The Branson Beach Estate on Moskito Island
Discovering Moskito Island
My wife, LeighAnn, and I recently had the privilege of experiencing the exclusive and breathtaking Branson Beach Estate on Moskito Island. Nestled in the British Virgin Islands and just a stone's throw away from Sir Richard Branson's other renowned sanctuary, Necker Island, Moskito Island's charm lies in its crystal-clear waters, rich marine life, and spectacular sea views.
A Brief History of the Island
Moskito Island bears witness to the dynamic evolution of both the Caribbean's natural beauty and its human history. Originally named Red Rock and later known as Musketa (an old anglicized spelling of musket), this island was a hub for buccaneers and pirates and was once inhabited by the Taino people until a devastating Spanish attack in 1514 led to their demise. The island's journey through time saw it transition from a bustling Amerindian fishing camp, discovered through archaeological excavations dating back to 1200-1400 AD, to a virtually abandoned land used for grazing livestock by the late 1800s. The 1960s marked a resurgence in activity when entrepreneur Bert Kilbride established Drake’s Anchorage Resort, which later closed in 2001, leaving the island dormant until Sir Richard Branson's purchase in 2007.
Branson's acquisition of Moskito Island represented a new chapter in its storied history. His vision to blend luxury and ecological preservation transformed the island into a high-end, exclusive retreat, harmonizing the breathtaking natural beauty of the Caribbean with modern, luxurious amenities. Today, The Branson Beach Estate on Moskito Island exemplifies luxury set against the backdrop of the British Virgin Islands' tranquil and pristine beauty.
In 2011, Sir Richard Branson initiated a unique conservation project on Moskito Island, aiming to create a sanctuary for endangered ring-tailed lemurs. These lemurs were relocated from zoos in Canada, Sweden, and South Africa due to the dire threats they faced in their native Madagascar. The initial phase involved introducing 30 lemurs to the island, where they underwent acclimatization in cages before being released.
The Branson Beach Estate
On the northeastern edge of Moskito Island, The Branson Beach Estate unveils captivating sea vistas from its commanding position. This splendid estate encompasses three opulent standalone villas, collectively accommodating up to 22 guests. These luxurious residences are seamlessly connected by elevated wooden walkways, providing convenient access to the resort’s communal facilities. However, the estate's hidden treasure lies in its secluded private beach—a haven where you can sink your toes into the soft, powdery sands, immerse yourself in a refreshing dip in the pristine turquoise waters, or simply bask in the awe-inspiring views of the ocean. Each villa features a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious living area, a private infinity pool, and a serene hot tub, ensuring you have your personal sanctuary.
Endless Entertainment
No matter your vacation style, whether you prefer an active or laid-back experience, the options are abundant. From thrilling beach games and competitive indoor activities to sipping cocktails at The Cove beach bar and taking a refreshing dip in one of the three pools, there's something for everyone. Adventurers can set out on thrilling watersport activities, while those seeking pampering can indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. Your vacation at this idyllic retreat promises an unforgettable blend of adventure, relaxation, and cherished memories.
And even though we didn't bring our three sons on this journey, rest assured that this family-friendly haven welcomes children of all ages.
Dining
LeighAnn and I have had the privilege of traveling extensively and dining in some of the world's most prestigious restaurants. However, nothing could have prepared us for the experience of having access to private chefs around the clock. Every aspect of our stay was hyper-personalized, and this extended to the creation of delectable tailor-made menus.
The Estate distinguishes itself from traditional resorts; here, you won't find set menus. Instead, a dedicated house manager contacted us before our arrival to learn about our food preferences, ensuring that our culinary desires were met with personalized care and attention.
Getting to Moskito Island
The nearest international airport is Tortola's Beef Island (EIS), which is easily accessible through direct flights from various Caribbean locations, including San Juan and Antigua. These flights take less than an hour. Private jets also have the option to land at Beef Island or St. Thomas Airport.
From Beef Island, a convenient 30-minute boat ride will transport you to Moskito Island, and this boat charter is included in your rates, organized by your travel team. Alternatively, you can opt to fly into Virgin Gorda and arrange a brief 10-minute boat ride from Leverick Bay Marina.
For added flexibility, Moskito Island is also accessible via helicopter from a range of Caribbean islands, including Virgin Gorda, San Juan, Tortola, St. Thomas, and more.
Unforgettable
In his unmistakable vision, Sir Richard Branson has created something exceptionally memorable and exquisitely beautiful on Moskito Island. We were fortunate to visit and had a wonderful time, enjoying what the island had to offer, including its resident lemurs. The Branson Beach Estate offers a unique and luxurious experience in the heart of the British Virgin Islands. It's a testament to Branson's commitment to crafting remarkable experiences that will leave a lasting impression on every guest. We hope you have the opportunity to visit and enjoy this extraordinary retreat.