We encourage first time and infrequent visitors to review the "2023 News" page
for background information about the rebuilding and related resort information.
September 29, 2024, 12:10 PM UpdateTwo years ago yesterday, Hurricane Ian devastated our resort, Sanibel Island and southwest Florida. This week we were hit by Hurricane Helene as she went up the gulf to cause devastation in northern Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas. Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the storm.
Overall, we fared well but nevertheless, our beloved resort was impacted significantly. Here are some pictures of the resort as the storm hit and flooded the property.
Overall, we fared well but nevertheless, our beloved resort was impacted significantly. Here are some pictures of the resort as the storm hit and flooded the property.
Fortunately, the winds only caused some minor damage, and the storm surge was not as devastating as it could have been had the tide been higher.
Once the water receded, mud and muck were left behind.
Our awesome resort team and contractors have been doing the cleanup to ready the resort for owner arrivals.
But even today, a lot of standing water remains.
We’ll continue to report on the resort status as we get more updates.
September 27, 2024, 4:00 PM Update
The causeway was closed until about noon today. This delayed getting staff to the resort to get a status report to the Board. This also delayed getting housekeeping on site to clean units that had been occupied.
Overall, we fared well. We have power and water. Internet is being restored and Comcast is back up. Our staff is still inspecting all units, but only minor damage the buildings has been reported. From photos supplied by the folks that stayed on site, it would appear we had 1-2 feet of water throughout the property. It’s receding, but there is still plenty of water around the resort. What’s been left behind is a lot of mud and muck that needs to be cleaned up.
Our staff has been trying to contact all owners who were scheduled to check in today. They are being asked to wait until tomorrow, or preferably Sunday, to allow for the cleanup to progress.
As soon as we get more information, we’ll pass it along.
September 26, 2024, 9:00 AM Update
Two years ago to the day, our staff was making preparations for the arrival of Hurricane Ian. They did the same yesterday for the arrival of Hurricane Helene. This storm will not cause the same devastation as Ian, but nonetheless the heavy rains and high winds will no doubt have some impact on our resort. Since there is not a mandatory evacuation in effect, seven residents decided to stay at the resort. Our staff met with each to review the various precautions they needed to take. They were also informed that the office would be closed and there would be no staff on site.
It appears that the heavy rain and high winds will continue through most, or all, of today. Fortunately, high tide is early today, and then again after midnight after the storm is predicted to have passed.
Until we get reliable eyes to the resort, we will not be able to report if there has been any damage. We hope to have staff on site tomorrow, but that will depend on what happens with the storm. We know that those owners planning to arrive tomorrow are anxious to get details and we’ll endeavor to get information out as soon as possible.
August 31, 2024, 10:10 AM Update
Contrary to rumors circulating through social media, the Board continues to state that we do not anticipate any assessment due to the Hurricane Ian rebuild.
In an attempt to clarify the situation regarding statutory reserve funding, please note: • The annual statutory reserve funding vote has been in place for decades. The 2024 change in law is strictly related to the votes needed to waive the funding. • We have 2,700-unit weeks, or votes. In the past, only a majority of votes were needed to waive the statutory reserve funding. Now we need a majority of the 2,700 ownership votes, or 1,351 votes. • In other words, if 50% of owners vote (1,350 votes), in the past we only needed 676 votes to waive the statutory funding. Now, we need 1,351, which is more than the 50% of the voting owners….EVERYONE MUST VOTE to waive the statutory reserve funding, and keep our fees down, next year.
• Owners will be receiving the financial details and ballot in late-September/early October. Voting must be completed before the Board’s budget meeting at the end of October. This “rushed” timing is only because the law was enacted in July. In future years, the timetable will be “normalized”. • This is an annual vote. If we get sufficient votes to waive the statutory funding this year, we will still need to vote again next year and each year moving forward. The amount of funding will be recalculated each year based on the planned spending for the upcoming year. • Any increase in fees related to the voting to waive statutory reserve funding is completely independent of the rebuild and is not a “hidden assessment”.
August 29, 2024, 10:00 AM Update
We continue to wait for the City to approve our FDEP permit which will allow us to move forward with the rebuilding of the grill gazebos, shell washing stations, and most importantly, the pool shade structure. As previously noted, the reconstruction of our three beach boardwalks cannot begin until November, when turtle season ends.
Work continues toward reopening the pool. There have been unanticipated delays for a variety of reasons. The most recent is the discovery of a new leak, which we believe is behind the light in the deep section of the pool. We’ve contracted with a repair company and are proceeding with the fastest remedy. If that is not successful, plans B and C have been defined. As soon as all issues are resolved, we can move forward with inspections by the City, and ultimately the state health department.
Unfortunately, we cannot define a date for reopening the pool. Obviously, the target is as soon as possible. In the meantime, we are fortunate to be able to utilize the Loggerhead pool next door, and the pool at The Dunes Country Club.
