Wednesday, April 10, 2024
Carnival Cruise Line’s newest exclusive spot on Grand Bahama Celebration Key is set to feature a retail area named Lokono Cove, a name chosen with the assistance of a resident of Grand Bahama. Lokono Cove emerged as the winning entry from a community competition backed by the Ministry for Grand Bahama and the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Culture.Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy revealed this news at the Seatrade Cruise Global conference in Miami Beach.
Lokono Cove, situated within Celebration Key as one of its five areas, will host a diverse range of shops and kiosks, along with an authentic Bahamian artisan market showcasing local craftsmanship. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore locally made goods, appreciating the talents of Bahamian artists. The offerings at Lokono Cove will include everything from mementos to exquisite jewelry, yet the area will not only exhibit Bahamian culture through its products but also through its ambiance. Guests will be serenaded by music amidst swaying palm trees and vibrant murals, each meticulously created by skilled Bahamian artists, providing a picturesque setting for indulging in local delicacies.
The name Lokono Cove was selected by a committee comprising local Grand Bahama officials and representatives from the cultural and creative sectors, chosen from submissions by Deidre Rahming in a competition open to all Grand Bahamians. The term “Lokono” signifies “the people” and is rooted in the Lucayans, who were among the earliest inhabitants of Grand Bahama. Historically, the Lucayans were known as a gentle and artistic community proficient in basket-weaving, pottery, and painting.
“Lokono Cove will be a treasure trove – a place for our guests to immerse themselves in the spirit of The Bahamas and find locally-inspired keepsakes, symbols of paradise they can share with loved ones, or cherish for themselves for years to come,” Duffy said. “Honoring the beauty and culture of the Bahamas is integral to our plans for Celebration Key, and that will be on display throughout Lokono Cove. It’s a special honor that locals from Grand Bahama have contributed already in an impactful way, giving this portal its name.”
Furthermore, Lokono Cove will act as the main access point to Grand Bahama beyond Celebration Key. Guests can embark on their independent explorations or join Carnival Adventures shore excursions, all starting from Lokono Cove.
As the winner of the naming contest, Rahming will receive B$5,000 in cash, an invitation to the Lokono Cove ribbon-cutting ceremony with provided transportation, meals, and beverages, as well as a day-pass to Celebration Key complete with drink vouchers, meals, and access to a cabana.
Lokono Cove joins Paradise Plaza, serving as a welcoming hub, and Calypso Lagoon, designed for adult enjoyment, as three of the five entry points. Carnival will soon unveil details about two additional portals: a family-friendly area and an exclusive adults-only retreat. Celebration Key is set to host its inaugural guests in July 2025, with over 500 available itineraries for sale featuring visits to this new destination aboard 18 ships departing from 10 U.S. homeports.
Tuesday, April 30, 2024
