Rosario Resort on Orcas is supposedly sold, future unclear

[SJI Sailor]

Sharing this for informational purposes for PNW cruisers. I have no information other than this.

Makes me wonder if it might turn back into a private residence or the like. Or at least a very long-term project. I wouldn't expect letting all staff go if they planned to reopen later in the year.

From What's Up Friday Harbor on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/414081292044387/permalink/7013017092150741/):

"Rosario Resort & Spa will soon have new owners. ... We write to give you notice that the official closing of the sale will be February 29, 2024. All current employees will be permanently laid off from Rosario Signal LLC as a result of the sale.

"We have been told by the new local owner they will not continue operations of the mansion facilities in order to begin investing immediately in a substantial upgrade of the historic Moran Mansion. While the marina, marina family pool, grounds, and all lodging will reopen, the Mansion itself, including the Mansion Restaurant, Moran Lounge, Spa, Museum, and all facilities within the Mansion itself, will be closed. In preparation for the sale transaction, the resort will be cease all operations on Monday, February 19. ..."

 

[glider4]

Wow!

PS: Started visiting there in the old days before the major dock replacement in 2017. It was closed over that winter while they replaced the entirety of the docks with bright, shiny, new state of the art docks and electrical. The dockside restaurant/store was great for casual dining & adult refreshments. Our grandkids loved the big pool. Great hike from the marina up the steep trail to beautiful Cascade Lake!
The spa and fancy restaurant in the Manor was a special treat for the grownups.
Hopefully the marina, restaurant, pool and fuel dock will continue to welcome visiting boaters as the new ownership moves forward with their plans.

 

[Rebel112r]

I have to give thanks that I was able to stop at this historic place, more than a handful of times over my boating years. The history, the concerts, the museum, the views, always made this a fun stop.

 

[Red Raven]

We are hoping for a successful restart of this magnificent, historical, and special place. Sounds like a major reset.

 

[jeffhowell1]

Agreed, always a special place to overnight on the tug, look forward to future visits...

According to posting by GM Christopher Peacock, sounds like marina will reopen, but mansion will be 'private' after major upgrades

 

[SJI Sailor]

Update in the Seattle Times aligns with the original post, namely that the main building and restaurants will be closed indefinitely for renovations. The lodging will close for a while and then reopen in the spring, and marina remain open. Although it's unclear why they would fire all the staff in that case. Wait and see.

 

[jeffhowell1]

Rosario Resort Reopens!
So great, look forward to overnighting there again this summer

From Seattle Times today 4/10/24:

After a brief closure and an ownership change, Orcas Island’s Rosario Resort has partially reopened to guests as the busy summer season approaches.

The resort’s new owner, Empower Investing, said Wednesday it will immediately begin operating and taking reservations for lodging, weddings, events and the marina. The Moran Mansion, which houses the resort’s restaurant and spa, remains closed for renovations. Empower, a real estate investment firm, was founded by Orcas Island residents, according to the announcement.

Rosario’s new owners are hinting at big changes for the property but so far keeping specifics mum, saying they are “focused on plans to add many other amenities to the property and will announce them as they are ready.”

 

[Sweet_Pea]

Rosario Marina visitors have dropped off considerably. The Harbormaster says the weekend after July 4 was nearly full, but lots of slips open since. Something to consider during high summer if you’re looking for last minute reservations. This is a pic at about 11 am today (Saturday).

As reported, mansion/spa/both pools are closed for renovations. Showers are open & free. Grill is serving very limited menu: continental breakfast, 3 pizza choices, 1 sandwich option, wine & beer, from 8 am to 8 pm. Store is also open. Lawn games avail (volleyball, croquet, shuffle board, cornhole) and fire pit stocked.