“There’s a reason we call it Christophe Harbour,” says yachtsman Buddy Darby, Christophe Harbour owner and CEO. And that long-dreamed-about harbour is now becoming reality. After a challenging start to dredging operations, the right team is now in place and the timing is right, according to Darby. The pace of dredge work has quickened and excitement in sailing circles is growing. By the end of 2014, the first phase of the Marina will be open and the first superyachts will be able to cruise in — and that day will be a game changer for Christophe Harbour and for The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.

Here’s the timeline: by the end of 2014, deepening of the prized, naturally-sheltered marina will be complete. Devcon Limited dredging company is meeting and exceeding schedule goals with 232,000 cubic yards excavated to-date. Construction of the 24-slip dock for superyachts up to 220-feet is well underway with American Bridge Company.

Also in development are the final designs for a prominent “customs house” at the Marina that will be a beacon for visiting boats. The building’s size will anchor the scene among the yachts, according to architect John Denton Haley, and provide space for offices, marina services and fitness and crew facilities. With the landmark presence, the structure will be flanked by grand stairs leading to plaza views at the deck level of the yachts. Meanwhile, along the pier at dock level, a village of smaller-scale buildings for retail shops, residences, restaurants and cafes will emerge and include narrow, pedestrian-and bicycle-friendly side streets that meander up into the surrounding hillsides. Altogether, Haley describes the marina village as a lively Christophe Harbour centerpiece, where people will be able to relax, shop, dine and people/boat watch.

Like so many others in the yachting world, it would be an understatement to say that Darby is thrilled to see this ambitious and unique marina project becoming a reality. He’s already envisioning sailing events for boats large and small to take advantage of the favorable winds in St. Kitts,

and he looks forward to upcoming sailing seasons at Christophe Harbour, when fellow yachtsmen and women will be able to “cruise in, clear customs and have a terrific dinner... all in a marina so perfectly secluded you couldn’t draw one that’s better.”

Until then, cheers and fine sailing!  For the latest information about timelines, marina opening dates, and berth reservation and purchase details, contact Christophe Harbour today!