Royal Caribbean has received approval for the development of the first Royal Beach Club from the government of The Bahamas. The 17-acre destination experience coming to the western end of Paradise Island in Nassau, The Bahamas, will combine the island’s beaches with the cruise line’s signature experiences to create a new beach port of call: The Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island.
Built in close collaboration with the Bahamian government, the new project will feature a public-private partnership in which Bahamians can own up to 49 per cent equity in the beach club. Local businesses and entrepreneurs will also have the opportunity to manage the vast majority of the experience. Overall, the new venture will generate hundreds of local jobs across its construction and long-term operation.
“The Bahamas has been a phenomenal partner since the very start, when they became our first port of call more than 50 years ago,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.
“As we continue to bring millions of visitors to experience attractions throughout Nassau each year, The Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island is the next bold adventure in Royal Caribbean’s commitment to both increasing tourism in The Bahamas and delivering memorable vacations to our guests.”
Alongside private cabanas, pools and more, the vibrant Bahamian spirit and culture will come to life throughout the destination experience. Vacationers will be welcomed by local architecture that complements the views of The Bahamas’ turquoise-blue waters and white sand beaches, along with experiences that feature Bahamian fare, island-style barbecues, live music and local artisans.
The beach club will be made up of 13 acres of land owned by the cruise line and 4 acres of Crown Land. The Crown Land will be contributed as equity in the new venture to ensure a share of the profits return to the government and the people in a first-of-its-kind agreement in The Bahamas. This, in addition to a new tourism levy, will go into reinvesting in the local community. The collaboration between the government, the community and Royal Caribbean will continue as the development moves through the stages of planning and completion.
The cruise lines says that details about The Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island, set to open in 2025, will be revealed in the coming months.
