[JoMar]

Originally Posted by golfing eagles

So, in other words, you are getting some of the stated benefits in the definition of a semi-private course by virtue of your preferred tee times, reduced green fees and pool access as a priority member. Great!!!

I'm not so sure Bay Hill or Trump is a good example of a private club---they fit more into the category of resort courses, not truly restricted to members and their guests. I've played Bay Hill and Trump when it was Doral, and frankly, they are not worth the money--and that was in 1977---now Bay Hill is $225.
Of course, you can join Bay Hill. Initiation is $30,000. Dues just under $9,000/ year. Minimum is $1200/year and then they nickel and dime you for club storage, range fees, locker etc. But my favorite is the trail fee if you use your own cart of $2,000/year when cart rental there is $18. You would have to play 111 times/year to break even---But,......if you have a cart there solely for golf, and I do not know if there is any other use there, a $12,000 cart that lasts 10 years adds $1200/year or another 67 rounds. If you add the cost of money, say the same $12,000 invested at 7.2% for 10 years, that's another $12,000 or 67 rounds, bringing the total to 245 rounds to break even.
So my advice is: If anyone has the money and wants to join Bay Hill, after you pay the 30K initiation and 11+K/year dues etc., RENT THEIR CART!!
I love Arnie, but you have to admit as a golf business entrepreneur, he is STILL THE KING.

I don't disagree, my point was that semi private can mean many things and have different structures, as can private courses so it really doesn't matter if you call these courses public or semi private. I prefer public with a discount card as you saw and if you play champs twice a week it pays for itself. I don't use the pool, too many public pools close by. For what we pay, and the amount of play the courses get I think it's a pretty great place for golf, even in season.