It doesn't look like much today, but the owners of a proposed marina in Ben Eoin, Cape Breton, hope to have docks installed by October, with berths for 76 boats.

Designs for the marina on Bras d'Or Lake are almost completed; they include showers, laundry facilities and classrooms for a sailing school.

The Ben Eoin marina has already attracted interest from boaters near and far.

"For example, the Cruising Club of America has 55 or so yachts in the lake, and they have been corresponding with me all winter, hoping it was going to be available," said Robert Sampson, chairman of the marina.

Sampson says the marina will benefit from its proximity to Louisbourg compared to other docking facilities on the lake.

"So when you've got a lot of visiting yachts on the lake, they like to be able to to access a marina port (near the fortress) ... without having to go back out into the ocean."

In addition to the Fortress of Louisbourg historic site, the Lakes Golf Course across the road is also expected to be a big draw. Ski Ben Eoin is nearby, and developers are clearing lots with a breathtaking view on the mountain next to the ski hill.

Most of the money for the project has been raised from the community, said Sampson, but they are expecting a government funding announcement in the near future.