Necker Island

Necker Island, Sir Richard Branson's private paradise, is 74 acres of tropical beauty situated in the British Virgin Islands, a stunning and unspoilt area of the Caribbean. Surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs fringed with white sandy beaches, this is the destination for a truly special celebration or for sparking inspiration. The island can be hired exclusively for groups of up to 30 people for weddings and parties or for corporate retreats and conferences.

Necker Island can be exclusively yours for a week, two weeks or even a month. A tropical paradise with accommodation for up to 30 adults, this private island can be used for a luxurious destination wedding or for a corporate retreat with a difference. The Great House is one of the most exquisite Necker Island event spaces. It has been designed in stunning alfresco style and boasts amazing panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. This spacious Balinese villa has nine bedrooms each with private en-suite bathrooms and terraces. Also featuring an expansive outdoor terrace, it can host a fantastic drinks reception or extraordinary private party. Resident chefs will prepare locally inspired canapes and bowl food, while a large central dining table can be used for a formal banquet.

It is hard to think of a better place to get married. Necker can host a lavish wedding reception for up to 100 guests with accommodation available for guests on neighbouring islands. A ceremony can take place on the beach, in The Great House or in a secluded beach cove. The on-site team can arrange practically anything, from fireworks to hundreds of balloons, a non-stop feast or a tent palace on the beach. The Crocodile Pavilion on the Main Beach features a large solid teak crocodile table; ideal for an alfresco feast or special dinner. The Beach House also has an expansive communal area on the ground floor that can be used for events. It features an impressive bar, lots of seating and space for game tables. The upper floor is perfectly suited for private dining on its large table that has fabulous views out across the surrounding sea.

Additionally the venue is also suitable for a conference or high level meeting. There are a variety of spaces and locations that have already hosted world leaders in meetings of 'The Elders' as well as Virgin Galactic meetings that have been truly out of this world. With a team of dedicated staff, accommodation for 30 and food and beverages on demand, Necker has everything you could need for an AGM, important strategy meeting or brainstorm. Then once the work is done, the island has plenty of entertainment and activities to offer. You can even arrange to have a local calypso band play for the real Caribbean experience.

There are 6 private houses dotted around the island built in authentic Balinese style, each accommodating a couple or single guest. Rates are fully inclusive of all food and all beverages, including fine champagne. You can set the menu and mealtimes and opt for formal or informal dining, indoors or outdoor, themed or traditional, beach side or poolside, or even under the stars! The island features two spas with a list of treatments that will blow your mind and wash away any of the stresses that you arrived with. There are 5 different beaches on the island and a beautiful 2-hour walk around the island, perfect for viewing the native wildlife (Lemurs, Giant Tortoises, Flamingos and much more).

After your event has taken place, you and your guests can enjoy the freshwater infinity pools or lounge in the large hot tub on the beach. There are two swim-up bars where bartenders will cater to your every need and request. An extensive range of watersports is at your disposal including water-skiing, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, kayaking, snorkelling and sailing. Necker Island is situated in the British Virgin Islands and the closest international airport is on Tortola (Beef Island) which is a 35-minute flight from San Juan and a 1 hour 20 minute flight from Antigua. It is also possible to anchor a yacht off the island or arrive by helicopter. On Necker, the possibilities are endless.

Normally Necker Island is hired privately by an individual or group. However, during Celebration Weeks, held on selected weeks throughout the year, couples or singles can book individual rooms and share the island. Rates include between 3-7 nights accommodation (as desired subject to availability), all meals and drinks (including all alcoholic beverages), return launch transfer from Virgin Gorda or Beef Island airports and a range of island activities.

Necker island was named after the 17th-century Dutch squadron commander Johannes de Neckere, although it remained uninhabited until the late 20th century.

Sir Richard Branson first became aware that some of the islands in the British Virgin Islands were for sale in 1978. He promptly went to the British Virgin Islands for a holiday to investigate the prospective real estate. After climbing the hill on the island and being stunned by the view and wildlife, he fell in love with the island and purchased it from the then owner Lord Cobham.

When Sir Richard bought the 74-acre island, it was uninhabited. He purchased the island in 1978, just six years after starting Virgin Group. It then opened as a luxury retreat available for private hire in 1984.