Former racing driver Eddie Irvine, the owner of the Exuma Yacht Club, has invested close to $10 million in the development so far, and more is on the way.
Business at the property has been progressing slowly, he said. For someone who spent years zooming around a Formula 1 circuit, gearing down to the pace on Exuma has required an adjustment.
Since then, Irvine said that the focus has been on major refurbishments to ensure that the development is up to standard before implementing an extensive marketing campaign. He admitted that finding labor on the island of Exuma has proven to be quite challenging.
"I took possession of the property approximately eight months ago and since then we have been refurbishing the place. It's been difficult getting the place ready because there isn't much labor here in Exuma like there would be in Nassau," he said.
"It's tougher to get things done here. We are definitely not where we would like to be but we are doing what we can."

Exuma Yacht Club's chief noted that the club experienced a reasonably good winter season, despite there being no marketing strategies in place.
"The boats that have come in have liked what they saw, then we had other boats follow thanks to word of mouth. So far, that's been our biggest form of marketing," Irvine revealed.
"Right now, we are undergoing a five-year restoration and development project. It will be awhile before things are where I would like it to be. I wouldn't expect a busier summer season because we really haven't done much marketing."
To date, the infrastructure built as a result of the $10 million investment includes a marina, a gas station, liquor store and a restaurant.
"We are also looking to open up an authentic Italian restaurant during the next winter season. There is already one up and running but it only serves local cuisine," Irvine added.
He also revealed to Guardian Business that there are plans to put a chalet on the development's beach property on the north side of the island. Irvine believes that Exuma's natural landscape and proximity to the U.S. provides the perfect backdrop for tourism-based developments to flourish.
He continued: "Right now, the key is getting our name out there so they know we are open for business. I have chosen to do business in Exuma because I believe that the island has the best beaches and it's only like an hour away from Miami."
The increased airlift into the island, Irvine pointed out, is already proving to be beneficial to his business.
"We now have flights coming out from Toronto, thanks to Sandals. We also have direct flights from Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and Atlanta," he explained. "We just need to offer more to tourists when they come here because as it stands the quality of the service is not really good enough."
Irvine noted that the Exuma Yacht Club is presently operating with three full-time staff.
Last month, the island received a major economic boost as hundreds traveled there and participated in the National Family Island Regatta.
Godfrey Gray, the island's chief councilor, revealed to Guardian Business that hosting the annual has great meaning for the economy. He shared how Exumians look forward to the regatta because it is a venture that everyone on the island benefits from.
"Every year, the National Family Island Regatta is welcomed by all residents of Exuma," according to Gray. "Whether you are a hotelier, food vendor, an airline carrier or operator of a rental company, you are able to benefit tremendously from participating in this annual event. This initiative continues to positively impact our economy."

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