Imagine owning a vast untouched island where turquoise waters meet pristine white sands and complete seclusion feels like everyday luxury. Bonds Cay, a remarkable private island in the northern Bahamas, has hit the market with an asking price of $30 million. This 650-acre gem in the Berry Islands archipelago once drew attention from celebrities like Shakira and Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters. Back in 2006, a group of high-profile investors including them scooped it up for roughly $16 million with big dreams that never quite materialized.
The original vision was ambitious and creative. Plans called for transforming the island into an exclusive artists’ retreat complete with a boutique hotel, luxury residences, private beaches, and even galleries for contemporary art. Residential programs for creators and special stays during academic breaks were part of the mix too. Those ideas faded over time, leaving Bonds Cay beautifully preserved in its natural state for the next owner to shape.
Gavin Christie, the agent handling the listing through Corcoran C.A. Christie Bahamas, highlights what makes this property so special. He notes that islands of this scale and untouched condition are incredibly rare these days. The expansive size offers room for grand ideas while keeping the environment intact. Whether as a personal sanctuary or a developed resort, the potential here feels limitless with proper approvals from local authorities.
Nature lovers will appreciate the island’s unique features. It sits near the Tongue of the Ocean, a deep-sea trench brimming with marine life perfect for sport fishing. Anglers can target blue and white marlin, tuna, or sailfish in these rich waters. Bonds Cay also holds a fascinating ecological distinction as the only known home to a specific land snail species from the Cerionidae family, first documented in 1921 by naturalists Charles Maynard and N.A. Clapp.
Accessibility adds to the appeal without sacrificing privacy. The island lies just 37 miles from Nassau and about 155 miles from Fort Lauderdale. Owners and guests can arrive by boat, seaplane, or helicopter for effortless trips. For those craving simplicity, existing glamping bungalows and a casual beach bar provide a ready-made escape along the shoreline.
This slice of paradise balances remoteness with convenience in a way few places can. The surrounding seas glow in vibrant turquoise hues, promising relaxation and adventure alike. Deep-sea fishing opportunities abound, while the beaches invite endless days of tranquility. For anyone dreaming of a legacy property, Bonds Cay represents a rare chance to own something truly extraordinary.
The current listing marks the first time in two decades that this island has been available. Its history tied to music icons like Shakira and Roger Waters only adds to the allure. Gavin Christie emphasizes how the location delivers total seclusion yet remains practically reachable. Serious buyers could turn it into a world-class retreat or keep it as an intimate family haven.
Properties like this do not come around often. The combination of size, natural beauty, and celebrity connections makes Bonds Cay stand out in the luxury market. Development would require investment and planning, but the foundation is already exceptional. From the fine sands to the thriving underwater world, every detail speaks to untapped potential.
What would you do with a private island like Bonds Cay – share your ideas and dreams in the comments.
