Luxury hospitality brand The Setai Hotels will make its Caribbean debut with the opening of The Setai St. Maarten, a 205-key resort and private villa development planned for Indigo Bay, developers announced this week.
The project is being developed through a partnership between The Setai Hotels and Toronto-based Altree Developments, marking a new phase for the Vie L’Ven project. Construction is already underway, with completion expected in 2028.
The St. Maarten resort will be The Setai’s first property in the Caribbean, expanding the brand’s footprint beyond its existing locations in the United States and the Middle East. The development will include hotel suites, private villas and residential accommodations set along the coastline of Indigo Bay.
“We are thrilled to bring The Setai to the shores of St. Maarten, a destination that perfectly complements our vision of timeless luxury and cultural inspiration,” said the Nakash family, owners of The Setai. “This project marks an exciting next chapter for our brand as we continue to grow globally.”
Designed by Studio Munge with architecture by HKS Architects, the resort will operate under Leading Hotels of the World. Planned amenities include a beach club with cabanas and butler service, three swimming pools — including an adults-only pool — a 30,000-square-foot destination spa, tennis and pickleball courts, on-beach water sports, a children’s playroom and childcare programs, and access to a protected nature reserve.
The culinary program will feature five dining concepts, including Ocean Grill Beach Club and Jaya, both inspired by restaurants at The Setai Miami Beach.
According to Zev Mandelbaum, president and CEO of Altree Developments, the partnership reflects a long-term vision for the island. “From the very beginning, our vision has been to create something extraordinary for the island,” Mandelbaum said. “Teaming up with the Nakash family allows us to honor St. Maarten’s beauty and distinct character while shaping a new level of hospitality for the region.”
Residential offerings at The Setai St. Maarten will include one- to four-bedroom layouts ranging from approximately 620 to more than 2,000 square feet, as well as dual-key residences extending up to 6,000 square feet.
Developers say the project is expected to elevate St. Maarten’s luxury tourism sector and further position the island among the world’s high-end travel destinations.
