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Who’s Really Benefiting From Carnival’s Celebration Key?

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – Three months after Carnival’s Celebration Key opened in Grand Bahama, reactions across the island remain divided.

Published

1 month ago

November 3, 2025

Italia Hall

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – Three months after Carnival’s Celebration Key opened in Grand Bahama, reactions across the island remain divided.

In the first edition, we brought you the story of a local graphic designer whose business has seen major growth since partnering with the project.

In part two of our special series, we continue the investigation, speaking with entrepreneurs who say Celebration Key has boosted their business, and others who insist the economic ripple effect hasn’t reached their community.

Across Grand Bahama, the impact of Celebration Key depends on who you ask. Some small businesses say they’re finally seeing movement after years of economic struggle on the northern island, while others believe the benefits are too concentrated.

At the Rayvin Mall, one business owner says the new cruise destination has opened unexpected doors.

Jamaal Rolle owns Livity Vegetarian Take Out and Juice Bar, a staple in Freeport for more than sixteen years.

He says since Celebration Key opened, his healthy food and juice business has partnered directly with Carnival.

Jamaal Rolle – Owner, Livity Vegetarian Take Out
“Its been very impactful to us.”

And it’s not just restaurants. Local Chef Harold Pinder says Celebration Key has given him something he hasn’t seen in years.

Chef Harold Pinder
“Its given me a lot of since inception.”

But on the western end of the island, nearly an hour away from the new port, the story shifts.

Owner of West End Ecology Tours, Keith Cooper, says they’ve seen no increase in business, no uptick in visitors and no spillover from the thousands of cruise passengers arriving each week.

He adds all the community wants is a chance to participate and a fair share of the new economic activity.

Meanwhile, Rolle believes the island is seeing both direct and indirect benefits from the mega project.