One-of-a-kind island experience combines breathtaking natural beauty with the magic of Bahamian hospitality, storytelling and artistry.
CELEBRATION, Fla. (March 9, 2023) — In summer 2024, Disney Cruise Line will welcome guests to a one-of-a-kind island destination at Lighthouse Point, located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, for the first time. Created in close collaboration with local artists and advisors, the vibrant island retreat will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.
“At Disney Cruise Line, we have a deep appreciation for the Bahamian community,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “We are connected in many ways, including our shared values of storytelling and hospitality. With the opening of Lighthouse Point, visitors from around the world will experience the magic of The Bahamas in a new way, one that truly celebrates its natural and cultural beauty.”
New details about Lighthouse Point reveal a relaxing beach escape designed with families in mind, infused with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry, and developed with a commitment to conservation at its core.
Uniquely Designed, Sustainably Developed
When guests arrive to Lighthouse Point, they’ll be greeted by distinctive, sweeping architecture in bright, saturated hues — a bold style inspired by nature and created in partnership with local artists.
The curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. Upon closer inspection, guests will discover artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of Junkanoo parades. Throughout the destination, references to playful folklore characters will evoke the warmth and charm of the local culture.
Respect for the environment is at the heart of the design. At least 90 percent of the destination’s electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit impact on the landscape.
“Lighthouse Point is a place of extraordinary natural beauty, so our goal has always been to create designs that accentuate its qualities in an organic way,” said Kevin Thomas, creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “We’re focused on low-density, sustainable development that protects and preserves the environment, allowing the site’s biodiversity to shine.”
At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures, and discover the magic of Bahamian storytelling alongside favorite Disney characters. Much like Disney’s cruise ships and private island of Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group.
A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.
“As a Bahamian, I’m excited that guests will have a chance to learn more about our unique culture, history and natural environment,” said Joey Gaskins, public affairs director, Disney Cruise Line. “We are using sustainable designs that reflect elements of nature and are incorporating the work of Bahamian artists that together will create an experience unlike anywhere in The Bahamas.”
The plan calls for developing only 16 percent of the acreage, and more than 190 acres will be donated by Disney to the government and people of The Bahamas. Additionally, full access to the Property for non-commercial purposes will be provided to citizens and residents of The Bahamas.
Visitors to Lighthouse Point will have the opportunity to be surrounded by the wonders of nature and get a glimpse into the efforts taking place to conserve wildlife and their unique island habitats. A collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera.
Lighthouse Point will open for select sailings in summer 2024. Details on inaugural itineraries and additional information about signature entertainment, dining, retail and excursions will be released at a later date.
Quotes from two Bahamian artists involved in the design of the Lighthouse Point project:
Imogene Walkine, Bahamian Ceramic Artist, Eleuthera
“The unique opportunity of working with Disney with my ceramic work has been the blessing of sharing my version of the Bahamian story to the world and being a part of the positive vibes that Disney brings to its visitors.”
“It’s very special to be able to work in your given gift. It’s very important to have the opportunity not just to share it with my local and native Bahamians, but for the world to be able to recognize that we have a story to tell in our own unique way and we take a lot of pride in our culture.”
__
Andret John, Bahamian Wood Carving Artist, New Providence
“I grew up with Disney and these ideas of magic and bringing fantasy to life. So, to have this opportunity is beyond my wildest dreams. To have a platform where you can express yourself so freely, and to work with a partner like Disney who allows you that freedom is even more resounding in what I do as an artist.”
“Understanding that [you’re working for Disney and they] completely trust you to freely produce what you enjoy doing—that in itself is magnificent and phenomenal.”
For more information about Lighthouse Point, visit our website – New Disney Cruise Line Island Destination at Lighthouse Point in The Bahamas to Welcome Guests in Summer 2024.
###
About Disney Cruise Line: Since its maiden voyage in 1998, Disney has introduced countless families to the beauty and spirit of The Bahamas and has provided significant economic impact while demonstrating a strong commitment to the environment and the community. Approximately 75 percent of the cruises offered by Disney have at least one stop in The Bahamas, all five of its ships are registered in The Bahamas and it is estimated that DCL operations currently contribute more than $70 million toward the Bahamas gross domestic product annually. DCL has committed to filling all positions on Castaway Cay with Bahamians across a range of disciplines with opportunities for training and advancement. Disney has received all the necessary approvals from the Government of the Bahamas and has begun work at Lighthouse Point, which is expected to create more than 300 construction-related roles – more than doubling the number of jobs DCL committed to in its Heads of Agreement. For more information about Lighthouse Point, visit lighthousepointbahamas.com.
Follow the Disney Parks Blog, Disney Cruise Line Facebook page, and @DisneyCruise on Twitter for updates about Disney Cruise Line.
You must be logged in to post a comment.