I've read a lot about each of these islands on this board, and wondered which people would recommend for a wedding of 40 or so people from all walks of life, from the seasoned traveler to the home body who's never seen the ocean. I'm also interested in which you think would be more expensive overall (considereing airfare, ferry, food and lodging)

From what I read here, I don't think I can go wrong with either island, but trying to narrow it down is tough!

TIA!

I haven't been to St. John, so can't compare the islands, but I do know Harbour Island well, and I would think the airfare would be alot less. Guests can fly into Florida and then N. Eleuthera on USAir, Delta or Continental (also that many people coming to the wedding, you can get a group discount on airfare)

For people who prefer large planes, you can fly directly into Nassau on several airlines, including Jet Blue now serving Nassau from NYC for $99 each way. There is a Bahamas Air flight into N. Eleuthera on a 40 seater plane or people can take the BoHengy ferry over and back.

There are "large" (30-60 rooms) resorts on island, several smaller B&Bs, a motel or two and houses for rent, so just about everyone's budget can be accomodated for hotel.

There are some good restaurants, a deli, several take away and even a pizza place. Also you don't need a car to get around the island, you walk everywhere.

There are a few nite spots and you can arrange for some fun off island trips for the gang, very cheaply.

Several of the restaurants on island could accomodate your group for a nice dinner, and you can hold the wedding at one of the older historic churches or right on the beach.

There is a florist on island, so you can order flowers.

If I can be of any more help, please let me know.

Finding accomodations for 40+ in the same location may be difficult on St.John. Westin may be the only resort that could handle a group that size.

I have been to both St John and the Bahamas, although not to Harbor Island (until April 2005). In my opinion, after having traveled to many Caribbean islands, Mexico and all of Hawaii - St. John just can't be beat. The scenery is in a word stunning. The waters are incredible. There are incredible villas to rent that can house MANY people, and allow weddings on site. There are several wedding planners on the island - as an added bonus you can hop to all the other USVI and BVI quite readily. Yes, airfare can be pricey, but price flying into SJU and then taking Liat over to STT, or the seaplane (my personal favorite).

I have stayed on both St. John and Harbour Island, and I agree you can't go wrong with either!

St. John does have beautiful beaches and a wide selection of villas - villa rental is made for this type of thing. You could probably work with an agent and lease two neighboring villas, and this would provide a great family atmosphere with a living room to congregate and socialize. Transportation would be a must to get around this island.

Harbour Island has several perfectly sized resorts, but more importantly, everybody gets around this tiny friendly place by golfcart, bike, or foot. So you'd get a nice upscale beach/village atmosphere versus an away-from-it-all villa reunion.

Of the two, HI would surely be less expensive. Airfare from Tampa to Eleuthera is about $350 for us (sheesh! only $200 from nyc?!), but St. Thomas is about $500. Also, you'd have to rent cars or taxis on STJ but not HI...with 40 people, that would make a big difference.

Lastly, when? If April thru Oct, then either choice would work. But the Bahamas get a bit chilly in the cold months.

Have fun deciding!