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Necker Island Offers Whale Watching Trips Aboard Luxury Yacht
Visitors to Necker Island, Sir Richard Branson’s privately owned island, can treat themselves to a unique whale watching experience aboard a 105ft luxury catamaran.
Accompanied by an experienced whale expert and a full crew, guests can enjoy the stunning aquatic wildlife from the luxurious confines of the Necker Belle catamaran. Those on-board will have the opportunity to enter the water themselves wearing snorkelling gear for an even closer encounter with the giant creatures.
In February and March this year, Necker Belle will be spending six ‘Celebration Weeks’ sailing the Silver Band, a 1100-square-mile area famous as a breeding and calving zone for humpback whales. During these weeks guests can book into one of the boat’s four cabins individually, making it an ideal excursion for couples or singles.
These ‘Celebration Weeks’ also see the island’s accommodation made available for several small groups or individuals to stay on the island at the same time, rather than only being for private hire. The island can accommodate up to 28 guests at one time.
Located in the British Virgin Islands, and owned by Sir Richard Branson since the late 1970s, the 74-acre Necker Island is one of the world’s most exclusive retreats. Part of the Virgin Limited Edition Collection of luxury properties, the island was in the news last year after a fire destroyed the Great House – the island’s centrepiece residence.
While the Great House is being restored, guests have the option of staying in six beautiful Bali Houses as well as Temple House, Sir Richard Branson's home, which he has made available during the rebuild. Cabins on Necker Belle, which is normally moored alongside the island, are also currently available as accommodation.
Visitors to the Necker Island can enjoy a range of facilities and amenities including beaches, swimming pools, a Tennis Pavilion, Spa Treatments and gourmet food. Water activities, including use of Necker Nymph, a3-person aero submarine, are also available.
Necker Island’s 2012 Celebration Weeks run from 16 February to 15 March. The Necker Belle is available for charter with Burgess and the prices for a week’s accommodation and whale watching aboard start at £16,779 ($25,925) for a Small Double Room and rise to £19,368 ($29,925) for a Master Suite.