LONG BAY, ANTIGUA – A new luxury resort development officially launched on Antigua’s eastern coastline on Thursday, with government officials, tourism stakeholders, and investors gathering at Long Bay to celebrate the launch of the US$200 million Long Bay Zen Resort.
The 113‑key property, described by its developer as “quiet luxury – understated, refined, and deeply connected to this landscape,” is expected to begin demolition immediately after the ceremony, with major construction scheduled for the fourth quarter of this year.
Tourism Minister: A New Direction for Antigua’s Tourism
Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, the Hon. Charles Fernandez, told the gathering that the project represents more than just another hotel.
“This project represents a new direction for tourism in Antigua and Barbuda,” Fernandez said. “Long Bay Zen Resort embodies the evolving demands of the modern traveler – one who seeks not just accommodation, but experience, wellness, authenticity, tranquility and connection.”
Developer: Answering the “Smart Island” Call
Developer Sophie Zhong said the project was a direct response to Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s vision for a smarter, more sustainable Antigua and Barbuda.
“Antigua and Barbuda is already a champion of sustainable tourism. Prime Minister Browne has taken that further,” Zhong said. “He has set out a bold vision for a Smart Island future – where renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and climate resilience shape how this nation welcomes the world. Long Bay Zen Resort is our answer to this call.”
Zhong outlined key features of the resort, including green energy systems, its own desalination plant, and what she called “invisible technology” – an AI butler service, automated driving cars moving guests silently across the property, and robotic delivery for behind‑the‑scenes services.
She also confirmed that the resort will include an on‑the‑water chapel, which she said would further cement Antigua’s reputation as the Caribbean’s premier destination wedding location.
“Guests will feel only peace, comfort and the rhythm of the sea,” Zhong said. “But behind that stillness is a world‑class smart system for operations.”
Building Green: The Role of CCECC
When selecting the construction partner, the project team placed particular emphasis on proven capabilities in ecological protection, low‑carbon construction, and international green building standards.
CCECC (China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation) was chosen for its extensive experience across infrastructure, eco‑city, high‑end hotel, and green building projects worldwide. The company brings mature Low‑Impact Development (LID) expertise and an internationally recognized green construction management system – making it the ideal partner to bring Long Bay Zen Resort’s sustainable vision to life.
Prime Minister: A Prototype for Antigua’s Tourism Future
Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who has championed the transformation of Antigua and Barbuda into a “lifestyle superpower,” described the resort as “extremely exciting in its design.”
Browne said he had personally encouraged the developers to move away from a larger, lower‑end concept toward a higher‑quality, more sustainable model.
“We’re looking for quality, more so than quantity,” Browne said. “They have come up now with the most exciting design – one that is in keeping with our environment and the cultural ethos of the country.”
Browne noted that room rates at the resort could reach US$5,000 per night, positioning Antigua alongside premium destinations such as the Maldives and Bora Bora.
Declaring the project officially launched, Browne said he sees Long Bay Zen Resort as “the prototype going forward for a number of small properties” – quiet luxury, sustainable, and able to earn a premium.
Construction Timeline Confirmed
Demolition will begin immediately after the ceremony, with major construction expected to start in the fourth quarter of this year. The resort is expected to create significant employment opportunities and contribute to Antigua’s Tourism Vision 2030.
Media Contact
Company Name: Ediacaran Hotel Limited
Contact Person: Rachel Zhao
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Country: Antigua and Barbuda
Website: https://www.longbayzen.com