SCRUB ISLAND, British Virgin Islands (July 18, 2023) – Effective Aug. 1, Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marinawill once again operate as an independent luxury resort, ending its 11-year affiliation with Marriott International’s Autograph Collection. Just two years after opening as an independent resort in 2010, Scrub Island’s unique offerings, strength of personality and ideal setting made it a perfect choice to become the first hotel in the Caribbean to join the rapidly growing Autograph brand. The decision to return to its independent roots comes amid a flurry of island-wide enhancements and a major $8 million capital improvement plan unfolding over the next 18 months.
“Since opening in 2010, Scrub Island has only grown in popularity as a prized sanctuary for travelers seeking an exceptional island getaway,” said Joe Collier, President and Founder of Mainsail Lodging & Development. “We greatly value our relationship with Marriott, but the time is right for Scrub Island to return to its original status as an independent property, allowing us the creativity and flexibility to further cultivate authentic and elevated vacations in the BVI. Our upcoming enhancements, along with our expanded and elevated villa offerings are ideal for an independent private island resort marketed to a targeted audience seeking luxury homes and suites with bespoke amenities.”
According to Collier, a multi-phase upgrade plan is already under way, which includes the recently opened Marina Cay Bar & Grill located on an eight-acre private island just offshore from Scrub Island, now offering lunch and dinner for resort guests, locals, and island-hoppers; upgraded Harbor Boutique; and completion of both The Leeward House and The Shoreline House villas. A new multimillion-dollar round of capital improvements will include enhanced dining experiences, new furnishings in Marina Village accommodations and select villas, expansion of offerings on Marina Cay, and much more. The project is scheduled to be completed by Spring of 2024.
Tucked along a rugged cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and neighboring islands, Scrub Island Resort is an ideal spot for easy island-hopping exploration of the best of the BVI. Sailing and boating enthusiasts alike appreciate the region’s fair weather, gentle trade winds and easy access to more than 60 additional nearby islands. Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, St. Thomas, Anegada and Norman Island are among the many island-hopping destinations within a day’s sail of Scrub Island’s marina. The resort is also minutes from the famous North Drop, known for its fantastic sailfish fishing.
The resort offers several overnight options for guests, with 52 guest accommodations, including suites with gourmet kitchens, spacious living areas and private/oversized balconies, as well as a collection of 13, two-, three-, four- and six-bedroom villas. Two private beaches, a waterfront infinity pool, an intimate spa, world-class dining, and on-site access to dive charters complete the overall experience on Scrub Island. The 55-slip marina can accommodate mega yachts up to 160 feet, in addition to a fully stocked provisions outpost and petrol station, with the ability to offer a capacity of 10,000 gallons of diesel fuel to both leased and transient dockers.
Just a quick ferry ride from Tortola via the resort’s complimentary water taxi, getting to Scrub Island is an easy transfer when arriving at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS), Beef Island.