FREEPORT, BAHAMAS — Grand Lucayan’s Lighthouse Pointe is set to reopen on February 1, 2021, along with four of its restaurants, its spa and fitness center and its convention center, a recent press statement confirmed.
“Grand Lucayan, the award-winning resort offering guests an authentic Bahamian experience, proudly announces the Feb. 1, 2021 reopening of Lighthouse Pointe, the brand’s all-inclusive offering, with rates starting at $220 per person, per night,” the statement read.
“Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and the local and national ministries of health, Lighthouse Pointe will resume operation of its 196 stylish guest rooms, four dining destinations, including Portobello’s, Pizzeria Capri, Aroma Café and Waves Bar & Grill, as well as the Senses Spa & Fitness Center. Additionally, the Convention Center and wedding gazebos will be fully functional and ready to host intimate weddings and small groups.”
Lucayan Renewal Holdings Ltd Chairman Michael Scott was quoted as saying: “We are delighted to welcome back our many legacy guests after 11 months of coronavirus-induced closure, and to all, we say, we are back!
“On behalf of myself and the board of directors, we are truly thrilled to welcome you once again to our world-class resort. The added safety and security protocols and features will assure you a safe and happy experience giving you the peace and serenity our resort offers, as well as lure you into indulging in our many amenities and experiences; whether it be lounging on the beach, spearfishing, golf, the magnet of deep-sea fishing or just simply exploring the beautiful island of Grand Bahama.”
The property becomes the latest in a number of major resorts around the country to reopen after having been closed for months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including Atlantis Paradise Island, Baha Mar, the British Colonial Hilton and The Pointe on New Providence; and Resorts World Bimini on Bimini.
After having purchased the Grand Lucayan for $65 million in August 2018, the government of The Bahamas is reportedly “feverishly” working to complete a sale of the property before year’s end.
In March, the government signed a heads of agreement for the sale of the resort to Royal Caribbean International and Mexico-based ITM Group, which would redevelop the resort and construct a new cruise port.
However, Scott told Eyewitness News last month that an independent forensic audit was being performed to assess the deal as there were “reservations” surrounding whether it still represents the best interest of the Bahamian people.
The statement on the reopening of Lighthouse Pointe, meanwhile, sought to assure potential guests of its efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on-property.
“To help safeguard both guests and staff members, Grand Lucayan implemented advanced safety protocols and best practices in response to COVID-19,” it read.
“Upon returning, all staff members will be administered daily temperature checks, required to complete extensive trainings on precautions and preparedness, and will wear personal protective equipment (PPE) while on-site.
“In addition, social distancing guidelines and signage will be established throughout the property, touchless hand sanitizing stations will be readily available and public spaces will frequently be disinfected.”