August 15, 2024, 9:30 AM Update
I (your Board Secretary) am completing the first of my two weeks at Tortuga. Having experienced life at the resort, and on the island, firsthand, I thought I would pass along reality. Here are some bullets, in no particular order: • Landscaping at the entrance and around the tennis/pickleball courts looks fantastic, and it’s not done yet. Landscaping through the rest of the property has not yet begun. As previously reported, the City will not allow us to plant sod because it is not a native species. Our landscaper has some ground-cover plants that he feels will look nice and be “foot-friendly”. • The units are in great shape, but there are still minor repairs needed here and there. Owners should not assume that the staff is aware of any repair needs and should report these to the office so the maintenance team can take care of it. • The new soft good furnishings look great. The table, credenzas and other hard goods are showing some wear and should be replaced next year. Bedroom artwork has been hung in buildings A-C and buildings E-G are scheduled for later this month. • Currently the wall safes in the MBR are not functioning. The new software is on order and the programming will be done as soon as possible, so leave the diamond tiara home for now. • There are 4 gas grills available for use. Two are in the yet-to-be repaired gazebo between buildings C and D. The other two are located across the driveway in front of the maintenance building. • While the clubhouse is closed, there is a small ice maker under the office building. Since the icemaker in our new refrigerator/freezer is not “overly prolific” this backup source comes in handy…as does a bag of ice from Huxters (cha-ching 😊). • The new appliances are great. There are QR codes on them if anyone needs some help with how to run them, particularly the washer and dryer. They play lovely tunes when the cycle is completed. • The pool is getting towards the final stages. It is full and we’ve got a week with chemicals that are being monitored daily by our new pool maintenance company. The water needs to be acidic to help the curing of the new pool surface. This will take at least another week. In the meantime, work on the two bathrooms is nearing completion, and the outside shower will be installed when the tile work has been completed. Once everything is fully tested, chemicals are in balance, bathrooms completed, we’ll ask the City to inspect and approve the pool for use. Once we receive the City’s approval, we will have the final inspection by the Florida Department of Health. We know the inspector…she is very thorough, but fair. • In the meantime, we continue to enjoy the use of the Loggerhead pool next door. It is a large pool with 7 umbrellas. It’s a short walk, or you can drive and park there. If driving, you need to get a Loggerhead parking pass from the Tortuga office. The use of the Dunes pool is also an option, but it is currently closed for a few weeks while it is being redone. • When the pool reopens, the clubhouse will still be closed off from use. Once we close the permit for the Phase 1 repairs, we will move into the Phase 2 renovation when cabinets, countertops, icemaker, screens, etc. can be installed and ready for use. • Joann has restarted the recreation/activity program. There are tables under the office building until the clubhouse reopens. • Tuesday morning owner meetings are being held under building G. All owners are encouraged to attend. As in the past, coffee and donuts are served. • The public boardwalk to the beach is between building A and Loggerhead. Rebuilding our three boardwalks will begin in November after turtle season ends. • Tortuga and Loggerhead appear to be the only open resorts on East Gulf Drive and there are very few beachfront properties open all the way west to Tarpon Bay Road. • Jerry’s is the only supermarket on the island, and will be closed, for electrical system upgrades, from 5:00 PM on August 18th and reopen at 7:00 AM on August 24th. • Some shops are open and others are coming back later in the year. The day spa is open in Periwinkle Place, several ice cream shops and about a dozen restaurants are open.
July 31, 2024, 4:45 PM Update
For those owners that have opted in for e-mail communications from HGV, you should have received an e-mail today regarding a change in the law regarding reserve funds. If you’ve opted-in and did not receive it, check your spam/junk folders. Others should receive this letter by USPS mail.
To review the document, click here.
This change in the law requires a majority vote for ALL owners, each year, if we want to continue to waive the statutory reserve funding. The Board recommends waiving this statutory reserve funding because we have a very robust and detailed 30-year reserve planning tool.
As the document points out, had we not waived the statutory funding, our 2024 fees would have been $131.00 more than the fees we paid.
It will come down to one simple thing…owners must vote. In the last vote, only 51% of owners voted, and some votes against waiving the statutory fees. We fell about 100 votes short of the 50% majority. If we don’t get a higher voter turnout, all owners will be faced with a significant increase in 2025 fees to meet this legal requirement. It’s easy to stop this…we just need all owners to vote “yes” to the waiver of statutory reserve funding.
We’ll remind owners later in the year, but everyone needs to keep this in mind as the year moves on.
July 25, 2024, 7:45 PM Update
There will a TBC Board meeting tomorrow at 1:00 PM EDT. All owners are welcome to participate. The agenda and Zoom link are available by logging into your HGV account. This process is in accordance with Florida statute, which has been, and will continue to be used.
July 9, 2024, 12:13 PM Update
There has been a lot of confusion, some justifiable and some due to misinformation, regarding TBC owners’ ability to deposit their weeks into their vacation club account(s). This posting will attempt to clarify the situation.
For owners with RCI or II accounts, your TBC week(s) can be deposited. Subsequently, if any outside RCI or ii Club Member expresses interest in using that unit week, they will be allowed to book it, but only after receiving full disclosure on the status of the amenities. HGV staff is reaching out to these clubs to reiterate this position.
For HGVC members, you can bank your week(s) as in the past.
June 29, 2024, 9:30 AM Update
We’ve now moved into our second week welcoming owners back to Tortuga. The staff is working hard to address any issues discovered by owners.
The pool and clubhouse work continues, as does other work around the resort. New stainless-steel appliances will begin arriving next month and owners are being advised of the installation schedule.
Two Board members were on site for this week, meeting with owners, but moreover with staff to work through the planning of the remaining rebuilding.
We still await the FDEP permit approval which essentially covers all the area between the buildings and the beach. This is taking far longer than desired, but had been warned that it could take up to 6 months. Once we get that approval, work can begin on the pool’s shade structure, the grill gazebos and ultimately the three beach walkways, once turtle season ends in October.
Since the buildings are being occupied and the resort is “open”, the need for one or more updates in a week has diminished. As a result, updates on this website will only be posted when something of significance occurs, e.g. FDEP permit approved, pool opens, etc.
We remind you that Lisa Welday posts an update each Wednesday on the HGV website. Simply log into your account and go to the “HOA" portion of your account and click on the link to her update.
We appreciate everyone’s continued patience as we move through this next phase. It is far from ideal and not the way we would have wanted the reopening to occur. Having said that, we’re moving forward with “the cards that have been dealt to us” and are grateful to our dedicated resort staff. They are working tirelessly to make your visit as enjoyable as possible. Please thank them, and discuss any issues encountered with a smile. It makes a big difference.
June 19, 2024, 9:40 AM Update
Work continues to get everything set for our first arrivals back to the resort. On Friday, we are expecting to welcome back 26 families. That’s essentially half the resort!
This work has not gone without unexpected challenges. The storms last week brought over 8 inches of rain to the island. Severe flooding occurred which stopped all work for about 3 days. And during that time, a large truck broke down blocking the entrance to the resort, further hampering progress.
And then, after just recovering from the storms we had a water main break over the weekend. The resort has been without water and power for two days. But the team has shown extreme resilience, and we are proud of each of them. For those returning to the resort in the coming weeks and months, don’t forget to give the members of our staff a big thank you.
