In what marks the first time it has coincided with the Commonwealth Youth Games, the Baton will make an appearance at the Opening Ceremony of the event here tonight before it spends a further five days in the country.

The Baton will be also welcomed at beach volleyball and road cycling events due to be held on Saturday (July 22) and Sunday (July 23).

It is also set to visit iconic landmarks in The Bahamas, including Fort Montague, the Queen’s Staircase and the Straw Market.

A series of cultural events and visits to a number of young persons community projects are also planned before the Baton departs for Bermuda on Monday (July 24). 

The Bahamas is the 34th nation to host the Baton on its journey ,to the Gold Coast.

It is due to visit 70 Commonwealth countries and territories by the end of its tour. 

"The Queen’s Baton is a powerful symbol of the next Commonwealth Games on Australia’s Gold Coast in 2018, and we’re thrilled to welcome it to the Commonwealth Youth Games," Commonwealth Games Federation President Louise Martin said.

"I’m sure it will make the athletes push even further in their competitions."

The Gold Coast 2018 Baton carries a message from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II that calls the Commonwealth’s athletes to come together in a peaceful and friendly competition.

The relay began at Buckingham Palace in London at the start of March.

The message will be taken from the Baton and is due to read at the Opening Ceremony of Gold Coast 2018 on April 4. 

"This is a very special opportunity to see the Queen’s Baton and celebrate its journey through the Commonwealth," Bahamas Olympic Committee President Wellington Miller, who also leads the Organising Committee for Bahamas 2017, said.

"We have a great schedule of events planned, packed with opportunities for everyone to see the Baton across our proud community and also among the inspiring young athletes visiting The Bahamas for the Commonwealth Youth Games.

"The Relay will involve past and present athletes as well as local school children. 

"It will also visit many of the landmarks that make our nation globally-renowned as a much-loved tourism destination and sail out in to our iconic crystal-blue waters. 

"We hope as many local citizens and young athletes as possible will come in to contact with the baton, as we make the most of its time with us in The Bahamas."