Just north of North Sound sits one of the most exclusive private islands in the world. Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Necker Island offers an unparalleled retreat for up to 34 guests — renting the entire island runs around $140,000 per night. It’s not a place you’ll be stepping ashore on, but it’s an unmissable part of any North Sound charter day, and there’s plenty to see and explore around it from the water.
Anchoring at Necker Island
Necker’s staff all sign non-disclosure agreements before they’re hired, which keeps the island’s guest list firmly private. Sir Richard himself is often out and about — an avid windsurfer, so don’t be surprised if a blond-haired figure goes cruising past on a board.
The Sand Spit
Just south of the island is a small sand spit, one of the best spots in the area for that classic Caribbean sand-island photo. Take your dinghy around to the Necker side of the spit and beach there — you’ll spot a couple of fake palm trees, planted after the real ones repeatedly failed to survive the shifting sand and exposure to storms. Watch your step, as birds sometimes nest and lay eggs right on the sand.
This sand spit is also where the best shells tend to turn up, so keep an eye out.
Necker Island BVI FAQ
Yes — flamingos are a regular sight along Necker’s beaches, with a breeding population centered on the island’s salt pond. They’re native to the area, though their numbers had dropped close to zero over the years. Sir Richard imported a flock and supported their breeding season with supplemental feeding, and the population has since grown well beyond what was expected. The flamingos have done so well here that some have spread to neighboring islands as well.
Sir Richard also keeps a small group of Galapagos tortoises on the island. Worth mentioning too: local island tours offers an up-close look at the tortoises, flamingos, and lemurs — consistently one of our guests’ favorite excursions in the area.
While all beaches in the BVI are technically public, including Necker’s, please be respectful and avoid going ashore. Guests of the island pay significantly for their privacy, and it’s only fair to let them have it. A dinghy tour around the protected side of the island makes for a great alternative.
Prickly Pear Island and Eustatia Sound
South of Necker and east of the main channel into North Sound, there’s a quieter, more peaceful anchorage worth knowing about. Enter roughly midway between Eustatia and the headland to its west, watching for the shoal extending out from Eustatia. Head toward the eastern end of the beach, where you’ll find good anchoring in about 10 feet of sand — most of this area is well protected enough for an overnight stay, though the water shallows toward the western end. Eustatia Island itself is privately owned, once by Google co-founder Larry Page.
Eustatia Sound is a striking stretch of fully protected water, ringed by land and shallow coral reef on every side. It’s off-limits to bareboats but ideal for exploring by dinghy. You can reach it through the passage between Saba Rock and Bitter End Resort, or from the Prickly Pear/Eustatia anchorage. Move slowly here and keep an eye out for the shallow reef sections.
About half a mile east of Eustatia, on the southern reef, you’ll find a lone white mooring ball marking a snorkel spot with a couple of old cannons resting on the reef — a fun stop if you’re up for a little underwater treasure hunting.
From here, the sound makes a natural jumping-off point for a trip out to Anegada, and a popular area for kite surfing thanks to the reef’s protection from swell paired with the steady trade winds.
Necker Island has no public moorings and very limited room to anchor, so plan your visit as a stop on the way through rather than a destination to linger at.
Plan Your North Sound Charter Day
A day spent around Necker Island, Prickly Pear, and Eustatia Sound makes for one of the most varied stretches of a BVI charter — quiet anchorages, snorkeling, wildlife, and a touch of celebrity-spotting, all within a short tender ride of each other. Let your captain know if you’d like to build a full North Sound day around it.
Contact Epic Yacht Charters to start planning your BVI charter.
WOW...what an unforgettable 8 days in the British Virgin Islands! Our group of seven had the absolute best time aboard the Awatea catamaran! The crew were wonderful hosts and so accommodating. They really are true professionals and enjoy taking care of their guests.
Every day felt like a postcard—turquoise water, hidden coves, incredible snorkeling, beach bars, island hopping, and sunsets that didn't even look real. We swam with sea turtles, ate like we were in a fine dining establishment, laughed until our stomachs hurt, soaked up the sunshine, and made memories we'll be talking about for years.
The catamaran was beautiful, comfortable, and had plenty of space for all of us to spread out, relax, or hang out together. I loved the sustainability efforts with the fresh herbs and solar panels, and nothing went to waste. There was never a dull moment, but it was also the perfect place to kick back with a drink and enjoy the amazing views. There was Wi-Fi available, if we needed it. This allowed us to keep in contact with our loved ones back home and to share the experiences in real time.
One of the unexpected highlights was having front row seats to the 2026 BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival. I had never experienced something like this before and it took my breath away.
The best part was being able to unplug and enjoy the experience. Every day brought a new island, another amazing place to explore, see and do new things some of us had never done. Every stop seemed better than the last, and the entire experience was seamless from beginning to end.
If you're even thinking about chartering a catamaran in the BVI—DO IT with Awatea! It's the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and nonstop fun. This wasn't just a vacation; it was one of the best experiences we've ever had. Easy 5 stars, and we will always remember this amazing trip!
From $52,000/week
Scuba
Epic choice
All InclusiveAll Inclusive
The charter rate shown includes the use of the charter yacht with professional crew and onboard equipment.
Also included are all meals and snacks onboard, all beverages from the yachts fully stocked bar along with tea, coffee and non-alcoholic drinks. All water sport activities provided by the yacht and fuel for both the yacht and tender.
Excluded in the rate are airport transfers, shore activities such as shopping, dining or special off yacht activities, port fees, park permits and fishing permits in certain locations. Any premium liquor, wines and champagne that not normally stocked and excessive alcohol consumption will be an additional charge.
Crew Gratuity is separate and is typically 15%-20% of the charter rate. This should be given to your captain at the end of your charter.
A dream vacation with our family is the best experience ever. Thank you so much for your hospitality and kindness. The food, drinks, video, and laughter made a lifetime of memories.
We will be back!
From $84,000/week
Scuba
All InclusiveAll Inclusive
The charter rate shown includes the use of the charter yacht with professional crew and onboard equipment.
Also included are all meals and snacks onboard, all beverages from the yachts fully stocked bar along with tea, coffee and non-alcoholic drinks. All water sport activities provided by the yacht and fuel for both the yacht and tender.
Excluded in the rate are airport transfers, shore activities such as shopping, dining or special off yacht activities, port fees, park permits and fishing permits in certain locations. Any premium liquor, wines and champagne that not normally stocked and excessive alcohol consumption will be an additional charge.
Crew Gratuity is separate and is typically 15%-20% of the charter rate. This should be given to your captain at the end of your charter.
