The new port at Resorts World Bimini (RWB) officially opened on Thursday to the sounds of cowbells, goatskin drums and whistles, as Prime Minister Perry Christie and other Cabinet ministers witnessed the of hundreds of tourists at the RWB Superfast Ferry berthed at the new dock.

Prime Minister Christie said the berthing of that ship yesterday means big business for Bimini’s economy.

“We are here to witness and commemorate the first occasion of the magnificent cruise ship ferry, the Superfast is calling and berthing at the newly built deep water, 1,000 foot pier,” he said.

“I particularly wish to welcome to Bimini the 200 tour and travel professionals from South Florida. Today’s cruise is also being used to announce the expansion of the marketing thrust of Resorts World to include departures of the Superfast from Fort Lauderdale as well as the Miami market.”

The port’s opening marked phase one of the work at the port which was completed earlier this month.

RWB officials, who have been the target of environmental activists for months, said the completion of the port further enhances their commitment to the island.

Back in May the Privy Council ordered that the controversial dredging in Bimini to accommodate Resorts World Bimini Bahamas and the ferry be discontinued after environmentalists alleged that the work would have irreversible damage on the area’s natural resources.

But several days later a Supreme Court judge discharged that injunction.

Guests will spend up to six hours on the island of Bimini, fully enjoying all that the island has to offer.

Additionally, the company announced that Bimini Superfast will complement its current Friday, Saturday and Sunday cruise schedule from Port Miami with a weekday schedule from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale to Bimini Every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday beginning October 14.