Today, 70% of the cruises offered by Disney Cruise Line have at least one stop in The Bahamas. It is estimated that Disney Cruise Line operations currently contribute more than $70 million toward the Bahamas gross domestic product annually. All five of Disney’s ships are registered in The Bahamas.
Disney Cruise Line is creating a new experience in Eleuthera – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. The destination will create sustainable economic opportunities for Bahamians, protect and sustain the natural beauty of the site, celebrate culture, and help strengthen the community in Eleuthera.
A study by Oxford Economic shows that over a 25-year time horizon, Disney’s project is conservatively expected to provide a more than $800 million increase in Bahamian GDP and a more than $355 million increase in Bahamian government revenues, significantly exceeding concessions.
Highlights of the Heads of Agreement include:
Investing between $250 million and $400 million to create a destination in Eleuthera. This level of investment reflects Disney’s commitment to the environment and sustainable building practices.
Creating more than 300 construction-related jobs for Bahamians, nearly tripling the number of jobs DCL committed to in its Heads of Agreement, with an overall ratio of 80% Bahamians over the life of construction.
Creating at least 150 well-paying operations jobs with benefits in a range of disciplines and with opportunities for advancement. The current average wage at Castaway Cay is $600-700 per week. With guests expected to be in port 3-5 days per week year-round and the need to complete a variety of projects on non-port days, the roles will provide much-needed employment stability.
Developing training and professional development programs to maximize opportunities for Bahamians.
Providing space for Bahamian vendors for the sale of authentic, high-quality Bahamian retail goods, services, souvenirs, arts and crafts and more.
Providing priority to Bahamian-owned and -operated tour operators.
Providing priority to Bahamian entertainers.
Purchasing some Bahamian agricultural and seafood products.
Providing full access to the site for citizens and residents of The Bahamas for non-commercial purposes.
You must be logged in to post a comment.