Cat Cay Yacht Club – Platinum Clubs of the World

2023

Platinum Clubs of the World

Introduction

On behalf of everyone at the Cat Cay Yacht Club, I wish to convey our deepfelt appreciation for considering our Club and private island community for inclusion in the illustrious Platinum Clubs of the World. Recognizing the weight and responsibility of such a distinction, we are humbled by the prospect of this honor. Nestled amidst the brilliantly clear and azure waters, and natural beaches of The Bahamas, the Cat Cay Yacht Club stands as a hallmark of luxury, excellence, and timeless elegance. Our unwavering commitment to these principles has driven us to continuously refine and elevate the experiences we offer to our Members and guests. Our recent facility upgrades stand as a testament to our dedication to offering an unparalleled private island oasis. But it’s not just about amenities and infrastructure. Our team’s spirit and dedication truly set us apart. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, they ensure our service standards remain impeccable throughout the year, always endeavoring to exceed expectations and create a beautiful, personal, and sincere Member experience at every opportunity. We have thoughtfully prepared this presentation in an attempt to capture the essence of the Cat Cay Yacht Club, and we trust it will offer valuable insights into our commitment to providing life-long memories and friendships for our Members and guests. In closing, we genuinely hope that the Platinum Clubs of the World will recognize the faithful dedication and excellence that Cat Cay Yacht Club brings to the global community of premier clubs. As we embrace this opportunity, we pledge to continuously uphold the values and standards that the Platinum Clubs of the World so proudly represents.

Sincerely,

John McCranie Island Manager/COO

Cat Cay Yacht Club

Universal Recognition

PLATINUM CLUBS OF THE WORLD

Amidst the pristine azure waters of the Bahamas lies an island retreat of unparalleled allure—Cat Cay. A testament to its distinctive splendor, Cat Cay Yacht Club was honored with the Platinum status in 2022-2023, a coveted accolade granted to merely the top 1% of clubs worldwide. This emblem of excellence is a cherished tribute, celebrated by the Members, Management, and Staff of the Cat Cay Yacht Club.

Moreover, in recognition of its impeccable service and distinguished offerings, the Club earned the prestigious Distinguished Club Award this year. This award, a hallmark of excellence, is a meritbased commendation acknowledging those rare private clubs that rise above the ordinary. It lauds clubs that excel in service quality, facility standards, governance, and most importantly, the teamwork of staff and management.

In the desires of many lies the allure of a lush tropical island, a serene haven away from the rapid pace of everyday life. Cat Cay, an epitome of refined grace, fulfills this longing. Distinguished by its serene simplicity, it effortlessly radiates beauty—a captivating charm that enchants both heart and soul.

HISTORY

Legend has it that the name “Cat Cay” came from pirates who thought the island was shaped like the cat line of a sailing vessel. It is shaped like a truncated “t” about two and a quarter miles across the top and a half-mile at its widest point. It is located on the western edge of the four-meter-deep Bahama Bank which protects the island from heavy weather coming in from the east or southeast. Just to the west of Cat Cay the sea floor plunges into the Gulf Stream, where fishermen go for marlin, tuna and other pelagic big-game fish. Bimini, long a favorite location for serious anglers, Hemingway historians and island aficionados, lies about 10 miles to the north. Through time, the words of Christopher Columbus resound—a definitive testament to the Bahamas’ unparalleled allure: “This land surpasses all others.”

Arthur Samuel Haigh purchased the island in 1894.

A Respected Membership

Our Membership is a carefully chosen group of distinguished individuals, intentionally limited to just 175. At Cat Cay, we recognize the importance of unity and the sanctity of our unparalleled island paradise, and our Members impeccably embody this belief. Becoming a part of our community is not simply an act of application, but a distinguished invitation, sponsored by our existing Members. This meticulous vetting process guarantees that every Member plays their part in preserving our peaceful island environment and revering the core values we hold dear. Our Members are the stewards of Cat Cay’s heritage, relishing its unmatched beauty, and nurturing its unique spirit. Hailing from varied international backgrounds, they are all united by a shared appreciation for simplicity, tranquility, and mutual respect. This cherished sense of community is the real distinction that makes Cat Cay extraordinary.

