Bahamas bound: life on the island beyond swimming with the pigs

It’s my first day in Grand Bahama — the northernmost island of the Bahamas archipelago — and I’m already ignoring the age-old advice not to be lured into a complete stranger’s house.

Tempted by the promise of a home-cooked meal, I’m here to meet Colette Williams, a host with the Bahamas’ Ministry of Tourism’s People-to-People program, which is all about pairing travellers with a local ambassador for an authentic Bahamian experience. 

“I think that’s what I was made to do — just to welcome people to our sun, sand and sea,” said Williams, who has been a host with the program for 19 years.

“I love people. I feel that if I can make one person have a memorable experience of the Bahamas, I would not have lived in vain, so my goal is to make sure everyone has a memorable experience of my home and to share the authentic experience of Grand Bahamian hospitality.”

Colette Williams

Bringing authenticity back

In her backyard, Williams proceeds to set up an elaborate spread of stewed chicken, steamed fish, peas and rice, warm potato salad, baked macaroni and cheese and homemade iced tea. Today’s batch is infused with hibiscus. A yellow tablecloth spread across the dining table echoing the words Bahamas matches her blue dress, which also has the words Bahamas printed all over it. 

Williams, who formerly worked in the hotel industry, said tourists rarely get a chance to see how Bahamians live.

“You can drive around the tourist route and never even see a house,” she said, noting that she enjoys sharing authentic Bahamian dishes with visitors. “When you get food in a hotel, it isn’t as authentic as home cooking. There’s no cooking like home cooking. You put a face to the food, there’s a story behind it.”

The immersive program pairs interested travellers with locally-vetted ambassadors who are matched based on various interests.

“It’s a program that’s been in place for more than 40 years,” Latia Duncombe, Director General of The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, told Offshore. “It’s a day in the life of a Bahamian. You’re moving away from the commercial, touristic components and you’re getting immersed into culture — whatever the local does is what the visitor does. It is true culture; it’s who we are as a people. It’s being prepared to share that authentic element of being a Bahamian, something you can’t find anywhere else in the world.”

Connecting with locals

Thirteen kilometres off the shore of Grand Bahama, I’ve connected with another Bahamian resident who is just as passionate about the destination and sharing his knowledge.

Although the Bahamas is known around the world as the place where tourists can come to swim with pigs, I’m here for a different kind of wild encounter — to meet the man known as the pied piper of stingrays.

From the moment Keith Cooper of West End Ecology Tours steps off the boat at Sandy Cay, a dozen stingrays with names like Stubby, Hard Wire, Lunatic, Scratch, Big Momma and Little Momma, instinctively swarm him.

Keith Cooper

“They’re touching my leg with their sensors because they know who I am, they remember who I am and because of the special bond I have with them. They trust me as much as I trust them,” he said, adding that stingrays often get a bad rep for being dangerous. “More than 9,000 visitors have participated in the Stingray Experience Tour and no one has ever been stung by a stingray… when the protocols are followed, guests will have one of the most unique encounters with marine life they have ever experienced.”

Before launching West End Ecology Tours, Cooper stumbled upon the stingrays by accident during a fishing expedition in 2006. “During the stopover, I discarded unused fishing bait over the side of the boat and within minutes the boat was surrounded by 15 stingrays feeding off the bottom of the shallow water where the boat was anchored at the beach,” he explained.

Since then, he’s returned to the spot to study the stingrays. In 2009, Cooper turned it into a business that now offers multiple tours, including snorkelling trips to underwater boat wrecks and reef fishing experiences. The Stingray Experience Tour remains his best-selling excursion.

According to Cooper, stingrays can display sentient behaviour and will show off their unique personalities. “There are two alpha female stingrays that dominate the fever. Big Momma is the most dominant member of the group and often displays her displeasure when too many rays come near me during the introduction and demonstration phase of the tour,” he said, noting she’ll use a decoy tactic to draw the other stingrays away so that she can consume the fish provided during the demonstration phase.

