Published on 14-Aug-08

August 14, 2008 -- Sailing enthusiasts find a source for exclusive and elusive boating homes.

Increasing demand for properties with marina facilities

August 14, 2008 -- The Caribbean attracts thousands of boats to its waters each year. An increasing number of these sailing enthusiasts are looking to secure an island home that either is within a marina or close to a good anchorage. However the choice in the region is fairly limited and finding a property that suits the needs of both the boat and the buyers can be a challenge. Caribbean Land and Property have a number of these specialist properties available and a good knowledge of the boating world, to assist clients who are looking for this special piece of property.

Stewart Andrews, Managing Director of Caribbean Land and Property, has extensively cruised the Caribbean, living for many years on his yacht. He states that “Over the last few years many marinas have been constructed throughout the Caribbean, doubling the number of marinas from what was available just 10 years ago. However despite all this construction activity, some of the larger islands and many of the smaller islands, still have no marina facilities. Our company has sourced many of the properties available in the region with marina berths, as well as properties overlooking a good anchorage.”

A recent article in ‘All at Sea’ magazine, a publication for the Caribbean’s boating community, focuses on the increasing demand for luxurious properties with marina facilities. They quote Kerstin McConnell, the owner/broker of Sea Glass Properties on St. Thomas, who says “The opportunities for boaters to have a residence at a marina have, heretofore, been very rare, although the desire to have a land base near the boat slip is a near-universal one.” Indeed at this moment the demand outstrips the supply and securing a property with boating facilities is quite a coup.

The boating residential communities that do exist, offer a vibrant environment and greater security for the owner and their prized investment. One such development that is catering to the demand for luxury marina developments is based on Scrub Island in the British Virgin Islands. Properties there are available through Caribbean Land and Property and are tailored to cater for all the needs of the small and exclusive community.

Caribbean Land and Property also have a varied selection of other island homes with access to marina facilities or a good anchorage, that will be of interest to those looking to make this kind of investment. Due to the high demand, buying a property with marina facilities can be a lucrative incoming generating investment through rentals for those who do not live permanently in their property.

The convenience and ease of being able to access a boat from their property is something that those who sail regularly are looking for. Andrews advises that, “The best and most popular marinas and anchorages with yachtsmen, are those that are sheltered from heavy seas but face the trade winds, and enjoy a steady breeze to keep the boat cool and power the wind turbine - if one is fitted. Other important attributes for anchorages are clean water, a safe area to tie a dingy when going ashore and at least basic shore side facilities like a small bar and store, where a tired skipper and crew can get something to eat and a drink after a tough sail.”

As sailing in the Caribbean is a growing and sought after activity, Caribbean Land and Property are pleased to be able to serve the boating community in their search for the perfect marina property, to further their enjoyment of the region.