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ITM Group reported behind $130m Grand Bahama cruise project

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Freeport reportedly would gain four mega cruise berths and be able to draw 2m passengers a year PHOTO: Jon Worth/Wikimedia Commons
Mexico's ITM Group is reportedly proposing a $130m development at Grand Bahama Island that would expand and improve the Freeport cruise berths and create an adventure park around the Grand Lucayan resort.

Royal Caribbean involvement?

One report said ITM Group is working with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. on the Grand Bahama project.

Robert Shamosh, head of commercial affairs for ITM Group, told Seatrade Cruise News his company has no comment at this time.

Costa Maya, Puerto Plata, Roatán

ITM are the developers of Puerto Costa Maya; Taino Bay, a new cruise port at Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic; and of Roatán's cruise port expansion.

According to the Nassau Guardian, Freeport Harbour would be turned into a park called Harbour Village, with a lagoon, restaurants, bars and immersive experiences, while the Grand Lucayan would be transformed into Lucayan Islands, featuring a water park with multiple islands, a beach club, resort accommodations and convention center.

Multi-modal transportation between the cruise port and Lucayan Islands would be developed.

The Nassau Guardian said ITM Group is projecting 2m cruise passengers a year could be gained.

Four cruise berths

The Guardian did not mention Royal Caribbean, while the Tribune said the cruise giant was partnering with ITM and the project would include four mega cruise berths.

An unnamed source told the Tribune that Hutchison Whampoa, which has management control and a 50% stake in Freeport Harbour Co., backs ITM Group's plans.