The leading name in private island development.

Welcome.

Island Development Group specialises in the sourcing, feasibility assessment and development of private islands.

We bring together proven expertise to help analyse, design, develop and operate a successful private island, resort or remote estate.

Foreword

“Ryan West is the very best person in the world to help develop a private island. He helped us develop Necker and then went on to develop Moskito Island.

He’s 100% trustworthy, a delight to be with and somebody who would put his heart and soul into your project. He also just happens to be an engineer by trade but above everything he’s had years of experience.

There is no one else I would recommend more.”

— Sir Richard Branson,
Necker & Moskito Island

Meet IDG.

Ryan West, Principal

Ryan West (Westy) leads IDG.

Ryan is a highly experienced real estate and infrastructure professional with an exceptional track record which specialises in private island development.

He served as Development Director for Moskito Island in the British Virgin Islands, and continues to sit on the Project Design Board for this world-class sustainable development.

Born in England, Ryan has spent his entire working life dedicated to island and large-scale real estate development in both the Caribbean and continental United States.

David Swift, Partner

David worked on the design and construction of Moskito Island’s infrastructure and communal areas with Ryan.

He formally trained as a Management Consultant at Accenture, before focusing on prime-residential real estate design and development in London and the US.

David holds a first class degree in Business and Economics.

Core Services

Search & Sourcing

IDG have established an outstanding reputation in the development of private islands.
Often, finding the right location is the start of the process. We have developed a set of essential criteria to baseline your island search against to ensure the location and asset is the right fit for your vision.
We have also been trusted with a number of unique off-market opportunities if you are looking for the ultimate remote location of island for yourself or a client.
Feasibility Assessment

We pride ourselves on the due diligence and practical planning process which we have established over our numerous island projects.
The most critical of these is the feasibility assessment stage which analyses the market, the asset, and the suitability for development depending on your target outcome - wether it be for a single family or a world-class resort.
Masterplanning

We are experienced in creating a compelling vision and designing a successful masterplan for your development. Our past projects range from private family estates to successful commercial operations.
Our professional network includes some of the biggest names in sustainable architecture, engineering and design.
Above all, we have lived and breathed life on private islands, so we truly understand the unique challenges, opportunities and market place.
Infrastructure

We have comprehensive knowledge of what it takes to start, build and maintain a private island.
We have designed solutions for private transportation (dock design, helicopter access, barge ramps), water treatment, waste treatment (including eco waste), power generation, and hurricane / emergency response solutions.
We have a responsible approach to island development - with a strong focus on a sustainable future.
Owner / Operator Representation

Our previous developments have included both corporate and private ownership.
We can help guide you on both operating model development and designing a world-class product that best meets your vision
If you are looking to develop a commercial opportunity or create a private retreat, we have the unique experience, network and desire to help you succeed.
Cost Analysis

A critical phase in the planning process is to establish realistic cost basis for the entirety of your project.
We have extensive experience working with leading cost surveyors across the primary island chain regions - a select group of consultants with accurate and up to date cost and asset valuation information - to help you budget and value your development.
Risk Assessment

Islands and remote real estate have unique and inherent risks - most of which we have already had to navigate on our past projects.
We believe we can help you save time, money and distress by leveraging the lessons we have learned in similar environments.
We have comprehensive risk registers and mitigation plans designed for the unique challenges of island construction which we will tailor to your project.
Specialist Consultant Access

Island development is unlike any other industry.
You will face challenges that are unique and obscure: ranging from modelling the wave activity predicted at your location in a 100 year storm to the licensing and relocation of exotic animals as part of environmental protection plan.
We have strong working relationships with world-leading consultants, experts and universities who are specialists in these unique fields.
Development Management

We have an excellent track record in the development and construction management of multi-million-dollar island and remote real estate projects - both in a commercial and a residential setting.
Once you have found and designed your perfect project, we can help you deliver your vision and call on the many lessons we have learned along the way.