Until recently, purchasing an island was the exclusive preserve of the glitterati and titans of industry. Now, however, more and more people are eying these sun-drenched treasures as a way to add some whimsy to their lives. While the thought of an island getaway can evoke images of white sand beaches and tropical sunshine, the reality is far more diverse. From Iceland to the Bahamas, the world has a wealth of private islands to offer and a wide array of experiences to be had.
The majority of the world’s privately owned islands are concentrated in a few regions. The most popular destinations include the Caribbean and Central America, where island resorts are popping up like flowers in a garden. However, there are also private islands in Asia and Europe. Some have been purchased by celebrities, while others are owned by wealthy families or businesses.
Most of these private islands are inhabited by families who use them for vacations and special events, while others are leased out to resorts and other companies. In some cases, a private island is even turned into an eco-tourism destination, with activities such as hiking and bird watching taking center stage. Some of these locations also serve as a place to host weddings and other big events, such as corporate retreats and reunions.
While a private island might seem the ultimate luxury, it isn’t cheap to purchase one. The average price tag for an island is more than $4 million, though some have been sold for as little as $500,000, according to Private Islands Inc, a professional agency that lists properties. There are also a number of other costs involved in owning an island, including building and maintaining infrastructure, staffing, electricity and water supply, and sewage systems. These costs can be a significant barrier for some buyers.
For many, the only way to visit a private island is through a cruise ship. These slivers of land are a staple of most cruise itineraries, and many are designed with an upscale vibe. These enclaves might house a golf course, private villas and spas, and restaurants. They might be a sanctuary to 2,200 free-roaming Giant Aldabra tortoises, or a hotspot for viewing the nests of endangered Hawksbill turtles.
A cruise to a private island can be the perfect way to relax and recharge. However, it’s important to note that these islands typically lack a sense of cultural immersion. They are sheltered and often cater exclusively to tourists, so they can feel somewhat cookie-cutter in their offerings. For some travelers, a private island can feel like a waste of a port day on their cruise itinerary.