Areas of Opportunity

malpeque bay

 project rationale

indoors

Project Rationale

The rationale for this project is based on the PEIBDI objectives as stated in the Expression of Interest document.  Primarily, the Province is looking to “expand upon the current investment in land and the further development of the Cabot Beach Provincial Park area in Eastern Prince County and to enhance employment opportunities and economic growth in the area.”

This is not an easy task given that PEI is already blessed with a solid tourism industry featuring many attractions for individuals such as golf and for families such as theme parks and camp grounds.   However, the proponents of this project have observed several areas of opportunity. 

●  The Year “Round Opportunity:

The underlying principle of the Malpeque Park initiative is the expansion of PEI’s most important industry: TOURISM.  Since the PEI tourist season is so short (May to September), the proponents feel that no effort should be spared to convert this seasonal industry to a YEAR “ROUND industry.  The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate how a creative program of new, high quality, innovative tourist attractions and events will create a new tourist pool and benefit all industry stakeholders.  The strategy is simple:  take advantage of the natural assets of the Island, add the new ingredients and creatively promote the new “ALL SEASON PEI EXPERIENCE” within its immediate catchment area extending to Boston, New York, Toronto and internationally, to Western Europe and the Far East. 

The idea is to create reasons for tourist to come to PEI throughout the year.  The program, which will complement existing golf and arts activities, will include major seasonal festivals and events to coincide with Winter Carnival, Sport Tournaments, Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras, Fishing, Hunting, Halloween, Christmas, New Years, Easter, Spring Break, Summer Camp and Winter Camp. 

Here is a brief description of the reasoning behind the key elements of this proposal.

The Golf opportunity:  Although PEI is the golf holiday capital of Canada, it does not have a championship name brand golf course, especially not one designed specifically with women in mind.  The Palmer Premier LPGA Ladies Course proposed herein will become the first such course and be promoted internationally through the Palmer organization and would be suitable to host an annual LPGA event.  Other marketing activities, yet to be outlined, will also drive its business side.  The proponents, also, firmly believe that Mr. Palmer legendary popularity in the Far East will increase PEI’s attraction for an ever growing oriental tourist segment.  The Golf opportunity will be further enhanced by the creation of a 9-hole indoor executive course in support of winter corporate meetings and conferences. 

The Year ‘Round Summer Camp/Campground opportunity:  Since the Province has indicated that it would like to retain the existing campground, the proponents suggest that it be expanded into a year ‘round Summer Camp/Campground Theme Park – a throwback to the days when many kids went to summer camp for a few days, a few weeks or the entire summer.  Going to camp is the theme.  The strategy is to acquire and adapt a Summer Camp program from a renowned institution. Families will no longer need to haggle about where or what to do for the family vacation.  The kids will be able to go to camp for 2 weeks, in a controlled environment, have a memorable holiday with people their own age and the parents will be able to have the holiday of their dreams, also with people their own age.

Indoor Water Theme Park:  Year “round fun and excitement will be provided inside this self-contained water wonderland, which will feature tube slides, wave pool, flow rider, tree fort, adventure river and many more themed activities.  Day adventures, parties or corporate meetings can all be hosted and celebrated here; all under one roof.

Biosphere Technology:  Modern biosphere technology, which fosters indoor vegetation, will facilitate the creation of a number of venues otherwise unaffordable.  These will include year ‘round Botanical Gardens, Amphitheatre and 2 Multiplex Arenas to support the new slate of music festivals, sport events, and conventions.

Accommodations:  A 5-star Marriott Resort built in the Victorian style, so appropriate for PEI, will anchor the accommodation component of the project.  Designed for romance, this seashore facility on the edge of the Provincial Park will feature lagoons, trails, botanical alcoves, horse drawn carriages and a quaint non-denominational chapel.  This resort will boast a truly idyllic setting ideal for weddings, honeymoons and personal renewal. This will be supported by an additional 3.5-star hotel in the new Malpeque Commercial/Residential Village, which will also provide additional accommodation for employees of the complex. 

The Heart of the Proposition:  The proponents believe that the tourism aspect of this proposal retains the essence of PEI, while adding components that are very complementary to the region.  It capitalizes on the gentle nature of the island.  Its program focuses on graciousness, easy life style and rejuvenation of body and spirit for individuals, families and corporations.

Marketing: To ensure the success of these propositions, the proponents intend to create an in-house Marketing Board consisting of renowned consultants and partners such as Palmer, Marriott, IMG and theme park experts who will assist in the development and management of the programs.

Job creation and economic growth:  Undoubtedly, the elements mentioned above will attract more visitors, create a new tourist pool and consequently more work.  This is great for the Province, for local businesses and project stakeholders.  The proponents intend to create a number of events that will attract visitors for the entire province.  The proponents intend to create and market new annual sports and cultural events that will attract new visitors from everywhere.  Given that PEI’s catchment area or circle of influence extends down the eastern seaboard to New York and Boston and inland to Toronto, it is clear that the potential economic benefit of these endeavours is unlimited.

Copyright  2006, D'Tale. All rights reserved.

Revised: April 24, 2007

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