Hamilton Princess to get $70m renovation

The Green family, Bermudian owners of The Fairmont Hamilton Princess, with the support of the Government of Bermuda, today announce details of major renovation plans designed to enhance the historic landmark’s positioning with both leisure and business travellers and create one of the most exciting hotel destinations on the island. The renovation project will be conducted in phases to minimise disruption to hotel guests, with the first phase scheduled to begin this winter after the destination’s peak season.

Since the Green family purchased the hotel in 2012, a thorough review of the property, including its infrastructure, has been conducted. An anticipated investment of $70 million will maintain the historic character of The Fairmont Hamilton Princess, while adding luxury, contemporary features for the needs of today’s traveller. An environmental impact statement was also prepared to support the planning application.

Alexander Green, on behalf of the Green family, says: “Since our family has taken ownership of The Fairmont Hamilton Princess, we have been focused on how to breathe new life into the historic property. We have been inspired to such an extent by the potential that the hotel has to become a leading asset in Bermuda’s tourism arsenal that we have increased our budget for renovations from $50 million to $70 million. Our larger financial commitment is testimony to the faith that we have in Bermuda as an attractive place to invest.” 

The first phase of the project, designed by Botelho Wood Architects, will transform the west side pool into a contemporary resort infinity pool with luxury, private cabanas, stylish floating sun loungers on islands within the pool, a splash area for children, family pool and a lap pool. The pool area, which will be almost three times the size of the current pool, will have luxury loungers, shaded seating and hammocks, all with uninterrupted views of Hinson’s Island and Hamilton Harbour. Pergolas will be incorporated into new landscaping. There will also be a new hot tub and enhancements to the poolside food and beverage offering.

A renovation of 69 guestrooms and suites in the Poinciana wing of the hotel is also part of phase I.  The floor to ceiling renovation will include new furniture, fixtures and equipment inside the rooms, as well as an extension of the dramatic balconies and terraces overlooking Hamilton Harbour. The wireless internet and audio visual features will be upgraded and contemporary new tile and stone will be used in the luxury bathrooms. Modern artwork by Bermudian artists, which has been hand-picked by the family, will also be added. In addition, two ultra-luxury two bedroom suites will be created with extended balconies that will have 180 degree views over Hamilton Harbour. The two-bedroom suites will have a private dining and living room area, as well as two separate bedrooms and bathrooms and a powder room.

One of the most significant elements of the renovation includes the development of a new state-of-the-art marina at the property. When complete, the marina will offer 66 berths and additional docking space for up to 30 vessels, ranging in size to accommodate pleasure craft, tournament fishing boats as well as mega yachts.

Next to the marina, a 50 feet x 50 feet new Gazebo-style bar and grill will be created for spectacular dining right at the water’s edge with uninterrupted views of Two Rock Passage. A new kitchen will be built within the bar and grill and will service both hotel guests and locals.

Andrew Green, on behalf of the Green family, comments: “Our vision for The Fairmont Hamilton Princess will reposition the property as the premier hotel in Bermuda. We are excited about the renovation plans and look forward to unveiling the upgrades next year. As our plans take shape, we will ensure a smooth evolution of the hotel to prepare it for the next chapter in its historical development.”

Premier of Bermuda, the Hon. Craig Cannonier, JP, MP, says: “Today marks another milestone for Bermuda’s tourism industry and the community. An investment of this size in the oldest hotel on the island sends a resounding message that Bermuda is indeed open for business as we expand, grow and upgrade our very special properties. We thank the Green family for their confidence in Bermuda and wish them every success as their renovation plans move forward.” 

The Hon. Shawn Crockwell, JP, MP, Minister of Tourism & Transport, says: “The Green family’s investment will further strengthen the hotel’s position as one of the island’s foremost assets for attracting international business and leisure visitors. The introduction of a first-rate marina will provide a new product offering for the international luxury yacht charter industry and the significant upgrades to the hotel is sure to provide a boost to tourism.”

The project also includes upgrades and renovations to the hotel’s mechanical and electrical infrastructure, as well a renovation of back of the house areas such as the staff cafeteria.

“We appreciate the collaborative approach taken by the Green Family in planning the renovation of the hotel,” said Len Czarnecki, General Manager of The Fairmont Hamilton Princess. “I feel very confident that the future of The Fairmont Hamilton Princess looks bright under their ownership. From enhancing the guest experience to providing improvements to colleague areas of the hotel, this is an exciting time at The Fairmont Hamilton Princess.” 

Additional development plans, scheduled to commence in Winter 2014, include a new landscape design to capitalise on the property’s superb waterfront location, relocating the Koi Pond to the front of the hotel to create a dramatic entrance, additional guestroom upgrades in the Gazebo wing and the redesign of guest facilities such as the retail area.  Longer term development plans include a new spa, gym and signature restaurant in the Gazebo Lounge. 

The multi-year renovation programme will be thoughtfully phased to ensure that the hotel operation is not interrupted.  The Fairmont Hamilton Princess will remain open throughout the renovation. The planning application for Phase I is currently under review by the Development Applications Board. Financing for the renovations has been provided by Butterfield Bank.