Snorkeling Tours Offered Around Jeffrey Epstein's Notorious Private Island
Tourists are being offered sightseeing and snorkeling trips around Little St. James, the private Caribbean island once owned by convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Holidaymakers are being told that "the snorkelling is great" in the waters surrounding the infamous estate, which has been dubbed "Paedophile Island" due to Epstein's crimes.
The Dark History of Little St. James
The 75-acre island in the United States Virgin Islands was purchased by Epstein in 1998 and served as his private retreat until his death in prison in 2019. During his ownership, the island became the site where Epstein sexually abused numerous teenage victims, with visitors arriving via his private jet, infamously known as the "Lolita Express." The property features two guest lodges, a swimming pool, a temple, a helipad, and a sundial, all overlooking crystal-clear waters.
Since Epstein's death, the island has remained largely abandoned, though billionaire Steven Deckoff reportedly purchased it two years ago with plans to transform it into a luxury retreat. However, development has been delayed, and the estate has stayed mostly untouched since Epstein's ownership.
Tourist Inquiries and Ethical Questions
On travel review platforms like TripAdvisor, adventurous travellers have been inquiring about boat charters from Red Hook to tour the waters around Little St. James. One user asked, "Do any boat charters leave from Red Hook to tour the waters around Epstein's island? Is there any decent snorkeling/diving in the area or is it restricted?"
In response, another user advised, "Many charters go to Little St James/ Christmas Cove and the snorkelling is good." The original traveller excitedly replied, "Thanks guys! Coming in December!" suggesting that tourists can indeed snorkel around the island while enjoying pizza from local vendors like Pizza Pi or Ocean Surfari.
Recent Revelations from Epstein Files
The controversy surrounding Epstein's island has been reignited by the recent release of millions of court documents, known as the "Epstein files." These files reveal communications between Epstein and various high-profile figures, including royals, tech billionaires, and politicians.
Among the shocking revelations, emails from 2010 show that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, invited Epstein to a private dinner at Buckingham Palace. Further correspondence indicates Epstein attempted to introduce him to a "trustworthy" 26-year-old Russian woman.
Tech tycoon Elon Musk is also named in the files, with 2013 emails revealing he inquired about visiting Little Saint James, despite previously calling Epstein a "creep" and denying ever visiting the island. Additionally, former politician Peter Mandelson has been implicated, with emails showing Epstein transferred £10,000 to Mandelson's partner for an osteopathy course in 2009. Mandelson has expressed "deep regret" over his connections with Epstein.
It is important to note that being named in these documents does not imply wrongdoing, as the individuals involved have consistently denied any accusations.
Broader Implications for Tourism and Ethics
The promotion of snorkeling trips around Epstein's island raises significant ethical questions about profiting from locations associated with heinous crimes. While the natural beauty of the area may attract tourists, the dark history of Little St. James continues to cast a long shadow over any recreational activities in its vicinity.
As the island remains a focal point of global attention due to ongoing legal proceedings and public fascination, the balance between tourism development and respect for victims' experiences remains a contentious issue. The delayed plans to reopen the island as a luxury destination further complicate its future, leaving it in a state of limbo between its notorious past and potential commercial revival.