Another stingray, Hugger, got its name from the “hugs” she gives Cooper upon approach. “Guests watching from the boat are awestruck when they observe Hugger sitting in my lap, waiting patiently to receive a fish,” he said.

It’s Junkanoo time 

On Nassau, New Providence, where major resorts like Atlantis, Goldwynn Resort & Residences, Sandals Royal Bahamian and Baha Mar are located, Arlene Nash Ferguson has made it her life’s mission to showcase the longstanding Bahamian celebration known as Junkanoo. 

Based in her childhood home, the Educulture Junkanoo Museum is lined with colourful displays and costumes displaying the evolution of the cultural affair. A former British colony from 1629 to 1973, in the Bahamas, Junkanoo began roughly 200 years ago, when members of the African diaspora, including enslaved Bahamians, were granted three days to observe Christmas.

Arlene Nash Ferguson

“They said, ‘let’s use these precious three days to recreate our festivals from home. It’s time to renew the spirit and just in case anybody tries to stop us, we will wait until the night and off we go,’” said Nash Ferguson, who has been taking part in Junkanoo since she was four years old. 

Although the residents of the time were mixed by culture, she said the festivals wound up sharing several things in common, including instruments like goatskin drums, bells and elaborate costumes. “When you covered your face, it symbolized the presence of our ancestors,” Nash Ferguson said. “In these isolated islands, leaves, feathers, shells, seaweed, anything Indigenous becomes your decoration.”

Nash Ferguson shared that costumes continue to be made from paper as an original sign of defiance because in the time of slavery on the islands “by law people were not permitted to learn to read and write.” More than just a tradition, she said Bahamians are passionate about Junkanoo and work on their costumes all year long in their spare time once the theme for the following year’s festival is announced. Typically, the costumes are made using a cardboard base that’s covered in layers of tissue paper and often include elaborate headpieces.

“Two hundred years ago in the dark of the night at Christmas time, Bahamians said ‘Man, we survived, let’s celebrate life’ and they told their children never to forget,” she explained. “And ladies and gentlemen, right up to Christmas gone, we who are their children, we continue to do it. Today, we call it the Junkanoo festival — at 10 o’clock Christmas night we shut down Bay Street, hit the road dancing, still to the music of drums and bells.” 

After outfitting my small group of travel companions with cowbells, whistles and drums, Nash Ferguson led us into a practice run of a Junkanoo simulation.  

“The costumes are magnificent; we have worked months on them and we can’t wait to get out there to show them off. We’re going to out music and out dance every other group because we are going to win,” she said, before blowing her whistle loudly. “Line up, everybody ready? Who we is? Junkanoo! Bark like a dog. Woof, woof.”

The end result is a far cry from the organized rhythm of an actual parade, but we give it our all, joining in with off-beat drumming and what could only be described as tone deaf whistling. What we lack in musical ability, we make up in spirit and effort.


This story first appeared in the Winter 2023 issue of OFFSHORE. To read the full version, click here.

Aruba offering free tattoos by locals for a “permanent souvenir”

The Aruba Tourism Authority recently announced the introduction of the “Tattoovenir,” the first-ever souvenir that truly stays with you.

The island is offering visitors the chance to get a free Aruba-themed tattoo from a local artist, as a permanent reminder of your time spent in Aruba.

“When our visitors leave, they take some of the island’s abundant happiness with them,” said Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority. “What better way to celebrate this lasting feeling than to give away permanent souvenirs from our talented local tattoo artists. Because Aruba stays with you, long after you leave.”

How to get your tattoo

Starting today, eligible visitors can register for the opportunity to receive a free Aruba-themed tattoo during their trip from one of the five participating local Aruban tattoo shops by visiting aruba.com/tattoovenirs and claiming a Tattoovenir voucher while supplies last.

Pending verification of their eligibility, participants can redeem their Tattoovenir at the participating shop of their choice between Jan. 1, 2024 through June 30, 2024.

