The main city of Grand Bahama, Freeport’s lure is the sun, warm winters and tropical white sand beaches. Built in an area that was once swamp and scrubland, Freeport is a relatively new city. Established in only 1955, it has become a hub for international businesses and tourism.
Major Cruise Infrastructure Investment in Freeport, Grand Bahama
Bahamian Prime Minister Philip Davis recently announced (January 2026) a significant $450 million investment by MSC Cruises (through its affiliate and development company) to enhance cruise facilities in Freeport, Grand Bahama. Freeport is home to one of the region's largest deep-water ports.Project Overview
The development centers on the Billy Cay property in Freeport, where MSC will construct a new cruise ship pier complex and berthing area. The project also includes new visitor amenities and commercial infrastructure. Additionally, it features upgrades to the existing port and retail village area at Freeport Harbour. Prime Minister Davis described the investment as a "serious expansion with real scale" and confirmed that the government has signed and advanced the agreement.Investment Breakdown
- $400 million: Allocated to port infrastructure, including the new cruise ship berths and related facilities at Billy Cay.
- $50 million: Designated for constructing a new beach club and refurbishing the existing retail village.
Key Features and Amenities
The overall project will incorporate:- New cruise ship berths
- A welcome plaza
- Retail spaces
- Food and beverage outlets
- Entertainment areas
- Transportation staging facilities
- Other supporting amenities
Strategic Benefits
Designed as a multi-user facility, the new cruise port aims to provide operational flexibility and strengthen Grand Bahama's position as a competitive cruise destination. According to Prime Minister Davis, the development is expected to attract greater cruise activity, increase passenger volumes, and generate broader economic benefits. These include spillover effects into transportation, hospitality, cultural experiences, and opportunities for small businesses.Where You Dock in Freeport – Bahamas
The cruise ship port is about a ten-minute drive outside the City of Freeport. A variety of shops and restaurants are in the immediate area but transportation will be required to travel into the city or to one of the many beaches.
Getting Around Freeport – Bahamas
Taxis and shuttles are both available to transport you to Freeport and back. Taxis will cost around $5 per person (each way). Often a round-trip ticket can be purchased for the shuttles which will decrease costs slightly.
Shopping In Freeport – Bahamas
Freeport is known for its duty-free shopping opportunities, The Port Lucaya Marketplace being the most frequented. It has a focus on Clothing, Jewelery, Art and Souvenirs. Be sure to know your duty-free shopping laws before you begin your spending spree.
Dining In Freeport – Bahamas
With so many restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to pick just one.
A few fun, beachy options include the fabulously named Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience, a thatch-roof shack on Taino Beach with great basics like burgers, lobster and conch burgers — and Banana Bay on Fortune Bay Drive.
Things To Do in Freeport – Bahamas
Beaches – At any tropical port of call, the beaches have to be one of the most sought-after destinations. Freeport offers many – Lucaya Beach, Taino Beach, Fortune Beach, Coral Beach and more!
Shark Diving, Snorkelling, Cave Diving and Scuba Diving – With crystal blue water that is so clear it should be on a postcard, Freeport is the ideal location to try out water activities or embark on an ocean adventure.
Garden of the Groves – 12 acres of local wildlife and plants, you can easily spend a few hours enjoying the ambience, water features and birds in this carefully maintained environment.
Top Tours & Excursions In Freeport – Bahamas
Garden of the Groves & City Tour
This narrated bus tour takes you along the scenic Sunrise Highway to the lush forest with winding trails and waterfalls of Garden of the Groves before heading to the Port Lucaya Marketplace for some great shopping and great cafes....
- Duration: 4 hours
- Activity Level: Easy
