Schooner Bay is developing a $2 million retreat to entice guests seeking a therapeutic escape - but with a twist.
Well Bahamas, comprised of several buildings spilling out into a courtyard, should come online by Spring 2013. Luxurious yet simple, the attraction hopes to remain consistent with Schooner Bay's mantra of sustainability.
"It's in development now," said Amanda Lindroth, the wife of the key developer behind the South Abaco community. "It has to be run by great personnel, so they have been developing it with us. The concept, like Schooner, is predicated on health and well being, away from the fitness center with pounding music."
Instead, Well Bahamas aims to offer a serene setting with accommodations for up to eight people at a time. The restaurant will dish out healthy, clean meals, with many of the products grown on site.
Walking routes through the forest or down the beach, massage treatments, manicures and pedicures, and a variety of body treatments will also be provided.
Lindroth expects Well Bahamas to generate 10 jobs upon opening.
"The modern idea of going to spa ... I find the concept dated now. Schooner evokes a spirit. It's so elemental and there is so much nature. It makes you think abut approaching things in a more natural way," she added.
Well Bahamas may also have a taste of the modern, however. Lindroth said the spa could bring in electronic kiosks or provide mobile applications so guests can log progress on the designated walks.
Lindroth told Guardian Business "there will be nothing like it in The Bahamas".
According to blueprints obtained by Guardian Business, Well Bahamas consists of five or six structures facing a courtyard. There are fitness rooms, treatments rooms and rooms for guests at the spa.
The end of the year opening should work well with the considerable growth expected at Schooner this year.
In fact, up to $30 million will be spend on infrastructure, amenities and homes as it grows into a full-fledged community. As many as 30 homes are slated for completion in 2012, in addition to the 12 now underway at various stages of construction.
Many houses are already finished and the community has welcomed its first residents.
The opening of the harbor, the only one within 20 miles in any direction, is being touted as a major step in Schooner's development.
James Malcolm, the head of marketing, said the fuel dock will be installed this year and up to 20 boats should be moored there by the end of 2012.
"Now we're getting powered up with the opening of the harbor, and everything has been very deliberately orchestrated," Malcolm said.

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