Participating Tattoo Shops Include:

  • Black Sheep Body Arts
    Located ideally in the heart of Oranjestad, Black Sheep Body Arts features a team of award winning tattoo artists that specialize in custom, fine line, bright color, and black and grey realism tattoos
  • Cadushi Ink Tattoos
    A trend setter in the Aruban tattoo industry, the eclectic Cadushi Ink Tattoo shop has years of experience perfecting a variety of styles from minimalistic to to neotraditional, geometric, realistic, and freestyle.
  • Inkspiration Tattoo Studio
    Operating just off the shoreline in Palm Beach, Inksiration tattoo is home to a team of versatile artists with experience working with fineline, black & grey, color and custom tattoos.
  • Aruba Tattoo/Aruba Tattoo and Piercing
    Just minutes from Eagle Beach, Aruba Tattoo and Piercing features a dedicated team of artists that are constantly studying new techniques to evolve their work and perfect their craft, with a specialty in realism composition tattoos in black and grey.
  • Art 4 Life Tattoo
    At Art 4 Life Tattoo, conveniently situated amongst the high rise hotels of Plam Beach, visitors will find a staff of skilled tattoo artists who pride thesleves on crafting one-of-a-kind personalized tattoos and creating unforgettable experiences.

The Aruba Tourism Authority encourages visitors to show how Aruba has stayed with them by sharing their Aruba-inspired ink on social media and using the hashtag #Tattoovenir.

Five new hotels to explore in the Cayman Islands

Now that the Cayman Islands has been reopened for tourism for a year, the destination is seeing strong recovery numbers, and with that comes a suite of new hotel openings.

Here are five hotels we’re excited about for 2024/2025.

VIDA Ocean Adventure Lodge

The first upcoming opening is VIDA Ocean Adventure Lodge, “quite a unique lower-density footprint property” set to debut in Q4 of this year. The property will feature 18 bungalows in West Bay and will be geared towards wellness and adventure travellers.

Hotel Grand Indigo Cayman

Next up is a larger development next to the Kimpton on Seven Mile Beach, Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman, set to debut in Q2 of 2024. The 282-room property will offer competitive rates.

OneGT

Set to open in Q1 of 2025 is OneGT, which will be located in downtown Georgetown, the capital city. The business hotel is set to feature 177 rooms. With its grand café, signature terrace restaurant, full range of resort amenities and Cayman’s first luxury SKY Club, ONE | GT is a destination for guests, residents, owners and the entire community to enjoy. 

Kailani

Kailani, a Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel, “a wellness hotel,” that will open with 80 rooms across one, two and three-bedroom configurations is also set for 2025. From a studio to a spacious suite with a kitchenette, all making the most of the interior space by creating functional and flexible rooms that can easily be enjoyed day or night. There’s also a rooftop spa and a private farm providing an abundance of organic produce for a true farm to table experience at their restaurant.

Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Hotel & Residences

Finally, the Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Hotel & Residences, slated for a 2026 opening, will feature 190 hotel rooms and 167 condo residences. There are six distinct dining venues on site, as well as three pools and a massive fitness centre and spa area.

In terms of lift, currently there are 727,290 seats into the destination across 4,184 flights.

This massive hotel in Barbados is set on a former castle

Wyndham Grand, the hotel brand known for its upscale accommodations and approachable designs, is now taking reservations for its newest resort, the inviting 422-room all-inclusive Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord’s Castle Resort & Spa.

The secluded, ocean-front hotel marks Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ entrance into Barbados and will begin welcoming its first guests beginning October 12 with select amenities, followed by a formal Grand Opening in early 2024.

Nestled on the Southeastern side of the island of Barbados, just 15 minutes from the Grantley International Airport, the hotel is located on the former site of Sam Lord’s Castle, which was once renowned for pirates during the 19th century.

The all-new construction, all-inclusive resort offers 422 guest rooms, including 37 suites with sophisticated architecture and sustainable designs, along with large ocean views and lanai-style private balconies to allow guests to bask in the joy of indoor and outdoor living.