A detailed discussion about the work needed to bring the pool and clubhouse back leads us to forecast that the pool should be available by mid-August. The restrooms will also be available when the pool reopens. However, the clubhouse will remain closed until all the interior work is completed. Everyone checking in will get updates on the condition of the property.
We are still waiting for the FDEP permit to allow us to begin work on the pool shade structure, the grill gazebos and the boardwalks. The State’s review process has taken far longer than anticipated and desired.
June 13, 2024, 10:20 AM Update
As has been reported on the national news, south Florida has been hit by several days of torrential rains, causing flooding in Miami, Ft Lauderdale and the surrounding area. Sanibel Island was, and is, not immune from these storms. Over the past 3 days, we’ve received over 7 inches of rain. Look at some of the photos taken yesterday afternoon….
Needless to say, this is impacting the ongoing work at the resort, but the team is focused on having everything ready to welcome arrivals on the 21st and beyond.
On a completely unrelated note, we previously reported that the old door lock wristbands would not be able to be used with the new lock system and they would have to be traded in for new wristbands. Well, now that the lock system has been fully installed and tested, we now know that the old wristbands can be programmed to open your door. Just bring them with you and Janeen will reprogram them at check-in.
June 12, 2024, 2:05 PM Update
We got some good news today, but unfortunately not exactly for everyone…
In addition to using The Dunes swimming pool, while our pool remains closed TBC guests will be able to use the Loggerhead Cay pool next door. There is easy walking access via a path next to building A.
However, due to their expected high occupancy for the week of July 4th, folks in our weeks 26 and 27 are impacted to differing degrees. TBC guests will not be able to use the Loggerhead pool from Monday, July 1st thru Saturday, July 6th, inclusive.
Therefore, TBC guests will be able to use the Loggerhead pool June 21-30 and then again beginning July 7th, through the month of July, as needed. TBC guests will need to get details and a required parking/visitor permit from the TBC office.
Thanks go out to the Loggerhead Board and their resort management team. Please be courteous and respectful of the Loggerhead pool rules when availing yourself of their gracious hospitality.
June 11, 2024, 9:50 AM Update
• Work continues to get pool equipment installed and ready for testing. • Restoration work has begun in the clubhouse restrooms. This work must be completed and ready for final pool inspection/certification. It should be noted that the full clubhouse need not be reopened for pool certification, rather only the restrooms. • Furniture is still being moved into units in the final buildings. This week’s severe storms are slowing that down, but we fully anticipate all will be completed in time for our first arrivals. • Since the vast majority of our owners and guests settle their accounts at departure with a credit/debit card, it’s been decided that TBC will now be a cashless resort. At check-in, as in the recent past, a credit/debit card will be required. That card will be charged at checkout for any on-site purchases. • All appliances are being replaced. This includes refrigerator/freezer, oven, microwave/stovetop exhaust, dishwasher and washer/dryer. The arrival is forecast for late July with installation following, based on occupancy. In the meantime, all existing appliances have been tested and are in good working condition. However, some appliances are showing some exterior rust, but this is purely cosmetic.
June 7, 2024, 3:10 PM Update
This morning HGV informed the Tortuga Beach Club Board that the resort will reopen on June 21, 2024. Owners beginning with week 25 will be contacted by resort staff to inform them of this fact. Business interruption insurance will stop on June 21, 2024. Therefore, owners of week 25 and beyond will not receive 2024 fee reimbursement, whether they use their week, or not. Having said that, because of the short notice, HGV can attempt to file a claim for fee reimbursement, but there is absolutely no guarantee. This possibility only applies to owners that receive less than a 30-day notice.
Only the 7 buildings will be open, along with our new tennis and pickleball courts. The pool and clubhouse will remain closed, and a safety fence will be installed around that area. Owners will have access to the beach via the walkway between building A and Loggerhead, or a “beach walk” from the side of building G. Additionally, owners will have access to golf, tennis, the pool and the restaurant at The Dunes.
This is an exciting step forward, but there is still much to accomplish to get our resort back to pre-Ian operations and appearance. Continued patience and understanding are needed. Our dedicated staff is doing all they can to make your visit as enjoyable as possible. Should you encounter any issues after your arrival, please calmly report them to the office so they can be addressed as quickly as possible.
As we receive more information, we’ll keep owners updated via this website.
June 5, 2024, 11:00 AM Update
Work on the pool deck replacement is virtually completed as are the walls for the back of the spa and shower. The latter are ready to receive a stone façade installed.
As reported on May 19th, new phones, using VoIP technology, have been installed in all units. Here’s what they look like…
It was incorrectly reported that the phone in each unit would be mounted on the wall near the kitchen. Instead, the phones will sit on an end table in the living room, plugged into an outlet. However, these new phones can be moved to anywhere within the unit. Therefore, if anyone prefers to have the phone in a bedroom, it can be easily moved… BUT the phone must stay in the unit because it is linked electronically to the internet connection of that specific unit.
June 3, 2024, 2:50 PM Update
As previously reported, furniture is being moved into over half of the buildings and will continue for a couple of weeks. All the bedding is new. As far as other furnishings are concerned, there is a mix of new and previously used. The soft goods are all new. Here are some closer photos:
For a variety of reasons, we could not replace all the furniture in the units, so the priority was placed on the soft goods. The hard goods, including dining/coffee/end tables, dressers, nightstands, and headboards are what we had pre-Ian. Everyone should be prepared that these items are not in perfect condition and have some nicks and scratches. The plan is to get all hard goods replaced in 2025.
In some cases where items were not salvageable, some rental pieces will be substituted. These may not match the colors/décor but are merely temporary so we can get everyone back into completed units.
May 27, 2024, 9:40 AM Update
Moving furniture into units has begun, with 2 buildings completed. This includes new soft good furnishings. Window drapes and sheers are also being installed.
With furnishings moved in, painting of the stairwell floors and front doors is putting some “finishing touches” on the building entrances. Likewise, window screens are being installed.
Installation of the new pool deck and clubhouse interior pavers has progressed quickly and should be completed by the end of the month. But first, have you ever wondered how many pavers are needed to create the pool deck? See the photo below.