Excellence in Amenities and Facilities

MARINA

Cat Cay Marina, the jewel of the Bahamas and your passport to an exclusive nautical experience. Our Marina offers the perfect blend of luxury, protection, and top-notch amenities, situated in an idyllic setting that’s cradled by the main island, a private airstrip, and a charming sandbar. Here, we can comfortably accommodate up to 108 yachts, with provision for sea vessels and super yachts. Explore, fish or relax on the water—the choice is yours and the experience is effortless with quick port access and a dedicated station for Bahamas Customs and Immigration.

WINDSOR DOWNS GOLF CLUB

The Windsor Downs Golf Club has undergone exquisite renovation under the visionary design of renowned architect PB Dye. This extraordinary Nine-hole, par-33 golf course is meticulously tailored to captivate the hearts of our esteemed Members.

Steeped in history and prestige, the Windsor Downs Golf Club bears the illustrious name of the Royal Duke of Windsor, who once graced the Bahamas as its Governor during World War II and frequently found solace on our enchanting island.

TENNIS COURTS

Our tennis courts and pavilion were completely rebuilt in 2021 and are a haven for both seasoned players and beginners alike. During holiday weekends, top-tier professionals, some ranked number 1 in the world, grace our courts, hosting inspiring clinics that cater to all skill levels. Our members have the exclusive opportunity to learn from the best and take their game to unparalleled heights. For our more experienced players, we host thrilling tennis tournaments, where they get a chance to showcase their skills and compete for the coveted Cat Cay trophy.

PICKLEBALL COURTS

The widespread appeal of Pickleball among our members led us to expand our racquet facilities. We built two brand new Pickleball courts in 2021, and later this year we will be introducing two more courts to accommodate the sport’s soaring demand. Since their inception, these courts have become a magnet for enthusiasts, sparking friendly rivalries between our members and fostering a family fun atmosphere of competition.

WATERFRONT BEACH CLUB & OLYMPIC-SIZED SWIMMING POOL

The Beach Club and Pool area is one of the most popular spots on the island. Here one can swim across the protected bay for exercise, then dip in the fresh water pool to rinse the salt off. The pool area is often a favorite site for evening parties as the sun sets to the west and the sea breeze cools the island for the night.

THE NAUTICAT RESTAURANT

A perfect place to dine on Bahamian favorites overlooking the Marina. Island history lives on in the NautiCat where pieces of the original Kitten Key Bar have been reconstructed. This montage of signatures of Members, Movie Stars, and famous island visitors is a special tribute to years gone by.

BU’S BAR

Overlooking the Marina, Bu’s Bar is an open-air tiki bar that is a popular haunt day or night, with cocktails and live music all summer.

VICTORIA DINING ROOM

The Victoria Dining Room, situated amidst the splendor of this exclusive paradise, brings unforgettable events and special dinners to life. From intimate gatherings to grand soirées, Victoria Dining Room boasts the flexibility to accommodate events of various sizes and themes. It is perfect for creating cherished memories and celebrating life’s most momentous occasions.

CAT CAY BOUTIQUE

At our island Boutique, explore our wide range of resort wear, casual logo apparel, souvenirs, and charming household items. Discover treasures that perfectly capture the spirit of our island paradise.

CAT CAY MARKET

Our Market features an amazing selection of provisions from foie gras to fishing gear, all the supplies needed to stock your home or boat can be found at our island market.

SPA SERVICES

Experience well-being and tranquility with our highly trained therapists and estheticians during our holiday weekends. Enjoy a variety of spa treatments tailored to your specific needs.

