Cover Story
The Real Secret behind
nce the thriving jewel of Lance Aux
Epines, sleepy Secret Harbour
is finally getting a much-needed
rebirth with the relaunch of Secret
Harbour Boutique Hotel & Marina.
Since its heyday in the 1990s, the
beloved waterfront complex has
long been one of Grenada’s best
kept secrets. Visiting yachts and
locals alike have always admired
the sweeping views of the intimate
marina, despite being left neglected
in recent years.
Now the views are just the starting
point of this exciting real estate
transformation that spans nearly
seven acres, and includes 20 upscale
resort cottages, full service marina,
upscale restaurant and bar, tennis
courts, pool house, and special events
venue, known as the Manor House.
Future phases of the resort project will
add on more accommodations and multiple
retail establishments.
The revival of Secret Harbour is a celebration
of local culture, cuisine and commerce. It’s
also a story of resilience that began 15 years
ago. In 2003, one year before Hurricane
Ivan devastated Grenada, the property was
purchased by the European family who own
nearby Calivigny Island, one of the world’s
most exclusive private islands.
When Ivan unleashed its fury in 2004,
the Spice Island suffered a rare direct hit,
destroying the marina. A natural conclusion
could easily have been to abandon the project
after an already significant investment. But
these benefactors to our island community
had no intention of giving up on the vision.
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Instead, they focused on rebuilding better,
smarter and stronger.
Adopting
Grenada’s
new
hurricane
standards, they set about to design an
enduring legacy for all to enjoy. Infrastructure
of the highest means was put in place. Services
such as electricity, water, and internet became
consistent and unfailing.
BG interviewed management to see the past,
present and future direction of the project.
Secret Harbours’chief financial officer says,
“
the day-to-day operations. Both the 53-slip
marina and restaurant have been kept open
to serve the community and visiting yachts.
With 24-hour security, the marina maintains
its reputation as one of the safest in the
Caribbean.
The financial officer adds, “We’re especially
proud of Secret Harbour Restaurant, where
you’ll see the biggest strides in development.
Originally it was a very small area below the
existing office. We only had a tiny staff working
and the menu offered peanuts, biscuits,
The revival of Secret Harbour is a
celebration of local culture, cuisine
and commerce. It’s also a story of
resilience that began 15 years ago
“I like to look back at how far we’ve come.
When Ivan happened, the whole system was
down and unworkable. “Ivan” had destroyed
most of the property. All of the cottages were
unoccupied and abandoned including the
Manor House. Nothing was in use – until
now.”
EARLY RENOVATIONS
Upgrades to the property began in 2007,
under the guidance of the owners. The heavier
part of the construction took place in 2015.
The financial officer says that the project to
date has been a significant private investment.
He is confident that it’s money well spent.
Ongoing renovations to the complex have
been structured in stages to avoid disrupting
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“
O
Secret Harbour
cigarettes and bottled beverages.”
SECRET HARBOUR RESTAURANT & BAR
Today the new Secret Harbour Restaurant
and Bar will redefine Grenada’s culinary
scene. It has been transformed into a
spacious all-day dining destination, helmed
by an executive chef from France, who infuses
classic French and Caribbean flavors into his
locally sourced menu. Daily specials include
the freshest catch, an impressive wine list, and
signature craft cocktails.
Architects have reconfigured the design to
create a space that could be a comfortable
gathering spot for all. The tennis court
was relocated to expand the kitchen and
upgrade the storage area. The dining area
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