Construction of the replacement walls behind the spa and for the shower has begun and will be finished with a stacked stone facade, which will give a more up-to-date look.
City if Sanibel inspections of plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and natural resources have been completed in about half of the buildings.
May 23, 2024, 11:10 AM Update
In a detailed review meeting with our contractor, ATI, and our HGV management team, we had an in-depth discussion yesterday about the timetable for reopening. The status is as follows: • The target reopening remains the end of June. However, this is subject to change based on numerous factors, many of which are out of our control. • The goal is to give a 30-day notice of reopening, but again, is subject to change, and could be shortened due to those factors being out of our control. As of today, we are not in a position to give that notification and cannot predict exactly when that will be. • Reopening may be a stepwise progression of several buildings at a time, based on the City of Sanibel approval process. Once reopening is determined, owners will be contacted directly by the TBC resort office staff.• The final inspection/permitting needed to open the pool cannot be done until after we receive the City’s occupancy approval for all 7 buildings. As a result, the pool will not be open when the resort reopens. How long the pool will be inaccessible is unknown. We are moving forward with getting the pool ready for inspection as fast as possible, but it is a complex and stepwise process. We currently estimate that it will not be until at mid-late July.• When the pool opens, there is a strong possibility that the shade structure (to the side of the pool) will not be built. We still await FDEP (Florida Department of Environmental Protection) approval of our plans before rebuilding can start. As a result, owners should plan accordingly with extra sunscreen, hats, coverups and perhaps small individual shade umbrellas.• The goal is to get at least one grill gazebo (near buildings B/C), and perhaps a second (on the F/G side of the resort) ready for use when we reopen. We await FDEP approval of our plans for the remaining gazebos, which are forward of the Coastal Construction Line (CCL), controlled by the FDEP.We are fast approaching the final stage of this long process. We ask for continued patience and understanding. We are making every effort to minimize the pain/inconvenience. We will keep you informed as best we can through this website.
May 22, 2024, 4:12 PM UpdateIn war it’s known as collateral damage. In everyday life we say, “accidents happen”.
Well, it happened last week at the clubhouse. During all the work on the interior walls, ceiling, floor, etc. the pallets containing the remaining stone turtle received quite a bit of damage. It was clear that mounting him/her on the wall, as previously planned, was not going to be possible. As a result, the “remains” were disposed of. This was an unfortunate accident, but we have a solution that will link us to the past and bring us forward to the future in our newly redecorated clubhouse.
We’ve contracted with renowned island artist Rachel Pierce to paint a mural on the clubhouse wall over the back countertop. Fortunately, she’s got an opening in her schedule that will allow her to begin working on this next week. She’s working on a sketch “as we speak”. Rachel’s work can be seen around the island and will brighten up our clubhouse and pay tribute to our former stone turtle.
We appreciate that some of you will be disappointed by this news and appreciate your understanding. Things like this happen and we will move forward with positivity.
May 19, 2024, 1:05 PM Update
Work on the clubhouse is progressing nicely. You can see in the photos below that the installation of the aluminum fascia makes a big difference. You can also see what the clubhouse looks like with the floor removed, awaiting the installation of the new pavers.
Punchlist work continues in most buildings, while construction cleaning has begun in the last buildings.
The telephones are being installed in the units and should be completed by early June. The new phones use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), saving us money and no longer relying on old landline technology. However, there will only be one phone in each unit, located on the wall at the kitchen entrance (corrected in the June 5, 2024 update). The decision was made to eliminate the second phone due to extraordinarily high costs, particularly since most residents instead use their cellphones.
Installation of the new pool deck pavers has begun, and the paver paths between buildings are about 75% completed.
May 16, 2024, 2:35 PM Update
As you have seen from previous photos, there were several damaged areas of the pool deck. Since the pavers we had are no longer available, these repairs would require using a somewhat different color. (Insurance does not cover color-matching.) Additionally, there could be unknown damage under other parts of the pool deck that might surface sometime in the future. As a result, the Board decided to replace the entire pool deck.
The work has begun and due to attentive management of the post-Ian finances, this work is being done without the need for a special assessment.
This decision also allowed us to respond to previous owner comments that the pool deck was too hot to walk on bare-footed, particularly in the summer months. Therefore, a much lighter color was selected, which you can see below.
This will also coordinate nicely with the new walls that will be installed for the shower and behind the spa area.
May 14, 2024, 10:00 AM Update
Here are few random items:The handrails in the front stairwells are in the process of being removed and replaced.
The clubhouse roof has been replaced and is ready for installation of the cap, along with facia and soffit replacements.
The installation of the paver paths between buildings is about 50% completed.
May 10, 2024, 9:15 AM Update
We’re pleased to announce that Charlene Taubert has joined the TBC team as our new Assistant Resort Director. Charlene brings more than two decades of hospitality experience, having managed small resorts on Sanibel Island, Florida, and Ogunquit, Maine.
Charlene has a master’s degree in administration, with a background in sales and marketing at Hyatt Hotels. She possesses a comprehensive understanding of both the operational and strategic aspects of the industry. She has maintained a special connection with Sanibel Island over the past 20 years, having gotten married here in 2005.
Charlene is a licensed Florida CAM and in her off-hours is pursuing an advanced degree in business administration. Charlene's blend of hospitality expertise, community involvement, and artistic talent will make her an invaluable addition to the Tortuga Beach Club team.
May 8, 2024, 11:05 AM Update
This post steps away from the resort and briefly touches on the island as a whole. For those of you that have visited the island since Hurricane Ian, you’ve seen firsthand the devastation to the resorts and homes, to the businesses, and to the lush island vegetation.
For those that have not been back, they need to be ready for their first visit back. Those of us returning after Hurricane Charlie about 20 years ago remember our first trip down Periwinkle. We were shocked to see the visual change without the shade of the Australian Pines, which could not be replanted. However, over time we got used to it, and it’s now normal.
The same is true with our post-Ian era, but the difference is of our vegetation has a chance to grow back and thrive. Any that have visited the island immediately after Ian, and then have had the chance to visit every six months have witnessed this constant change. The aerial photos below show the difference in just the past 18 months.
