Necker Island

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At a Glance

When he rebuilt his 74-acre private island in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, Richard Branson made sustainability a primary focus. Which means that Necker has its very own micro-grid to supply solar and wind power, water collection tanks and an impressive goal of achieving net zero in fossil-fuel consumption by 2030. There’s also a flamingo breeding project underway, and the island wildlife team is monitoring seven species of lemur. You’ll also find every toy and luxury you can imagine: catamarans and infinity pools and a Crow’s Nest hot tub perched atop the roof with sunrise views. The 2:1 staff-guest ratio ensures the needs of up to 48 guests are attended to, whether you’re looking for a tennis or kiteboarding lesson, a private dinner or a boat ride. The property centers around the Great House, which graces a hilltop with wraparound terraces, Balinese décor and soaring ceilings—open on all sides to the trade winds. There are 11 bedrooms with private terraces and a bunk room for up to six kids. If you’re lucky, Branson may be on-island during your stay— and may even start the dancing on the tabletops after dinner.

The Standout: Visiting the island’s own colony of endangered, ring-tailed lemurs
Don’t Miss: Snorkeling amid the Baths, a series of grottoes and pools on nearby Virgin Gorda

Indagare Loves

• The focus on sustainability—from recycled plastic docks to eggs from island hens
• Privacy unrivaled anywhere else in the Caribbean
• An island’s worth of staff to help with all activities
• Celebration Weeks allow guests to experience the island without taking it over completely (otherwise it is typically rented for exclusive use)

Necker Island Review

The private estate of billionaire entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson, Necker Island is a famously exclusive hideaway in the British Virgin Islands. The 74-acre property, which can be rented as a takeover for up to 48 guests, includes multiple private beaches, exotic wildlife (including flamingos and endangered ring-tailed lemurs), infinity pools, beachside hot tubs, tennis courts and a spa. The staff of 100 is top notch, including a private chef, a tennis pro, and kite boarding instructors.

Life at Necker centers on the Great House, situated atop a hill with impressive views over the sea and surrounding islands. Destroyed by Hurricane Irma in September 2017, the house was completely rebuilt in 2018 and has a huge wow factor. The living room has a soaring peaked ceiling, comfortable couches and seating areas, an open and well-stocked bar, and a wrap-around terrace to take in the stupendous view. The 11 bedrooms are simple and elegant, with Balinese-inspired décor, including Indonesian artwork, carved wood armoires and four-poster beds with white mosquito nets. Each room opens onto a private terrace, where you can relax and watch the sea or take an outdoor shower by moonlight. En-suite bathrooms are spacious and well-appointed. There is also a bunk room that can sleep up to six kids. The prime accommodation is the Master Suite, with a vast private sundeck and Jacuzzi.

Food on the island is excellent, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Breakfast, which is served in the Great Room, includes a buffet with fresh coconut water, chopped fruits and pastries, along with an à la carte menu with such dishes as eggs Benedict or French toast. Lunch is served family-style in different locations according to the day—perhaps at a long table down by the beach. There is often a touch of whimsy, such as the “sushi kayak” lunch, where guests dine in bathing suits in the pool, serving themselves from a floating kayak filled with fresh sushi. Dinner may be served beachside or up at the main house.

Indagare tip: Typically rented as an exclusive-use island (up to 48 guests), Necker offers “Celebration Weeks,” when guests can book individual rooms.

Who Should Stay

Active, fun-seeking sybarites in search of the ultimate island experience.

Author

• Eliza Harris