Owning a $500 million megayacht means seeking out the world’s most exquisite destinations. It’s no surprise that Amazon founder Jeff Bezos couldn’t resist Montserrat’s verdant landscapes, year-round warmth, and lush greenery. That’s why the tech billionaire and his floating masterpiece, the world’s largest sailing yacht, set sail for this serene Caribbean island and British Overseas Territory.
While the centibillionaire, worth $250 billion, may have come to this pristine island seeking unparalleled peace and serenity, his arrival had the opposite effect, sparking confusion and commotion. The world’s second-richest man’s visit to the tiny island nation of Montserrat on January 6 aboard Koru became a hot topic at a United Alliance town hall meeting in Salem on January 10.
According to France-Antilles Guadeloupe, a community member questioned the authorities about the 60-year-old’s presence on the island. Even Prime Minister Reuben Meade was called upon to clarify matters and quell both speculation and concerns among locals.
The politician, who served as the island’s first Premier from 2011 to 2014, reassured the community, stating, “He came here as a tourist. He can’t buy property in Montserrat unless the government grants him a land ownership permit.” He further explained, “They can’t do anything unless they register a business or apply for a license to operate. So we’ll know what happens when the time comes. We’re not going to get involved in people’s business. They come here as tourists, they spend money in Montserrat, and thank God.”
It’s no secret that the movements of the world’s wealthiest individuals highlight their opulent lifestyles, often drawing scrutiny. However, their presence can also be a blessing in disguise for small islands eager to welcome both attention and economic opportunities. Before arriving in Montserrat, Bezos’ 416-foot Oceanco mammoth was spotted in St. Kitts and Nevis, as well as St. Barts. Unlike the bustling St. Barts, which saw an influx of billionaires and their yachts over the holiday season, Montserrat remains a tranquil escape.
Not everyone in Montserrat viewed Koru’s presence with skepticism. Several residents posted photos and videos of the yacht on social media, it is after all one imposing yacht with triple masts spanning 230 feet high. A user commented, “Ask him to help us with the harbor project,” while another suggested, “Maybe I could have asked him to help us with the hospital project.” One resident saw the visit as a promotional opportunity, stating, “People on Jeff Bezos’ yacht can share what they saw and learn more about our beautiful paradise.” Another summed up the mixed emotions surrounding the visit, saying, “There is some positive in all this, it’s not all negative.”
Apprehensions are natural, especially when a floating giant like Koru docks in your waters. A similar incident occurred when German-American billionaire Dr. Christian Angermayer’s $250 million superyacht Liva O sailed into Molokai, Hawaii. He was met with resistance from locals who barred him from setting foot on their island, fearing outside influence. Fortunately for Bezos, his holiday in Montserrat was smooth sailing, though the undercurrents of curiosity and concern were certainly felt.
About Montserrat, the magical-
Nicknamed “The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean,” Montserrat bears a striking resemblance to coastal Ireland and even hosts an annual St. Patrick’s Festival in celebration of its Irish heritage. As of 2023, Montserrat’s population was approximately 4,386 residents. However, a large portion of the island remains uninhabitable due to volcanic activity.
The capital, Plymouth, was abandoned following the eruptions of the Soufrière Hills Volcano and is now a modern-day ghost town buried in ash. Despite this, tourism is a growing sector, attracting visitors with its diving, hiking trails, and eerie volcanic landscapes. With Jeff Bezos gracing its shores, there is hope that Montserrat will find new avenues for growth and visibility on the global map.
