Virgin Islands
PR OPERTY&YACHT
NOVEMBER 2011
CYS Boat show marks 30 Boat owners, crew and brokers mingle at the famed Boat Show on Tortola.
waveland A surfer's retreat in Spyglass Hill estate offers a bird's-eye view of Apple Bay.
sinking into anegada Beachfront cottages avoid falling victimw to the sea's wrath.
Keeping a steady course with your investments is a precondition for reaching your goals, whether you rely on our advice or entrust us to manage your portfolio along the course you have plotted. VP Bank – your partner.
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BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
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Homes For Sale Villa Zenaida $1,300,000
Lime Leaf Cottage $260,000
Whispering Tide $1,200,000
Lemongrass $895,000
MacNamara Villa $800,000
Longview $1,100,000
P
rice reductions, price improvements, price adjustments; it doesn't matter what you call it, nobody wants to hear about lowering prices, except a buyer. Sellers count on their agents for maximum marketing exposure and that is why Caribbean Realty chose to join forces with Sotheby’s. The combined marketing budgets of a worldwide network of agents means that BVI Sotheby’s International Realty offers marketing on a scale difficult to match by any other company. To sell your property, it always helps to ‘stage’ it, in order to look its best, and no matter what the market is doing, it must be the ‘jewel of the price point’ – the most attractive at that price. Most buyers do not want to take on a project and they want a low maintenance home. Please ask us for advice on how to stage your home to attract a buyer. We take great pride in using our expertise, resources, and global connections to perfectly unite homes with the buyers who will cherish them. All the properties above have recently dropped their prices in a bid to be the ‘jewel’ that entices a buyer.
CONTACT: Maritha Keil British Virgin Islands Sotheby's International Realty t +1. 284.494.5700 m +1.284.340.5555 maritha.keil@sothebysrealty.com
British Virgin Islands Sotheby's International Realty | Mill Mall, Road Town, Tortola, BVI | t +1.284.494.5700 | homes@bvisir.com | bvisir.com Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.
Cover: The view of Apple Bay from Waveland. Photo by Dan O'Connor.
Virgin Islands
PR OPERTY&YACHT November 2011
Features
8
19
22
A Surfer's Paradise
30th CYS Boat Show
That Sinking Feeling
15 Idealistic Architecture
25
By Traci O'Dea Sitting atop Spyglass Hill, Waveland offers a perfect perch for the sun-drenched surfer.
12 Boatyard Blues
By David Blacklock Some old boats corrode and die. Others live on. www.bvipy.com British Virgin Islands Property & Yacht is published eleven times a year (February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December/January) by aLookingGlass Ltd., Road Reef Plaza 6 and 7, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110. Copyright 2010 by aLookingGlass Ltd. All pieces reproduced in this issue are under prior copyright by the creators or by the contractual arrangments with their clients.
By Dan O'Connor The BVI Charter Yacht Show yields optomism among industry professionals.
By Steve Fox An architect bring interesting ideas to the drawing board.
Nothing shown may be reproduced in any form without obtaining the permission of the creators and any other person or company who may have copyright ownership. The publisher of BVI Property & Yacht, assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the content placed in its publications. For the avoidance of doubt, aLookingGlass gives no warranty or guarantee in regards to any information placed in its publications.
Direct all inquiries to: Email: info@alookingglass.com Phone: 284-494-7788 Fax: 284-494-8777 Mail: aLookingGlass PO Box 3895 Sea Cows Bay Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110
By Dan O'Connor Beachfront cottages, and the beach they rest on, are resurrected on Anegada's western shore.
Dining on Deck
By Traci O'Dea The BVI Charter Yacht Society unveils their first cookbook.
Editorial and Business Office: aLookingGlass Ltd., Road Reef Plaza 6 and 7, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands. Web: www.alookingglass.com Email: info@alookingglass.com Phone: 284-494-7788 Fax: 284-494-8777 Mail to: aLookingGlass PO Box 3895 Sea Cows Bay Tortola, British Virgin Islands VG1110
Articles
Publication Design aLookingGlass
Chief Editor Dan O'Connor
26 Blind Love
By Dan O'Connor A couple's undying love sees through hardship.
30 Join the Club
By Willa Tavernier Home owners associations and covenants find a unique spot within the Virgin Islands.
33 Artists' Corner
By Dan O'Connor BVI artist Ruben Vanterpool paints a picture of the past.
Editor at Large David Blacklock
Writers Traci O'Dea Susie Younkle David Blacklock Dan O'Connor
Art Director Nick Cunha
36 Awaking a Sleeping Prison
By Hugh Whistler Our resident historian lays out plans for reviving a historical prison in Road Town.
42 Designing from the Inside Out
By Dan O'Connor and Traci O'Dea A renowned Caribbean interior designer reveals her influences and challenges.
45 Frying Like a Bajan
By Susie Younkle Fish frying influenced by the Barabados restaurants that do it best.
Graphic Designer Akiya Brewley
Web Developer aLookingGlass
Distribution Coordinator Francoise Frank
Advertising
Extras 48 Property & Yacht Directory
Owen Waters Stephen Leslie France
49 Property Listings
Printing aLookingGlass
Distribution Cool Air
General Manager Colin Rathbun
Editor's Letter
Dan O'Connor
N o v e m b e r
2 0 1 1
Let the good times roll. November marks a month for resurgence
West End, a boatyard of “broken dreams”
in the Virgin Islands. After a long, hot and
houses many boats that still have hopes of one
testing summer, it’s time to bring some life
day tearing through the channel like they did
back to these islands. I’m ready to see the
when they were young.
waters—from Sir Francis Drake Channel to St
I checked out some villas in Anegada that,
Thomas Harbour—full of activity. I’m looking
at first glance, looked like they had no hope
forward to people-watching and weekends
for repair. But at a closer look, I found out
full of events too good to pass up. For us
that the once submerged cottages on their
living here in the islands, unlike our friends
soft beachfront would indeed live to see
in the mainland to the north, the winter
another day.
months symbolize a defrosting period of
Writer Traci O’Dea prefers to view the waves
sorts , when we can shake off the cobwebs
from a safe distance. This month, she toured
and open back up for business.
a property perched high up the hill above
There has been lots of talk of the looming
Apple Bay—with a perfect surfer’s-eye-view
economic cloud that is predicted to bring
of the breaks below. Appropriately named
more rain to these islands. But talk to the folks
“Waveland,” the home may just be a surfer’s
hosting the Charter Yacht Society BVI Charter
dream house.
Yacht Show and they’ll say, “What recession?”
Do you like art? Interior design? Farming?
This month marks their 30th anniversary on
Food? Good. So do I. That’s why the following
Tortola, with an event that promises to bring
pages are packed with fun pieces to inspire
eager brokers together with crews and owners
positive vibes, even if those pessimistic Wall
of some of the sexiest boats in the Virgin
Street analysts and bossy bureaucrats try to do
Islands. The slips are all sold and numbers to
otherwise. A happy high season cometh—just
date prove that the industry is staying afloat.
remember to always…
Maybe all of this positive energy is the cause for OBMI architect Steve Fox to have his head in the clouds. This month, Steve put the pencil to paper on some idealistic homes he can’t stop dreaming about. A bunker home buried in the rocks? An inside-out house? One that feeds off its own energy? Why not. I’ll take one of each. Sailing scribe David Blacklock also has plans of grandeur. The optimistic sailor set out to take on rusty, old and often derelict sailboats, tossed away around the islands. On Tortola’s
stay irie.
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(284) 495-3003 l info@realestatebvi.net www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
7
Surfer’s Paradise on Spyglass Hill Waveland: perched at a perfect view. Photos by Dan O'Connor
By Traci O'Dea Surfers want to wake up and surf. They want to look outside and see the waves, knowing that in minutes they’ll be leaping to the sand with a board under their arm then paddling out to the breaks to get in an invigorating session before their work day begins. The aptly named Waveland is an ideal abode for surfers with its view over Apple Bay—Tortola’s most consistent surf spot and home of the famous Bomba’s Surfside Shack. On my visit to Waveland, I encountered all the luxuries and amenities of a hillside BVI property but still felt the charm of a Hawaiian beach house—likely based on all the gorgeously maintained natural hardwood surfaces throughout the house. The house is located on the private Spyglass Hill estate with a commanding view overlooking the wave activity of Apple Bay as well as the islands of St Thomas, St John, Jost Van Dyke, Little Jost, Sandy Cay, Green Cay and Sandy Spit. The wooden
8
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
From top to bottom, Waveland is the ideal surfer’s retreat.
deck extends the length of the house and is equipped with covered and uncovered areas for dining and lounging—including a low-slung hammock that’s a perfect spot to rock in time with the sound of the sea. Large fruit-bearing trees—banana, papaya, almond, coconut— rustle their branches near the deck railing while frangipani and yellow flamboyant brighten the garden. The deck is accessible from the kitchen, living room, dining room and master bedroom, with the latter two rooms completely opening up to the view of the sea. From the deck, we could see a handful of surfers taking advantage of the swell that Tropical Storm Ophelia stirred up. The tiled kitchen provides ample storage and counter space as well as all the appliances a chef could need for a five-course meal or a casual barbecue. Adjacent to the kitchen is the indoor dining room with four sets of doors that open to the deck, so even if guests decide to dine indoors, they can still experience the breeze, the sound of the sea and the panorama before them. Beyond the dining room, the living room was built for relaxation. Below the tongue-and-groove ceiling, a longboard hangs over an even longer couch that appeared to be the ideal place to plop down after a long day of surfing or at least daydreaming about surfing. Built-in bookshelves and a wine rack encouraged additional
The spacious deck and upper-level lookout.
levels of chilling. The only thing missing was Endless Summer on the television, but I’m sure that could be arranged. Between the living room and the master bedroom is the covered deck area—complete with a window to a wet bar inside. The designers of this house knew what they were doing.
early morning swell. Closets abound for all the board shorts, t-shirts,
The inviting master suite features a centrally located four-
wetsuits, bathing suits, rash vests and the occasional sundress and
poster bed hung with the romantic tulle curtains that represent
linen shirts that a wave-riding couple would need. The master
the Caribbean. The room has views on three sides with the most
bathroom has separate his and her toilets and sinks but a shared
magnificent vista being the one over Apple Bay for the view of the
shower between them.
www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
9
Waveland Summary
Rooms designed by a surfer for a surfer.
