TORONTO — The Bahamas is moving forward with a series of tourism initiatives this season, including the pilot launch of a new digital arrival system for international visitors.
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation has begun testing its new Bahamas Digital Arrival Card (BDAC), the first phase in what officials describe as a transition toward a fully digital arrival process for visitors entering the country.
Currently being piloted on select flights, the platform enables travellers to complete immigration and customs forms online before arrival, reducing the need for paper documentation and helping streamline airport processing.
“This pilot reflects years of deliberate planning and collaboration across the government,” said Latia Duncombe, Director General of The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “Our goal is to ensure that this platform enhances the visitor journey from the very first touchpoint.”
The rollout comes as The Bahamas reports continued tourism growth, welcoming nearly 12.5 million international visitors in 2025, the highest annual total in the destination’s history.
CRUISE INVESTMENT
In addition to the BDAC, The Bahamas is also investing heavily in the cruise sector, expanding infrastructure across several islands.
Among the largest projects announced is a planned US$450 million cruise terminal development from MSC Cruises in Freeport, Grand Bahama. The project will include new cruise berths as well as retail, dining and entertainment facilities designed to enhance the guest experience.
Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean continues to expand its beach club offerings in Nassau through Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, which opened in late 2025. The development includes pools, beaches, dining venues and entertainment spaces.
Norwegian Cruise Line has also introduced new features at Great Stirrup Cay, including the 1.4-acre Great Life Lagoon, described as one of the region’s largest pools, alongside the adults-only Vibe Shore Club, a new welcome centre and Splash Harbour children’s play area.
At the same time, Carnival Cruise Line is expanding Celebration Key after the destination welcomed one million guests within its first five months of operation. Planned enhancements include two additional berths capable of accommodating up to four Excel-class ships simultaneously.
Additional tourism development is also planned for the Out Islands, including a new public-private partnership aimed at developing a cruise port and cargo facility in Mayaguana.
Looking ahead to the summer season, The Bahamas is preparing for a lineup of cultural events and festivals across the islands. Scheduled programming includes the Annual Pineapple Festival in Eleuthera, regattas in The Abacos this June and the Goombay Summer Festivals taking place throughout the destination during the summer months.
Lead image caption: Nassau Cruise Port