We still have a long way to go and we’re confident that growth will move forward rapidly.
As for businesses, building repairs can be slow, just like the work at Tortuga. But it’s also a chicken-and-egg thing…businesses need island visitors to justify reopening, but visitors may be reluctant to return without the businesses being open. Currently there are a handful of shops open for clothing and gift items. It will take some time for the shopping scene to get back to normal, but it will happen.
There are a dozen or more restaurants open, including a couple of new additions! We know there are plans for many more to come back. We’re all optimistic for our future. We just need to give it some time.
May 6, 2024, 11:20 AM Update
As we are now 8 weeks out from the “end of second quarter” target reopening, July week owners are getting anxious to hear more. That end-of-June target has not changed and, as pointed out previously, is subject to change based on numerous factors, many of which are out of our control. It should also be noted that it is possible to reopen the resort without the pool being open. This was the case in at least one other HGV resort. Any change to our target date will be posted ASAP on this website.
We encourage all owners to check the weekly update posted by our Resort Director, Lisa Welday, in their HGV account.
We recognize this “fluid” situation causes issues for vacation planning. Some of our Board members are in the same situation. However, there is nothing more that can be done. As soon as a firm reopening date, for all, or part, of the resort is set, the office will contact owners by phone. However, note that this official notice can be short. In fact, one resort recently reopened and the management team was given occupancy approval only 4-days in advance.
In the meantime, we continue to encourage owners to be patient and if they feel the absolute need to book travel, select the most flexible option available.
May 5, 2024, 11:00 AM Update
Work on the clubhouse and pool is progressing nicely. Photos below show the new concrete slab in the pump room as well as the walls and support columns with the first coat of stucco applied. The pool has been drained and is being readied for the application of a new non-skid surface.
May 1, 2024, 9:25 AM Update
We are all well aware of the strict Sanibel rules regarding lighting. Owners during “turtle season” are aware that they should keep their curtains closed at night. But the big issue is all our exterior lighting that remains on every night. The photos below show our new outdoor lighting, daytime, and night.
April 28, 2024, 10:15 AM Update
As previously reported, the storage rooms in the garage areas are required to have special doors which must open out into the parking area. As a result, the two compact car visitor spaces will become owner spaces. The two parking spaces in front of the storage rooms will be blocked, allowing for longer vehicles to park in the former compact car spaces. The bike racks will also be moved into those spaces in front of the storage rooms. Exact details, including visitor parking availability, are still being worked on.
Another item on owner’s minds is Wi-Fi. We’re fortunate to have had to replace essentially all our infrastructure. As a result, owners should see an improvement in speed and capacity.
The photo below shows a Wi-Fi panel that is located under each building. Every building is completely independent with its own dedicated fiber cable input. The router has separate cables running directly up into each unit. We look forward to testing this with a full resort.
April 26, 2024, 12:00 PM Update
As has been previously reported, the interiors of the units have gone through varying levels of repairs based on the extent of damage to each unit. All units required partial or total drywall replacement. Trim, molding and doors were replacements and the units were painted. In many units, carpet was replaced and in about a dozen units, kitchen and or bathroom cabinets were replaced, along with backsplash and shower tile.
Virtually all that work has concluded, and the units are now going through several levels of cleaning. Included are inspections of each unit for remaining “punch list” repairs. Ultimately, the units get a final cleaning and contents can begin to be placed back into the units. Below are pictures of some kitchen cabinets that have been restocked with dishes, pots, pans, and utensils.
Mattresses and boxsprings are being moved into many of the bedrooms, while the new outdoor furniture is being positioned out on the balconies.
Slowing down the process is the discovery of leaks in the cast iron sewage lines that have not been used in 18 months. The repair of these leaks requires drywall removal, then replacement after the repair has been completed, followed by taping, texturing, and painting. These very time-consuming repairs are not covered by insurance and the work is being done by our maintenance team.
Related are plumbing issues with the balcony sink cast Iron drains that are imbedded in concrete. Repairs would be long and very costly, for sinks that are not frequently used. As a result, the balcony sinks will be removed and a service countertop installed on the cabinet. This work should start next month and could extend after reopening, if needed.
Overall progress has been steady. Looking at the state of the units, buildings A and B are about as close to ready as possible, followed in alphabetical order, with buildings F and G several weeks behind. Therefore, there is a distinct possibility the City could approve reopening on a building-by-building basis. That is of course once the City has completed all inspections and deemed the property is safe for occupancy.
All units will be getting new mattresses, boxsprings, sofas, sectionals, club chairs, dining chairs and bedroom chairs. Linens and decorative pillows are on order. Securing the 4-500 pieces of framed artwork is challenging, but ongoing. New curtains and shear drapes will be hung in the living room and bedrooms. Photos will be posted when available.
April 25, 2024, 10:40 AM Update
Last week, the Board met at the resort, toured the property and had detailed discussions on virtually all aspects of the rebuilding. This post, and several upcoming updates, will cover many aspects of the rebuilding, with as many photos as possible. Let’s begin with the pool/clubhouse area…
As previously reported, the pool’s geothermal equipment and the clubhouse electric control panel are being installed on an elevated platform behind the clubhouse. Photos have been posted and there was an obvious concern about the platform’s impact on the view from the units behind the platform. As you will see from the photos below, though we would prefer the platform not to exist, it is far less noticeable than expected because it is a good 8-10 feet lower than the roof of the clubhouse.
You can also see that the equipment is “hidden” behind a louver closure around the perimeter of the platform. This is far more attractive than looking at the equipment. Our plans include enclosing the area under the platform with a sort of lattice, and planting trees/shrubs around the base.
Pool equipment is being installed in the pump room and the hole in the wall required to install the pool tub will be rebuilt. That wall will become the home of our beloved turtle. The structural columns for the clubhouse have been repaired, rust removed and sealant applied. The replacement of the roof should begin by the end of the month.
Once work begins on the replacement stone walls behind the spa area and the shower area, we’ll post some photos.