MEDICAL FACILITIES

The Cat Cay Medical Clinic is a fully staffed and equipped facility, open every day of the year. Staffed by US Emergency Room Doctors through the Visiting Physician Program, it can handle both major emergencies and minor illnesses on the island. Notably, the Clinic is fully funded by the Members of the club, providing top-notch and free medical services to all Members and island employees.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Cat Cay distinguishes itself as an exceptionally secure destination within the Bahamas. The security measures on Cat Cay are nothing short of impressive. The island boasts a dedicated security force that provides round-the-clock coverage, ensuring that every inch of this paradise is well-guarded. Whether you’re strolling along the pristine beaches, exploring lush trails, or simply relaxing at your luxurious accommodations, you can rest assured that your safety is always a top priority. To further enhance the island’s security, a member of the Royal Bahamas Police Force is stationed on Cat Cay at all times. This collaboration between the island’s own security team and the Bahamian Police Force ensures an extra layer of protection, giving our Members an unparalleled level of comfort during their stay.

Exceptional Service Standards

The Club’s staff takes pride in providing exceptional Member service, ensuring personalized experiences to everyone who visits the Club. With a membership of 175, they devote ample time and attention to every member, addressing them by name upon arrival and throughout their visit. The staff goes beyond just knowing names; they remember members’ preferences, favorite drinks, and more. They have formed genuine connections with the Members’ families, getting to know their parents, children, and even the names of their pets. This close bond fosters a familylike atmosphere, making the island a place where everyone feels valued and cared for during their stay.

Adapting to Changing Times

SOLAR POWER PLANT

Cat Cay has taken the opportunity to enhance Member satisfaction, improve the value of membership, and make an important statement of Club values by building a large solar field to reduce the use of diesel fired electrical generation. The project cost $5MM, took 5 months to construct and was mostly financed by sponsoring members operating under a power purchase agreement. At the time of commissioning this project was the largest solar installation in the Bahamas.

RECYCLING AND WASTEWATER CONSERVATION

All waste metals are collected, crushed, bailed, and returned to the US for recycling. All of the Club’s wastewater is treated and reused for irrigation. Fresh water is created by using reverse osmosis water systems.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Unpretentiously exclusive and effortlessly elegant, Cat Cay exemplifies the best in private island Member experiences. The genuinely loving and hospitable nature of The Bahamian people, and the Club Members sincere appreciation and admiration for the Staff, has created a culture that has made Cat Cay an iconic Private Club retreat. This coming year the Club will celebrate its 150th anniversary as a private island. Although richly steeped in history and tradition, we have positioned ourselves as a model Club and private community focused on our future as good stewards of our island and the surrounding Bahamian waters and reefs. Our Solar Power Plant, combined with our recycling and wastewater conservation initiatives, underscores our commitment to harmonious coexistence with nature.

As we look ahead, the vision is clear: a Cat Cay firmly committed to the principle of maintaining our treasured values and culture as a community, while consistently striving to enhance Member experience, and pursue sustainability innovations and marine conservation.

Management and Operations

The Cat Cay Board of Directors is comprised of some of the world’s most successful business leaders and entrepreneurs. These men and women dedicate their time, talent, and resources to preserve the uniqueness of the island community while ensuring the future viability of the Club and its amenities and infrastructure. Management of the Club is led by a select group of the Club industries brightest and most dedicated professionals. These award-winning Senior Management Club leaders ensure a consistently high level of Member satisfaction while bringing innovation and creativity to the Club’s operations.

CAT CAY YACHT CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS

William G. Miller - President

Tom Cabrerizo

Jose Cil

Ed Downs

Kurt Graves

Luis Machado

Sandra Macmillan

Kenneth Reilly

Carlos Saladrigas

Tom Sansone

Michael Skenian

John Zelaya

The Overall Experience

Over the years Cat Cay Yacht Club has managed to combine the best features of private island life with the infrastructure of a major resort. Many members own luxurious beachfront homes, play golf, tennis or pickleball on well-maintained inland facilities, dock their yachts in the protected marina, explore pristine beaches, and dine in the island’s gourmet restaurant. Our members treasure the ultimate luxury of having a private island paradise to share with family and invited guests at their Bahamas private island homes. An air of casual elegance best describes the feel of Cat Cay Yacht Club. The natural beauty of the island and the ability to have a safe haven away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life is the ultimate allure of Cat Cay. The heart of Cat Cay is the close-knit community, filled with generations of Members from all over the world, seeking a private place to enjoy life’s simple moments.