“The World” at sunset, seen from the shores of Isla Saboga.

The ultra-elite residential cruise ship “The World” called ashore with just a day’s notice to confirm that the residents of the tax haven ship would stop by for dinner at Isla Saboga in the Pearl Islands archipelago. Isla Saboga’s hospitality attaché Nigel Cosans sprung in to action, to create a “Robinson Crusoe” style picnic on El Encanto beach of Isla Saboga.

“The World’s” residents are not average travelers. The ship set sail in 2003 with all of its condominium suites (priced up to $20 million) sold out – mostly to wealthy Brits who can attain an “out of country” tax exemption status for being outside their coutnry for a certain number of days per year, while cruising from port to port around the world. So naturally, the ship’s passengers expect things to be in tip-top condition when they step off their floating palace, which is complete with five restaurants, golf simulator, casino and hundreds of staff members.

Toby Brockelhurst (who photographed the event) and Nigel Cosans.

Isla Saboga is in the beginning stages of its development, so Nigel and his team had to work overnight to create the jungle-style dining room. Nigel contracted a band, shipped out temporary restroom services to the island and set up the barbecue. “We wanted to make a great impression, because Isla Saboga is just beginning sales of its first phase of development,” he said.

When the zodiac boats came ashore the next day, over 100 “World” residents were enchanted by the live Panamanian band playing “Buena Vista Social Club” style music and the rustic setting with torches to light the dining area. Nigel stated: “The eco-vibe just seemed to take everyone over and instill a sort of peace and serenity in everyone who partook.”

A view of “The World”.

“The World’s” food and beverage manager, Arjan Scheepers, told organizers: “Our residents and guests have thoroughly enjoyed the day on your beautiful beach and the dinner barbecue and the music of the Caribe Quintet was very well received. I sincerely thank you for pulling this off, one day an uninhabited island, the next day a top-notch event with all services our guests and residents expect available – very impressive.”

Armel Gonzales of the Isla Saboga development was pleased with the success. He is one of the founding members of the Chamber for Sustainable Tourism and Development of the Pearl Islands, a non-government entity which ensures eco-friendly, sustainable development in the islands. “Our standards not only make sure that the environmental stability of the islands is protected for future generations, but they also add to the level of exclusivity of the projects here. Isla Saboga is also set to become Central America’s first project to have LEED-equivalent Platinum Certification” he said.

Dinner music was provided by Quinteto Caribe.

Isla Saboga’s phase one development includes Treehouse Villas, ranging from one to three bedrooms. The villas will be built among the forest overlooking El Encanto beach. The project will include a Wellness Spa Center and will enjoy condo-hotel status under the tourism incentive Law 8 which provides special tax privileges. For more information visit www.islasaboga.com