Moskito Island: British Virgin Islands

Rumours abound regarding what the future will hold for Moskito Island which was once home to a resort known as Drake's Anchorage. The 120 acre island is located in the North Sound just off shore from Anguilla Point, Virgin Gorda. In years past, this little BVI jewel (often mistakenly referred to as "Mosquito" Island) was once a popular playground for visiting sailors and scuba divers.

Moskito Island: Home to the currently abandoned Drake's Anchorage Resort

Its impossible to talk about Moskito and Drake's Anchorage Resort without paying homage to its original proprietor, Bert Kilbride who is somewhat of a British Virgin Islands legend. Bert, spent the better part of 50 years searching for underwater treasure in the BVI and described himself as the "Last Pirate of the Caribbean". He built the resort in the 60's and it quickly became a favourite hangout for scuba divers as well as the sailing crowd. Sadly, Bert passed away in January, 2008.

Drake's Anchorage was built just yards from the treacherous Colquhoun Reef. My guess is that Mr. Kilbride (who was always dreaming of discovering the motherload) was hoping to hit pay dirt should a yacht or ship of substance hit the reef and sink! At the resort, he would virtually be sitting atop whatever treasures (or salvage rights) there were to be had!

Colquhoun Reef off Moskito Island, BVI

Colquhoun Reef has claimed its share of bareboat and private yachts in recent years and is one reef which demands respect from those approaching the North Sound!

There was once a really lovely hiking trail called "The trail of Palms" which one could follow around Moskito island from the resort. As the trail has not been maintained in several years, I imagine it has become quite overgrown. However, hardy explorers, suitably dressed for the challenges several years of unmanaged growth may present, would be rewarded by the experience should they wish to follow the trail ... provided nobody chases them away.

Since 1997, the resort on Moskito has been closed with a brief reopening in 2000/2001. In 2007, Sir Richard Branson (who also owns nearby Necker Island) bought Moskito with the intent of building an eco-resort, consisting of a restaurant and approximately 20 villas that he plans to power using solar panels and wind turbines.

There are a couple of notable beaches here as well. My favourite is Hay Point Beach. This is a lovely, white sand beach which offers great snorkeling immediately offshore. Honeymoon Beach is another nice little spot and, as the name suggests, is just large enough for a couple to enjoy some BVI style solitude.

I have no idea when this new resort might be completed but it is hoped that visiting yachtsmen will be welcome to enjoy the restaurant and beaches ... unlike Mr. Branson's Necker Island!

Stay tuned for further developments!
Photos and information for neighbouring islands and attractions ...

Sand Box Bar & Grill | North Sound | Map | Photos of Virgin Gorda
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