The picturesque coastal city of Fort Lauderdale is on the brink of a significant transformation as a new, ambitious project worth $2 billion is set to redefine its waterfront experience. Spearheaded by the Related Group, in partnership with Tate Capital and Rok Acquisitions, this initiative comprises an impressive concoction of luxury living, hospitality, and recreation that aims to introduce a “mini Monaco” vibe to the region. The plans, which envision a lavish development on the striking Bahia Mar marina, promise to elevate Fort Lauderdale’s standing as a premier destination for residents and visitors alike.
The Bahia Mar marina development will encompass nearly 40 acres combining land and water, a scale that underscores the project’s grand ambitions. Developers are proposing to erect towering condominium structures alongside a luxurious St. Regis hotel that will boast around 200 guest rooms. This arrival of high-end accommodations marks a notable shift from the existing DoubleTree hotel that previously occupied the site, indicating the developers’ commitment to transforming the marina into a sophisticated destination.
The vision articulated by Related Group’s president Nick Perez is a compelling one—a multifaceted experience that merges luxury living with exceptional hospitality. “Fort Lauderdale—and South Florida in general—has been waiting for a true destination that has a Monaco-like feel,” Perez noted. This transformative initiative seeks to fill the void of a five-star resort that encompasses a comprehensive experience, with both residential and commercial facets designed to attract a diverse array of clientele. By including fine dining options and high-end retail, the development aims to create a dynamic social hub that engages both residents and tourists.
One of the standout features of this ambitious design is the provision of 88,000 square feet of waterfront commercial space, which will include restaurants and dock areas for boat access. This emphasis on waterfront accessibility aligns the project with Fort Lauderdale’s identity as the yacht capital of the United States. As part of this transformation, public spaces like a park along the Intracoastal Waterway and a 25-foot-wide pedestrian promenade will enhance the visitor experience, ensuring that the marina is not merely a luxury destination but also a welcoming space for the community.
The renovation also revisits past plans which faced opposition from locals concerned about large-scale developments impacting the area’s character. The revised proposal strives to balance luxury with public amenities—an approach that aims to broaden support from residents while fostering a sense of community within a high-end environment.
The timing of this launch is particularly strategic. With the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, the nation’s largest yacht show, taking place annually and attracting a significant number of international visitors—approximately 65% from overseas markets, mainly Europe and Latin America—the ambitions of this development resonate with an upscale clientele of yacht owners and boating aficionados. Perez emphasizes the uniqueness of this venture, highlighting that “there is no facility in South Florida where you can have a residential unit, a hotel, exceptional culinary experiences, and your yacht literally in your backyard.”
Such an appeal not only seeks to enrich the local economy but also positions Fort Lauderdale as a beacon of luxury and culture on the global stage. By drawing in international clients, the project stands to stimulate a dynamic exchange of cultures while solidifying the city’s reputation as a sought-after lifestyle destination.
The development holds promise not just for investors but for the broader community. Set to launch in late 2029, the Bahia Mar transformation is poised to establish a new paradigm in luxurious coastal living. With condominium units starting from $4.4 million, the Residences at St. Regis will cater to affluent buyers seeking a premium residence in a coveted location.
As the Related Group and its partners prepare to break ground on this landmark project, all eyes will be on Fort Lauderdale to see how they fulfill their ambitious vision and transform the city’s marina into an iconic destination—a ambitious undertaking that could redefine not just the waterfront, but also the entire community’s relationship with its breathtaking coastline.