Royal Caribbean, Bahamas break ground on Royal Beach Club Paradise Island

The 17-acre beach day experience with Bahamian food, culture and staff on Nassau's Paradise Island is scheduled to open in 2025.

Royal Caribbean Group President/CEO Jason Liberty and Royal Caribbean International President/CEO Michael Bayley were joined by Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis and Deputy Prime Minister/Tourism Minister Chester Cooper along with other officials.

Public-private partnership

The Royal Beach Club is a public-private partnership in which Bahamians will own up to 49% equity.

'Signing today’s agreement, we add another world-class experience to our tourism offerings. And, even more importantly, we take a bold step toward greater Bahamian empowerment in the tourism industry,' Davis said.

Beach views, three pools with swim-up bars, private cabanas, four island-style spots for quick bites and local fare, and experiences featuring local artisans and live music are planned

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island's architecture is crafted by a Bahamian architectural firm. Beach views, three pools with swim-up bars, private cabanas, four island-style spots for quick bites and local fare, and experiences featuring local artisans and live music are planned.

Liberty said the groundbreaking symbolizes 'partnership, momentum and continued economic development for so many Bahamian entrepreneurs and the entire community' and expressed his appreciation to partners, especially the government.

Hundreds of jobs

The destination is supposed to generate hundreds of jobs in the short and long term. To date, Bahamians have participated in workshops to develop authentic local dishes, music, entertainment, sports and activities as well as design ideas to contribute to the project.

Bayley noted Royal Caribbean has frequented the Bahamas since the cruise line's founding more than 50 years ago.

'The beauty and charm of the island are why we chose to debut the Royal Beach Club Collection in Nassau, and with the collaboration and support of local entrepreneurs and the wider community, we know that what we create will far exceed everything we imagined,' he added.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will have a family splash area

Average 2,000 visitors a day

Once complete, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is expected to host an average of 2,000 guests per day. Vacationers will access the beach club via a ferry ride from Nassau Cruise Port and return through downtown Nassau near its Straw Market.

More details, including the opening date and pricing, will be available soon on royalcaribbean.com.

Just last month, the company announced plans for a second Royal Beach Club, in Cozumel.