Bahamas News
Perry Institute for Marine Science Celebrates the Opening of the Bahamas Coral Gene Bank at Atlantis Paradise Island
— The nation’s first coral gene bank will preserve, propagate and replant coral to reverse devastation from rising ocean temperatures and a rapidly spreading disease –
PARADISE ISLAND, The Bahamas (June 13, 2025) — The Bahamas has launched an aggressive national conservation initiative to
address and reverse the devastating effects of warming ocean temperatures and a disease ravaging its coral reefs. The country’s first coral gene bank is operated and managed by coral experts from the Perry Institute of Marine Science. The biosecure facility opened today at Atlantis Paradise Island to house, propagate, and replant healthy coral on damaged reefs.
“Coral has become increasingly endangered over the years, but the introduction of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease completely changed the game and created extreme urgency to act,” said Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) Executive Director Dr. Craig Dahlgren. “Transmitted among corals through direct contact and water circulation, the disease has spread to all major Bahamian islands and causes a high death rate in corals. Treatments are emerging slowly, but corals need to be rescued and isolated from the disease while these methods are perfected.”
Part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ global Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE) program, onsite management of the new bank is led by PIMS experts, including a former Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) graduate and student interns from BAMSI and the University of The Bahamas, with support from marine-life experts at Atlantis.
“Our collective vision is not only to preserve coral currently under threat, but also to foster new generations of corals that, when planted, are
more resilient to disease and other dangers. Longstanding support and funding from our contributors and supporters, including Disney Conservation Fund, Atlantis Paradise Island, and Atlantis Blue Project Foundation, have been essential in making this national effort possible.”
“Our investment in the Coral Gene Bank builds on Disney’s decades-long commitment to protecting coral in The Bahamas,” said Andy Stamper, Conservation Science Manager for Disney Conservation. “This facility is a vital step toward preserving biodiversity and restoring reef health for generations to come.”
The Bahamas Coral Gene Bank can accommodate up to 200 large, mature coral colonies, in addition to smaller fragments and juvenile corals. PIMS has already rescued and relocated fifteen coral species to the biosecure Gene Bank research facility. Coral fragments collected from the ocean are placed in pristine, on-site aquaria, and once stable, they grow and reproduce quickly with the aid of innovative reproduction techniques such as lunar-cycle simulations.
PHOTO CAPTIONS:
Header: A proud moment for coral conservation: Scientists from Perry Institute for Marine Science, Atlantis, and partner organizations stand over the newly established coral gene bank at Atlantis Paradise Island, having just populated its tanks with rescued coral colonies.
1st insert: One coral at a time—This fragment of a highly susceptible coral species is now safe inside the Bahamas Coral Gene Bank. Here, it can grow and reproduce under expert care, protected from the deadly Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease.
2nd insert: Hope in their hands: Two coral researchers at the Bahamas Coral Gene Bank share a moment of joy after placing healthy coral colonies into their new biosecure home—an act that could help restore entire reef systems.
About the Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS):
For more than 50 years, Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) has advanced ocean stewardship around the world. Guided by our vision “Thriving Seas, Empowered Communities,” our scientists pair cutting‑edge research with hands-on conservation to protect coral reefs, mangroves, fisheries, and coastal habitats while supporting sustainable livelihoods. We collaborate with governments, NGOs, schools, and forward‑thinking businesses to turn data into action—whether restoring reefs through our Reef Rescue Network, mapping coastal ecosystems with drone and photogrammetry technology, or training the next generation of marine leaders. By discovering solutions, creating opportunities, and inspiring action, PIMS works to ensure a healthy ocean for people and the planet alike. Learn more at www.perryinstitute.org.
NASSAU, BAHAMAS (July 8, 2025) What began as a small effort to give young people a constructive outlet has grown into an impactful summer camp with participants benefiting from structured practices, personal development sessions, and opportunities to compete. This year marked two incredible decades since D-Squad Basketball has been shaping not just athletes, but leaders.
From day one, Consolidated Water (Bahamas) Ltd. (CWCO) has believed in the program’s mission to build character, discipline, and drive in the next generation of Bahamians through the game of basketball.
The D-Squad camp welcomes dozens of boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 19, offering structured training, mentorship, and a safe,
empowering space to grow each year. With core values of drive, determination, dedication, and discipline at its foundation, the program has become a staple in the community. It has launched the dreams of young Bahamians and provided lifelong lessons both on and off the court. CWCO Board Member, Ethan Adderley, said “Investing in our youth is one of the most meaningful ways we can help build a stronger Bahamas. Programs like D-Squad Basketball offer structure, mentorship, and a sense of purpose. CWCO is proud to stand behind Coach McCoy and the work he’s doing to develop future leaders.”
The water supplier has funded equipment, uniforms, and other essential items so no child is left behind due to financial hardship. From first-time dribblers to college-bound athletes, D-Squad Basketball has reached hundreds of participants over the years.
Founder of D-Squad Basketball, Coach Harcourt McCoy, said, “D-Squad is more than basketball. It is a family, a mindset, and a movement.”
He added, “We have seen kids come through the program and go on to do great things, not just because they were good players, but because they learned how to push through, how to lead, how to believe in themselves. CWCO has been with us from the beginning, and thanks to their belief in our mission, we have been able to reach more children each year.”
As D-Squad celebrates this milestone year, CWCO is honored to continue investing in a program that proves what’s possible when a community comes together to lift its youth.
Bahamas News
Carnival’s Celebration Key Set to Open July 19, 2025, Marking a Major Milestone for Grand Bahama
Deandrea Hamilton | Editor
Grand Bahama, Bahamas, July 14, 2025 – The highly anticipated Celebration Key, Carnival Cruise Line’s newest private destination
on Grand Bahama Island, is set to officially open on July 19, 2025. This momentous occasion is expected to be a game-changer for the island’s tourism and economy, ushering in a new era of opportunities for local residents and businesses.
The inaugural docking will feature the Carnival Vista, arriving at the port from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time, with a grand opening ceremony scheduled for 10 a.m. Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy will lead the celebrations, highlighting the collaboration between Carnival and The Bahamas to bring this vibrant new destination to life.
Celebration Key is Carnival’s first major project on Grand Bahama in over two decades. The sprawling port features five uniquely themed
areas, including the Caribbean’s largest freshwater lagoons and the impressive 10-story Suncastle water playground. With a range of dining, entertainment, and retail options, the site promises an immersive experience tailored exclusively for Carnival guests.
Ahead of the grand opening, top Bahamian officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism Chester Cooper, Minister for Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey, and State Minister for Environment and Natural Resources Zane Lightbourne, toured Celebration Key. Their visit underscored the importance of this development for the island’s future and the broader tourism sector.
With its stunning natural beauty and fresh amenities, Celebration Key is poised to become a premier destination in the Caribbean cruise market — a win for Carnival, Grand Bahama, and The Bahamas as a whole.
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