April 14, 2024, 3:20 PM Update
Work continues across the resort. Here are some key points: • The elevator passed a state inspection. • Tennis and pickleball courts are completed and locked to prevent any intruder access. • The front entrance pavers and planter walls have been repaired/replaced. Vegetation replanting remains to be completed. • The pool’s geothermal equipment has been installed on the new platform. It is now ready for plumbing installation to begin. • Rough plumbing in the pool’s pump room is in place, allowing for further testing. • Underground electrical wiring for exterior lights continues to move forward. • Interior inspections and punch list items are being addressed in all units.
April 10, 2024, 5:30 PM Update
HGV has announced the promotion of Lisa Welday to Resort Director at Tortuga Beach Club. Prior to joining our team last year as Assistant Resort Director, Lisa held numerous positions in her 20-year career. In the last 10 years she’s been in hotel/resort hospitality management positions including front desk, reservations, guest services, recreation, and events. Lisa has a strong sense of task prioritizing, attention to detail and a strong customer focus. Lisa lives in the Ft. Myers area with her husband, two children and two dogs. She looks forward to meeting all owners and welcoming them back to the resort when it reopens.
April 1, 2024, 9:40 AM Update
Here’s the latest news… • The platform for the pool’s geothermal equipment and clubhouse electric systems has been erected. Disregard the pump room equipment sitting on the concrete slab in the photo below. Also note that this is just the first step. We’ll be doing all we can to improve the exterior appearance of this unwanted, but necessary structure.
• A primer coat of paint has been applied to the tennis courts and the pickleball court fencing has been completed. • Dishwashers were installed in reconstructed kitchens. • Housewares are being received, with new orders also coming in. • The new door locks have been installed and the staff has been trained with the new software. As previously reported, owners will be able to exchange their old wristbands for new at no charge. Unfortunately, due to a technical issue, at the present time the gates to the tennis and pickleball courts will not use the new locks. That will be addressed at a later date. • The custom-made mattresses have been received for those units with daybeds. • A contract is being signed with a new vendor who will install the elevator telephone. Once installed, the elevator will be ready for state inspection.
March 26, 2024, 12:20 PM Update
This is part 3 of our resort overview trilogy and concludes with a clubhouse review.
First let’s deal with a key concern… About four years ago we lost our pool turtle to Florida codes. Rest assured that our clubhouse turtle will not suffer the same demise. Our "mascot" was saved and will be back, showing some Ian-related scars, when the clubhouse rebuild is completed.
First let’s deal with a key concern… About four years ago we lost our pool turtle to Florida codes. Rest assured that our clubhouse turtle will not suffer the same demise. Our "mascot" was saved and will be back, showing some Ian-related scars, when the clubhouse rebuild is completed.
Let’s begin with an adapted dictionary excerpt… “Challenge” noun: Rebuilding a ground level beachfront structure on Sanibel Island that includes hospitality and lavatory facilities. (The last two words play a major role in the definition.)
Let us not forget that the structure has no protection, was hit by 160 mph winds and a storm surge of up to 15 feet. It was so compromised by Hurricane Ian that it took months before workers were permitted to go in to assess the actual damage and estimate what it would take to repair.
Let us not forget that the structure has no protection, was hit by 160 mph winds and a storm surge of up to 15 feet. It was so compromised by Hurricane Ian that it took months before workers were permitted to go in to assess the actual damage and estimate what it would take to repair.
Since then, we uncovered pre-existing rust at the base of the steel support columns. Additionally, there are multiple layers of permitting, at the various government levels, complicating the process. So where are we today? • The structure was shored up so the steel support columns could be removed and the rust section cut away. As you can see in the photos below, a square foot concrete footing was poured from below the old concrete slab and the steel columns now rest on the new footings. The temporary supports will be removed soon.
• Walls for the storage closet have been rebuilt.
• Current building codes require all parts of the structure and installations up to 6 feet above the floor be waterproof . This includes the facades around the support columns, the walls and cabinets for the service area. • The electrical control systems must be relocated to the 12-foot-high platform being constructed to house the pool’s geothermal equipment. • Interior wood siding for the ceiling will likely be replaced with aluminum siding to match some of the exterior siding. • The two bathrooms will be converted to unisex single toilets so we can meet ADA requirements for wheelchair accessibility.
The clubhouse rebuild is a complex task. At another location it might be considered a “routine rebuild” but a beachfront facility, on an island that prides itself on strict controls and perfection...this is a challenge. But one worth waiting for.
The clubhouse rebuild is a complex task. At another location it might be considered a “routine rebuild” but a beachfront facility, on an island that prides itself on strict controls and perfection...this is a challenge. But one worth waiting for.
March 23, 2024, 8:30 AM Update
This is part two of our resort overview trilogy which is covering the pool… • Fortunately, the pool and spa themselves were not damaged and have shown no evidence of leaks. Not long after the hurricane and once all trees and debris had been removed, a temporary pump/filter system was put in place to keep the water circulating and in good condition. • There is significant damage to the pool deck, but only in certain areas. Photos are included below. What remains to be fully assessed is any potential damage to the ground under the pool deck. This is ongoing and will determine the extent of the actual repairs. Unfortunately, the pavers used on the pool deck are no longer available. The current assessment includes how to deal with this issue.
• “Behind the scenes”, all equipment in the pump room is being replaced. This even includes the pool tub. Photos below show the old tub that has been removed and the new replacement.
• All geothermal equipment is being replaced. Unfortunately, as previously reported, the existing code does not allow us to install this equipment on the ground behind the building where it was in the past. Instead, this equipment must be put on a 12-foot-high platform behind the building. The concrete foundation for the platform has been poured, and the platform has been received. Construction will begin soon.
• The wall defining the shower area must be replaced, as does the low wall around the spa area. These walls will be reconstructed with a façade of a more updated style of stone. • The shade structure was completely washed away. As reported in Part 1, this structure is covered by the FDEP permit application which has yet to be approved. We are confident that we will have a shade structure, just unsure of the design. For example, the 2’ x 2” vertical spindles that “enclosed” the area no longer meet current code. Additionally, what footing/foundation/substructure for the support columns is still under review.
