A collection of tranquil islands northeast of Bali, Indonesia, are up for sale in one of Asia’s most intriguing real estate sales. The more than 100 islands that make up the Widi Reserve in east Indonesia’s “Coral Triangle” span an area of 85,000 hectares, or nearly two-thirds the size of New Delhi, the capital of India.
Islands cannot be privately owned under Indonesian law
Islands cannot be privately owned under Indonesian law, although anybody can buy shares of a company that has development rights. It is obvious that Charlie Smith, executive vice president for Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions’ EMEA region, anticipates high bids for this archipelago.
“Every billionaire can own a private island, but only one can own this exclusive opportunity spread across 100-plus islands,” he said in a press statement.
Reflecting the concerns to protect ecologically sensitive aquatic habitats, the auction portal said that the Widi Reserve’s Conservation centre “will lead cutting-edge research programs including tagging, tracking and monitoring of iconic and critically endangered species”.
The pristine chain of tropical islands that make up Widi Reserve is encircled by 150 km of powdery white beaches
The pristine chain of tropical islands that make up Widi Reserve is encircled by 150 kilometers of powdery white beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and deep, nutrient-rich waters.
Hundreds of rare and endangered species, including Blue Whales, Whale Sharks, 600 documented species of marine mammals, fish, birds, insects, and lizards, as well as species that have yet to be discovered, call this island chain home. It is said to be one of the last remaining coral atoll ecosystems on Earth.
Only private aircraft are permitted entrance to The Reserve. A 2.5-hour trip will get you to the international airport in Bali, Gusti Ngurah Rai. The sale begins on December 8 and runs through December 14. No reserve price is set, but bidders are required to put down a $100,000 deposit to demonstrate their seriousness.
