HOTC CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS REPORT

Published on April 30, 2026 by Fran Scuderi On General, Newsletters

Greetings HOTC Members!

I wanted to give our members an update on the conditions of HOTC and my observations from my stay as of April 1.

There are obvious signs of improvement and construction. The ferry dock itself has been rebuilt. As you walk in the renovated dock house, the store counter is still on the left, but the back right wall has been removed and the Reservation/Check-in counter now resides there. I saw Faye and met the new “Sarah”, the new reservations manager. She was nice and professional.

I must advise you to call in advance of your trip to re-confirm your stay. My original dates were not in the system!! Call at least a week before you go and get a confirmation number. Hotel 340-773-2035

Upon leaving the dock house up to the hotel building, there’s a new, more modern sign pointing the way. The right concrete “pond” that was previously jackhammered into pieces has now been removed and cleaned up. The slatted bridge that created that last rumble with your suitcase has also been removed and is replaced by a smoother concrete bridge.

Up the first steps and to the left, your heart will sink a little as you pass the old reservation desk area. It’s now called the “Guest Pantry” where the ice and coffee machines are, as well as a large conference table in the center. (See pictures) It’s quite nicely remodeled, and after the initial shock of it, it does grow on you. I just missed seeing Sara’s familiar smile behind the glass.
The whole hotel is slowly being painted white with black accents. It feels and looks more like the Greek Islands décor. It’s not STX Danish by any means, but it is what it is. It’s not our call.

Construction –
They are currently renovating the fort side of the property. They have to jackhammer up the old tile that was comprised of years of different repairs and replacements. Something we all had a sense of familiarity that gave you a “Welcome Home” kind of feeling, but it needs to be updated. I would assume if your room is there, they might have to relocate you.
Be prepared for NOISE!! The jackhammer and tile saws started at 8 – 9am and go on and off til about 3pm. If you’re a light sleeper, bring earplugs or a heavier pillow for your head! I am a late riser, so this was pretty annoying, but somehow, I got used to it. We knew this construction was coming. Well now it’s here.
A solid stucco ½ wall has replaced most, if not all the room railings. Again, my first response was, “That takes away the view!! I don’t like it!! But according to the developer, it’s for improved safety and hurricane protection.

The outside path and hallway lighting has all been repaired or replaced. It’s very nice to see at night.

The Beach Bar is still the same. The BBQ hut (Rolling Smoke) is now back to the far right. Owners Daniel and Maggie are expecting a baby boy! The Watersports House and decking have been rebuilt. There’s a couple of young guys that own the place. (Nick?) It also looks great. They offer snorkel gear, floating rafts etc., but no jet skis.

The HM building is still closed because it needs a new roof. So I suppose if your room week is there, they will move you down to the main building.

All in all, it was good to see some real improvements finally being made. Our only concern is that according to the plans, eventually the kitchenettes will be removed. We are addressing that, as well as the extra $25/night timeshare fees through our lawyer.

Please be aware that as HOTC “guests”, we are also privy to the amenities at the King Christian Hotel, ie pool, etc. So take advantage of that if you like.

Attached are some pictures I took while I was there.