Christophe Harbour Marina has been acquired by Safe Harbor Marinas, LLC, in a move that signals expansion plans for the superyacht hub on the Southeast Peninsula of St. Kitts. The sale was announced by Christophe Harbour Development Company, Ltd., alongside shareholders the Darby Family and the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, which marks a transition that aims to enhance the marina’s offerings and support the growing demand for yachting infrastructure in the Eastern Caribbean.
Safe Harbor Marinas now assumes full control of the marina assets and operations, while the broader Christophe Harbour community, including its residential neighbourhoods, amenities and development projects, will continue under the management of Christophe Harbour Development Company.
According to Charles ‘Buddy’ Darby III, Founder and CEO of Christophe Harbour Development Company, the transaction aligns with the original vision of building a sustainable and exceptional coastal community. “With this transition, we remain committed to the long-term success of the community while entrusting the marina to a team with a shared vision and the resources and expertise to enhance its offerings,” he said.
The Marina at Christophe Harbour currently offers up to 250 berths, with 50 for superyachts up to 76-metres (250-foot). The marina’s protected inner harbour and location between Antigua and St. Maarten position it within the heart of the Eastern Caribbean cruising grounds.
Safe Harbor Marinas has announced immediate plans to expand the facility to accommodate superyachts of up to 107-metres (350-foot) in length. The company aims to build on the marina’s existing infrastructure, which already features deepwater berths, wide turning basins, 24/7 dockage access, in-slip fuelling, onsite customs and immigration services, as well as VIP clearance for yacht and private jet arrivals.
Baxter Underwood, CEO of Safe Harbor Marinas, stated, “We are pleased to be able to serve the global fleet in this important region with an offering of such high quality.”
The transition was made possible with support from Dr. Terrance M. Drew, Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, who played a role in facilitating the agreement. Special acknowledgement was also given to Hadiya Claxton, Special Envoy of the Federation, for her contribution throughout the process.
Prime Minister Drew welcomed the development, stating that the sale reflects the country’s continued transformation into a hub for luxury real estate, investment and maritime innovation, saying, “We welcome Safe Harbor Marinas and look forward to the opportunities this partnership with Christophe Harbour will unlock, from job creation and tourism growth to enhanced global visibility for our Federation.”
As the marina prepares for its next phase of growth, stakeholders and visitors alike can anticipate enhanced facilities, increased capacity and a stronger presence in the global yachting community.
