Cotton Bay Breaks Ground on Iconic Ritz-Carlton Reserve
“We are building not just in Eleuthera – we are building with Eleuthera.”
Eleuthera, The Bahamas – April 14, 2025 – In a ceremony held on the pristine shores of South Eleuthera, Cotton Bay Holdings Limited officially broke ground on what they say will become one of the Caribbean’s most anticipated luxury destinations under the Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand.
The event was attended by an esteemed group of dignitaries, including The Honourable Philip Davis, Prime Minister of The Bahamas; The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation; The Honourable Clay Sweeting, Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs; and Mr. Brian King, President of Marriott International, Caribbean and Latin America.
Also present were Mr. Luis Carlos Sarmiento Angulo, owner of Cotton Bay Holdings Limited, along with his family, the Cotton Bay team, members of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation and stakeholders from the local and business community.
“This is more than just a groundbreaking for a luxury resort,” said Mr. Daniel Zuleta, Project Director for Cotton Bay Holdings in his welcome remarks. “It marks the beginning of a new chapter for Eleuthera – one defined by vision, partnership, and a commitment to sustainable, community-centered growth. This project was born from bold ideas and brought to life by the resilience of many,” said Zuleta. “We are building not just in Eleuthera – we are building with Eleuthera.”
The groundbreaking ceremony also highlighted the collaboration between Cotton Bay Holdings and the Government of The Bahamas. Prime Minister Davis praised the project’s long-term vision and commitment to sustainability, while Deputy Prime Minister Cooper lauded its alignment with The Bahamas’ booming tourism momentum. Minister Sweeting, Member of Parliament for Central and South Eleuthera, was acknowledged for his pivotal role in facilitating the project’s progress, to this point.
Speaking on behalf of the Sarmiento family, Maria Claudia Sarmiento reflected on their deep connection to Eleuthera, their commitment to a transformative vision for the island, and their hopes for the project’s lasting community impact. “For years, we have held the mystique of South Eleuthera close to our hearts. With the support of the Government of The Bahamas and our partnership with Marriott, the arrival of this Ritz-Carlton Reserve will establish South Eleuthera as a world-class destination – welcoming visitors from around the globe and fostering a stronger, more sustainable local economy.”
The project is envisioned as an open-air, ultra-luxury resort that will allow discerning travelers to indulge in global exploration and deliver an elevated travel experience. It is expected to feature a 110-room Ritz-Carlton Reserve hotel set amidst the breathtaking beauty of South Eleuthera, and include 97 Ritz-Carlton Reserve branded residences, offering owners a one-of-a-kind living experience with a mix of three- to five-bedroom villas. Luxury amenities will include signature restaurants, a lavish spa and wellness sanctuary, swimming pools, and an 18-hole championship golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones II.
Marriott International’s participation in the development, through the Ritz-Carlton Reserve brand, further reinforces its significance on the global hospitality stage. “Today marks a momentous occasion as we break ground on the newest addition to our exclusive Ritz-Carlton Reserve collection here in the Bahamas. This extraordinary property will join our rare estates, set apart from the world, offering an exclusive sanctuary with personalized service and deeply personal experiences for each of our guests,” said Brian King, President of Marriott International, Caribbean and Latin America.
“Our Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties are renowned for their intimate luxury, this will be no exception, offering a unique location handpicked for its lush, unspoiled landscapes. Guests will have the opportunity to explore this beautiful destination and indulge in uncommon luxury.”
Ritz-Carlton Reserve at Cotton Bay was described as being poised to set a new global standard in destination and highly personalized leisure experiences, blending intuitive and heartfelt service with stunning natural beauty and native design. Guided by a vision rooted in respect for the environment, cultural preservation, and meaningful local impact, the resort, says Cotton Bay Holdings, will serve as an economic catalyst for Eleuthera and The Bahamas. It is expected to create job opportunities, bolster local businesses, and foster long-term development throughout the destination.
With construction now officially underway, the team at Cotton Bay say they look forward to bringing this vision to life – ushering in a new era of sophisticated, responsible tourism for Eleuthera and the wider Bahamas. The hotel and golf course are scheduled for completion in 2027.
Cotton Bay Holdings Ltd., as the developers for the Cotton Bay Ritz-Carlton Reserve, currently generates 34 direct employments, which they estimate will increase to over 300 during construction and over 500 during the full operation of the resort development.
