Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is a groundbreaking example of how sustainable innovation can transform a destination into a living celebration of nature, culture, and conservation. Through collaboration with local artists and the celebration of Junkanoo, the island’s design and experiences reflect the spirit of community creativity and cultural pride.
Nestled on the southern tip of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, this immersive island experience for Disney Cruise Line guests continues Disney’s legacy of innovation in sustainability and conservation.
Sustainable Design Rooted in Nature
From the outset, Disney Cruise Line committed to minimizing environmental impact through one of the most comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments ever conducted in The Bahamas. The result was less than 16% of the site was developed, preserving much of the land in its natural state.
Innovative design choices include:
- Low-Density Development: Elevated walkways and carefully placed beach amenities protect sensitive sand dune ecosystems.
- Open-Trestle Pier: Engineered to avoid coral reefs and eliminate the need for dredging, this pier allows marine life to pass safely beneath while supporting a healthy marine environment.
- Natural Materials & Organic Architecture: Structures inspired by shells, sea life, and Bahamian flora use wood, stone, and silver top palm to blend seamlessly with the environment.
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Wildlife Conservation at the Forefront
Disney Lookout Cay is a living laboratory for conservation. A team of Bahamian wildlife experts leads pioneering efforts to protect and study native species:
- Birds: Ongoing tagging and tracking programs help avoid sensitive nesting areas.
- Land Crabs: First-of-its-kind data collection honors their cultural significance and ecological role.
- Coral & Sponges: Coral relocation and barrel sponge preservation programs—using innovative mesh carriers—support reef health and combat regional coral diseases.
- Marine Life: Natural limestone “fish highways” beneath the pier serve as artificial reefs, enhancing biodiversity.
- Sand Dunes: Preserved as vital habitats and natural shoreline stabilizers.
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Sustainable Island Operations
Disney Lookout Cay is designed to operate in alignment with Disney’s 2030 environmental goals:
- Renewable Energy: Up to 90% of the island’s energy needs are met by on-site solar panels.
- Zero Waste to Landfill: Through recycling, composting, and the elimination of single-use plastics, the island is committed to sending zero waste to landfill.
- Environmental Management: A dedicated team oversees sustainability and conservation initiatives, while training Crew Members how to be good stewards of the environment.
- Guest Engagement: Visitors are invited to explore nature trails and participate in educational activities that highlight the island’s ecological and cultural richness.
Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is not just a destination—it’s a blueprint for sustainable tourism that honors the land, empowers local communities, and inspires guests to connect with nature in meaningful ways.
Partners
Disney’s Animal, Science and Environment (ASE) assisted with the entire project, advising and consulting from an animal program perspective in wildlife and the pier.
