By KEILE CAMPBELL

Tribune Staff Reporter

kcampbell@tribunemedia.net

ROYAL Caribbean Group is pushing to meet its target of completing the Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island in time for a planned opening in the last quarter of 2025.

Philip Simon, president and general manager of Royal Caribbean International Bahamas for the project, said that while workers are already excavating pools and performing other horizontal construction tasks, the site’s narrow topography and the complexity of ongoing work make the schedule challenging. He explained that the development will eventually include three pools and two beach areas designed to create the “ultimate pool and beach day” experience.

Mr Simon noted that the effort to keep the project on track feels like a race against time, and that securing all the necessary approvals took longer than expected, increasing costs beyond the initial budget. He acknowledged that these setbacks have led to expanded plans and additional measures to ensure the development truly represents the country.

Royal Caribbean has faced scrutiny from environmentalists who are concerned about the project’s ecological impact on Paradise Island.

Mr Simon stressed that the company is following environmental best practices. He pointed out that the site was previously disturbed and littered with abandoned structures and garbage before their involvement.

He emphasised that no dredging would take place, and plans for overwater cabanas had been scrapped. Environmental studies have been conducted and made publicly accessible, and anyone with concerns is encouraged to reach out.

On the business side, Mr Simon highlighted that Bahamian companies and professionals are already involved in architectural design, environmental assessments, and construction work.

He said more opportunities remain open in various areas such as laundry, food and beverage, pest control, security, and IT. He encouraged Bahamian businesses to participate in the request-for-proposal process, saying it was structured to maximise local contributions and ownership.

Royal Caribbean’s investment model for the Royal Beach Club allocates 49 percent ownership to local investors, with the company retaining a 51 percent stake. Mr Simon said the development is not only focused on tourism amenities but also on showcasing Bahamian culture, including local cuisine, art, and design elements. His vision is that the Royal Beach Club will become a space that authentically reflects The Bahamas, fosters economic growth, and provides genuine opportunities for its people.