During this year’s Miami Art Week, an extraordinary unveiling captured the city’s attention: a floating padel court. Anchored off the coast of Fisher Island in early December, this innovative court is as much a marvel of engineering as it is a spectacle. But what’s the story behind this unique creation, and how can you experience it?
The floating padel court is the brainchild of Yntegra Group, a Miami-based private investment firm renowned for its cutting-edge luxury developments. Their latest project, set in Exuma in the Bahamas, promises ultra-luxurious residences, a superyacht marina, and a Rosewood-branded hotel. The floating padel court is destined to be a key feature of this grand vision.
According to Felipe MacLean, CEO of Yntegra Group, the court’s debut during Miami Art Week served as a bold statement for the company’s brand and future projects. “People today are seeking unique, out-of-the-box experiences, and this is undoubtedly one of them,” MacLean says. “A year ago, many doubted the feasibility of this idea. Not only did we make it a reality, but the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive — it’s stable and ideal for gameplay.”
Constructing the court was no small feat. With a price tag of $1 million, the structure is crafted from recycled steel sourced from shipyard materials, making it both sustainable and durable. The court measures approximately 16 by 38 by 71 feet, weighs an impressive 81 tons, and is entirely engine- and battery-free. For now, it’s docked at an undisclosed shipyard along the Miami River.
Yntegra Group has big plans for the court. February will see activations in Key Biscayne, followed by a showcase during the Miami Grand Prix in early May. Afterward, the court will set sail for the Bahamas, making stops at various islands before becoming a permanent feature in Exuma. The larger 365-acre development in Exuma is expected to formally announce its architect in February and break ground in March.
If you’re dreaming of a game on this one-of-a-kind court, you’ll need more than just luck. MacLean confirms that the floating padel court is not open for public bookings. “It’s an amenity exclusively for Yntegra Group and is not available for hire or third-party use,” he explains.
As this floating marvel continues to make waves, it stands as a testament to innovation and luxury — a fitting reflection of Miami’s bold and dynamic spirit.