Contemporary cuisine

At peak operation, guests can enjoy contemporary culinary experiences in the resort’s more than 10 dining venues, which cater to a variety of tastes. Culinary highlights include the Mediterranean Marketplace featuring flavors from North Africa, Italy, France, Portugal and Spain, pop-up food trucks, poolside dining and more.

Celebrating Barbados’local offerings, the resort also features a specialty “farm to fork” experience with locally sourced ingredients from nearby farmers, fisherman and purveyors.

Wellness and relaxation

For guests seeking to unwind, the hotel will feature a 13,000 square foot spa with a pool area and relaxation deck, along with a state-of-the-art fitness center and a sunrise yoga center. Other on-site amenities include lagoon-style swimming pools, a kids center, butler service, tennis and pickleball courses.

The resort also offers 15,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting and event space that can accommodate up to 1,100 guests, top-of-the-line technology and purposefully built landscapes perfect for staging weddings and special events. Guests are encouraged to contact the hotel directly for the latest on available amenities.

One of Saint Lucia’s hottest resorts shows off multi-million dollar upgrade

The Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort, a luxurious five-star resort nestled in the hillside on the Caribbean Island of Saint Lucia, debuts a fresh new look following a 12-million-dollar renovation.

Nestled in the glamorous hills of the island’s Labrelotte Bay, the resort’s renovations feature new additions, including the revitalization of enhanced luxury estate villas, new Ocean Point Residences, a refreshed lobby, an innovative culinary program, and updated accommodations.

Influenced by its Caribbean meets Mediterranean island setting, the resort’s new design blends nautical and coastal elements, utilizing soft neutrals and pops of Saint Lucia’s renowned blue hue. Custom-made wood furnishings, including mindi and teak, are used throughout spaces to provide contrast, and natural rope and rattan furnishings transform outdoor space into a chic oasis.

The resort’s 12-million-dollar refresh pays homage to its origins, bringing a focus back to the serenity of the beach escape and celebrating over 30 years of service since its opening in 1989.

The Lobby’s grand infrastructure featuring high vaulted ceiling beams and an open-air concept has been re-envisioned as a space where guests can mingle and meet. Outfitted with elegant chandeliers, contemporary furniture, marble floors, a new reception area, an ambassador’s lounge, and a coffee bar by day/wine bar by night concept, the refreshed look will enhance the guest check-in experience and bring to life the heart of the resort.

Revitalized rooms

Dubbed the Manor Collection, the resort’s newly revitalized luxury estate villas feature sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea perched at the top of the hillside, complete with in-ground pools.

Among the collection is ‘The Presidential Manor’ slated to be unveiled later this year; the largest villa on-site, at over 4000 sq ft, will feature a 45’x20′ swimming pool, driveway, and adjunct living space perfect for extended family or friends.

Additionally, guests can now enjoy the newly built Ocean Point Residences featuring a mix of luxury two and three-bedroom beachfront villas. Each villa in this collection has multiple outdoor terraces, a private infinity pool, fully equipped kitchens, artwork showcasing Caribbean culture and landscape by local artists, smart technology, and more.

Guests will revel in the modern meets Mediterranean-style rooms, where island vibes blend seamlessly with a luxurious escape. A new ‘Ocean Point Club House’ has been designed as an exclusive lounge for Ocean Point Residence guests with a dedicated concierge desk and private check-in area.

Ocean Point Residence

Enhanced culinary program

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort’s enhanced culinary program, led by Culinary Director Aurelien Duarte and Executive Chef Sebastian Francis, boasts chic upgrades to design elements and refreshed menus for Papa Don’s (dinner-only Mediterranean), Jammers (all-day beachside dining), Upper Deck (dinner-only legendary steakhouse) and now ‘Masala at Embers,’ serving up authentic Indian cuisine, led by Chef Vikrham Singh, daily for dinner service.

