I remember sitting high in the old sapodilla tree at my grandma’s house in Fox Hill, watching enormous cranes stretch across Paradise Island. I had no idea then that the construction I was witnessing would cost $800 million to build Atlantis Bahamas, an iconic resort transforming the island forever. Built by South African developer Sol Kerzner, it took four years to create what would become a world-renowned luxury destination.
In this article, we’ll explore how much it costs to build Atlantis Bahamas, who built it, how long it took, what existed before its transformation, and why it remains a marvel of engineering and tourism in the Caribbean.

What Was It Before It Was Atlantis?
Back in the day, before Atlantis Bahamas became the showstopper it is today, the property was home to the Britannia Beach Hotel, The Pirates Cove Holiday Inn, and other surrounding properties. Paradise Island, known as Hog Island back then, was a quiet, sleepy spot with little to its name except for smaller resorts and Paradise Island Airport. That’s right the island had its own airport.
Sol Kerzner, the South African developer saw beyond the Britannia Beach Hotel’s modest charm. With a bold plan and $800 million, he transformed the property into Atlantis Bahamas, a luxury mega-resort and casino that brought Paradise Island to life and put The Bahamas on the global stage like never before.
Who Built Atlantis Bahamas?
Sol Kerzner, the mastermind behind some of the world’s most iconic luxury resorts. Known for creating experiences that blend opulence with imagination, Kerzner was the founder of Kerzner International Holdings and the visionary who saw beyond what anyone else could on Paradise Island. I always dive deep into research to uncover the real story, and Sol’s journey with Atlantis is nothing short of extraordinary.

Kerzner brought in the architectural giants WATG (Wimberly, Allison, Tong & Goo), a firm celebrated for designing some of the most stunning resorts globally. Add to that the efforts of talented engineers, visionary designers, and hundreds of hardworking local and international workers, and you’ve got a team that turned dreams into steel, water, and stone. Together, they created the kind of magic you’d expect from the mythical city of Atlantis—jaw-dropping marine life exhibits, luxury accommodations, and adventures you can’t find anywhere else.
What set Kerzner apart was his vision: he didn’t just want to build a resort—he wanted to create an experience inspired by the lost city of Atlantis itself. With massive aquariums housing over 50,000 marine animals, a water park that feels like pure adrenaline like the Mayan Temple slide, and a design that screams luxury and adventure, Atlantis became much more than a resort; it became a world of its own.
How Long Did It Take to Build Atlantis Bahamas?
It took four years, from 1994 to 1998, to complete the first phase of Atlantis Bahamas, including the iconic Royal Towers. The resort’s expansion continued into the 2000s with the addition of The Cove, The Reef, and the sprawling Aquaventure Water Park. Building on Paradise Island, a private island with limited infrastructure at the time, came with tons of challenges—transporting materials, engineering massive marine habitats, and designing water systems that pushed the limits of innovation. The Island is separated from the main Island New Providence by one bridge at a time. So heavy equipment and excavators were carried across the island by barges.
Despite the obstacles, Atlantis emerged as a world-class resort, showcasing a blend of architectural brilliance and Bahamian natural beauty. Each addition was carefully crafted, turning Paradise Island into a destination where luxury, adventure, and imagination come together.
Unique Features That Made Atlantis Bahamas a Billion-Dollar Marvel

When you think of Atlantis Bahamas, you think of grandeur, luxury, and features that set it apart from any other resort in the world. It’s not just a hotel—it’s a full-blown experience that lives up to its billion-dollar reputation.
Marine Habitats:
Atlantis boasts one of the largest open-air aquariums in the world, home to over 50,000 marine animals representing 250 species. Guests can explore lagoons, underground tunnels, and exhibits that feel like stepping into the lost city itself. The marine habitats are as breathtaking as they are ambitious, showcasing the resort’s dedication to blending entertainment with marine preservation.
Aquaventure Water Park:
The Aquaventure Water Park is a 141-acre water playground like nothing you’ve seen. Its most iconic feature is The Leap of Faith, a near-vertical waterslide that sends you plunging through a clear tunnel surrounded by sharks—an adrenaline rush few can match. Combined with lazy rivers, wave pools, and other unique rides, Aquaventure is a marvel of both engineering and thrill.
Luxury Accommodations:
From jaw-dropping ocean-view rooms to the resort’s crowning jewel, the Bridge Suite, Atlantis redefines luxury. Famously known as “The Michael Jackson Suite”, this extravagant 10-room suite sits 16 stories above the ground and connects the two Royal Towers. With a nightly rate of $25,000, it features gold-trimmed furnishings, a grand piano, and panoramic views of Paradise Island.
The Mythical Theme:
Inspired by the legend of the lost city of Atlantis, the resort’s design includes custom art, sculptures, and dramatic architecture that tell a story at every turn. From detailed mosaics to towering columns, every corner immerses visitors in the mystery and magic of this mythical underwater world.
The Casino:
One of Atlantis’s most exciting features is its world-class casino, the largest in the Caribbean. The casino spans over 60,000 square feet and combines opulence with entertainment, offering slot machines, table games, and high-stakes rooms for those seeking a thrill. What makes it unique is its design, with glass floors that overlook marine habitats, giving players a glimpse of sharks and rays gliding beneath them.
Whether you’re marveling at the marine life, screaming your way down the water slides, or feeling the excitement in the casino, every feature of Atlantis Bahamas feels larger than life. It’s a place where luxury, adventure, and imagination come together to create an experience worth every dollar of its billion-dollar investment.
Unique Features Comparison
Resort | Construction Cost | Unique Offerings | Size & Global Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Atlantis Bahamas | $800 million | – Largest open-air aquarium housing 50,000+ marine animals | Spans 140 acres; transformed Paradise Island into a global icon |
– Aquaventure Water Park with the iconic Leap of Faith slide | Attracts millions of visitors annually | ||
– Michael Jackson Bridge Suite ($25,000/night) | Significant contributor to Bahamian tourism economy | ||
Burj Al Arab (Dubai) | $1 billion | – Ultra-luxury sail-shaped design | Smaller in size but globally known as an architectural marvel |
– Helicopter landing pad, 7-star experience | Symbol of Dubai’s luxury tourism | ||
Marina Bay Sands | $6 billion | – Iconic rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Singapore skyline | Spans 3 towers and over 10 million square feet |
– Massive casino, luxury shopping, and integrated entertainment | Redefined Singapore’s global tourism industry |
Global Impact
Atlantis Bahamas may not be the most expensive luxury resort, but its impact on The Bahamas is unparalleled. It transformed Paradise Island into a global tourism hub, creating thousands of jobs and attracting millions of visitors annually. Unlike the exclusivity of Burj Al Arab or the urban marvel of Marina Bay Sands, Atlantis combines luxury with adventure, making it a family-friendly destination that feels like a world of its own.
From its massive marine habitats to the thrilling Aquaventure Water Park and extravagant suites like the Bridge Suite, Atlantis Bahamas holds its ground among the giants. It proves that a perfect blend of luxury, storytelling, and natural beauty doesn’t have to cost billions to create a lasting impact.
Why Is Atlantis Bahamas Worth the Cost for Visitors?
When it comes to a vacation that delivers luxury, adventure, and unforgettable memories, Atlantis Bahamas is worth every penny.
Unparalleled Experiences:
Atlantis offers something for everyone with its luxury accommodations, fine dining options, and thrilling activities. Visitors can explore one of the largest open-air aquariums in the world, dive into marine encounters with dolphins and stingrays, or take on the heart-pounding Aquaventure Water Park, home to the iconic Leap of Faith slide that plunges through a shark-filled lagoon.

