Private Island Living
Whether it’s an oasis in the tropics or a pristine spot in a Canadian lake, buying an island offers the chance to live a life of total solitude. It’s a dream that some can afford and, with improved technology making it possible to work remotely, more people than ever are considering it.
The most exceptional islands offer amenities that rival the swanky hotels of the world, with secluded pools and deluxe spas amidst swaying palm trees. But these properties aren’t for the faint of heart—they require a significant investment and can have some major drawbacks.
One of the biggest challenges is that an island is not like a traditional home. Many have their own ecosystems, and some require an environmental impact study before construction can begin. You’ll also need to think about how to get supplies, workers, and materials to the island. And if the property isn’t near a harbor, it’s probably going to cost quite a bit more to ship in food and other necessities.
A remote island may also feel far from a medical clinic. This is a serious issue for anyone with a family, because it can be difficult to get prompt medical care in an emergency. Fortunately, some of the most exclusive private islands have their own medical staff, which means that they can provide basic care to residents on site, or refer them to the mainland for more urgent needs.
The secluded splendor of an island can be hard to leave behind. Some private island owners even build homes on their properties that are designed to be as luxurious as their surroundings. They include features such as gourmet kitchens, glass-walled master suites with sweeping ocean views, and private swimming pools.
Private Island Living
When Ann and Barry White decided to buy a property on Maine’s picturesque Long Point Island in 2000, they knew it was the perfect spot to build a home. The couple had scoured the New England coast for years in search of an ideal waterfront location, and this secluded peninsula in Harpswell, in Maine’s southernmost region, lived up to their expectations.
But the Whites were in for a surprise when they discovered that a local realtor had an additional offering: their own secluded private island.
While the coronavirus pandemic has forced a pause in much leisure travel, it’s brought renewed interest in private islands. Chris Krolow, the CEO of Ontario-based Private Islands Inc., which rents and sells islands worldwide and hosts HGTV’s “Island Hunters,” reports that his company is receiving 150 inquiries per day, up from about 100 before the pandemic. He says that wealthy buyers are rekindling their interest in escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life and living, literally, thousands of miles away from mainland problems.