Demolition of the former Bahamas Customs Warehouse on Prince George Wharf will kickstart the area’s $268m transformation into the Nassau Cruise Port.

The project, for which a Heads of Agreement was signed between the Government and Global Ports Holding in August 2019, is designed to act as a catalyst for downtown Nassau’s revival once the COVID-19 pandemic has passed.

The prime minister described the signing as an “extraordinary” day for the Bahamian people and residents of New Providence. He said: “We are embarking on a quarter-of-a-billion dollar project to redevelop what will become the iconic, world-renowned and new Nassau Cruise Port.”

Global Ports Holding, the world’s largest cruise port operator, is spearheading the transformation of the port under a 25-year management agreement. It holds a controlling 49 percent stake in the Nassau Cruise Port.

The two-year construction effort is expected to transform the cruise port experience for passengers and residents, and revitalise the waterfront for businesses and tourists. It includes improved retail facilities, the construction of a new terminal building, the creation of an event and entertainment area, and new food and beverage facilities.

The redevelopment also includes a waterfront park, a harbour village, new inner harbour, amphitheatre and a Junkanoo museum.

“Rather than Nassau going to sleep early every evening, Bahamians and visitors should enjoy a bustling and vibrant city, with exciting nightlife and entertainment featuring Bahamian and international culture, music and food,” the Prime Minister said.