• All new pool furniture has been received and is in storage waiting the pool reopening. • The three new umbrella bases that were installed less than 2 months before the hurricane survived and did not move. • Aside from the geothermal equipment “tower”, the other big change is that code requires a fence around the entire pool area. Still under design, whatever is constructed will include gates are every walkway between the pool and the buildings. The gates do not need to be locked, but they must have latches to control access by small children. This is similar to what you see all over at hotels and condo complexes.
March 21, 2024, 9:50 AM Update
After a series of detailed planning meetings between HGV and our contractor ATI, it was agreed that the target completion date needed to be revised. Complications in the rebuilding, not to mention the mountain of paperwork/permitting issues are contributing factors.
As a result, we are now looking at a target completion by the end of the 2nd quarter. This again is subject to change based on numerous factors, many of which are out of our control. When the City determines occupancy can resume, the TBC staff will contact impacted owners to plan their visit. In the meantime, we again ask for your continued patience and understanding as we move through this very complex project.
Just as a reminder, the resort remains an active construction site. Therefore, for safety reasons, no unauthorized visitors are allowed on site. This includes owners, their family and friends. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation.
March 20, 2024, 9:40 AM Update
This is the first of three posts aimed at giving more details about the resort as a whole. This post deals with general amenities, while the next two posts coming within a week or so will deal with the pool and clubhouse, respectively.Here’s an overview of the resort: • The beach side of the property is being graded so that final irrigation systems can be installed, along with planting of trees, bushes, and other vegetation. Additionally, the goal is to eliminate the low areas that pool rainwater. • Plans are to replace all vegetation as it existed pre-Ian. Having said that, trees and plants will not be as mature as some of their decades-old predecessors. Note that there are still many of our old trees on the property. Also note that planting will likely extend well after reopening, so patience will be required. • For those interested, all the Australian Pines are gone from resort and nearby. • Because our sod was not a native species, we are still unsure if the City will allow us to replace it. If we are unable to replace the sod, our landscaper has some proposals for other ground cover that should be attractive and “foot-friendly”. • Outdoor lighting will be even more turtle-friendly than in the past. All exterior lighting will be downward, using correct wavelength bulbs. Attractive Bollard post lights will be on the pathways. • As has been previously reported, the tennis and pickleball courts are well on the way to being completed. We will have an increased number of pickleball courts and the gates to all courts should be accessible using the new room keys. • The shuffleboard court is in the process of being replaced. • We still await final approval of our FDEP permit application which covers essentially the entire beach side of the resort. As a result, we don’t know if/how the following structures will be replaced: - Shell washing stations. TBD. - Grill gazebos may need to be relocated. TBD. - Hammocks, volleyball, and horseshoes should be okay since they are not fixed “structures.” - Shade structure at pool – Optimistic we will have one, but final design is still in question. - Beach walkways – Optimistic we will have them, hopefully all three. However, we cannot have construction during turtle season, which begins May 1st. Therefore, work will probably be delayed until November. If this is the case, the beach can be accessed by the path between the resort and Loggerhead (Building A side of the resort). • As previously reported, the maintenance building has been rebuilt and interior finishing is nearing completion. Equipment has already begun to be replaced. Tools and supplies will follow. • As previously reported, three new golf carts have been purchased for the maintenance team. • Repairs to the office are completed and will be fully functional once we get our internet service connected.
March 19, 2024, 12:50 PM Update
• The target completion date remains May 1st, but again, it is subject to change based on numerous factors, many of which are out of our control. Should this date change, it will be announced through this Board website and the HGV website. Once the City has approved occupancy, owners will be contacted by the resort staff about their upcoming visit. • It’s an understatement that the damage to our resort has been overwhelming. However, thanks to our excellent insurance policy negotiated by HGV, we continue to feel that all storm damage will be covered. Additionally, we do not anticipate any special assessments, or long-term impact on our annual fees.
March 18, 2024, 9:15 AM Update
We learned last week that Lisa Diggins has accepted the position of Resort Manager at Casa ybel where she previously worked for about 15 years. We congratulate her on this promotion and wish her success in her new role.
HGV has already posted the open TBC position and is moving forward with identifying potential candidates. We anticipate that the position will be filled relatively soon. In the meantime, Lisa will be supporting us in a dual role until a new Resort Director is named.
March 17, 2024, 10:30 AM Update
We appreciate everyone’s patience while our “webmaster” was on an extended vacation. During this past month, work at the resort has continued to progress. Here are some updates… • Handrail installation on all exterior beachside stairs has been completed. See photo below. • General punch list repairs and housekeeping inside the units continues. • All cabinets and countertops that needed to be replaced have been installed. • Underground electrical and plumbing installation is progressing. • Hurricane doors have been installed for all ground level storage areas. • Wi-Fi hardware installation is nearing completion and getting prepared for testing. • Regrading of common spaces has begun, with an added goal of eliminating low areas that pool rainwater.
• The fence around the tennis courts has been installed and installation of the fence around the pickleball courts has begun. See photo below.
• Scupper drain replacement/repairs have been completed.
February 15, 2024, 9:20 AM UpdateWork continues on the beachside stairs, with essentially only the stairs up to the storage/meeting space (“JoAnn’s room”) left to complete. Aluminum handrail installation will begin in about a week and will continue into March.
The clubhouse structure has been fully shored up. The next step will be the replacement of the concrete foundation supporting the new steel columns that will be installed. Once those columns are installed, work on repairing/replacing the roof can begin. The goal is to get all of the clubhouse structural work done by the end of March. Then interior work can begin.
The “webmaster” that updates this website is leaving today for an overseas trip until mid-March. During the coming month he will have limited capability to publish updates, most particularly an inability to post any photos. He will make every effort to try to post text updates, but they will not be as frequent as some would like. He appreciates your understanding.
February 12, 2024, 5:45 PM UpdateA detailed review meeting was held this afternoon, attended by your Board, our HGV management team and the ATI management team.
During the call, it was decided to update the target reopening date to May 1st. Again, this is a target and is based on many assumptions regarding the timing of ongoing work, permitting, material deliveries, etc. There remains the possibility that the target date gets pushed out further. That will be evaluated as we move forward.
