New hotels and new cruise development strengthens tourism in The Bahamas
ANN RUPPENSTEIN
The CEO of the Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board says 2022 saw “complete recovery from the pandemic” for its member hotels in Nassau, Cable Beach and Paradise Island.
“Our room revenue surpassed 2021 levels by 112% and the length of stay is now approaching six nights on average, representing a half day to one day increase. So this just goes to show how much the demand for our destination has grown within the past year,” says Joy Jibrilu, adding that occupancy was up 44%. “During the last quarter of 2022, we also saw the number of passenger arrivals to Lynden Pindling International Airport surpass what it was during the same period in 2019, which was a record record breaking in visitor arrivals to the Bahamas.”
In terms of news, the new Nassau Cruise Port was recently unveiled featuring a new terminal building, a Junkanoo museum, event and entertainment spaces, an art gallery, an amphitheatre, a living coral exhibit, unique local stores, and new food and beverage facilities.
“The port has recently been transformed through a $300 million redevelopment project including the repair and expansion of Prince George Wharf and the addition of a sixth berth that gives the port the capacity to accommodate three Oasis class vessels simultaneously,” she says. “Over the years, we have become a great destination for cruises to stop due to its variety of activities and beautiful beaches. With so many of our visitors arriving on cruises we are excited to see the transformation of our cruise port to make it a destination within itself.”
In terms of accommodation news, Goldwynn Resort & Residences is a new property on Cable Beach.
“Goldwynn Resort Resort & Residences is located on a pristine stretch of Cable Beach and offers visitors beautifully designed studio, one, two and three bedroom suites with expansive golf course or ocean views,” she says. “Guests will enjoy a luxurious oasis where they can relax and unwind with beautiful accommodations from a tranquil spa, a stunning infinity pool, a 60-foot flocking flamingo created by a local Bahamian artist.”
Renovations are also underway at the British Colonial, which will no longer be a branded hotel and operate in partnership with One Particular Harbour and the adjacent Margaritaville Beach Resort. Meanwhile, iconic properties like Graycliff is celebrating its 50th anniversary and The Ocean Club, which served as a filming location for the James Bond movie Casino Royale, is celebrating its 60th anniversary.
“The Ocean Club just underwent extensive renovations to its Crescent Wing and continues to serve as renowned vacation destinations for couples, families and special events,” she says.
No updates have been announced for what’s happening to the space formerly occupied by Meliá Nassau Beach.
Jibrilu says one of the strengths for the destination is its airlift, including multiple carriers from Canada like Air Canada and WestJet.
“We value the support the travel advisors give to Nassau Paradise Island,” she said. “We are confident that the redevelopment of Nassau cruise port and all that’s taking place with Margaritaville, One Particular Harbour, British Colonial hotel will serve as a catalyst for the renaissance of downtown Nassau.”
