Port Royal

Port Royal is the epitome of luxury living in Naples, and is recognized as one of the finest communities world-wide. This prestigious community, comprised of approximately 500 homes, was the dream of developer John Glen Sample. Sample’s goal was to create an idyllic, family community for the most discriminating buyers. He began purchasing the swamp land in 1938 for $13,700.

Sample began the process of dredging and filling the swamp land to create the deep canals and streets where the luxury homes were to be built. Sample enlisted Howard Major as the architect for his Port Royal project – together implementing standards to ensure the neighborhood’s luxurious appearance would be maintained.

Florida’s rich history greatly inspired Sample, specifically the tales of pirates that used to roam its coast and the waters and Islands further to the South. The community itself is named after Port Royal, Jamaica – a favorite locale for pirates in the 17th century. Sample’s fascination with piracy can also be seen in many of the colorful street names such as Galleon Way and Rum Row.

The first 4 Port Royal homes were offered for sale in 1952. Each prospective buyer was personally interviewed by Sample. Only those fitting Sample’s ideals of the perfect Port Royal resident were approved. Prospective buyers often toured the community in Sample’s Rolls-Royce or by water aboard his yacht.

The crown jewel of Port Royal, the Port Royal Club, was established in 1959. The Club provides members with an array of special events, fine dining, private beach access, and many other fine amenities.