What to know about future trips to Half Moon
Although Jamaica’s iconic Half Moon resort has temporarily closed its doors to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19, there’s a lot for travel agents to know about the property in the meantime.
A ten-minute drive from Sangster International Airport, the new Eclipse is one of three distinct accommodation options at Half Moon. The new beachfront property features 57 new rooms and suites, an infinity-edge pool, natural swimming cove, seven bars and restaurants, and an introductory opening offer to celebrate its launch. Clients can also opt for two alternate resort choices: Founders Cove at Half Moon and Rose Hall Villas at Half Moon, which are located at opposite ends of the 400-acre property.
“Eclipse is a distinct luxury experience, and one that honours and complements Half Moon’s legacy and character,” said Guy Steuart III, chairman of the board at Half Moon. “Guests will discover our unique spirit of character and culture amidst traditional, elegant architecture inspired by our surroundings, and dimensioned within an abundance of roam-able beach and gardens.”
Eclipse features a variety of luxurious accommodations which are located in three areas. In the Great House, each second-floor room features large balconies, while the resort’s signature Great House Ocean Suite offers an open-plan design with up to two bedrooms, a classically-appointed living area, dining area, and a balcony overlooking the Great Lawn and the Caribbean Sea.
With sunrise views and surrounded by lush, tropical gardens, the resort’s tastefully designed Estate Homes offer maximum flexibility, including up to four bedrooms – each with its own private entrance. The Estate Homes also include a butler pantry, large great room, island contemporary furnishings, indoor/outdoor showers, and living and dining terraces.
Eclipse also features 32 Prestige Ocean Rooms, which are carefully positioned in low-profile Cottages. Featuring fabulous views of the Caribbean Sea, these spacious rooms offer luxurious bathrooms, reading coves, colourful artwork from students of the Edna Manley College of Visual and Performing Arts, and expansive verandas or terraces featuring daybeds.
Managed by Salamander Hotels & Resorts, Eclipse at Half Moon was created with the intention of providing a tailored experience to every kind of traveller.
For Foodies
Foodies can rejoice in seven new restaurants & bars including: refined Italian seafood spot, Delmare; Hayward’s Jamaican-inspired cuisine; poolside fare + drinks at North Pointe Bar & Grill; a toes in the sand Jamaican BBQ hangout called Spice; an upscale rum bar, Lester’s Bar; Hammock Bar for hammock chilling and sipping; and takeaway option, Maakit serving coffee, teas and items from local artisans, in addition to enjoying Jamaica’s recognized best restaurant, Sugar Mill, located on Half Moon’s grounds.
For Design Lovers
From the Great House to the suites to each new dining outlet, Eclipse’s stunning Anglo-Caribbean design and architecture by renowned design firm Hart Howerton, is something to behold. Inspired by Jamaican culture, Eclipse’s grounds are marked by elegant furnishing, vibrant colours, vintage family photographs showcasing the resort’s history and numerous storied paintings by Caribbean artists such as Michael Lester, a Polish artist who became famous in Jamaica for his colourful art.
For The Wellness and Adventure-Curious
Fern Tree, A Salamander Spa, a wellness haven and the most luxurious spa in Jamaica, is where guests can enjoy two overwater bungalows for treatments and yoga classes, as well as Ital, a healthy, all-vegan café. There is no shortage for adventure seekers on property – guests have access to a number of watersports like sailing and scuba diving; the resort’s Equestrian Center for horseback riding sessions and bucket list item, swimming with horses, among other adventures.
For Golfers
Designed by world renowned architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr., the award-winning 18-hole par-72 championship course at Half Moon is known as one of the best walking courses boasting 20 grassed practice bays, putting green, 50-yard pitching green, clubhouse, caddies and more. For novices (and pros), Half Moon’s Golf Academy instructional pros tailor lessons to guests’ goals and level of play ranging from kids to adults as well as beginners or experienced golfers.
“Eclipse is a remarkable addition to Half Moon and the Caribbean’s luxury landscape,” says Sheila Johnson, founder and CEO of Salamander Hotels & Resorts, which manages Half Moon. “Its design and artwork, along with our commitment to delivering superior culinary and wellness experiences, will make this one of the Caribbean’s most appealing destinations.”
Image source: aerial images courtesy of Half Moon, all other images: Eric Stein Photography.
