Full steam ahead

Construction starts this month on a gated marina community with direct access to the bay and the gulf.

By JANET ZINK
© St. Petersburg Times
published February 7, 2003

RUSKIN -- Boaters, take note: There's a new deep-water marina community brewing in south Hillsborough County.

EarthMark Cos. plans to begin construction this month on Mariner's Club Bahia Beach. The gated, resort-style marina community, just south of Bahia Beach Island Resort, will offer direct access to Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

EarthMark purchased the 84 acres for $3.5-million in 1998 from the Destiny Corp. Townhomes and single-family homes will be built on the 30 acres that are developable.

Phase I will consist of 88 marina-front three-story townhomes. Sales began in November, and nearly 60 homes are already under contract, according to Ginny Cooper, assistant sales and marketing director for EarthMark. Phase II, which will also consist of townhomes, is open for reservations now.

Seven floor plans come with two, three or four bedrooms and 1,963 to 3,103 square feet of living space. Prices range from $300,000 to $600,000.

The Key West-style homes feature tile floors, marble countertops, recessed lights, patios on all three levels and vaulted ceilings. Master suites have his-and-hers closets and whirlpool tubs.

Residents at Mariner's Club Bahia Beach will have access to an 80-slip deep-water marina that will accommodate vessels up to 70 feet and be staffed by a full-time harbor master. Membership in the yacht club is included with the purchase of a home. Members who don't own boats will be able to use boats purchased and maintained by the club.

An independent management company will handle vacation rentals for part-time residents.

Other amenities will include tennis courts, a swimming pool and fitness center.

EarthMark Cos., of Fort Myers, also developed Herons Glen Golf and Country Club in Fort Myers, and Mariner's Club Key Largo.

-- Janet Zink covers real estate, growth and development. Reach her at 661-2426 or jzink@sptimes.com.