Project hoteliers family Vogels (Avila Beach Hotel/LionsDive) and developers Van Alstede
SANTA MARTHA, CURACAO – An important milestone was celebrated today with the symbolic start of the construction of the new TUI BLUE Curacao resort. Located in the old location of the former Sunset Waters at Coral Cliff in Santa Martha, this resort will offer a luxurious retreat with 300 all-inclusive rooms, spacious gardens, a beautiful beach and modern facilities. Contractor B-MW is so quick with the construction that it is actually no longer a real groundbreaking.
TUI and tourism in Curaçao
Tourism has become an increasingly important part of Curaçao's economic development, and 2024 has welcomed record numbers of tourists month after month. TUI has played a crucial role in this for almost 20 years. Currently, there are fourteen weekly flights and there is a local workforce that has grown to 155 employees.
A glimpse into the future
The groundbreaking event began in the afternoon with a reception in the construction shed, where a gallery of A1 printed photos and collages could be viewed. Invitees were given guided tours of the resort in small groups using a booklet with a map and architectural 3D renderings. The walking route, marked with signs, offered a virtual glimpse into the future of the resort through specific viewpoints.
Economic impact
The tours were followed by inspiring speeches by Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas, among others, who emphasised the importance of tourism for Curaçao and the economic boost for the region. The resort is expected to create more than 400 jobs and represents an investment of $80 million, which not only characterizes a new source of employment, but also stimulates sustainable growth and improvement for the Bandabou (Westpunt) region.
Sustainability and local input
In partnership with TUI BLUE, the resort aims to offer a unique blend of local experience, using local produce in the restaurants and reflecting the culture of Curaçao in the activities and cuisines on offer. The resort will also implement advanced technologies and methods for water management and sustainability, such as solar energy and waste management, which will benefit both the resort and the wider environment.
A word of thanks
The groundbreaking ceremony ended with a drink and an official photo opportunity, where special invitees symbolically put the first spade in the ground. The involvement of local and international partners, such as the MCB bank, MCB-bank, Algemeen Pensioenfonds Sint Maarten, Guardian Group Fatum, and government agencies such as ROP, Domeinbeheer, Minister-President Pisas and Minister Cooper, was emphasized and appreciated.