We are doing all we can to get not only the units completed, but also as many of the amenities as possible. There is a strong possibility that the clubhouse rebuild will take longer.
We are still waiting for the FDEP permit required to start construction of the beach walkways. Time is of the essence since work in the DNR is prohibited for 6 months beginning May 1st. Our goal is to have at least one walkway completed, but again, it’s dependent on when we get the approval from the FDEP. We can’t stop that clock from ticking, and have no sway over the FDEP.
Additionally, as previously reported, it is the City of Sanibel that determines when occupancy can resume. First and foremost for the City are “life safety” aspects including fire alarms, emergency lighting, overall site safety and the proper installation of a new fence around the pool area.
Finally, since each building is permitted separately (and there are multiple permits within each building), it is possible that the City approves occupancy in some buildings, followed by others later on. Again, that is strictly up to the City, and we have no control over that process.
We appreciate everyone’s continued patience and understanding
February 12, 2024, 2:20 PM UpdateIn the dozen or so kitchens which had to be totally removed, replacing the kitchen cabinets was the first step, followed by installing the existing countertops. This was reported in the previous update. Finishing the process was the installation of tile backsplashes.
It should be noted that we replaced only those kitchens that required total replacement. Cabinets installed were “off the shelf” units so delivery delays could be minimized/eliminated. Full kitchen modernization is planned for the coming few years. At that time, each kitchen will be measured and replaced with custom cabinets.
Moving out to the beach…As many may know, in late December the City began a beach restoration project, spreading 400,000 tons (almost 1 billion pounds) of sand to the beaches. This $22 million project, scheduled for completion in April, is being funded by FEMA and The State. The sand is being trucked in from over 80 miles away.
The work recently reached the beach in front of TBC. Below are pictures of the gullies carved by Ian and previous storms. The ongoing work is filling these areas and creating the berms needed to protect our beaches.
The work recently reached the beach in front of TBC. Below are pictures of the gullies carved by Ian and previous storms. The ongoing work is filling these areas and creating the berms needed to protect our beaches.
February 3, 2024, 11:50 AM Update • Elevator parts have been delivered to the site. Repairs are currently estimated to take upwards of 4 weeks. • Beachside exterior stair construction is about 80% complete and installation of the first aluminum handrails should begin by mid-February. • Forms have been installed around the pickleball courts for the cement perimeter curb. • Kitchen cabinet installations are complete and installation of existing countertops has begun. Below are photos of the countertops and sink installed.
• Photos below show that the clubhouse overhead structure has been shored up so replacement of the existing steel posts can begin. Every other post is being removed. Once those are replaced, the remaining 50% of posts can be removed and replaced.
• We continue to find leaks in our cast iron pipes. These are a result of age, not really hurricane related. The repairs require removal of toilets and/or cutting into drywall. This is lengthy, tedious, and costly. This was a known issue pre-Ian, but now with the buildings unoccupied, our maintenance staff is aggressively investigating all leaks so these can be repaired in advance of reopening. The challenge is that the problem is widespread.
• Our new entrance sign has been installed! Check it out below, it’s a much “fresher” look than our old sign. We’ll be replacing our photo on this website’s home page.
January 26, 2024, 10:55 AM Update • Comcast has connected Wi-Fi in the office, a first step to restoring service throughout the resort. • Outdoor furniture for the pool, clubhouse and balconies has been delivered and is being stored on site. • Orders have been placed for curtains/sheers and bed linens. • Grading of the tennis/pickleball courts is complete and the pictures below show the surface installation nearing completion.
January 20, 2024, 11:15 AM Update • Grading work has resumed for the tennis and pickleball courts. • Newly installed 3½ inch conduit and new copper wiring for the Building A electric disconnect has been completed and inspected by the city. Awaiting Lee County Electric to re-energize the system. • About 70% of the beachside stairs are completed. Measurements are being taken to fabricate the aluminum handrails for the first 3 buildings. • Cabinet installation has begun in the approximately two dozen kitchens and bathrooms which need to be replaced. Below are pictures of one kitchen awaiting installation of the original granite countertops.
January 10, 2024, 5:00 PM Update
The following statement was given to us by Matt Fox, Area Managing Director-Sanibel/Captiva, Hilton Grand Vacations:
"While a great deal of work has been accomplished at Tortuga, some projects have, and continue to take longer than expected. Permitting issues, code requirements, engineering, and supply chain issues have all contributed to the extended time frame. At this time, we are hoping to have the Resort open sometime near the end of the first quarter of 2024. Our staff will, of course, contact in-bound Owners as soon as we do have a firm reopening date. We will be making direct phone calls, and resuming regular pre-arrival letters once we are ready. Originally our intent was to open around a year after the storm made landfall, however nobody could have foreseen the challenges that were encountered. Rest assured that we are working diligently to open just as soon as possible. Please continue to refer to the HOA website for weekly updates on progress as our end date is always changing."
January 9, 2024, 4:45 PM Update • About 90% of the HVAC systems have been connected and are running. The remaining units should be up and running in the next week, or so. • The electric disconnect for building A is being relocated from the garage area to a raised platform on the side of the building. (Photos below) Conduit trenching is ongoing and the final connections should be completed in two weeks. • Breakaway walls for the garage area storage units are in place with stucco finish. (Photos below) The inside walls and electric installations are in progress. • Maintenance building overhead doors have been installed. (Photo below) • The first shipment of cabinets, for the roughly two dozen kitchens and bathrooms needing replacement, is due starting next week. • Cabinet door and drawer adjustments have been completed in about 2/3rd of the kitchens and bathrooms. • ATI is moving forward with thorough cleaning in all units where work is completed. Once they are done with a unit, our housekeeping contractor will come in and do a final deep cleaning of the entire unit. With all of the work that went on in every unit, this cleaning process is quite time-consuming. Additionally, at that time the kitchen will be stocked with pots/pans/dishes/glasses/utensils. • The two landscape architect site surveys, required for the gazebo, boardwalk, etc. permits, should be completed by the end of the month.