Do the Private Island Math: Little Whale Cay

Most people don't think about renting an entire island for that special occasion. It would be too expensive, out of the question. Well…not true. If a group of 10 to 12 rented the entire island of Little Whale Cay in the Bahamas, having it all to themselves for 5 nights, it's less expensive than you would think. Let's do the math.

What do you get? Little Whale Cay, a private island paradise set in the heart of the Berry Islands in the Bahamas, replete with accommodations, a superb main beach stretching endlessly, a marina with a flotilla of boats for sailing, cruising, fishing, water-skiing, off-island excursions, spa and gym facilities, sea-view infinity edged pool, tennis court, and even a chapel. Plus, a top notch chef and dedicated staff, whose job is to watch over the guests.

It accommodates up to 12 guests in 3 individual, elegant villas, privately set on 93 acres, skirted by white, unspoiled, sandy beaches. Villas are all air-conditioned, with flat screen TVs, DVD players, WiFi and telephones; Little Whale House, the main house and usually the popular gathering place, is equipped with a bar and satellite fed flat screen TV, 2 en-suite bedrooms, one double bedded and 1 king master suite, study with computer, spacious living room, dining room and terrace. Flamingo House has 4 bedrooms, 2 en-suite queen bedded rooms, one twin and 1 queen that share a bath, living room and terrace, and Peacock House with a king en-suite master bedroom, living room and terrace. Houses are connected by pathways but sheltered for privacy.

At first glance, the price of $9,500 per day for up to 12 with a minimum of 5 nights seems pretty scary. But, that is $3750 per person for a five night vacation on a private island including accommodations, food, drinks (including spirits and house wines), and the use of all island facilities, boats, fuel, telephone calls and WiFi Internet connection in each guest house. Now, if the group should book a hotel for 12 people for 5 nights, they would get rooms, not an island, for maybe $2,000 per person (at $400 per night) not including food, certainly not spirits, or sports, or boating.

Little Whale is truly a discovery for friends and families. There are few resorts, never mind private islands that offer luxury and privacy for such a price. It’s not the most practical destination, but it’s a lot more practical than you’d think.