The minister of tourism is welcoming the arrival of the Norwegian Breakaway, slated for later this year, as the growth of the country's cruise industry continues.
The Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, which was officially unveiled last week, is expected to make a "significant" contribution to the cruise industry, according to Obie Wilchcombe.
"We are seeing the continuing growth of the cruise industry. "We are doing about 26,000 on those heavy cruise days, which is almost everyday now. That tells you that we have to be prepared to meet the demands of the industry."
While he welcomes the arrivals of cruise ships like the Norwegian Breakaway, Wilchcombe stressed that The Bahamas must ensure that visitors are not only satisfied with their stay in The Bahamas but are anxious to return for another visit.
"We have to move with as much haste as we can to ensure that we put a quality product in place. We need to make sure that visitor leaves The Bahamas satisfied. We want people to get off and participate in the economy of The Bahamas, whether it's through tours or shopping," he pointed out.
"That's what is important to us. If we continue on that track, the numbers will undoubtedly increase. We must always have that appeal that will get us that business."
The tourism minister revealed to Guardian Business that the Breakaway's launch provides the perfect opportunity for his ministry to tap into the New York market.
"It will certainly have an appeal that we believe will focus heavily on the markets that we want like New York. It provides yet another opportunity for a New Yorker to have a cruise to The Bahamas or if it's based in Florida from time to time, to cruise from Florida to The Bahamas," he told Guardian Business.
The Norwegian Breakaway added The Bahamas to its itinerary beginning in October. The cruise ship is the first of two Breakaway class ships that have being built for Norwegian Cruise Line.
Prime Minister Perry Christie was among the dignitaries and other special guests who attended a recent christening and celebration event onboard the vessel.
During his remarks, he thanked K.T. Lim, chairman of Resorts World Genting, whose company has a 50 percent stake in the Norwegian Cruise Line, for his investments to date and his continued interest in The Bahamas.
"You have invested significantly in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas," Christie said. "You have the basis to make further investments. When one adds this cruise ship and the others that will come to our country, it is for me to express on behalf of the government and people of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas a real appreciation for the consideration that you and your company continues to express in favor of our country."

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