Carnival Corporation & plc, the leading cruise company globally, has unveiled a US$100 million project to extend the pier at Celebration Key, an exclusive destination by CCL-Carnival Cruise Line set to debut on Grand Bahama island in the summer of 2025. This extension, doubling the arrival capacity, aims to accommodate the growing demand for cruise vacations.
The expansion, to be completed by 2026, will include two additional berths capable of hosting Carnival's largest Excel class ships alongside the existing two berths. This enhancement will enable the pier to cater to up to 4 Excel-class ships simultaneously, projecting an annual influx of nearly 4 million guests to Celebration Key by 2028.
The announcement of these pier extension plans was made during the 25th Annual Grand Bahama Business Outlook by The Honorable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation in The Bahamas, on Thursday, February 22.
Celebration Key has been meticulously designed to accommodate the anticipated growth in occupancy, ensuring ample space and attractions for guests expected in 2027. With its extensive amenities including a mile-long, white sand beach, expansive freshwater lagoons, and diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment options across five distinct areas known as portals, Celebration Key promises a memorable experience for visitors.
In alignment with Carnival Corporation's commitment to local engagement, efforts are underway to involve Bahamian businesses, excursion operators, and entrepreneurs in the development, creating numerous job opportunities within the community. The company has also appointed Bahamian professionals to key leadership positions and plans to fill additional senior roles in the coming months.
This US$100 million pier extension investment is part of the larger US$600 million flagship project, making it the largest endeavor of its kind undertaken by Carnival Corporation. The initial phase of the project, including the first two berths, is anticipated to generate 700+ permanent jobs, with approximately 300 Bahamians directly employed by Carnival Corporation to welcome 2.2 million guests annually to Grand Bahama starting in 2025.
Upon the completion of all 4 berths, Celebration Key is forecasted to host up to 4 million guests annually by 2028, bringing significant economic benefits to the Bahamas. According to an economic impact study by Tourism Economics, the project is expected to create over 2,500 direct Bahamian jobs, generate US$3.2 billion in incremental revenue to the Government, and contribute US$9.7 billion in incremental economic impact to the Bahamas GDP over the next two decades.