Experience the Charm of the Bahamas at Schooner Bay - Great Abaco Island

Schooner Bay, a contemporary and eco-friendly harbor village community on Great Abaco Island, is the perfect place to experience the charms of the Bahamas. Just 28 miles south of Marsh Harbour, there are pink sand beaches to tiptoe along and natural protected forests to explore.

Developers broke ground on the 220-acre urbanist property in 2008, building the infrastructure and carving out the harbor. The first residences were completed in 2012, and there are a variety of different homes being offered, including the Cottage Collection, the Harbour Collection, the Captain's Collection, the Ocean Estates Collection and the soon-to-be-constructed Veranda House, all of which emulate authentic Bahamian architecture. "Schooner Bay is a first-class, laid-back environment designed for families," said Mark Pordes, CEO of Pordes Residential, the company responsible for the sales and marketing of the project. "We are selling value in the Bahamas."

All the native trees and vegetation were preserved during the development stages and replanted upon completion of the infrastructure. A hydroponic farm at Schooner Bay has become a vital resource for the community, and local vendors provide fresh produce and herbs to the village's residents, markets and eateries. Solar-power heating and geothermal cooling systems have been integrated into the property's structures, and there are active composting, recycling and rainwater-harvesting programs. There is even a 60-acre forest preserved on the property, a beautiful retreat for hikers and nature enthusiasts. "Schooner Bay's emphasis is on the outdoors, sustainability and, of course, environmental friendliness," said sales director Raymond Dames.

The development's marina is set along the well-protected harbor and can accommodate vessels up to 75 feet. There are 40 slips, and there are plans to expand to hold 120 vessels. There are gasoline and diesel facilities, a pump-out station and provisioning services, and all guests, including transient boaters, receive full access to the property and its amenities.

There are cabanas and food and beverage services, two private beaches, along with a variety of water activities including kayaking, sailboating, and paddleboating. A resort-style pool and children's pool are being constructed. The community's Blackfly Bonefish Lodge offers private fishing charters and lodging. Among the amenities being designed or already underway are a spa, gym, meeting spaces, general store, an additional restaurant and bar, and a sports complex that will include a half basketball court, a tennis court, pickle ball court, sand box, kids' play area, beach volleyball court and a multipurpose field. There are also spaces for yoga and Pilates classes.

Schooner Bay offers endless fun and a laid-back atmosphere. Homes are available for short-term and long-term rental. Be sure to put it on your next cruising itinerary and stop by!