The Complete Guide to Renting a Private Island
From Necker Island to Cayo Espanto — what it actually costs and how to book
Sophia Andreou
Maritime & Travel Editor
30 July 2024
13 min read
The private island is the ultimate expression of travel exclusivity — a destination where the guest list is limited to those you choose to invite. The market has grown significantly; prices are more accessible than you might expect. Here is how it works.
Richard Branson bought Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands in 1978 for $180,000 — a price he reportedly negotiated down from $6 million by walking away twice. The island now rents for $105,000 per night, inclusive of up to 34 guests and a full staff of 110. This is the benchmark. The market extends considerably below it.
The Range
At the accessible end of the private island market — relative term acknowledged — a 2–4 guest island in Belize or the Maldives with a small staff can be chartered for $3,000–6,000 per night. At the apex, Cayo Espanto in Belize ($4,500–12,000/night), Petit St. Vincent in the Grenadines ($3,000–8,000/night), and Fregate Island in the Seychelles ($5,000–60,000/night) represent the finest propositions.
“A private island rental shared between eight guests often costs less per person than a suite at a comparable resort. The arithmetic surprises most people.”
- Entry level: $3,000–6,000/night (small Caribbean), 2–4 guests
- Mid-range: $8,000–20,000/night (staffed estate), 6–12 guests
- Premium: $20,000–50,000/night (Fregate, Petit Mustique)
- Ultra: $50,000–105,000/night (Necker, Musha Cay)
Partner
WIMCO
Specialists in Caribbean and Pacific private islands. Proposals within 24 hours.
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