Neighbourhood
- Spyglass Hill
Bedrooms
- Three
Bathrooms
- Two
Swimming Pool
- No
Size
- 0.3 acres
Price
- US$695,000
The second and third floors benefit from different vantage points of the same stunning view. If I were to move in to Waveland, I’d probably choose the tucked away third bedroom loft as my sanctuary. Atop the house on its own, the room felt like a tree house, a widow’s watch or a wheelhouse. Windows wrap around the room—giving a 180-degree view of the sea and hillside. I’d probably install a higher bed that was level with the windows so I could watch the cresting and receding surf from my pillow. Beneath the lookout room, the second floor encompasses a private study, a bathroom and another large bedroom. Photos on the study wall show local surfers frozen in time at their best, and the window shows the live action in the rolling waves below. The built in desk, cupboards and shelves offer an ideal workspace that still feels connected to the sea. The second-floor bedroom has a private porch as well as an indoor lounging area in addition to the bed, dresser and closets. Back downstairs, stone steps lead to outside garden areas on both sides of the house with plenty of room for an in-ground pool to be installed. A bench in a shady patch of springy lawn offers a quiet spot for reflection or reading or simply listening to the ebb and flow. Pineapples grow along the edge of the yard. Below the house is ample space for
284.494.5700 | 284.340.5555 | www.bvisir.com
expansion—anything from an additional apartment or a guest suite to a playroom for the kids. Currently, a large storage area serves as a work room, and a huge walk-in closet houses more surfboards than I could count. From top to bottom, Waveland is the ideal surfer’s retreat. PY
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BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
For more info contact: Maritha Keil t (284)340.5555 e maritha.keil@sothebysrealty.com
Why is it okay to collect rain but not sunlight to meet the community’s needs when they both fall from the sky?
Solar Energy
Rain Water
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X
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RE N E WA B L E ENER GY • AB U NDANT • S US TAINABLE • INDEP ENDENT • A CARIBBEAN S OLU TION www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
11
Blues Boat Yard
By David Blacklock
The salesman looked at me with an indulgent eye.
rebuilding her on the beach. I think he paid a dollar for
“We're not selling boats,” he said, “we're selling
her. Did a great job.”
dreams.” I had asked about a particular customer of
I had seen some successes. My friend Mike had found
his whom I knew to be interested in a boat far beyond
a 31-foot cruiser on Craigslist and assailed the reclusive
his capabilities as a sailor. “The details don't matter,”
owner with emails until he relented and sailed into Road
the salesman had said. “he's not buying a hull and
Harbour. Mike bought the boat there and then, for not
deck, he's buying freedom and adventure.”
much more than $5,000—and immediately spent a good
I thought about this exchange recently when I sat down
amount fixing her up, but now she's gorgeous, and he's
with James Buchanan at his boatyard at West End. I'd
rightfully proud.
been intrigued by the number of old, weather-beaten,
Other friends are busy restoring a big old wooden
character-filled boats that seemed to fill his yard. One of
ketch that's taking all the resources they have—but it will
mine was among them. A 35-foot steel cutter that had
be a treasure when they're done. Not to be left out, I
come my way and which I was attempting to restore,
have to admit to owning not one but two boats I found
though the process was taking an awfully long time. I
abandoned or which were offered to me as a last resort
wanted to know my chances of success. They didn't seem
before abandonment. The first was a 28-foot Morgan
great. “Oh, I've seen people do it, alright,” James said,
which had been left aground in the mangroves. By doing
“but they really did put some effort into it. Take Aristocat.
some diligent detective work I found a previous owner—
She was beaten up and sunk in a hurricane and they
who had sold it on to someone else, but that someone
dragged her in here and a guy spent a couple of years
else had left the country and wasn't coming back.
12
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
design The "boatyard of broken dreams" in West End. Photo by Dan O'Connor
Eventually, I tracked him down and after
his yard “The Boatyard of Broken Dreams.”
a year of pleading, he agreed to pass the
He's seen them come and go. Well come
boat on to me. No money was exchanged,
anyway, since once they boats are in his
but it was hard work.
yard they seldom leave.
The second was the 35-foot steel cutter
“Rough and ready is the way to go if
which had been passed from hand to hand
you want to get out cruising,” James said.
until friends who knew of my experience
“It's the pretty that costs money—if you
with the Morgan asked my advice about
want pretty, wait until you're anchored
taking ownership. I encouraged them to go
in Rangiroa and get out the paint brush.”
ahead, with the proviso that they should
James waved a hand out his office window
give me first right of refusal if they changed
to indicate the number of boats that sit in his
their minds. She immediately got pregnant
yard. Some have accumulated debts of tens
and the thought of restoring a rust bucket
of thousands of dollars in yard fees over the
and raising a wee bairn at the same time
years, but they're not worth much. “If you
proved too daunting.
know anyone who wants a boat, tell them to
My boatbuilding experience is pretty
make me an offer,” he said.
minimal, but I have plenty of friends who
I looked out at the collection and thought
offer good advice—the most common
of the dozens of other boats I'd seen
suggestion being “sink it and go buy a
recently—some sitting at an angle on a
proper yacht.” James shares that opinion in
beach, others squatting a little low in the
general—most sailors attempting to refurbish
water, tattered sails flapping in the breeze,
an old boat find themselves running out of
lines banging. Sights like that make my heart
time, energy or money or any combination
skip a beat. Some people have that reaction
of those. “Boats are a dime a dozen these
when they see an abandoned puppy, but
days,” he said. “If you're going to do it, do
for me it's an abandoned boat. I'm reminded
it with a Bentley, not a Chevy. If you find
of the salesman's slightly cynical view—
construction
consultation
a Swan 43 abandoned on the rocks or a
perhaps it is all fantasy and dream, after all,
Hinckley that went down in a hurricane,
but I'll soldier on, chipping rust and bleeding
Poolworks
go for it. When you're done, it'll be worth
money until either my dream boat is afloat,
the personal ocean experts
something.” It's not for nothing that he calls
or my (tiny) fortune is indeed sunk. PY
T(284)494.0989 poolworks@surfbvi.com www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
13
Idealistic Architecture
From left: The "buried house" and the "lookout house." By Steve Fox.
By Steve Fox, OMBI BVI
Architecture is fun. We become architects because we want to create, use our imagination, enjoy our job. And with every project, no matter how ordinary or mundane, we instinctively aim to build in some poetry, romance and adventure. At architecture school, we’re taught to conceptualise – to develop a guiding concept right at the beginning of a project, which then informs the design as it evolves. Good architecture begins with a strong idea to organize, understand and give meaning to the huge range of stuff that has to come together to result in a successful building. And once you’ve come up with a concept, you can give it a name; the Shell, the Doughnut, the Gherkin, the Cloud… Over my years living in the BVI, I’ve stored up in my mind lots
house could step down the hill, with stairs connecting double-
of concepts for houses which might fit, one day, with the
height spaces. The thermal mass of the surrounding earth and
perfect client on the perfect piece of land. So I thought I’d
rock keeps the internal temperature low and stable. Wind
share a few this month.
Raw House Imagine a house built from materials which are fully intended
catchers and ducts can be used to provide natural ventilation, and courtyards to bring natural light into the deeper parts of the space.
to weather; to change and evolve over time. Natural,
Lookout House
untreated hardwoods and stone, unfinished concrete and
The opposite approach: cantilever dramatically out from the
patinated metals give the home character and permanence.
hillside, making the most of the possibilities of construction in
Consider Cor-ten weathering steel, which forms a rust-like
concrete or wood. Or build up, tall and tower-like, to create
corrosion-resistant coating when exposed to the elements and
elevated spaces with even more spectacular views than
was developed to eliminate the need for painting. Or choose
usual. Stretching the building up and out can create dynamic
lime paint and plaster, which are maintenance free, mildew
relationships between spaces, and between the people in the
resistant and should look better as they get older. No need to
spaces. Not for agoraphobics or vertigo-sufferers, but if you’re
polish this building; just let nature take its course.
Bunker House On a steep BVI hillside, a house could be dug into the slope,
going to build on a hillside, why not explore the possibilities, and test your structural engineers to their limits?
Inside-Outside House
partially covered with earth and vegetation, and blended into
In the always warm Caribbean climate, we can actually
the landscape to create a cost-effective, cool and sheltered
achieve what generations of architects and home builders
hurricane-proof space with minimal external visual impact. The
have dreamed of: a seamless continuity between inside www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
15
and outside. Imagine taking this to the extreme, where it’s
and water consumption by installing efficient fixtures and
impossible to say if you’re inside or out. The house would
appliances, eliminate the need for air conditioning by
provide protection from rain and direct sun, but with an
designing for good ventilation and cooling, install renewable
inventive roof design and some clever screening, it’s possible
power sources to generate your own electricity from abundant
to throw open the walls to your house, to slide them back until
wind and sun, and collect your own rainwater. Create gardens
they disappear completely. Internal courtyards and gardens
for growing your own food, and composting to process your
can heighten the effect and make rooms feel much bigger;
organic waste. Not an original concept, but very relevant in our
with space flowing freely, boundaries are dissolved and the
island context.
house and the landscape are merged. These are all abstract ideas waiting to become real with a
Cool House
fortuitous alignment of concept, client and site. Of course, with
To minimise cost and site disturbance on a steep slope, we
each project, the conditions are unique, and as the design
often aim to build along the contours, keeping the building
process evolves, new concepts emerge. A good designer
narrow, reducing the need for excavation and tall retaining
should be prepared to tailor ideas for individual projects, or to
walls. Taking this a step further, we could design an unusually
save them for another occasion. I'm still waiting for the right
narrow house, to maximise the view on one side, connect to
clients for the following projects: the overwater house, the
the landscape on the other, and make every space breezy and
floating house, the underwater house, the tree house, the stilt
light. A thin house like this would be very suitable on many BVI
house, the boulder house; the list goes on.
sites and may be a good solution for a smaller 2- or 3-bedroom
Ultimately, the goal is to create an integrated whole.
family home where simplicity is important and budget is critical.
