By OSWALD T. BROWN
WASHINGTON, D.C., April 22, 2024 — Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, who is also Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation and MP for the Exumas and Ragged Island, today posted a collection of photos on Facebook on the Heads of Agreement signing and groundbreaking ceremony for Royal Caribbean International’s Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island. We absolutely had to share some of them with readers of my Washington, D.C. – based online publication, BAHAMAS CHRONICLE, which has a huge following among the Bahamian diaspora across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom as well as in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean.
DPM Cooper posted the photos with the following narrative:
“Took part in the signing of the Heads of Agreement and groundbreaking ceremony for Royal Caribbean International’s Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island today. We worked hard to ensure this deal includes Bahamian equity and ownership.
It will make The Bahamas a more attractive destination and stimulate our economy. As a plus, Bahamian entrepreneur, and my friend, Philip Simon, will be in charge of the operation to make sure all of the commitments to the Bahamian people are upheld. #BahamasStrong”
Meanwhile, The Nassau reported that the government “signed a heads of agreement with Royal Caribbean International (RCI) today for the development of the $165 million Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island.”
Prime Minister Philip E. Davis was reported as saying that the project will further enhance the vitality of The Bahamas’ tourism product.
“This development will prove to be a monumental step forward for Bahamian inclusion in major tourism projects that will serve as a model for others to emulate,” Prime Minister Davis said during the signing ceremony at the Office of the Prime Minister.
Noting that some 200 jobs will be created, Prime Minister Davis added, “However, Bahamians will not just work here, the people of this nation will also share ownership in this development as well. It is anticipated that PDI Paradise Ltd. will hold at least 51 percent of the shares in the Royal Beach Club, with the remaining shares being allocated to the national investment fund for the benefit of the Bahamian people. Through this partnership, we will provide new employment and economic opportunities for this nation.”
The beach club will feature pools, cabanas, and Bahamian boutiques, among other amenities. Royal Caribbean International hopes to open the day excursion for their guests by the summer of 2025.
