The 13 Hotel: Lucky at Last?

On August 31, the 13 Hotel (l.) in Macau finally opened for what management called “private bookings.” Members of the general public could not immediately walk in or make reservations to dine at the long-stalled hotel.

The 13 Hotel: Lucky at Last?

Invited guests attend preview

On August 31, the long-delayed 13 Hotel in Macau finally opened for what management called “private bookings,” according to a representative of promoter South Shore Holdings Ltd. On the actual opening weekend, however, the general public could not walk in or make a reservation to dine there.

In an email to GGRAsia, a spokesman for South Shore wrote, “The 13 is open now in a sense that only guests who have already made a private booking can go in including to restaurants and other facilities; no walk-in guests are allowed at the moment. Our operation model at the moment is ‘only for private booking.’”

Inside Asian Gaming reported that South Shore held a “sneak preview” for special guests on the weekend of August 24, allowing them to get an inside looks its 200 luxurious hotel suites and F&B offerings. Managing Director Mark Lettenbichler, who hosted the event, said, “Our team at the 13 are thrilled to unveil this new Macau treasure and are proud to showcase our world-class offerings to our guests.”

South Shore CEO Walt Power said, “I want to thank our outstanding team of designers, consultants, contractors and staff members for their dedication and contributions to the making of the 13. We are sincerely appreciative of the support by the Macau SAR government throughout the development process.”

Chairman Peter Coker added that the 13 “will not only lead the way in iconic hotel service, but also champion the finest lifestyle experience. We will continue to work on perfecting our refined and remarkable offerings during this exciting time.”

Designed by noted architect Peter Marino, the luxury hotel includes 200 duplex suites and villas starting at 520 square feet and ranging up to almost 9,900 square feet. A so-called “royal villa” sprawls over 19,838 square feet, IAG reported. Guests can arrive in style in one of the hotel’s red Rolls-Royce Phantoms.

South Shore Holdings plans eventually to open a casino at the property. Analysts have said that’s vital, as the property may have trouble drawing VIPs if gaming rooms are not right at hand. In a February 25 filing, the firm said the casino may open in March 2019, along with some shops at the complex.

The project first broke ground in April 2013, according to the 2013 annual report of the promoter, which was then known as Louis XIII Holdings Ltd.