Perhaps the target should be the perfect house: a combination of all the right ideas for the project. This house would be unique,
Neutral House
environmentally sensitive, with inexpensive design which sits in
Minimise the building’s environmental impact, make the home fully self-sufficient and carbon neutral. Reduce energy
harmony with its site, meets all the needs of its owners, and is much more than simply the sum of its parts. PY
ARCHITECTURE RESORT DESIGN DEVELOPMENT CONSULTING MASTER PLANNING INTERIOR DESIGN OBM International t 284 494 2148 OBMI.COM
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18
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
30th
CYS
Above: Boats fill Village Cay's slips for the Yacht Show. Photos provided Janet Oliver.
BOAT SHOW
Sparks Industry Optimism By Dan O'Connor
When I first stepped on to the yacht Yes Dear, I
Society’s annual Charter Yacht Show, which marks 30
immediately felt welcomed. Captain Ian Barber and
this month. There, boat owners and their crews get a
Chef Jody Boyd were happy to see me and opened
unique chance to meet brokers and mingle with others
the 58-foot luxury catamaran’s sliding doors into the
in their respective industry. A lot has changed over 30
cool and inviting main cabin. Within, Jody busied
years of sailing, but the BVI’s pristine waters and smooth
herself in the boat’s galley to prepare a succulent
trade winds have managed to stay pretty consistent.
snapper plate as Ian worked to dress the table to
I spoke with CYS Director Janet Oliver, who explained
my liking. I put down my bags, kicked back and
that probably the most notable change over the past
relaxed on the cabin’s comfy leather couch. Just as I
30 years of chartering in the Virgin Islands is the type
settled in, Jody offered me a cold and sweaty Carib.
of boat in demand. This month, following the trend of
I couldn’t resist. I could get used to this.
consecutive years past, the Boat Show will fill Village
I visited Yes Dear not as a client but as a
Cay’s marina to capacity with about 65 yachts that are
photographer. The crewed yacht is featured alongside
each aiming for an average of 20 bookings. In the early
27 others in Dining on Deck , Charter Yacht Society of the
nineties, that would mean a marina full of monohulls,
British Virgin Islands’ crewed yacht cookbook, published
but today that means slips mostly filled out with large
through aLookingGlass. During my brief experience on
and luxurious catamarans. Larger boats mean larger
the boat, I imagined what it would be like to be floating
groups who can occupy vessels that can comfortably
through the Sir Francis Drake Channel or moored outside
charter groups of eight or more. It may be a more
Spring Bay in Virgin Gorda. It’s not hard to sell the Virgin
expensive package, but for a group pool, it inevitably
Islands as a prime sailing destination, especially after
cuts individual costs, Janet explained.
abcnews.com recently ranked “Sailing in the British
In the BVI alone, there are close to 1,000 boats—
Virgin Islands” second in their list “100 Places to Visit
largely bareboats—that help to give the territory the
Before You Die.", but each year those involved in the
reputation as the Caribbean’s sailing capital. The CYS
crewed yacht industry take steps to ensure that they
director estimated that about 100 boats make up the
fill their schedule with a long list of bookings. To do so,
crewed yacht industry in the BVI. “And in that industry
one of the best avenues for leads is the Charter Yacht
itself—it may seem small—but we believe we’ll generate
www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
19
Brokers and crew mingle at last year's event.
$40 million a year for the BVI,” she
a problem,” he said. “Even in harder
predicted. For the economy, that means
economic times, their services are
lots of jobs and consistent revenue,
required, and their income is static, so
she added. In the Boat Show’s 30th
they don’t get hit—and that’s what our
gathering, Janet said she has high hopes
clientele looks like.”
for today’s industry and the future’s,
When I spoke with him, Dick still had
despite the looming economic cloud.
three months left before he closed the
Dick Schoonover, who manages the
book on 2011 charter calendar. He may
clearinghouse CharterPort BVI, can
even break some personal records. And
attest to the apparent success felt in the
while those on Wall Street are predicting
territory, despite worrisome extraneous
a double-dip recession, the charter
factors. To date, since 2008, numbers are
industry middleman predicts full sails
actually up—from 619 bookings to 625 as
ahead.
of February.
I may not be a six-figure surgeon or
“In a time of economic turmoil, we
lawyer, but living and working here in
appear to be improving and just don’t
the BVI I’ve been fortunate enough to
understand it,” he said. “Since 2008, I
sample some of the finest yachting
think [clients] have discovered that
experiences in the world. It’s a lifestyle
the sky isn’t falling like everyone said it
easily taken for granted but brought
would, and even if it does crash, they’ll
back into perspective when noticing
take that vacation, no matter what.”
the wide eyes of guests and tourists
In Dick’s business, it’s the clientele
perhaps having a Leonardo DiCaprio
that determines strength and
“king of the world” moment at the bow
consistency in the industry.
of, say, Yes Dear . It’s these priceless
“It’s the doctors, the dentists, the
moments that help to keep the charter yacht industry well afloat. PY
undertakers that never seem to have
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BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
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21
That
Sinking Feeling By Dan O'Connor
The ebb and flow of nature remain strong on the popular sailing destination that bears the reputation as the “sunken island.” 22
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
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The flat island of Anegada is selfish when it comes to its sandy terrain and bountiful beachfronts, which rest cautiously on its deep coral base. Without much warning, it takes what it naturally desires and gives back what it no longer needs. The ebb and flow of nature remain strong on the popular sailing destination that bears the reputation as the “sunken island.” The original proprietor of the Anegada Seaside Villas on the island’s west end came face-to-face with Anegada’s unforgiving natural tendencies when his seven beachfront cottages began to slowly slip into the sea. Recently, after a beating from Hurricane Earl and a fasteroding coastline, four of the villas submerged when the receding beachfront crept into the sea—one cottage literally collapsed. The villas remained in a temporary state of hopeless disrepair until the land was sold and a plan was hatched to do the seemingly impossible: reclaim the beach and take back the villas. The scene is shocking to those who remember staying in the villas when they were in their prime, like Colin Rathbun, who was married on Anegada in 2008. On a sweltering morning this August, Colin set out to Anegada on his 24-foot fishing boat to revisit the island of his nuptials. As he approached the western coastline, he was stunned by what he saw. “There’s the cottage where Brynley and I stayed after our wedding,” he exclaimed as he pointed to the collapsed boutique cottage, with one of its four walls missing. Its interior faced the boat like an exposed dollhouse. “Sure wouldn’t want to stay there now,” he quipped. He idled around the island’s coast to reveal a project of unbelievable magnitude. Hundreds of sandbags jetted out from beach to create three long offshore groins. The geo bags—or sandbags—seemed to be working to corral the converging sand to effectively rebuild the beach. In the distance, workers from
Above: A commercial diver fills geo bags to revive a sunken cottage. Photo provided by Chris Juredin. Left: Cottages nearly slip into the sea. Photo by Dan O'Connor.
Commercial Dive Services filled even more geo bags under the hot tropical sun, then trudged them in line with the others. As they worked, they fought submerging currents at a point where strong northern swells meet against opposing currents. The testing work looked like a scene from the Discovery Channel show Dirty Jobs . I later spoke with Commercial Dive manager Chris Juredin, who explained just how challenging the project really is. “The hardest part for us is working with the north swells, which
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come in at four to seven knots with river-like current,” he said. “That’s the same current that is responsible for stealing the rest of the beach.” CDS was contracted in November 2010, after Hurricane Earl dealt a devastating blow to the property. Shortly after, three ambitious proprietors stepped in to purchase the land and face the daunting task of repairing the beach. They called upon Chris and his crew who have previously worked on projects to reclaim beaches, like at
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23
The coastline as it looked in 2006. Photo provided by Chris Juredin.
