“More than two out of every three local residents on Rum Cay is dependent directly or indirectly on the Sumner Point Marina,” said Michelle Curtis, Director of Operations for New England Marine Services, which had been operating the marina for close to two years. “It is not merely the main economic driver, it is the lifeblood of the island and it would be unconscionable for either of us to allow our business differences to cause people to suffer so for the betterment of the entire island, we are pleased to announce that Montana Holdings Ltd., through its associate company, New England Marine Services and Mr. Robert Little and family have put our differences aside officially with an agreement signed today.”

According to the terms of the agreement, management will revert to Robert Little, with the full support of New England Marine Services while the agreement for sale will continue in place.  

“Although this was aired quite publicly, which is unfortunate because it makes it appear personal, the reality is that both parties, New England Marine Services, Montana Holdings and my family, are part of a bigger picture of what has transpired all over the world,” said Robert ‘Bobby’ Little. “The state of the global economy and the limited funds available for foreign investment took their toll around the world. Rum Cay and Sumner.

Point Marina, the main income producer for the island that was in the process of being sold, were caught in that conundrum. I am appreciative of the improvements that Montana and New England Marine Services have made and I believe that there is enough flexibility in the agreement that both parties will be satisfied their interests are being protected while knowing that each has worked out a way to work together for the best outcome for the people of Rum Cay.”

The marina that recently earned Ministry of Tourism approval for a hotel licence provides dockage, fuel, beachside accommodations and a popular restaurant and bar. Visitors have access to wireless Internet, air-conditioning, satellite TV and other amenities. Several months ago, Southern Boating chose Rum Cay for with its dramatic settings for its annual swimsuit issue and the cameraman who shot footage of the shoot said it was the first time in all the years had had been doing the job that he found himself more enraptured by the scenery than the models.

Both parties with an interest in the marina and its adjacent beachfront properties said they mutually wanted to settle their differences before the start of the busy season, noting that Thanksgiving is usually very active for the island in the southern Bahamas known for its fishing, diving, striking scenery and laid-back atmosphere.