Fires, hurricanes, global pandemics – Richard Branson’s two private Caribbean islands have experienced a number of challenges in recent years. But, driven by the personal passion of the tycoon himself, Necker Island and Moskito Island have come back better than ever, both now open for bookings. While not officially announced, the lesser-known Moskito, home to a number of private estates, will also launch one of the world’s most exclusive villa rental programs in 2021. With the reopening of the British Virgin Islands on December 1st with international travel (with detailed protocols in place) and interest in private islands stronger than ever, now is the time to see for yourself why Branson is spending so much time in these tropical paradises.

Branson first fell in love with Necker in the late 1970s and bought the then-deserted 74-acre island for much less than asking price (he would have paid only $ 180,000). For years, it served as a private retreat for the Branson family – Richard and his wife, Joan, got married there – before the main house and a few neighboring villas became available for booking on a buyout basis. However, the Bransons maintained private villas on the island and were there when a fire ravaged the place in 2011, and again when Hurricane Irma nearly leveled it in 2017. The last pieces of construction and the post-Irma renovation were just underway. ended last April when Covid-19 halted travel to the island, so this month’s reopening marks the first time in years that the place can be fully experienced. Highlights include the brand new Bali Hi villa complex, two additional bedrooms and the installation of three wind turbines, reinforcing the island’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.

While work was underway on Necker, Branson moved to his estate on Moskito Island, his other BVI refuge just two miles away. Purchased in 2007, the 125-acre island was developed as a real estate community, with the individual lots being sold and developed by private owners, many of whom were invited by Branson himself. (A limited number of lots are still available for purchase; interested parties may contact [email protected] for more details.)

While plans to offer the 11-room Branson Estate for reservations have been underway for a few years, the more regular presence of the Bransons – and damage related to the Moskito Irma – has delayed this move until this year. With the easing of Covid restrictions by the BVI this month, guests can now book exclusive use of the estate, which includes a main house, two connected villas, swimming pools, a private beach and a staff, as well as use of the island’s tennis courts and water sports equipment, boat access and more. Several of the island’s other luxury private properties have also been recently completed, and a few of these will soon be available for rent as part of the Virgin Limited Edition portfolio. Details on what will surely be some of the most exclusive villa rentals will be available in spring 2021, with the official launch of the program.

Necker Island is currently available for redemption for up to 40 people, including all meals and drinks, water sports, children’s activities, and more; rates start at $ 105,000 per night. During certain “celebration weeks” throughout the year, rooms can be booked individually, at rates starting at $ 5,000 per night; check here for details. The Branson Estate on Moskito Island is currently available for reservation for rates starting at $ 33,000 per night (for 11 rooms) or $ 12,000 per night (for four rooms), including meals, activities and staff. All Virgin Limited Edition properties have implemented new security measures, including providing 24/7 access to medical assistance.