GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – The milestone comes more than three years after Grand Bahama Shipyard launched a massive transformation effort, following the devastating impact of Hurricane Dorian.
Since October 2023, some $600 million has been invested in new dry docks, expanded infrastructure and upgrades designed to strengthen the facility’s position in the global ship repair industry, while creating opportunities for Grand Bahama.
During the recent recognition ceremony and community celebration in the shipyard’s lot, Chief Executive Officer of Grand Bahama Shipyard Limited, Christopher Earl, says the completed project has fundamentally changed what the shipyard can offer.
Christopher Earl – CEO, Grand Bahama Shipyard Ltd.
“Over the last couple of years we’ve undertaken an investment program of approximately $600 million. Today we have two new floating dry docks, an extended…pier and the supporting infrastructure to support all three of our docks.”
“We now have the largest floating dry dock in the hemisphere and the greatest floating dry dock lifting capacity in the region. 280,000 tons of lifting capacity is an extraordinary position for the ship repair facility here at Grand Bahama Shipyard.”
However, supporters say the impact of the shipyard reaches far beyond ship repairs and maritime operations.
President of the Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce, Ralph Hepburn, says its contributions can be seen throughout the community.
Ralph Hepburn – President, Grand Bahama Chamber of Commerce
“Beyond the economic benefit, they see how the social interaction, and how they give back to the community, how involved they are, with the school system, with a civic organization, are so overall their reach is far…”
Meanwhile, many of those working at the shipyard see the investment as a positive sign for Grand Bahama’s future.
Shipyard employee Brent Lynes says the project has given many residents hope that even more growth and investment could be on the horizon.
Brent Lynes – Employee, Grand Bahama Shipyard Ltd.
“It’s such a great opportunity to speak on behalf of the shipyard and celebration coming into Grand Bahama, investing such a huge money to help Grand Bahama to re-establish themself back to what we know as being the glory days...”
