The Rise of Branded Residences

Once considered niche, branded residences have moved firmly into the luxury mainstream, with buyers drawn to the convenience of fully managed, turnkey ownership. In the Caribbean, long
established as a winter cruising ground, the concept is a natural fit. The region has always attracted second-home owners, and developments such as The Setai St. Maarten and Nikki Beach Residences Antigua stand out for their finishes and lifestyle offerings. Beyond the Caribbean, the model is gaining similar momentum in established Mediterranean and U.S.
yachting destinations. Navigator highlights a handful of the best branded residences in prime cruising locations around the world.

Rocco Forte Private Villas:
Verdura Resort, Sicily

On Sicily’s southwest coast, Verdura Resort offers a more established take on branded living, anchored by the Rocco Forte group. Set across 230 hectares of coastline, the resort combines a 203-key hotel with golf courses, a large spa, and private beach access. Designed with references to traditional Sicilian architecture and paired with contemporary interiors, the residences range from existing three- and four-bedroom villas to larger off- plan homes with generous plots and optional annexes. For owners, the appeal lies in the balance between privacy and access to a fully operational resort, alongside benefits such as golf membership and a managed rentalprogram.
roccofortehotels.com

The Setai St. Maarten:
St. Maarten

Set on Indigo Bay and due for completion in 2028, The Setai St. Maarten marks the brand’s first move into the Caribbean. The residential development will comprise 205 villas and suites,
combining private ownership with full resort infrastructure. Those familiar with The Setai Miami Beach will recognize the brand’s restrained, minimal design, with an emphasis on space and
calm. Amenities include a beach club, multiple pools, and a spa, alongside several dining concepts, while its position within a protected nature reserve gives it a quieter, more private feel than many comparable developments on the island.
thesetaistmaarten.com

Nikki Beach Residences:
Antigua

Nikki Beach Antigua translates its beach club identity into a residential setting, centered on beachfront homes within a lifestyle-led resort. Contemporary, open-plan residences sit directly on the shoreline, with access to the brand’s events program and wider network forming a central part of the ownership proposition. For buyers, it offers a more social, experience-driven form of ownership, with the added advantage of Antigua’s Citizenship by Investment program. Completion is expected in 2030.
nikkibeachresidencesantigua.com

Six Senses Residences:
Emerald Caye, Belize

Six Senses brings its first Americas overwater resort and residences to Belize. Set on the private island of Emerald Caye, the project includes a limited collection of 16 residences, including overwater villas more commonly associated with the Maldives. Owners will have full access to the brand’s resort facilities and wider service offering, centered on low-density development, privacy, and sustainability. For buyers, it offers a more accessible route into this style of living, with relatively straightforward access from New York, supported by the brand’s established focus on wellness and environmental design. Opening is anticipated in 2028.
sixsenses.com/residences/belize

Four Seasons Private Residences:
Coconut Grove, Miami

In Miami, Four Seasons is extending its residential footprint with a standalone development in Coconut Grove. Set along Biscayne Bay in one of the city’s most established yachting enclaves,
the project comprises 70 design-led residences with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the water. While not attached to either of the Four Seasons resorts in Miami, it retains the service model associated with the brand. Its location within a walkable neighborhood of restaurants, boutiques, yacht clubs, and marinas makes it particularly relevant for owners already active in the region, offering a more permanent, city-based version of branded living.
fourseasonsresidencescoconutgrovemiami.com