Ken Ham and his creationism-believing organization, Answers in Genesis, have raised enough funds to make possible the construction of a life-sized (or as extrapolated from the bible) Noah's Ark replica, Celebrity Café reported.

Through donations and bond offerings, Answers in Genesis raised at least $73 million, which will only cover the cost of the first phase of the 510-foot boat. (Guess they couldn't make an offer for the one used in "Evan Almighty").

Ham credits his controversial and highly publicized debate with science guy Bill Nye in early February, the to-be released feature film, "Noah" starring Russell Crowe, and the attention plans for the giant boat has created for itself (they've sold "pre-boarding" passes) for meeting the project's funding requirements, according to the company's news release.

"We praise our Creator God for His blessings and for the incredible support we just witnessed from our generous supporters around the country," Ham said on his website. "Yes, there have been days of nervous anticipation. Many challenges and road blocks came up as we worked through the stages of the bond offering leading up to the final bond delivery. From atheists registering for the bond offering and attempting to disrupt it, to secular bloggers and some reporters writing misleading and inaccurate articles about the bonds-the obstacles were numerous and disruptive."

If all goes according to plan, those speculating on the ark's success should be compensated. Ham anticipates two million visitors the first year the exhibit goes on public display.

"Even in a difficult economy, tens of thousands of supporters have made donations, purchased bonds, or bought Ark boarding passes in the past three years," Ham observed. "With the funding in place to build the Ark, it is now our goal to raise an additional $15 million in donations to provide additional attractions like the special high-tech and interactive exhibits that guests have come to appreciate at our museum."

Though the ark will be built 40 miles outside of Ham's creationism museum, but still drive traffic to a place that's drawn two million visitors since its inception, according to Answers in Genesis.