The resort consists of three towers, and on top of them is the Sands Skypark, which includes a skyway stretching 340 meters (1,120 ft) and can accommodate up to 3,902 people. The Skypark also boasts a magnificent 150-meter (490 ft) infinity swimming pool, situated on the world's largest public cantilevered platform, extending 66.5 meters (218 ft) beyond the north tower. The entire 20-hectare resort was designed by the talented architects at Moshe Safdie. Las Vegas Sands is the owner of this remarkable resort, in partnership with the Singaporean authorities.
Originally, Marina Bay Sands was scheduled to open in 2009, but due to rising costs and labor shortages caused by the global financial crisis, its construction faced delays. As a result, Las Vegas Sands had to postpone its other projects to complete this integrated resort. Eventually, the resort was opened in stages, with the official opening of the resort and SkyPark taking place on 23 and 24 June 2010, following the casino's opening on 27 April of the same year. The SkyPark was unveiled the next day. The theater was completed just in time for the first performance of Riverdance on 30 November, while the indoor skating rink, featuring artificial ice, opened with a performance by Michelle Kwan on 18 December.
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore First Integrated Resort
Marina Bay Sands emerged as one of the two successful proposals for Singapore's first integrated resorts. The other proposal was Resorts World Sentosa, which includes the popular Universal Studios Singapore. These resorts were designed to fulfill Singapore's economic and tourism goals for the next decade. They were granted exclusive 30-year casino licenses, with the first ten years being particularly significant. Bidders were evaluated based on criteria such as tourism appeal, architectural concept, development investment, and the strength of their consortium and partners.
In the Skypark, you can find an incredible infinity edge swimming pool. On 27 May 2006, Las Vegas Sands (LVS) was announced as the winner with its business-focused resort. LVS submitted its winning bid independently after its original partner, City Developments Limited (CDL), withdrew from the partnership during the second phase of the tender process. CDL's CEO, Kwek Leng Beng, explained that their decision was influenced by various factors, including difficulties in ensuring compliance from their numerous companies and the reluctance of certain parties to disclose private information required by the Singapore government. Despite the withdrawal, Kwek continued to advise Sands' bid.
Facilities of Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
Marina Bay Sands is a stunning complex with three towering hotel buildings that were completed in July 2009. These towers are connected by a massive rooftop terrace called Sands SkyPark, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay.
In addition to the hotel towers, there are several other facilities in front of them. There's a Theatre Block, a Convention and Exhibition Facilities Block, and of course, the famous Casino Block. The casino is equipped with a staggering number of gaming tables and slot machines, making it a paradise for gamblers. However, it's important to note that Singaporeans and Permanent Residents have to pay an entry fee to access the casino.
Right next to these blocks is the ArtScience Museum, which has a unique lotus-shaped design. The museum's roof is retractable, allowing for a stunning waterfall effect when closed during the day and captivating laser shows when opened at night. Just in front of the museum is the Event Plaza, where you can witness the spectacular Wonder Full light and water show, the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia.
One of the highlights of Marina Bay Sands is the SkyPark, which boasts the world's longest elevated swimming pool. This infinity pool, with its vanishing edge, offers an unparalleled swimming experience 191 meters above the ground. The pools themselves are made of an impressive amount of stainless steel and can hold a massive volume of water. The SkyPark also features rooftop nightclubs, beautiful gardens, and a public observatory deck that provides a 360-degree view of the stunning Singapore skyline. However, access to the SkyPark is restricted to hotel guests for security reasons.