TORONTO — Sunwing Vacations will introduce a weekly service from Vancouver to Freeport, Grand Bahama that launches Nov. 1.

Departing initially on Saturdays, the flight becomes a nonstop service departing Fridays from Dec. 19, 2014.

With the introduction of the Vancouver service, Sunwing will offer eight Canadian gateways into the island; a development which has been welcomed by the Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board which believes this enhanced flight schedule has largely been responsible for a revitalization of the island’s tourism sector.

Opened earlier this year, the Memories Grand Bahama Beach Resort & Casino is designed for couples and families looking to explore this Bahamian island. Set on the white sands of Lucayan beach, opposite the colourful open air entertainment and dining complex of Port Lucaya, this expansive property offers a casino, spa and free unlimited green fees at the nearby Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed Reef Course.

Part of the Sunwing Family Collection, the resort features a teens lounge and supervised kids club featuring appearances from famous cartoon characters such as the Berenstain Bears and Toopy and Binoo as well as the on-site splash park and daily activities together with evening entertainment.

Couples have access to unlimited all-inclusive reservation-free dining options including the Selections international buffet, Bella Cucina Italian restaurant, H Steak House and The Prop Bar serving pub fare with some island flair.

International spirits and local specialties flow freely from seven bars including the Social Bar, Beach Bar and Swim Up Pool Bar. The resort also offers a range of wedding and honeymoon packages to suit all budgets.

A week’s stay at the Memories Grand Bahama Beach Resort & Casino starts from $995 plus $385 taxes based on two people sharing a Deluxe Room on an all-inclusive basis and departing from Vancouver on Jan. 2 or 16, 2015.