where an integrated development is taking shape that includes a new cruise port and a water park. This project stems from a joint venture between Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises and represents a key element in strengthening Grand Bahama’s tourism offer, enhancing its position as a world-class destination in the cruise industry.
During the event, the Bahamian delegation met with leaders of major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean Group, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Corporation, RW Bimini Cruise Port, Margaritaville at Sea, and Balearia Caribbean. These meetings reinforced existing collaborations and laid the groundwork for new strategic alliances, all focused on innovation, sustainability, and improving the passenger experience.
Vice Prime Minister Cooper emphasized that the interest shown by media and operators at the Bahamas pavilion reflects the result of a collective effort, born from a shared vision between the public and private sectors for the development of the industry. Latia Duncombe, Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, highlighted how the Bahamas is strengthening its leadership role in the region through a well-defined strategy based on innovation and sustainability. In her view, the multiple projects underway throughout the archipelago clearly demonstrate the country’s commitment to actively shaping the future of cruise tourism.
Bahamas
The most recent data confirms a positive moment for the sector: in January 2025 alone, the Bahamas welcomed over 517,000 cruise passengers. According to projections by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), a record 40 million passengers will be reached globally by 2027. With its network of islands, crystal-clear waters, and a well-defined tourism strategy, the Bahamas is poised to become one of the world’s most sought-after and innovative cruise destinations.
The Bahamas’ participation in Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 was not just an institutional presence but a concrete demonstration of leadership, vision, and project capability. With substantial investments, a solid network of international partnerships, and a sustainable development plan, the archipelago looks to the future of cruise tourism with confidence, determination, and ambition.
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