The mystery buyer who won control of Marineland at auction this week is a prominent out-of-state developer known for transforming Fort Worth’s iconic Stockyards district, The Citizen has learned.
According to sources familiar with the deal, the winning bidder, Delighful Developments LLC, is a newly formed firm led by decorated real estate veteran Craig Cavileer.
Cavileer is a longtime industry figure with significant developments in Texas, Las Vegas, and other markets.
Reached by phone, he declined to comment on his $7.1 million winning bid but said he may release an official statement as the transaction progresses.
A Delaware bankruptcy judge is expected to approve the sale later this month, according to court filings.
Hutson, the initial bidder with a $3.5 million “stalking horse” offer that set the auction floor, participated in Monday’s bidding but ultimately bowed out.
If Cavileer’s deal falls through, Hutson retains its backup offer, filings show.
Cavileer was formerly a senior executive at Majestic Realty Co., where he specialized in hospitality and mixed-use projects, overseeing development, acquisitions and leasing.
He is best known for spearheading the revitalization of Fort Worth’s historic Stockyards.
Under his leadership, the project sought to blend historic preservation with modern commercial and residential uses. He drew praise locally for honoring the area’s cultural identity and architectural heritage while encouraging growth.
Cavileer left the Stockyards project earlier this year following a contractual dispute with Majestic Realty, his former employer.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Cavileer continues to serve as CEO of the Silverton Casino in Las Vegas, a role he has held for nearly 30 years.
Located three miles south of the Strip in Enterprise, Nevada, the Silverton features 300 boutique-style rooms, a 90,000-square-foot casino and a 117,000-gallon aquarium that features live mermaid performances.
Marineland, located along the scenic coastal stretch near the St. Johns and Flagler County line, is currently home to the Marineland Dolphin Adventure park — a site that opened in 1938 as one of the world’s first oceanariums.
The sale comes as part of bankruptcy proceedings initiated by The Dolphin Company, Marineland’s Mexico-based owner, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on March 31.
The company cited financial difficulties and concerns about animal welfare that were flagged in recent inspections.
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