SAINT LUCIA — Sandals Resorts International (SRI) is close to acquiring Saint Lucia’s premier golfing facility, in a move that will up the brand’s golf game in the Caribbean and expand its presence on the island.

According to SRI Chairman Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, SRI is in the process of purchasing the 18-hole Saint Lucia Golf Club, which is expected to be finalized within 30 days.

“It’s a beauty and the only game in town,” said Stewart. “We are thrilled to bring this gorgeous golf course into our growing Saint Lucian family of offerings and to share it with the people of Saint Lucia and our guests alike.”

The Saint Lucia Golf Club is located on the northern tip of the island, set within Cap Estate and offering 6,829 yards of green slopes. The par-71 course is considered one of the most challenging and beautiful courses in the Caribbean.

Stewart, who consulted with partner and World Golf Hall of Famer Greg Norman, designer of the championship course at Sandals Emerald Bay, says big plans are in store for the facility. “We are going to make what is great even better,” he added.

Plans for the course – which will be renamed Sandals St. Lucia Golf & Country Club at Cap Estate – include a family entertainment complex, swimming pool, squash and tennis courts, new restaurants and improved meetings and conference amenities. The improvements and additions are set to begin this summer in anticipation of the winter season.

Earlier this year, Sandals Resorts introduced its groundbreaking over-the-water suite concept to Saint Lucia, debuting the island’s first over-the-water bungalows and serenity chapel at Sandals Grande St. Lucian, one of three resorts in the destination. The company plans to begin its fourth resort, Sandals LaSource Saint Lucia later this year.