Upscale dining at Upper Deck evokes a modern steakhouse vibe with moody accents, including a soon-to-be-unveiled wine lounge. Fire pits and sophisticated coastal furniture adorn the newly re-envisioned Jammer’s restaurant, adding luxe touches to the all-day beachside dining hot spot. Each restaurant supports Saint Lucia’s local farmers and fishermen, serving only the freshest ingredients.

The resort’s signature restaurant, Dragonfly, has undergone an extensive renovation and now serves breakfast and dinner. In addition, the new restaurant now features a rooftop bar and lounge dubbed “The Perch by Dragonfly,” featuring hand-painted murals by a local Caribbean artist, Sandy Layne, depicting the restaurant’s scenic breakwater views.

The Perch is set to be the newest hot spot in Saint Lucia, where locals and tourists alike will mingle over some of the most innovative cocktails and menu offerings like our Piri Piri King Prawns, Hot & Spicy Eggplant, and our Spices of Lucian cocktail, all while taking in sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea.

The renowned spa at Windjammer Landing has a new moniker, Serene Wellness & Spa, which compliments the wide range of alluring, balance-restoring rituals and treatments available to nurture physical and spiritual routines. Stand-out feature packages include their holistic approach to Detox and Immunity featuring steps to transition to a healthier way of living. This year the spa plans to unveil the island’s first medi-spa featuring treatments at the forefront of anti-aging and rejuvenation.

For more information and reservations, visit www.windjammer-landing.com.

The world’s first ocean pool just opened in Turks & Caicos

Wymara Villas, perched on one of the highest points of the secluded Turtle Tail peninsula, a short drive from Wymara Resort is a community of one, four and five-bedroom modern masterpieces located on Grace Bay Beach.

Each villa offers guests a private pool, expansive ocean views, and exclusive access to a state-of-the-art sports club.

Recently, the property welcomed an ocean pool that measures 130 ft long by 30 ft wide, spanning nearly 3,900 square feet.

Now ready for guests to take a dip, the stunning swimming spot features a shallow end that is three-to-five feet deep (depending on the tide) and a deep end that plunges six-to-nine feet with a soft, sandy bottom throughout.

The natural swimming pool, which gets replenished with fresh seawater from the Atlantic, is carved out of the coastal rock and lined by an expansive timber deck that spans the entire length of the pool. Featuring a tiki bar and stylish sun loungers and umbrellas for shade, guests can take breaks from sipping spritzes to dip in and out of the refreshing, salty sea while soaking in the serene views. 

Its remote location gives privacy for swimmers, yet is close enough to Wymara’s five-star amenities offering something for everyone. Future plans call for the opening of a new beachside restaurant and the availability of day passes. But for now, the Ocean Pool at Sunset Cove Beach is for the exclusive use of Wymara Resort + Villa guests, with access to a poolside Tiki Bar from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. serving a variety of fresh cocktails, wine, and beer.

Celebrity Cruises adds new stops to private island paradise

Celebrity Cruises has revamped its Caribbean program for the summer 2024 season.

Starting next April, the Celebrity BeyondSM and Celebrity Reflection will sail to the Caribbean. Not only does the new program double the brand’s number of year-round Caribbean sailings and introduces the first weekend itineraries, but both ships will now offer guests with the exciting opportunity to experience Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Located in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay is an island paradise that offers miles of white sand beaches and clear waters, the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas, and a beach club that features a heated infinity pool, specialty restaurant, and 20 exclusive overwater cabanas.

Hideaway Beach, a new offering debuting in January, will offer an adults only paradise, with private cabanas and a new signature food outlet. Perfect Day is also home to North America’s tallest waterslide and has other thrill-seeking activities like the Up, Up and Away — an epic balloon ride that provides breathtaking panoramic views.

For more information, visit www.celebrity.com

There’s now a direct flight from Toronto to Martinique

A new direct flight between Toronto and Martinique is now possible, thanks to a new route from Air Canada.  