Eustatia Island’s eastern beachfront. There, the beach had similarly
the CDS manager explained. “It basically chewed off the beach.
been depleted by erosion but did not face the additional challenge
And now it’s back-breaking work.”
from converging currents like at Anegada’s western point. In
A site visit last month revealed that the beach indeed was
Eustatia’s case, the coast regenerated its beach by a similar use of
regenerating itself, with the help of the breaks, and the cottages
sandbags and groins.
seemed to be reclaiming their foundation on the beach. The
“But here the guys are fighting against longshore drifts that rip at
amazing recovery efforts, Chris said, would likely not deprive
the western point, meeting with energy from the opposing current,”
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neighbouring beaches of their sand, due to the unique method of collection at a converging point. Although the proprietors and the CDS team have worked closely with environmental engineers locally and from the States, Chris admits that the project has gained “a lot of skepticism from the start.” Local marine biologist Shannon Gore, who surveyed the project with the Conservation and Fisheries Department, is one such person who has her reservations. She explained that the island slowly has shifted its coastline over the past 150 years, causing much of the erosion the western point is now facing. As time goes on, she hypothesized, these forces will continue to create a problem for those with property near these affected coastlines. “This side of the island is morphologically adjusting to environmental conditions, and despite future sea level rise, it has a chance to adjust by shifting sand in a counterclockwise motion,” she explained, adding that the sandbag barriers could eventually
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act to “starve” the southeast beachfront—a process that could take decades to notice. But today, the current proprietors and the beachfront restoration project manager remain hopeful that the existing properties will flourish for years to come. Chris believes that the existing sandbags will hold strong, keeping the beach rejuvenated without maintenance for up to 15 years. In the meantime, they’ll cross their fingers and hope that Anegada doesn’t live up to its reputation as a “sunken island.” PY
A Cookbook for Daydreamers
Many of us aspire to be chefs, hence the popularity of cooking
of service a chartered yacht crew provides.
shows and celebrity cooks. Yet, I don’t believe the idea of
Recipes featured in Dining on Deck include such treats as coconut
working in Gordon Ramsay’s abusive kitchen appeals to most.
tuna ceviche, pistachio-crusted pork tenderloin, ginger poached
Instead, some of us dream of running a gastro pub or a B&B or,
pears, and a mysterious beverage called “Ti’Punch.” Some dishes
in my case, a soup and salad counter. The pleasure of cooking
seem light and playful while others are refined and decadent. In
is making food that pleases others—hearing guests unable to
fact, the recipes could act as an accurate representation of the
suppress an “mmmmmm” sound as they savour the flavours so
many types of charter yacht crew personalities, and after reading
lovingly prepared for them.
the cookbook and the many recipes, I definitely have a feel for the
Before moving to the BVI, my imagination was limited to reveries
participating yachts.
of prepping my creations in stationary kitchens in not-so-exotic
The boat-friendly, spiral-bound cookbook also serves as a
locales. Never in my food-chopping fantasies did I envision serving
fundraiser for the Charter Yacht Society, and the launch party for the
canapés on the top deck of a luxury yacht tucked into a hidden
publication will take place on Tuesday, November 8, during the
bay encircling the pristine Caribbean Sea. This dream job, held by
Charter Yacht Show welcome party at Village Cay Marina. All are
the participating chefs of the Dining on Deck cookbook, trumps all
welcome. Copies of the book will be available for $15, and some
my visions of rustic pubs in chilly London or trendy lunch counters in
chefs will be on hand to sign their recipes. PY
New York. Chef on a private yacht? Yes, please. I think that would work for me. Alas, unlike the chefs who have revealed their galley secrets in
Dining on Deck , I lack the training and experience to cook for the most elite clientele in the world. Rather, I’m destined to a life (mostly) on land, cooking for friends and family whenever I can. Now, by consulting Dining on Deck, I can at least pretend to be serving high-end hcarter guests. The enviable chefs of the crewed yachts, all members of the Charter Yacht Society of the British
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desserts to cocktails and main courses that I look forward to serving while I imagine being anchored near a secluded beach. Though I must admit, I probably wouldn’t spoil my guests with the same level
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NOVEMBER 2011
25
BlindLove By Dan O'COnnor
Merreth Smith cracks a smile at her husband, Gregory. Photos by Dan O'Connor.
G regory Smith wakes before sunrise to begin his day. Alongside his wife, Merreth, he ventures out to their two plots of farmland while it's still dark outside. Merreth makes herself busy by weeding the gardens and harvesting their crop; Gregory prepares the soil, hoes the rows and waters the plants. Eighteen years ago, this might not have seemed like an extraordinary feat. But eighteen years ago, Gregory still had his vision. In 1993, Gregory was misdiagnosed for an allergic reaction and given a medication that countered with his glaucoma eye drops. “Within three days after I took those tablets, I got up, went outside and I said to my wife, ’Yup. It’s cloudy. Looks like rain,” he said. “But then I stepped further out the door and the warmth from the sun could have knocked me down. That’s when I knew I couldn’t see at all.”
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BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
Those tablets would change Gregory’s life forever. Within a week, he was completely blind. “I didn’t want to leave home at all. At all, at all,” he said. “I wanted to just pull my hair out, not go nowhere or no place. I said to myself, ‘It’s all over now.’” But his wife wouldn’t have that. His six children needed him to be strong. At the time, Gregory was 32. This year, he marked 50, “And I’ve never been happier,” he said. The transition wasn’t easy, he explained. He spent five months in Jamaica for mobility training and basically “had to learn everything over again. How to eat, where to walk, how to talk comfortably,” he said. “And I came back and it was hard. But now I know the whole farm, I know everything and everywhere to go.” I first met the Smiths on October, 2010, shortly after Hurricane Earl flattened their
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
Right: Gregory irrigates the rows. Far right: Merreth looks for ripe papayas.
“We are two very happy people,” Gregory said. “Of course, we’re happy until death does us part. It’s a good life.” vegetable and fruit farm. After watching Gregory navigate the land, I was shocked to later find out that he was completely blind. When I ventured back to their Paraquita farm last month, the land was overgrown, but healthy. The mango, papaya and jackfruit trees were healthy and tall, and the herbs were bushy and full. The rows of young seedlings were neat and budding. Merreth credited the harvest’s revival to hard work and the grace of God. “Once you’re a farmer, you’ve got to be perseistent,” she said. “If not, you’re going to see it just gone—with a disaster or disease. But we don’t give up so easily.” In 1989, when Gregory still had his vision and worked at Peter Island Resort as a pastry chef, Merreth tended to their small farm in Capoon’s Bay. That summer, Hurricane Hugo destroyed their crop. www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
27
But that same year, they picked up and moved to Paraquita Bay, where they started fresh and began working for the Agricultural Department. Today, the two still work for the Agricultural Department during the day, but Gregory no longer cooks. “But thank God I’m doing better than ever now,” he said. “I’m happier than ever.” He joy seems most apparent when he’s with his wife, in their garden. Merreth can’t help but finish his sentences. “Tell him about how you eat from your plate like it’s a clock … what about when you were in Jamiaca ... and now you can do it all by yourself,” she’d say. “Sit up when you speak, now.” Merreth admitted that life isn’t always easy. Sometimes the crops don’t take to the water, and the market doesn’t heed a profit, she said. “But
Merreth explains Gregory's daily duties.
that’s life. And it goes on,” she stated, pointing to her religion and her husband as her guiding light
The two celebrated their 28th anniversary this
through life’s struggles. We sat on box crates and
year, and have admittedly never been happier.
empty tires as they spoke. Almost to break the down
Merreth enjoys traveling and visiting her children
mood of the conversation, Merreth jumped up and
and grandchildren in the States. Gregory seems the
headed to the grounds to demonstrate how she
type that goes along for the ride—with a wide grin
weeds in the morning and in the evenings after work.
and his eternal optimism.
Gregory walked carefully in tow, and picked up a
“We are two very happy people,” he said. “Of
hoe and meticulously took to the neat irrigation
course, we’re happy until death does us part. It’s a
rows. Their chemistry is undeniable.
good life.” PY
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NOVEMBER 2011
29
Own a Home?Join the Club By Willa Tavernier, O'Neal Webster BVI
Recently, a client handed me a fairly thick document, with a look of trepidation on his face. It was the by-laws of the Homeowner’s Association (HOA), and Declaration of Covenants, for a property he was buying. It’s easy to be intimidated by these documents. Many people don’t even read them. Some people hate the whole concept. I decided, therefore, to compile a list of the top five reasons that purchasers seem to be put off by covenants and by-laws:
• The Association or developer can charge you fees every year for maintenance • They contain lots of rules for things you either must do, or can’t do on your own property • They use intimidating words, like charge, caution, lien, restrictions etc. in relation to your property if you don’t follow those rules Restrictive covenants are agreements restricting the use of property
• They’re never short documents
by both present and future owners of that property. They attach to (or
• You can’t opt out of the HOA—once you buy the land membership is mandatory
burden) the property, and under BVI law they must also confer some benefit on land owned by another person. Typically in the BVI, the covenants are mutual—they benefit of all the properties contained within a particular development or neighbourhood, and similarly burden all those properties. Once this mutual benefit and burden is demonstrated to the Registrar of Lands, usually by proving the existence of a scheme of development, the covenants are endorsed on the title to the land as an incumbrance. Once the covenants are endorsed on the title, they bind all future owners. Another method used to ensure that all future owners are bound is a requirement that the first purchaser must include the covenants in any future transfer of the property. HOAs are formal legal entities, usually limited companies, created to ensure that the restrictive covenants attaching to the property, are adhered to. Membership is mandatory for all property owners within the development and are usually charged mandatory fees. HOAs also typically have the authority to enact and enforce maintenance and design standards. However, there are also quite a few reasons to like, even love the idea of an HOA and covenanted property.
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BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
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The purpose of restrictive covenants and the HOAs that monitor
withstand future increases or will you have to sell up and move? Once you buy the property, you can't decline to pay the dues. If you do, a charge can be placed on your property, which can then be sold to liquidate the debt. Annual fees can range from hundreds to thousands per year, depending on the property and the amenities provided by the community.
them, is to maintain the quality of the properties in a development or neighborhood. They do this by keeping common areas looking attractive, making sure no one’s fixing cars in the street or running a flea market out of their driveway, and reducing the potential for people putting up eyesores, by seeing to it that buildings and renovations are in keeping with the general architectural concepts
• Find out if the HOA has cash reserves.
and standards of the area. Of course to do all these things, funding is
• Determine if there are term limits for the Board, and how easy it is to replace board members. In some developments it is impossible to change board members or by-laws because the developer retains an absolute majority of voting rights.
necessary, which can lead to fee increases that cannot be declined (unless sufficient votes are garnered to change the by-laws). All told, the foregoing helps to preserve property values, which is the core underlying rationale of HOAs and covenants. Your decision on whether to buy into a neighbourhood governed by covenants and an HOA should take into account the following: • Read the Declaration of Covenants recorded against the property and make sure you can live with the conditions and restrictions contained in the document prior to signing a sale and purchase agreement. • Find out what amenities are provided.
