Carnival to Build New Cruise Port Destination in the Bahamas

Carnival Corporation will develop a new cruise port destination for Carnival Cruise Line passengers on Grand Bahama Island in the Bahamas.

The company signed an agreement this week with the government of the Bahamas to move ahead with two major port developments. The other project on the Bahamian island of Little San Salvador, home to Holland America Line's Half Moon Cay port, will receive a new addition, including a pier.

The new Grand Bahama destination will be located on the south side of the island and will offer guests what is being described as “a uniquely Bahamian destination with a spectacular beachfront and exciting features” — with more details to be revealed in the coming months.

The deal was finalized with papers being signed by representatives from both Carnival Corporation and the local government, including Hubert A. Minnis, prime minister of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.

Between the two projects, Carnival Corporation plans to invest over $180 million over the next few years.

“Our collective goal is to maintain the reputation of The Bahamas as one of our most popular and welcoming destinations for years to come, and it is very rewarding to see our joint vision finalized with today’s agreement,” said Giora Israel, senior vice president of global port and destination development, at Carnival Corporation.

He added: "In the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian, there is poignancy with the timing of today's agreement, and as we prepare for the pre-construction phase of these projects to begin early next year, they will provide jobs and a major boost to the recovery and rebuilding effort.”

Once environmental and other permitting processes are completed, construction for both projects is projected to start by mid-2020.

“These developments and the significant investment in world-class tourism and hospitality operations are such a boon for our initiatives for national prosperity and economic stability,” said Prime Minister Minnis.