The launch of the route represents the culmination of a long-term effort and vision advocated by the Tourism Commissioner for the Martinique Tourism Authority, , Bénédicte di Géronimo.

This new route offering non-stop flights to Martinique will strengthen the bond between Canada and the Caribbean island, building upon a successful 14-year run of non-stop flights from Montreal. 

“This connection between The Isle of Flowers and the Canadian economic capital reinforces the presence of Martinique in Canada, which is now our second most important market,” said di Géronimo. “I salute the commitment of our key partners such as Club Med, MSC Cruises and The Martinique Aimé Césaire Airport Company (SAMAC) and all partners in the tourism industry in both Martinique and Ontario. This is one more opportunity for our Canadian visitors to discover, taste and share the famous ‘joie de vivre’ that inspires us every day.”

Toronto passengers will now enjoy the comfort of a non-stop, 5-hour flight aboard an Airbus A220, with a capacity of 137 seats.   

“Air Canada is very pleased to be the leading carrier between Canada and the French Caribbean, and we are exceptionally delighted to add new flights from Toronto to Martinique this winter. This new service complements our year-round flights from Montreal. Martinique is a unique leisure destination renowned for its rich history and culture, outdoor activities and natural beauty. We have optimized connections to and from our Toronto hub to give customers convenient travel options and bring more people to discover Martinique!” said Alexandre Lefevre, Vice President, Network Planning – North America and Scheduling at Air Canada. 

With the launch of this flight, the riches of Martinique are more accessible to Canadians than ever.  The verdant “Isle of Flowers” is known for its abundant nature, delicious Creole cuisine, fascinating heritage and welcoming French-Caribbean hospitality.  The destination has enjoyed surging popularity with Canadian travellers, both due to its broad array of experiences and safe environment.

“We are delighted to offer our Canadian visitors the experience of an authentic, beautiful and romantic Martinique.  We await them with open arms and thank Air Canada for helping us realize the launch of this vital new route,” said Muriel Wiltord, Director of the Martinique Tourism Authority, Americas.

Hyatt announces expansion plans into the Caribbean

Hyatt recently announced a multi-property collaboration with Be Live Hotels that will include the growth of the Sunscape Resorts & Spas brand in the Caribbean.

Sunscape Resort & Spas provides all-inclusive family fun. Children 12 years of age and under can enjoy the supervised Explorer’s Club, while teens have their own space at the Core Zone. The Unlimited-Fun experience promises best-in-class service, gourmet á la carte restaurants with kid-friendly options and delectable drinks and endless day and nighttime activities for the entire family.

The deal is expected to expand Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection, which was introduced following Hyatt’s acquisition of Apple Leisure Group in 2020, by nearly 2,000 rooms.

Two Be Live Hotels properties in the Dominican Republic, owned by Spanish hospitality company Globalia, will be renovated and transformed into Sunscape Resorts & Spas. The renovated hotels are expected to open in 2023, bolstering the family-friendly brand’s presence in the Caribbean.

Hyatt’s portfolio of all-inclusive brands brings exceptional and immersive experiences to guests and members with Hyatt Ziva, Hyatt Zilara, Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts, Secrets Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid Hotels & Resorts, Alua Hotels & Resorts and Sunscape Resorts & Spas brands.

To learn more about the Inclusive Collection, please visit www.hyatt.com/newbrands.

Five of the best offshore islands to visit in Antigua and Barbuda

Tropical beaches and blue skies invite you and your family to spend your winter in the welcoming destination of Antigua and Barbuda.

Rich in culture, music, and excitement, these sister islands offer a relaxing vibe and the promise of an amazing vacation for both adults and children.

Antigua and Barbuda is home to some of the most exquisite beaches, delectable cuisine, inspiring scenery and unique wildlife, as well as smaller islets that are packed with fun activities. Spend your day in the sun, experiencing thrilling adventures on the outlying islands of Antigua and Barbuda

Not sure where to begin? Read on for a few of our favourite offshore excursions in Antigua and Barbuda and jumpstart your winter itinerary. 