• Determine if there is litigation pending involving the HOA. One current suit in the BVI involves the community association suing a member for running a professional office in the property. In another community, the owner sought and obtained the consent of the other property owners for the operation of a light commercial enterprise, which was not viewed as detrimental to the property values. Whether or not to buy into one of these communities is an individual
• Find out what the current dues are, and what they’ve been over the past 5-7 years to get an idea of the trend. Will you be able to
but very important decision, that should be made with the benefit of as much information as possible. PY
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Artists’ Corner:
a Window Into the past Story and photos Dan O'Connor
In the old days, Virgin Islanders were
Above: A Vanterpool piece.
Vanterpool’s paintings, seen around
industrious—they were independent and
the territory on walls and murals and
lived off the land. They often used horses
offices and textbooks, tell a visual story
and mules to lug timber and large loads
of a place many seem to have forgotten.
up steep hillsides. They grew their own
When I sat with the artist in his new studio
coffee and cocoa; they often made their
in Great Mountain, Tortola, last month,
own clothes. And when smiling school
he explained why he feels a need to
children walked home from class, they’d
contribute to history.
often take off their shoes, knot them,
“I feel that it’s my duty, being an older
and sling them over their shoulder and
head, who happened to a part of the
go barefoot to prevent wear and tear. I
past, to help tell a story—a story that is not
know this not because I was there or
generally known by the younger persons,”
because I read a book that told me
the 65-year-old artist said. “I feel it is my
so. I know because Ruben Vanterpool’s
responsibility to pass it on.”
paintings showed me.
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NOVEMBER 2011
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The artist and his work.
34
The Tortola native perked up when I asked him about the
career artist worked as a public servant—as a teacher.
past. His lively mood helps to give his stories character as
He taught youths of all ages on all subjects. But whatever
he tells them.
class he taught, he made sure to remind his students
“Our parents told us about the older times by word
about the past.
of mouth,” he said. “We can do better than that. Some
When he retired in 1994, he took his hobby of painting
of us are writers, some of us are artists, so we can tell
and turned it into a full-time job. When I asked him to
a better story. I tell my story through my medium, you
explain his style of work, the artist said, “My work is very
through yours.”
autobiographical, because of my involvement in life at
Vanterpool has been telling stories for many years,
the time,” he said. “It’s not like I’m not moving on—that
even before he picked up the brush and easel and used
I’m stuck in the past—it’s just that I look at that time and
his canvas as a storybook. From 1975 to 1994, the now
like to bring it here through a window.”
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Vanterpool paints pictures of the past.
Today, he still teaches and reaches out to the community by offering lessons from his Great Mountain studio. He has also erected another studio on his property that he hopes will allow people from all over the world experience the Virgin Islands of the past through his work and the work of other local artists. He plans to showcase art in a building that borders Ridge Road, a route that up to 80 safari taxis transferring tourists traverses almost daily in high season. There, for a small fee, tourists and community members will be able to relive the past, just as Vanterpool does when he creates his artwork. The oil
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and acrylic painter said he was inspired to start the project because he’s often asked by visitors how the territory used to be. “What was the indigenous life like? What did you do for a living? How did you live?” he said, restating their questions. “I hope they will get a glimpse of that when they come here. To pass years that brought us to the stage that we are now, that’s what I hope to accomplish.” The artist said he eventually hopes to resurrect the dilapidated ruins around the island that are often overlooked and mistreated. Currently, he is working on a project to restore the Sugar Works mill through a partnership with the college. He is currently accepting donations for the project. But for now, the storyteller will continue to paint a window into the past. “I’m getting riper,” he said of his old age. “I won’t be here forever but at least I have today to tell about yesterday.” PY
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NOVEMBER 2011
35
Awaking a
Sleeping Prison
The prison's overgrown backside. Photo by Dan O'Connor
By Hugh Whistler
36
Her Majesty’s Prison in Road Town may be mostly
slinks out through the grill and into the courtyard.
inactive, but its long-standing presence and history in
And if you want gruesome, then rebuild the execution
the heart of BVI’s capital makes it far from forgotten.
cell—the trapdoor and hanging beam are still in
Essentially abandoned in 1995 after 221 years of
storage since its last use in 1974. In 2003, I brought
continuous use, the facility still stands strong with all
these ideas to the table with a proposal to revive the
of its walls and cells—and even surrounding barbed
still standing structure as a museum, while retaining
wire—largely intact. What a site for a museum! Some
the original 1774 walls and cells. Government officials
might ask: a museum in a prison? But several come to
accepted my plan, but difficulties to revive the prison
mind: Fort Christian in St Thomas; the military prison in
would stand in my way.
Barbados that is now their National Museum; and the
I wasn’t the first to devise a plan where the prison
old jail in Inveraray, Scotland that has a fascinating
stands. In 1992, some outside experts devised a plan
courtroom with talking dummies. Imagine a tour of a
that would have torn down the historical building and
cell at the old prison here: as you switch on the light,
in its place erected a modern glass-domed structure.
a voice from a prisoner at a makeshift table bellows,
The ambitious plan was eventually dismissed, as its
“Watcha starin’ at?” Just then, a real-life prison cat
starting price was the huge sum (for the day) of $4
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
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million. My ideas perhaps were more modest, and followed those first presented by the Prison Visitors Committee, which suggested a place for prisoners of the new prison at Balsam Ghut to work and display their goods as part of a thoughtful prisoner reform programme. Using two hardworking prison gangs, I made a good start by demolishing some of the newer, unsightly additions so as to get back closer to the original layout—in particular the little courtyard as I remembered it when I got my passport stamped there in 1965. At that time, the prison doubled as the BVI Police Headquarters,
Her Majesty’s Prison in Road Town may be mostly inactive, but its long-standing presence and history in the heart of BVI’s capital makes it far from forgotten. and even included the immigration and fire departments. Whilst I was working there one day a middle-aged gentleman poked his head around the gate and asked if he could look around. He had done time in cells number 4 and 10 some years before, and gave me a most interesting tour. I thought to myself, “Just the man we need as a guide later!” Unfortunately, this effort ground to a halt when the government changed hands. But The history of the prison remains encapsulated within its gated walls off Main Street. The prison sits between the Anglican and Methodist churches, a strip historically
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NOVEMBER 2011
37
referred to as “redemption row,” with the prisoners’ sandwiched location referred to as the “in-between.” In 1958, famed US Author George T. Eggleston sailed the Virgin Islands—eventually writing a book about his travels—and stopped in Road Harbour to visit the Rev Denham Mullings at the Methodist church. Eggleston stopped at the open doors of the police station (also the prison) and talked to a pleasant man in blue denim who was sweeping the courtyard. There was only one prisoner on the books at the time. He came to me and said, “I am de prisonah!” A lot has happened there since it was built in 1774 but little has changed on most of the ground floor or since the infamous Arthur Hodge hanging in 1811 and Cell 9 open during a site visit. Photo by Hugh Whistler.
since the last condemned man was hung in 1974. But my thoughts then, in 2003, were that many stories could be displayed to tell its history and of those who served in the various services it housed and perhaps even of BVI military history; besides helping the prison service
BVIPG0411-2
15/4/11
15:51
Page 1
When the boss has had a bright idea, everyone has to know about it.
help those that deserved help and to provide Road Town with additional display and lecture halls. PY
Business Insurance Full service business solutions from Colonial. We’re full of bright ideas! Flexible office and business insurance cover Pensions run like clockwork! Reports updated day 27 each month, simple billing, no hidden costs or exit fees The best health cover at the best possible price Fast claims service! Fully tested business continuity plan
Low rates, low deductibles for home and motor cover too! Your insurance is supported by a company which has settled over $300 million in claims for 11 hurricanes since 2000.
CALL 494-8450 or visit www.cgigroup.bm
COLONIAL INSURANCE (BVI) LTD. Palm Grove House, P.O. Box 2377, Road Town,Tortola,VG1110 Tel. 494-8450 email. colonial@surfbvi.com www.cgigroup.bm A member of Colonial Group International: Insurance, Health, Pensions, Life
38
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
Colonial Group International is rated A(Excellent) by AM Best.
Get on board this summer. Beef Island to St. Maarten as low as $99. Romasco Place, Admin Drive, Road Town, Tortola, BVI VG1110 1.284.494.2347/8 and 1.284.340.2347 Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda, BVI VG1150 1.284.495.5580 and 1.284.340.5580 travelplan@romascobvi.com
Booking Agent
Book online
www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
39
Exceptional Island Properties
MAGNIFICENT HISTORIC WATERFRONT ESTATE TORTOLA, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Located on west end of Smuggler’s Cove, one of the most beautiful beaches in the BVI t spectacular ocean, island and sunset views t total privacy t direct access to the beach t private jetty t designed for indoor/outdoor tropical living t 5 bedrooms all ocean facing t separate guest cottage t about 5.5 acres
GUIDE PRICE $6.5M
To view these & many other listings call (284) 495 3000 or visit www.coldwellbankerbvi.com. tel. (284) 340 3000
info@coldwellbankerbvi.com
www.coldwellbankerbvi.com
For A Less Taxing Life, Own a Home in The BVI.
R A M B U TA N RAKU N A I L B AY C R O O K B AY $3,500,000 $8,800,000 19 room custom beachfront 4 bedrooms with pool. Right home. No other BVI home on the beach. Indonesia meets finished to this standard. Caribbean in some style!
