amillarah-compressedImage: amillarah.com

Purchasing a private island, in the traditional sense, comes with a host of logistical challenges. Transportation, building regulations, plumbing, electricity, water purification, supplies, laborers — it’s not all piña coladas and sunshine on these secluded plots of land. But what if you could skip the hassle? Thanks to Christie’s International Real Estate, now you can.

The company has teamed up with architectural firm Dutch Docklands to develop portable, man-made private islands that are also self-sustaining and environmentally friendly. Dubbed Amillarah Private Islands, the floating residences will be designed by Koen Olthuis, who specializes in floating structures that address environmental issues such as rising sea levels, flooding and marine habitat destruction.

Dutch Docklands utilizes cutting-edge green technology to build what they call “scarless” developments, including fresh water storage, floating solar blanket fields and agricultural systems. The base of the island is built to last for more than 100 years and serves as an artificial reef to promote marine life.

To date, Amillarah Private Islands has signed development deals in the Maldives, Dubai and Miami. Ten islands are being built in the turquoise waters of The Maldives, conveniently located 25 minutes from the airport. Off the coast of Dubai, 33 islands will be constructed as part of the World Islands project — good news considering there were previous reports suggesting the existing islands were eroding into the sea. In Miami, 30 islands will be built in a 175-acre lake that connects to the Intracoastal and the Atlantic. There are also plans for a VIP amenity island with private boat service and a well-trained island staff.

The price of a portable, private island is unlisted on the Christie’s website (because if you have to ask, you probably can’t afford it). But from what we learned by watching the promotional video, island life is likely to involve lobster dinners, white linen clothing and embracing the ocean with open arms.

portable islandmiamimaldivesnight islandImages: amillarah.com

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