Royal Caribbean is set to unveil a vibrant fusion of art, culture, and unparalleled vacation experiences with the highly anticipated opening of Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in December 2025. As the inaugural destination within the cruise line’s Royal Beach Club Collection, the resort is expanding its innovative Artist Discovery Program, bringing 11 talented Bahamian artists to the forefront to adorn the property with their unique creations. This initiative marks a significant step in showcasing the rich artistic landscape of The Bahamas to a global audience.
A New Dimension of Island Getaway
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, located on the famed Paradise Island in Nassau, is designed to offer the ultimate all-inclusive beach day, blending the natural beauty of The Bahamas with Royal Caribbean’s signature guest experiences. Spanning 17 acres, the destination is meticulously crafted to cater to every mood, featuring three distinct zones: the lively Party Cove, the serene Chill Beach, and the family-friendly Family Beach. Guests can anticipate world-class amenities, including stunning pools, private cabanas, and the world’s largest swim-up bar, aptly named The Floating Flamingo. Beyond the luxurious facilities, the beach club aims to immerse visitors in the authentic spirit and culture of The Bahamas, enhanced by the integration of local art and live music.
Artist Discovery Program: From Ship to Shore
The expansion of the Artist Discovery Program from its successful debut on the Icon of the Seas to land-based destinations signifies Royal Caribbean’s deepening commitment to local communities and artistic talent within the Caribbean. For Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, 11 local Bahamian artists have been commissioned to create bespoke pieces that will be featured across 25 locations throughout the resort. This program not only provides a prestigious platform for these artists to share their work with millions of international travelers but also ensures that the artistic narrative of The Bahamas is woven into the fabric of the guest experience.
Celebrating Bahamian Culture Through Art
The commissioned artworks are inspired by three overarching themes that capture the essence of The Bahamas: ‘Underwater Adventures,’ emphasizing the region’s rich marine life; ‘Junkanoo Jubilee,’ a vibrant celebration of the island’s music, dance, and festive traditions; and ‘Bahama Bliss,’ evoking tranquility, escape, and relaxation.
Among the notable artists contributing to this project is Allan Wallace, whose impressive 22-foot-tall Junkanoo-inspired mural will be a central visual highlight, celebrating Bahamian culture and wildlife. Portrait artist Deldra Sands will welcome guests with a vintage postcard-style art piece, capturing the charm of Paradise Island. Other featured artists include Minolta Butler, whose murals reflect the energetic colors of The Bahamas; June Collie, who designed one of four flamingo sculptures honoring the national bird; Preston Hanna, creating a striking flamingo sculpture inspired by Bahamian culture; Amaani Hepburn, whose mural explores the relationship between the Caribbean environment and its people; Chaavanté Newton, responsible for vibrant murals on two bars; and Angelika Wallace-Whitfield, contributing large murals and a flamingo sculpture inspired by Bahamian life and native flora. Each artist, having received grants for their work, brings a unique perspective and style, enriching the destination with diverse interpretations of island life.
Fostering Local Talent and Authentic Experiences
Philip Simon, President of Royal Caribbean Group Bahamas, expressed his excitement, stating, “We could not be more excited to share the Artist Discovery Program cohort for Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, a group of local artists who have a true passion for their craft and their home, The Bahamas. Bahamian culture is known to be vibrant and dynamic, and the pieces created by these artists will reflect the lively energy and beautiful landscape of The Bahamas throughout the destination.”. The program underscores Royal Caribbean’s commitment to authentic cultural representation and aims to provide guests with a deeper, more immersive understanding of Bahamian heritage. This collaboration also supports the local economy by creating hundreds of jobs and fostering partnerships with Bahamian entrepreneurs and businesses.
A Taste of the Caribbean
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is poised to become a premier destination, offering not just a day of sun and sea, but a rich cultural immersion. The integration of local art, along with island-style spots for local fare, promises a complete sensory experience for every visitor. As Royal Caribbean continues to expand its portfolio with unique destinations and experiences across the caribbean, this venture stands out as a testament to their dedication to celebrating and integrating the heart of local cultures into the vacation experience, offering guests a genuine taste of Bahamian spirit and artistry today.