DOS SOLS VILLA L E V E R I C K B AY
MEDITERRANEAN VILLA C R O O K B AY
$2,200,000 $2,000,000 Walk to the beach from this fabulous Spacious 4 bed Villa, vaulted ceilings, 4 bedroom home with pool. Simply cool breezes, breathtaking stunning views of North Sound! views, moments from beach.
SEVEN PEAKS C A N E G A R D E N B AY $3,250,000 Sitting on a rare 4 acre water-
SEA’S SONG VILLA GOVERNOR’S POINT LO N G B AY MANSION HALL $2,950,000 $2,950,000 Historic Estate Home moments When you dreamt of a water-
front Lot, a 4 bedroom home
from beach & marina. Wonderful front home, it probably looked island views & breezes. like this. 3 bedrooms, 2 beaches.
with landing area. Very private.
FORT BIG PA L E S T I N A $1,550,000
T H E R E E F S AT C A N N O N P O I N T E S TAT E B A L L A S T B AY C A N E G A R D E N B AY $1,550,000 $1,600,000 4 bed hillside family home. 2 acres on the water at Brand new architect’s home Jaw dropping ocean and island Cane Garden Bay. Stunning marries contemporary luxury comfort. views over Nanny Cay Marina. views, lots of potential. with Caribbean
VILLA TOO HARBOUR HOUSE SEASCAPE S PA N I S H T O W N L E V E R I C K B AY L E V E R I C K B AY $1,200,000 $1,400,000 $1,300,000 4 bedrooms with extra 1 bed 2 bed with large pool in lovely breezy 3 bed home with guest apt on apartment. Fantastic North Sound spot. Natural stone floors. Glorious lovely 2 acre Lot, perched on hill Views. Walk to marina and beach. views of North Sound. New kitchen. above Spanish Town. Fantastic views.
MANANA L E V E R I C K B AY $995,000 3 bed with pool vacation villa, one Lot off the water. Walk
O L D E YA R D V I L L A G E VIRGIN GORDA $695,000 Fabulous 3 bed condo, finished & furnished to the highest of
to
standards. Pool, spa, restaurant, gardens
beach,
bar,
marina,
pool.
Wa t e r f r o n t H o m e s w i t h D o c k s
FOR SALE
JUST LISTED
Perhaps it’s the food. Maybe it’s
This immaculate 3 bed hillside home has
the ambience. Could be the staff or
been exceptionally well maintained & is
simply the convenient Main Street
‘move in’ ready. Set in almost an acre with-
location. Whatever it is, ‘The Dove’
in the gated Towers Estate, this exceptional
is one of, if not the most successful
property provides complete privacy & the
and popular restaurant in the BVI.
most spectacular views the BVI has to offer.
$700,000
STROHAUS $1,495,000
INDIGO LANDING $5,200,000 Waterfront Frenchmans Cay, dock & mooring, luxurious & secluded. Exquisitely finished.
D I A M O N D E S TAT E $6,000,000 Unique 10 acre estate. Full of charm and character. Over 1000’ of oceanfront. 120’ dock.
N A N N Y C AY M A R I N A FROM $850K Brand new 2 & 3 bed waterfront homes with docks within Tortola’s premier marina.
Visit our offices at Nanny Cay Marina (Tortola) or Spanish Town (Virgin Gorda)
Real Estate miths Gore opened its office in the British Virgin Islands in 1965. The firm was established in the UK in 1845 and currently operates from 26 offices. While the Caribbean practice is based in the BVI, there has been a tendency to specialize in the sale, management and valuation of properties throughout the region. British Virgin Islands Britannic Hall, P.O. Box 135, Road Town, Tortola T 1(284) 494 2446 E renata@smithsgore.com
Inside Out
Designing from the
By Dan O'Connor and Traci O'Dea Interior Design is typically interpreted based on the end
United Kingdom 17-18 Old Bond Street, London W1S 4PT T +44 (0) 207 290 1616 E michelle.persaud@sgcommercial.co.uk
aesthetic result; however, the technical process and contrast of decoration versus design are often misunderstood. Debi Carson explains design as a multi-faceted process, a culmination of ideas, experience, resources and goals. "Interior design is the coordination and development of the interior spaces of the building’s shell provided by the architect" combined with the study of the person who will be occupying the space and how
“Tis not too late to seek another world” –Tennyson
to establish and reach the project goals with regard to function, safety and aesthetics. Debi has worked hand-in-hand with architects, clients and suppliers
www.smithsgore.com
in the Caribbean for more than ten years. Her introduction to the BVI was as senior interior designer for OBM International, an architectural firm with a strong and respected foothold in the Caribbean. She still works directly with her former colleagues and other industry professionals around the territory. She helped explain what that collaboration looks like and how multiple parties come together to develop a building from the inside out. In design, she explained, there are many different types of client spaces, for example: residential, commercial, hospitality, retail and health-care. Each has its own nuances of design to be explored and understood. If she’s designing for a family or a homeowner, that end product would look very different from a high-traffic, high-end hotel or resort. She spoke fondly of a recent project she did for Peter Island Resort & Spa, a task that called upon her expertise to renovate 30 ocean-view
42
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
Opposite: Debi Carson cracks a smile in Arawak's showroom. Photo by Dan O'Connor.
and 20 beachfront units at the high-end resort.
Arawak allows Debi to relay an idea that
For this job, she was faced with the challenges
in turn goes to a manufacturer who can
that come from working in a tropical climate
customize to her preference. With the Peter
with an occupant that might “keep the doors
Island project, she asked Arawak’s Roy
and windows open to maximize the experience
Keegan to provide her wood furnishings that
of our tropical surroundings [during the day]
would be able to withstand climate change
then have more climate control with air
and also products that could help utilize the
conditioning for sleeping.”
space allotted in each room. With the works
“That’s one of the bigger challenges in the
at Peter Island, Debi had an understanding of
Caribbean—designing for climate control and
the function for the spaces, and the clientele
an indoor-outdoor lifestyle,” she said, adding
that would be occupying the rooms, as
that finding the perfect material to weather
well as maintenance challenges the resort
the climate becomes another challenging task.
faces. "In a hospitality project, there are quite
For furnishings in the Virgin Islands, she said
a few clients to please. You have to meet
she often works with Arawak Interiors. “With
expectations of your end user as the guest,
Arawak, I can look at the requirements and
you have to also consider the environment,
have flexibility to design to suit those needs
natural resources, management, budget and
with custom furnishings," she said, adding
maintenance procedures." The project solutions
“Working with Arawak from design concept
had to offer ease of use and durability for a
to fabrication and installation—it's a great
hospitality space. “All the new pieces were
relationship as Roy and his team understand our
designed with a simple line overall, carved
lifestyle and environmental challenges in the
details were implemented in a sophisticated
BVI firsthand."
pattern to coordinate with existing furnishings
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43
NOVEMBER9/23/11 2011 3:16 PM
and fabricated of kiln-dried teak for durability. To
components for an artistic screen. Arawak custom
replace broken highly corroded fold-out sofas; we
built teak bedroom furnishings to meet the
chose the trundle. We desired few mechanical
dimensions of the space, the function and storage
parts and implemented a glide system on casters,
needs for the client, and submitted stain samples for
providing little to corrode in our climate,” she said.
approval. “For the lounge areas, we selected
In a residential project, the client or end user is very
durable woven pieces constructed of man-made
much involved directly. Debi spoke of a project
fibers and fabrics resistant to UV rays and the
Roy's team worked with her to provide furnishings for
occasional spill of your favorite cocktail,” she said.
bedrooms, lounge spaces, outdoor areas and even
In addition to the practicalities of furnishings, Arawak also supplies designers with jaw-dropping
“That’s one of the bigger challenges in the Caribbean— designing for climate control and an indooroutdoor lifestyle,”
44
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
accent pieces. “When we needed something unique to create a focal point in a living space, I turned to Roy to source some amazing roots that have wonderful texture and dimension,” Debi said. “They were each about 10' long installed vertically and backlit to create a dramatic effect.” Though technical and precise as an interior designer, Debi’s artistic leanings still came through to create a stunning (and practical) living space. PY
+1.284.494.5240 Road Reef Plaza, Road Town, Tortola
Provisioning
Learning to
Fry Like a Bajan By Susie Younkle
Fish fry photos by Kari Thostenson.
One of my first Caribbean vacations was a week
in Barbados, we ventured across the island via bus to
in Barbados with my husband Matt. The Mount
the famous Friday fish fry at Oistins, where locals and
Gay rum distillery was a big draw, along with
visitors alike gather for excellent fresh fish. We were
the island’s reputation for fresh fish and terrific
pleased to discover that Bajans love their fish frys
hospitality. We certainly found all in abundance.
as much as we do. We were even more delighted
I love fish and planned to eat plenty of it during
to find that Bajan fish frys aren’t limited to Fridays.
my Barbados holiday. By the end of the week,
Each day in the late afternoon, no matter where we
my tally was 11 different types of fish, much of
were on the island, we started smelling what I simply
it local. I experienced my one and only taste of
called the “fried curry” smell of Barbados. The scent
barracuda (delicious, but risky due to the potential
would inevitably lead us to a terrific meal of fried
for ciguatera) and sampled wahoo for the first time.
flying fish.
