The Bahamas is moving forward with plans to build a new cruise port on Mayaguana, one of the country’s southernmost and least developed islands. Located roughly 350 miles southeast of Nassau and northwest of Turks and Caicos, Mayaguana has long been known for its isolation, natural beauty, and minimal tourism footprint.
The Bahamian government has entered into a partnership with private developers to construct a port that will accommodate both cruise ships and cargo vessels. The project will be rolled out in three phases. The first phase includes a deepwater port and a temporary marine offloading facility, followed by a dedicated cruise terminal in the second phase. The final phase envisions a deepwater transshipment port and infrastructure capable of handling larger vessels.
Ownership of the port will be shared between the government, the locally based Mayaguana Island Development Fund, and Global Lead Consultant Group Ltd. No official timeline has been announced for the port’s completion or opening.
According to Frommer’s, Mayaguana is among the most remote destinations in the Bahamas, attracting travelers seeking simplicity, quiet beaches, and informal accommodations. The planned cruise port marks a significant change for the island, raising questions about how increased access could reshape a destination prized for its remoteness while opening new economic opportunities for local communities.