Family-Friendly Destination:
What sets Atlantis apart is its ability to cater to families, couples, and adventure seekers alike. From kids’ clubs and water slides for children to world-class spas and casinos for adults, it’s the perfect Caribbean getaway for all ages. Families can bond over water rides, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on private beaches.
A Caribbean Icon:
Atlantis is more than a resort; it’s a Caribbean icon that offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It combines natural beauty with architectural wonder, inspired by the mythical lost city of Atlantis. Whether you’re staying in the legendary Bridge Suite or exploring its marine habitats, every moment feels like a dream brought to life.
Movies Filmed at Atlantis Bahamas
- Holiday in the Sun (2001)
- Starring: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen.
- Plot: The Olsen twins uncover an international smuggling ring while enjoying a family vacation at Atlantis.
- Highlights: Showcased Atlantis’ Royal Towers, the water park, and marine habitats.
- After the Sunset (2004)
- Starring: Pierce Brosnan, Salma Hayek, and Woody Harrelson.
- Plot: A retired jewel thief is pulled back into action during a vacation in paradise.
- Highlights: Used Atlantis’ beachfront and iconic Bridge Suite as prominent backdrops.
- Duplicity (2009)
- Starring: Julia Roberts and Clive Owen.
- Plot: Two corporate spies with a romantic history work together on a complex con involving multinational companies.
- Highlights: Filmed key scenes at Atlantis, showcasing its lavish interiors and stunning views.
- Into the Blue 2: The Reef (2009)
- Starring: Chris Carmack and Laura Vandervoort.
- Plot: A treasure-hunting couple becomes entangled in danger while diving in the Bahamas.
- Highlights: Scenes were filmed underwater near Atlantis and around its scenic beaches.
- Casino Royale (2006)(rumored location for specific scenes)
- Starring: Daniel Craig.
- Plot: James Bond embarks on a mission involving high-stakes poker and international espionage.
- Highlights: While primarily filmed elsewhere, some Bahamian scenes featured locations reminiscent of Atlantis’ luxurious aesthetics.
TV Shows and Specials Featuring Atlantis
- Shark Tank (Season 9, 2017)
- The popular business reality show filmed a special episode at Atlantis, featuring the resort’s conference spaces and marine habitats.
- America’s Next Top Model (Cycle 19, 2012)
- Episodes showcased Atlantis as a backdrop for photo shoots and runway challenges.
- The Amazing Race (Season 5, 2004)
- Teams visited Atlantis for one of their challenges, highlighting its unique aquarium tunnels.
Atlantis’ breathtaking design, vibrant marine life, and luxurious vibe have made it a favorite location for movies and TV productions, perfectly blending the allure of The Bahamas with cinematic storytelling.

Conclusion
Atlantis Bahamas stands as a testament to Sol Kerzner’s vision and commitment to luxury, adventure, and innovation. With an $800 million investment, four years of construction, and a team of world-class architects and engineers, it transformed Paradise Island into a global destination. Its unparalleled experiences, family-friendly design, and Caribbean charm make it a resort like no other.
If you’re looking for more than just a vacation, Atlantis Bahamas delivers memories that will last a lifetime. It’s not just worth the cost—it’s worth the experience.
Resources and References
- Atlantis Paradise Island Official Website
- Kerzner International Holdings History
- The Leap of Faith Slide at Aquaventure
- Atlantis Marine Habitat
- History of Paradise Island and Atlantis
Atlantis Bahamas isn’t just a destination—it’s a Caribbean marvel waiting to be explored.