As tickets go on sale for Bahamas Speed Week, early indications show the event will be a winner for the tourism industry.
VIP passes for most of the events are already sold out, and many of the participants, shipping their vintage cars from the UK and the U.S., have upgraded their accommodations to more luxurious packages.
Jimmie Lowe, president of Bahamas Speed Week, running from November 30 until December 4, told Guardian Business that several clients have splashed out for the One & Only
Ocean Club at an additional cost of $10,000. "This gives you a measure of the people coming and the impact it will have on The Bahamas," he said.
"The original deal was to stay six nights at the Royal Tower in Atlantis. You can also upgrade to The Cove for $2,000, and many others have done that."
David McLaughlin, the UK event director, added that they convinced Celebration Cruise Line to solely come to Nassau for 10 entire days to help unload the cars.
It was a show of true commitment to the tourism industry and demonstrates its importance to the economy, he felt.  "The cars will just roll on and roll off," he said. "It's incredible they are doing it."
Plans are also in the works to present a live-streaming video of Bahamas Speed Week on the website.
McLaughlin said this could go a long way to promoting Nassau to a global audience.  "We're definitely going to do it," he added. "We can show the world what this place is all about and it's a great platform for tourism."
In terms of ticket sales - which are now open through bahamasspeedweekrevival.com - the prices range from $20 to $400, with various options and upgrades in between.
General tickets to the Arawak Cay circuit on Nov 30 are $75 while a paddock "car pit" pass is $25. Tickets to the evening reception that night are $100.
On Dec 4, race day at Arawak Cay, membership to gain access to the exclusive Paddock Club will run you $400.
Seats cost $20 to $50 depending on placement.
In addition to feeding the tourism industry, Bahamas Speed Week also promises to bring together hundreds of heavy hitters in the finance and investing world.
A spot in the Paddock Club, starting at $10,000, provides exposure for big name businesses.
Carlo Milano, Graycliff, Grand Bahama Port Authority and Shell Oil have all purchased booths, with the latter investing in a special bronze package.
The latter has also stepped up to be the official gas supplier for the week.

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