Maritime Development-Strategic Growth
by: Cale Brown
BluWater succeeds through joint ventures in marina and real estate projects by strategically partnering with other companies to pool resources, expertise, and capital. By collaborating with specialized partners, BluWater can access valuable industry knowledge, diversify risks, and scale projects more efficiently. BluWater is sought for these partnerships due to our financial strength with partners and our operational or regional expertise, fostering innovation and accelerating project timelines. Joint ventures also open market expansion opportunities, sharing risks and rewards. This approach drives long-term growth. It also strengthens BluWater’s competitive position in the marina and real estate sectors.
Rendezvous Bay Hotel, Spa & Super Yacht Marina – Anguilla
BluWater was chosen to play an integral role in developing Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla. This world-class project is on a pristine beachfront, offering panoramic ocean views, making it an idyllic destination for high-end leisure and relaxation. The hotel will offer five-star accommodations equipped with modern amenities, ensuring guests enjoy the ultimate blend of comfort and luxury. The on-site spa will feature state-of-the-art facilities and personalized wellness treatments designed to create a luxury retreat experience.
Bluwater is under a letter of intent to design and manage the marina, which will accommodate superyachts up to 250 feet, include advanced docking facilities, and offer essential services such as yacht maintenance, refueling, and a dedicated concierge. This will elevate the guest experience, making it a premier destination for yacht owners and luxury travelers. Furthermore, the project is committed to sustainability, incorporating renewable energy systems, water conservation measures, and efforts to preserve the local environment. The economic impact of this development is substantial, with hundreds of jobs expected to be created during construction and long-term operations. Local businesses and entrepreneurs will benefit from increased tourism, making this a pivotal project for the region’s growth.
Summer’s End – St. John
Located in Coral Bay, St. John, the Summer’s End project will become the Caribbean’s newest premier yachting destination. It is also the island’s first and only marina facility, which makes it a milestone in the local economy and yachting industry. While this is the first local marina, BluWater has a long history and interest in this project, with one of our affiliate companies working on the design beginning 15 years ago. This facility will offer 115 wet slips for vessels ranging from 30 to 150+ feet, including super-yachts, mega yachts, sailboats, and cruisers. The marina will be equipped with an on-site U.S. Customs and Border Protection office, EPA-approved fueling systems, shore power, potable water, and waste management services, ensuring seamless service for international vessels.
The project will also enhance the visitor experience by providing comprehensive security, 24-hour manned and electronic surveillance, and a range of on-site amenities, including restaurants, bars, retail spaces, and a local fish and farmer’s market. It will support enforcement vessels from organizations such as the National Park Service, Coast Guard, and Fish & Wildlife, promoting environmental stewardship.
Economically, the project is expected to create over 362 jobs during the initial development phase, with 80+ long-term positions created after that. Additionally, $34 million has already been invested locally, with a projected $45.8 million initial economic impact. The annual operational economic impact is estimated at $9.6 million locally and $46.4 million territory wide. Development costs will boost local infrastructure and create new career opportunities through mentorship, internships, and scholarships. Environmentally, the project avoids dredging and invests significantly in environmental mitigation, watershed improvement initiatives, and support for National Park preservation.
Kakona – South Abaco, Bahamas
The Kakona development in South Abaco, Bahamas, spans 981 acres and includes three unique clubs: The Harbor Club, The Sporting Club, and The Residence Club. This project received government approvals in 2008, 2016, 2020, and 2021, and the Heads of Agreement were signed in December 2023.
The Harbor Club will feature a marina with 240 wet slips for vessels ranging from 40 to 200 feet and 400 dry stack slips for additional storage. Accommodations include 40 hotel core keys, 15 overwater bungalows, 25 two-bedroom cottages, and 50 harbor-front homes. The marina will offer branded Harbor Club services, boutique retail shops, cafes, restaurants, and 15 loft residences, with additional support from the nearby Sandy Point Airport, including a lengthened runway, fuel services, and customs and immigration.
The Sporting Club will cater to high-end sports and leisure activities, offering 105 estate lots with oceanfront, oceanview, and golf view options. The club will also include ten private oceanfront villas, a 30-room hotel and spa, 20 two-bedroom cottages, and a world-class golf course designed by Anna David McLay Kidd. Beach and golf clubs will complement these offerings.
The Residence Club will consist of 100 estate lots, 20 two-bedroom cottages, and a golf practice area. The project will support environmental sustainability, particularly by focusing on preserving the Abaco Parrot and restoring the historic Abaco Lighthouse. Economically, Kakona will create over 400 construction and permanent jobs, enhancing local tourism and generating significant revenue for the South Abaco community. The project spans over 900 acres, adjacent to 22,000 acres of protected land in the Abaco National Park, with 10 miles of pristine beaches offering privacy and exclusivity.
Gili Gede Marina – Lombok, Indonesia
Gili Gede Marina, located on 154,979m² of freehold beachfront land in Lombok, Indonesia, presents a rare opportunity in the global marina industry. Bluwater was initially approached for our design expertise and is now in joint venture negotiations for the project’s development. The project holds a marina license covering 460,000m², one of only about ten marina licenses granted by the Indonesian government, offering exclusive access to the region. The marina will have 285 berths for boats ranging from 10 to 30 meters and beyond, with resort expansion plans including luxury villas, a beach club, a wellness center, a conference center, and a kid’s playground.
Gili Gede’s location within the “golden triangle” between Bali and Lombok puts it on a major tourist route and in proximity to Lombok International Airport, which has direct flights to Singapore and Malaysia. Strategically positioned between Singapore and Darwin, Australia, the marina is expected to become the hub for Indonesian sailing.
The surrounding area offers white sand beaches, turquoise waters, renowned diving and fishing opportunities, and rare marine life like yellowfin tuna and dolphins. Financially, the project aligns with Indonesia’s growing marina market, making Gili Gede a potential rival to Caribbean and Mediterranean hotspots. Environmentally, the project is supported by comprehensive oceanographic studies, ensuring long-term sustainability and ecological responsibility.