What most captivated my taste buds was the Bajan
I was determined to import Bajan-style fish frys
preparation for flying fish: deep fried with a mouth-
to my friends and family in the US, but first I had to
watering curry-scented breading.
ascertain the types and amounts of spices for the
Matt and I grew up in Wisconsin, known for fresh
fish. In the main city of Bridgetown, I searched shops
water fishing and brewing beer. So it’s no surprise
for a cookbook—always a favourite souvenir of
that Friday fish frys with beer battered fish are a long-
mine—to find a recipe. Unfortunately, none looked
standing part of our Wisconsin culture. Upon arrival
quite right. My inquiries at restaurants weren’t www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
45
particularly helpful either, as advice usually involved “a little bit of this” and “a pinch of that” or contained something as elusive as the cook’s mother’s secret spice blend. After some trial and error—mainly by Matt, who took on this project as a culinary challenge—we came up with a recipe that mimics the fish served in Barbados. Flying fish are the classic fish for a Bajanstyle fish fry, but they can be difficult to find. (Check Sailor’s Ketch at Tortola’s East End, which sometimes stocks frozen Caribbean flying fish). Fortunately, this easy recipe can be used with any firm white fish. Wahoo is my top choice, although mahi mahi and grouper are also excellent. A deep fryer helps maintain a consistent oil temperature and keeps frying safer in your kitchen. If you don’t have a fryer, carefully fry the fish in a large, deep pan on the stove, ideally using a thermometer. Serve the fish with a mustard-based hot sauce (look for sauce with a yellow colour), such as Pusser’s. Do as Bajans do and pair your fish fry with a cool Mount Gay rum drink. Enjoy this fish fry any day of the week, not just Friday.
Bajan-Style Fried Fish Fingers
Adding the same seasonings to both the egg mixture and the breadcrumb mixture ensures very flavourful fish.
2 lbs wahoo or mahi mahi fillets, skinned and cut into 1” wide strips
In a medium bowl, beat egg well with a whisk. Add milk
Canola oil, for frying
and spices and stir. Add fish and stir to coat. While the fish is soaking in the egg mixture, combine breadcrumbs and
Egg Mixture:
remaining seasonings in a zip-top plastic bag. Remove
1 egg
fish from egg mixture and add fish to breadcrumb mixture.
1/2 c milk
Shake the bag well to coat the fish.
2 tsp seasoned salt 1 tsp each: granulated garlic, cumin and curry powder Breadcrumb Mixture: 1 c plain breadcrumbs
immediately. Serves four. PY
2 tsp seasoned salt 1 tsp each: granulated garlic, cumin and curry powder
46
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
Fry fish in batches in canola oil, at about 350°F, until fish is golden brown. Drain on paper towel, then serve
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
Property & Yacht Directory Use the legend to reference the businesses listed. Legend: Regions
BB EE FB NC PA
Brandywine Bay East End Fish Bay Nanny Cay Pasea
PI PP PR RR RT
Peter Island Port Purcell Prospect Reef Road Reef Road Town
ACTIVITIES
SB SH TB VG WE
Sea Cows Bay Soper's Hole Trellis Bay Virgin Gorda West End
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Dolphin Discovery (PR) – (284)494.7675
ALTERNATIVE & BACKUP POWER
Alternative Energy Systems (PP) – (284)494.1478 Caribbean Technology (RT) - (284)494.2762
ARCHITECTS
Coldwell Banker Real Estate (NC)– (284)495.3000 Dougall & Associates (RT) – (284)495.3003 Smart Home BVI (PA)- (284)542.7000 Smiths Gore (RT) - (284)494-2446 Sotheby’s International Realty (RT) – (284)494.5700 Trude Real Estate (RT) – (284)494.2500
shipping
OBM International (RR) – (284)494.2148
Tamarind Consolidated - (954)763.2234 Tortola Express (RR) - (284)494.0707
Electronics
Cay Electronics (RT) – (284)494.2400
Sunsail (RT) -(888)416.8420 The Moorings (RT) -(888)416.8420 TMM (RR) - (800)633.0155
Marine
BVI Marine Business for Sale Marine Services and Yacht Management Company, Profile includes all equipment, tools and miscellaneous. Tortola BVI. Interested parties call (284)343-8479 after 6pm
Travel
FURNITURE
BVI Airways (RT) – (284)494.3247
Arawak Interiors (RR) – (284)494.5240 Poolworks (PP)– (284)494.0989
Yacht Charters & BrokeRs
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Clarence Thomas LTD. (RT) – (284)494.2359 Drakes Traders LTD. (FB) – (284)494.3282 Think Simple (RT) - (284)494.2801
INSURANCE
Colonial Insurance (RT) – (284)494.8450 Nagico Insurance (RT) – (284)494.6433/4
BVI Charter Yacht Sales (RT) (284)494.4868 est. 1986 | Fleet size: 46 | Sells Boats: Yes | Charters Boats: Yes | Brand(s): Beneteau, Jeanneau, Lagoon, Leopard, Norseman, Island Spirit, Athena, Hunter | Year Make: 1996-2004 | Type(s): Sailboat Cats and Monohulls | www.charteryachtsales.com
INVESTING
VP Bank (RT) – (284)494.1100
BVI Charter Yacht Society (RT) - (284)494.6017
LAW FIRMS
Harneys (RT) – (284)494.2233 O'Neal Webster (RT) - (284)494-5808
Representing the finest selection of luxury crewed charter yachts in the BVI | bvicrewedyachts.com
Marine & Yacht Clubs
Nanny Cay Marina & Hotel (NC) - (284)494.2512 Royal BVI Yacht Club (RR) - (284)494.3286 YCCS Marina (VG) - (284)346.2000
PHOTOGRAPHERS
est. 1974 | Fleet size: 45 | Sells Boats: Yes | Charters Boats: Yes | Brand(s): Beneteau, Lagoon, Leopard, Fountaine Pajot, Seawind | Year Make: 2000 - 2009 | Type(s): Sailboat Monohulls and Catamarans | bviyachtcharters. com | www.bviyachtcharters.com
Yacht Shots BVI (NC) – (284)495.7550
PROPERITES
Baraka Point (VG) – (800)969.9713 Oil Nut Bay (VG) – (284)495.5400 Sol Y Sombra (VG) - (284)494.2446
Provisioning
Want to see your property listed?
Riteway Food Markets (RT) – (284)494.2263
48
BVI PROPERTY & YACHT
BVI Yacht Charters (RT) - (284)495.4289
Conch Charters (RR) - (284)494.4868 Pro Valor (EE) - (866)776.8256 Racing in Paradise (NC) - (284)494.6781 Southern Trades (RT) -(284)494.8003
Published by aLookingGlass Ltd.
Send a 250 character or less description with a headline, price and contact details to info@ alookingglass.com or call us at (284)494 7788.
Property Listings A
B
1
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
M
N
O
P
Q
Legend: Regions
2
R
S
T
The Settlement
Anegada
Tortola
3
Virgin Gorda Jost Van Dyke
4
Northern Islands
5
Prickly Pear Island Moskito Island
Southern Islands Anegada
6 7
Jost Van Dyke
8
Little Jost
Virgin Gorda
Marina Cay Spanish Town
Beef Island Road Town
Buck Island
The Valley
n
Fallen Jerusalem
Long Bay
10
Road Harbour Round Rock
Cooper Island
Nanny Cay
Great Thatch
Ginger Island
Frenchman’s Cay
Dead Chest
12
Carval Rock
Salt Island
13 14
Scrub Island
Cane Garden Bay
Sandy Cay
Little Tobago
11
Oil Nut Bay
Great Camanoe
Little Camanoe
Tortola
Green Cay
Great Tobago
Necker Island Eustatia Island
The Dogs Guana Island
9
L
Pelican Island
Peter Island
Flannigan Island
Norman Island
TORTOLA H9 Lovely Lot at Ballast Bay: Beautiful Ballast Bay Lot now available. Glorious views of Cane Garden Bay and Jost Van Dyke. US$120,000 | (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com I10 WATERFRONT HOMES WITH DOCKS, NANNY CAY: 2/3 bedroom waterfront townhouses with docks now available at Nanny Cay, Tortola’s premier marina. Full resort facilities and competitive rental program available to offset costs of ownership. US$750,000 | (284) 495 3000. | Contact chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com.
