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St Barths: The Billionaires’ Caribbean Playground
Saint-Barthélemy — better known as St Barths or St Barts — is a tiny French overseas territory in the Caribbean that has earned a reputation as one of the world’s most exclusive destinations for the ultra-wealthy. Just 11 miles long and famed for its white-sand beaches, azure waters and boutique-lined capital Gustavia, the island has become a magnet for billionaires seeking privacy, luxury and year-round sunshine.
A Luxe Retreat for the Ultra-Rich
Unlike typical Caribbean holiday spots, St Barths isn’t just about beautiful scenery — it’s tailored to the lifestyles of the ultra-wealthy. Michelin-starred restaurants, high-end designer boutiques, private villas, and limited hotel rooms create an environment of exclusivity. Safety, discretion and premium services — from private jet transfers to dedicated luxury travel agents — make the island especially appealing for high-profile visitors.
Hotels such as Eden Rock and Cheval Blanc are regular haunts for A-listers and billionaire travellers, where stays can cost tens of thousands of dollars per night and privacy is paramount.
Superyachts and Billionaire Visitors
St Barths’ harbour in Gustavia transforms into a floating showcase of wealth, especially during the holiday season. The island’s well-equipped marinas attract some of the largest and most expensive private yachts in the world — from classic motor yachts to colossal sailing vessels spanning hundreds of feet.
Among the billionaire yacht owners who have been spotted near St Barths in recent seasons are:
• Jeff Bezos – The Amazon founder’s 417-foot sailing yacht Koru is a feature of many winter sojourns around the island.
• Eric Schmidt – The former Google CEO’s yacht has been anchored off St Barths during peak seasons.
• Miriam Adelson – Pharmaceutical heiress and owner of Queen Miri.
• David Geffen – The entertainment mogul’s 454-foot Rising Sun is a regular sight.
• Jerry Jones – NFL team owner with his yacht Bravo Eugenia.
• Jan Koum – WhatsApp co-founder and owner of Moonrise.
• Nancy Walton – Walmart heiress aboard luxury vessels like Kaos.
• Michael Jordan – NBA legend and yacht owner M’Brace.
These superyachts, worth hundreds of millions of dollars and boasting amenities rivaling five-star resorts, become focal points of St Barths’ high season, turning its tranquil harbour into a glittering display of maritime wealth.
Permanent Residents vs. Seasonal Visitors
While many billionaires visit or anchor offshore, few are known to be full-time residents. One notable exception from past reports was Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, who purchased a sprawling estate on the island for around $90 million — one of the most expensive private home sales in St Barths’ history.
Most ultra-wealthy individuals prefer to use the island as a seasonal escape rather than a primary home, visiting during winter months when the climate is ideal and the social calendar — including exclusive beach-club events and yachting gatherings — peaks.
The Billionaire Effect on Local Culture and Economy
The influx of billionaires and their entourages has reshaped St Barths’ economy. Luxury tourism supports high-end retail, boutique hospitality, and private service sectors, but there’s also a visible divide between the glitzy visitor scene and everyday local life. High property prices and living costs have had a profound impact on the resident population, prompting debate about the balance between a global luxury hub and community sustainability.
Conclusion: Wealth’s Caribbean Jewel
St Barths has cemented its place as a symbol of luxury and exclusivity in the Caribbean. Its blend of stunning natural beauty, discreet hospitality and elite social circuits ensures that it will continue to attract the world’s wealthiest people — at least as seasonal guests — for years to come.
Attached is a news article regarding St barths in the Caribbean
https://www.independent.co.uk/topic/st-barts
Article written and configured by Christopher Stanley
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