Exciting news for families looking to cruise next Summer. Disney Cruise Line has announced they will welcome guests to their new island destination at Lighthouse Point on select sailings in summer 2024.
Located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, cruisers will be greeted by distinctive, sweeping architecture in bright, saturated hues that have been inspired by nature and created in partnership with local artists.
“At Disney Cruise Line, we have a deep appreciation for the Bahamian community,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “We are connected in many ways, including our shared values of storytelling and hospitality. With the opening of Lighthouse Point, visitors from around the world will experience the magic of The Bahamas in a new way, one that truly celebrates its natural and cultural beauty.”
The curvilinear buildings will at first appear as Bahamian shells scattered along the shoreline. As you get closer you will be able to see they are artistic expressions of the native flora and fauna of The Bahamas and the pageantry and history of Junkanoo parades.
Environmental design is at the heart of everything on the island. At least 90 percent of the destination’s electricity needs will be met by an onsite solar array, the pier was designed to avoid the need for dredging and elevated walkways will help limit the impact on the landscape.
“Lighthouse Point is a place of extraordinary natural beauty, so our goal has always been to create designs that accentuate its qualities in an organic way,” said Kevin Thomas, creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “We’re focused on low-density, sustainable development that protects and preserves the environment, allowing the site’s biodiversity to shine.”
At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and discover the magic of Bahamian storytelling alongside their favorite Disney characters. Much like Disney’s cruise ships and the private island of Castaway Cay, Lighthouse Point will offer activities and areas for every age group.
- Families can relax and play along white sandy beaches and turquoise waters at the expansive family beach on the east side of the island, which will be centrally located near market-style dining, recreation and other amenities.
- A Bahamian art and culture pavilion featuring special programs and local artists will provide visitors to Lighthouse Point opportunities to learn and celebrate the traditions and natural beauty of The Bahamas.
- A brightly-colored, interactive family water play area will include two slides, water drums, fountains, and more, along with a dedicated space for toddlers.
- Additional recreational activities will be available for kids and kids-at-heart, including a covered gaming pavilion; a volleyball court and gaga ball pit; watercraft and bicycle rentals; nature trails for hiking and biking; and more.
- North of the family area will be an adult-exclusive beach — a glorious stretch of sun-drenched serenity complete with a dedicated dining area for convenient access to food and drinks throughout the day, plus six private cabanas available by reservation.
- Children ages 3 to 12 will splash and play at a themed kids’ club under the care of highly-trained Disney Cruise Line counselors. It will include a splash pad inspired by favorite undersea creatures from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Little Mermaid,” plenty of shade and a dedicated dining area.
- Set away from the activity of the main family area, a peaceful beach along the south-western shore will be lined with 20 premium family cabanas available to rent, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups and offer massage services.
- Visitors to Lighthouse Point will have the opportunity to be surrounded by the wonders of nature and get a glimpse into the efforts taking place to conserve wildlife and their unique island habitats.
- A collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera.
Disney’s new island destination is being thoughtfully designed to provide a hassle-free experience for families, including complimentary beach essentials (towels, chairs and umbrellas, and lunch) and convenient tram transportation.
Lighthouse Point will open for guests on select sailings in the Summer of 2024. Disney notes that details on inaugural itineraries and additional information about signature entertainment, dining, retail and excursions will be released at a later date.