H8 1 acre Lot, Glorious Cane Garden Bay views: A rare Lot on Luck Hill with fantastic views of Cane Garden Bay. Beautiful sunsets. Very buildable. One not to be missed! US$225k | (284) 495-3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com H8 Cane Garden Bay Cottages: Two delightful cottages set within landscaped palm fringed gardens, less than 50 yards from the beach. Set in under 2 acres, prime investment property. US$1.295k | (284) 495 3000 | chris@ coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com J8 3 bedroom Ridge Road Home with 3 bed Apt: Lovely 3 bedroom family home with rental income potential from 3 bed apt beneath. Great views of North Shore and Guana Island. Lush mature garden filled with coconut palms and fruit trees. Motivated Seller. US$750,000 | (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com G10 Hummingbird House: Located in the prestigious Belmont Estate only moments from Smugglers Cove and Long Bay beaches, this delightful home has been extensively remodeled by the current owner, an English Architect with over 20 years island experience designing first class, luxurious homes. Pleasing proportions and scale, elegant finishes and fixture choices of the highest quality
and wonderful ocean, island and sunset views. US$2,495,000 | (284) 495 3000 chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com H9 Rose Lodge, 3 bedrooms Windy Hill: Beautiful hillside setting with exceptional island and sunset views. Two bedroom main house with lovely gardens and lawn. Delightful views of Cane Garden Bay from very private guest house. US$1.1m | (284) 495 3000 www.coldwellbankerbvi.com | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com H9 Business Opportunity: 1.04 acres of hill side land just 200 feet beyond the picturesque beaches of Cane Garden Bay. The property houses six buildings containing 5 one-bedroom, 2 two-bedroom and 1 three-bedroom units. US$2,500,000 | (284) 495 4825 G10 3 BEDROOM, 6 BATH CARIBBEAN STYLE HOME: Located on over 1.5 acres, this sprawling villa is ideal for indoor and outdoor living with three detached pavilions including kitchen, living room, library, master bedroom suite and two guest bedrooms. Spacious swimming pool terrace, covered dining area, charming porches, verandahs and courtyards. US$1,250,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com G10 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH CONDO: Set within Long bay Beach Resort and operated within the hotel rental pool, the apartment has one full kitchen and one kitchenette and affords beautiful ocean views. Direct access to the hotel amenities and within walking distance to the beach. US$299,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com K8 CHARMING PROPERTY AT GREENBANK: Overlooking Brewers Bay and built as semi detached pavilions around the swimming pool terrace, this beautifully designed villa features living room, gourmet kitchen, spacious covered porch with living and dining areas, game room, private master suite and two guest suites all with private patios and majestic views. Two bedroom one bath caretaker cottage with separate driveway. US$3,550,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com
www.bvipy.com
NOVEMBER 2011
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J9 SPACIOUS 3 BEDROOM VILLA AT KINGSTON: Two separate buildings connected by a swimming pool terrace with split level living-dining area and large kitchen. Master bedroom suite and two guest suites. Prevailing breeze and expansive channel views only five minutes away from Road Town. US$1,099,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com K9 5 BEDROOM BEACHFRONT VILLA WITH PRIVATE DOCK: Beautifully positioned on historical Fort Hodge Point, with extensive water frontage including two sandy beaches and full serviced dock. The 5 bedroom residence with swimming pool terrace encompasses approx. 4,500 sf and captures spectacular views of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Spacious great room with covered dining porch. master bedroom suite and separate pavilion with three guest suites and game room. Self-contained lower studio apartment. US$5,900,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com Elysium: Elysium, a two Villa property set on almost 1 1/2 acres on the Northeast coast of Tortola. Each Villa enjoys ocean and beach views and is just a few minutes walk down the hill to Little Bay, a white sand beach off the tourist track. US$1,485,000 | (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM J8 Hope Hill: Thirteen lots of gently sloping and breezy, undeveloped land at Hope Hill only 10-mins drive to Road Town. Close to Ridge Road with spectacular views overJosiah’s Bay to Guana Island, Great Camanoe and around to Virgin Gorda. Unpaved access and utilities to the entrance. US$90,000 ++ | (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM K9 Harbour View Marina: Located in the East End Harbour protected by Red Rock Reef. An expanding community and emerging as a commercial centre with all the amenities that facilitate growth: good access, close proximity to the airport, supermarkets, restaurants and bars combined with a natural harbour. 4 Bedroom Hotel. 0.4 acres. US$2,800,000 | (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM Gecko House: 2-bedroom, 2-bath house overlooking Hodge’s Creek Marina in a quiet neighborhood. 10 mins drive to airport and 15 mins to Road Town. Magnificent view from lovely deck. US$497,000.00 | (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM Frenchman’s Lookout Estate: Luxurious Frenchman’s Lookout sits atop one of the highest points in Tortola’s West End, overlooking the exquisite beauty of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. The 360-degree, unobstructed views are breathtaking and expansive, yet this exclusive villa is completely secluded and private. Come feel the Caribbean’s gentle trade winds and experience the ultimate in island elegance. US$10,000,000 | (284) 494 5700 | BVISIR.COM L8 THREE BEDROOM WATERFRONT HOUSE: Located at the southern end of Tortola with views of Beef Island and the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Close to beaches and amenities. US$795,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com G10 2 BEDROOM HOUSE AT BELMONT ESTATE: Overlooking Smuggler’s Cove and offering spectacular views of Jost Van Dyke. Main house with great room, kitchen and master bedroom suite. Separate guest cottage. 0.8 acres. US$775,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com K8 3 BEDROOM HOUSE AT LITTLE DIX HILL: Located on 0.416 acres this 3 bedroom, 2½ bath villa encompasses approximately 1,800 sf and includes great room, TV room, kitchen, master bedroom suite and two guest bedrooms sharing a full bath.. Spacious swimming pool terrace. Beautiful landscaped grounds and private location. US$565,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com Casa Del Mar: Newly constructed 4 bedrooms exceptional family home located on Tortola’s north side. This home is situated in a very private community, near to Tortola’s great beaches, Cane Garden Bay to the west and Brewer’s Bay to the north. This beautiful home sits on 0.399 of an acre. US$890,000 | contact monica@trudebvi.com | (284) 494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com Sea Cow’s Bay Land: Located near Oleander Estate in the hills above Sea Cow’s Bay, these 6 Lots have spectacular views; these lots are perfect to build your dream home. Lots are from .6 of an acre 1.0 acre, these lots are ready to build with water, electricity and cable available. US$85,000+ | contact dameon@trudebvi.com | (284)494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com. H9 Cane Garden Bay: Hillside Land with stunning ocean views located in Cane Garden Bay; 0.596 of an acre; 1.472 acres & 2.00 acres, any of these lots could be yours today to start the home of your dreams. Contact dameon@trudebvi.com | (284)494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com Private Lots for Sales 0.5 Acres: Located on the North Shore are two parcels of land, with stunning views, available to build your own dream home. View at www.trudebvi.com | US $100,000+ | contact Monica (284) 494-2500
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Great Mountain Area: 4 Lots in a Private Estate for sale | prices start at US$67,000 | Contact dameonn@trudebvi.com | (284)494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com. Cooten Bay Home for Sale: Owner Motivated – New on the market Beautifully designed and finely executed this 4 bedroom, 3 bath main house along with a 2 bedroom, 1 bath apartment located off the Ridge Road, is a steal at this price. Purchase today and use the income from the rented apartment to pay your mortgage. Bring your clothes and move into this architectural beauty which features Brazilian cherry wood flooring, granite counter tops, modern fixtures and luxurious furnishings. US$975,000 | contact monica@trudebvi.com | (284) 494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com Looking for an Investment Opportunity? We have the deal of a lifetime for you; an apartment complex with 5 income generating apartments and there’s room to add others. At $675,000.00 this property will not be around for long; call us today to finalize your sale! dameonn@trudebvi.com | (284)494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com L8 1/2 acre Lot: available at Hawks Nest. Simply stunning views back to Virgin Gorda. Very buildable. US$145,000.00 | contact Chris (284)495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com J8 1 acre Lot: available at Trunk Bay. Breath taking beach and island views, all the way down the island chain to Necker Island! US$295,000.00 | contact Chris (284)495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com K7 ½ acre Lot: available at Little Bay. Walk to beautiful beach from this very buildable Lot. US$185,000.00 | contact Chris (284)495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com
VIRGIN GORDA P9 Charming two bedroom, two bath home at Windy Hill: Set on 0.4 acres in a quiet neighbourhood the property enjoys beautiful views of Tortola and Beef Island and a lush tropical garden. | US$550,00 Q7 A Dream Come True, Pond Bay: A five bedroom, cliffside/waterfront home above Virgin Gorda’s most spectacular beaches at Pond Bay and Savannah Bay. Simply stunning. Ask to see the rental history and figures on this property. A phenomenal story. US$3.5m | (284) 495-3000 chris@ coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com P8 THE VILLAS AT LITTLE DIX BAY: A rare opportunity to own a permanent home at Little Dix Bay resort managed by Rosewood Hotels. Situated on the dramatic hillside above the world-renowned resort these 3-4 bedroom villas offer a magnificent setting, luxurious amenities and remarkable privacy. Rental pool option. From US$3,300,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com P9 HOME SITE AVAILABLE AT CROOKS BAY: Located a few minutes’ walk to the beach, on a quiet residential estate, this 1.4 acre site boasts spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and benefits from cool tropical breezes. Utilities to site. US$500,000 | (284) 494 2446 | www.smithsgore.com P8 Sea Grape Condo: Magnificent ground floor 2bedroom, 2 bathroom condo fully furnished, A/C, full use of resort amenities, tennis courts, pool, gym. The option is yours; live on property or rent the condo | US$395,000 contact Monica @ monica@trudebvi.com | (284) 494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com South Sound Virgin Gorda: Lots available for sale starting at US$200,000. Own a piece of “paradise” today | contact Monica at monica@trudebvi.com | (284) 494-2500 | www.trudebvi.com
NORTHERN ISLANDS M7 CHARMING 5 BEDROOM VILLA ON GREAT CAMANOE: Delightful 3 bedroom Main House with 2 Bedroom Guest house on Great Camanoee. Lots of character. Fantastic island and ocean views, incredible panorama. Easy access to dock. Approx 2 acre Lot. US$1,.200,00 | (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com | www.coldwellbankerbvi.com M7 DIAMOND REEF ESTATE, UNIQUE 10 ACRE PROPERTY: A fabulous property, full of character and charm. Upon this 10 acre site sits a magnificent 3 bedroom main house, built largely from local stone in 1968 by the Upjohn Pharmaceutical family. A delightful one bedroom guest house built in later years. Residents treated to glorious views yet completely private. Wonderful landscaping, beachfront, private swim dock. Absolutely one of a kind property. US$6m | (284) 495 3000 | chris@coldwellbankerbvi.com
2010 Winner, “Best Vacation Experience.” –Fodor’s Gold Choice Award
SOL Y SOMBRA Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
US$8 Million This spectacular beachfront villa boasts four beautifully decorated air-conditioned suites, each furnished with custom-made teak furniture. Outside amenities include an ocean-front infinity pool and lit tennis court, bound within lush tropical gardens. Inside, take advantage of a European-style kitchen, private movie theater, daily maid service and state-of-the-art gym. An in-villa cook is available upon request. www.solysombrabvi.com
Smiths Gore Limited : : British Virgin Islands
T 1(284) 494 2446 F 1(284) 494 2141 E bernadette@smithsgore.com
The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, Virgin Gorda is partnered with Oil Nut Bay, a prestigious Victor International resort community and Biras Creek, a Relais and Chateaux Hotel.
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www.oilnutbay.com 284.495.5400
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www.yccsmarina.com 284.346.2000