By FAY SIMMONS

Tribune Business Reporter

jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

THE Prime Minister says it is “truly invigorating” to see Carnival’s $600m Celebration Key cruise port transitioning from concept to physical reality.

Speaking during a recent tour of the cruise line’s Grand Bahama port destination, which is set to start accepting passengers next year, Philip Davis KC said: “This is something that’s been on the drawing board for many years, and to see it coming out of the ground in the fashion it is truly, truly invigorating to me. Economic impact is already being seen.”

He added that the construction project employs more than 200 workers daily, with a significant portion being Bahamian. “We have at least 32 sub-contractors, of which at least 29 are Bahamians, building these buildings and working which is, again, the idea of my government to ensure that Bahamians are involved in building,” Mr Davis added.

He said Carnival had signalled some parts of the development, such as the pier construction, are ahead of schedule. 

“I’m advised by the developers that they’ve been pleased with work that the Bahamians have been doing, and they are really impressed by their work,” Mr Davis said. 

“They’re on time, most of them. I’m advised that the pier is ahead of schedule.

“People say nothing is happening in Grand Bahama but there’s a need to come and see, and see that it’s not just happening in Grand Bahama; it’s happening for Grand Bahamians. I’m relying on my Bahamian contractors who Carnival has put much confidence in to deliver on time for them.”

Chester Cooper, deputy prime minister, and minister of tourism, investments and aviation, said Carnival’s project is a “demonstration of investor confidence” that will boost the tourism product in Grand Bahama.

“This is good for a demonstration of investor confidence in our country, but also I am enthusiastic and optimistic about what it could mean for tourism,” said Mr Cooper.

“The millions that will come and go outside the gates to really enjoy the product that Grand Bahama has to offer. So, I’m looking forward to completion. 

“I’m excited about the progress, but I’m looking forward to the day when we can actually come and cut the ribbon. I’m forward looking on it.”

Mr Cooper further emphasised the broader impact of the project, noting that it represents a significant boost to the entire island. “When we talk about Grand Bahama, we’re no longer just talking about Freeport,” he added.

“We’re talking about the East End, where this project is generally located. But also we celebrate the authenticity of the western end of Grand Bahama. But this is a great boost to the overall island.”