The Caribbean nation of Bahamas has embarked upon an ambitious expansion of the cruise port facilities in its capital Nassau with the objective to make it the busiest cruise shipping port in the world.

Nassau has opened the first phase of a three-phase port construction process, allowing the Bahamas to welcome more passengers and ships. According to a press statement by the Bahamas Tourism office, in less than a week, three ships have already utilised the expanded port operations, including the Disney Star, and two Carnival ships, the Liberty and the Magic.

The statement adds that Nassau has embarked upon its plan to replace Cozumel in Mexico fairly soon as the world’s busiest port, and the expanded port will go a long way toward that.

Workers have made the port larger both inside and out so it can accommodate more vessels and more people. Some 40 retail shops have been built and most will feature local Bahamian wares. Phase 2 will add a signature restaurant, says the statement.

“The new Nassau Cruise Port offers a whole new experience for cruise visitors. Not only will Bahamian culture shine through all aspects of the port but the completion of the project marks a great milestone in ushering a new era for tourism in downtown Nassau, as well as a beautiful welcome for the millions of cruisers who disembark here each year,” says I Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation.

Nassau has long been one of the most popular Caribbean islands. Now it will become even more popular. The new terminal will feature green spaces and an updated art gallery. Phase 2 of the project has already begun, and construction is expected to be completed in 2024.