Prickly Pear Island 

Just a short boat ride away from Antigua’s northern coast lies Prickly Pear Island. This is an ideal place to get away from the (comparative) hustle of Antigua. It is quiet and reserved yet boasts its own open bar! The bar serves both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, making it ideal for groups of any age. The island also has an exquisite West Indian Seafood menu. You can find fresh seafood lunch options that include lobster or the local fish of the day. 

There is something for everyone on Prickly Pear. Guests can enjoy the snorkelling activity along its ivory shores. You’ll have to rent your own equipment, but the instruction is free! Soak in the experience of engaging with the abundant marine life of the islands: you might even bump into some sea turtles while you’re there! Picnics are an essential part of every vacation. There are many picnic spots along the beach where you can enjoy the island’s cuisine and sample the famous rum punch. 

If you get tired from all the swimming, there are sunbeds and chairs thoughtfully laid out all over the island. Take a quick nap in the cool breeze before continuing your adventure on Prickly Pear.

Laviscount Island

Laviscount Island is a small, uninhabited island located off the coast of Antigua, which is part of the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda in the Caribbean. A private island getaway, Laviscount Island, offers island stand-alone tours and combination tours with the Stingrays. Our refuge is home to more than 50 of these prehistoric animals, which have barely changed since the time of the dinosaurs. The island is surrounded by clear, turquoise waters that are popular with snorkelers and divers which is a spectacle to witness. 

Home to the largest Aldabra Giant Tortoise sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere, Laviscount Island is where nature goes to relax. These pleasant and intelligent creatures, native to the Indian Ocean, may reach weights of over 600 pounds and have life expectancies of up to 200 years. 

This island provides the first and only private Island Nature tour. This amazing new tour is like nothing that we have ever seen in Antigua and Barbuda with themes of ecology, history, and adventure all while maintaining a desire to be off the beaten track. 

Whether you are interested in hiking, snorkelling, or just taking in the natural beauty of this remote island, a nature tour to Laviscount Island is sure to be a memorable experience. 

Great Bird Island

As you may have guessed, this small 20-acre island is a bird watching paradise. This island was named by sailors who were amazed at the amount of birds that reside on its shores. Great Bird Island is also home to a number of endangered species of birds such as exotic, red-billed tropic birds and the brown pelican.

Critically endangered, the Antiguan Racer snake can be found here. EAG (Environmental Awareness Group) is working diligently to increase the population of this endangered species. Climb the new staircase for a panoramic view of the surrounding islands in the North Sound area. 

There are large numbers of young coral reefs which are a natural habitat for various sponges, oysters, clams, and many species of colourful fish. Great Bird Island is regarded as a mini-paradise by both locals and tourists. Together with the attractiveness of swimming in the gorgeous blue ocean water, the white sand beaches are a standout draw to the area. 

Green Island

This island located off the west coast of Antigua, is surrounded by coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination both sailing and mega-yachts to anchorage. 

In addition, Green Island is perfect for snorkelling and diving. Kitesurfing enthusiasts love this offshore island because the area is protected by an outer reef that guarantees flat water – this experience as well as standup paddle-boarding and wing foiling can be arranged through 40Knots

The snorkelling excursions typically include snorkelling gear, a guided tour of the coral reefs around Green Island, and time to relax and swim at the island’s beaches. Hikes are focused on exploring the natural beauty of Green Island, including its mangrove forests, and hiking trails. For those who prefer a more personalised experience, a private boat tour can be arranged. Enjoy a delicious dinner on the boat as the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea.

Hell's Gate Island

Located close to Bird Island, Hell’s Gate Island is only accessible by boat. This rocky island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling. Like Devil’s Bridge on the east coast of Antigua, Hell’s Gate also has a natural limestone arch that was formed by the ocean waves crashing against the island’s rocky shores. Visitors are able to hike across this bridge.

Antigua and Barbuda’s islands offer visitors a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and a relaxed island lifestyle. The islands of Antigua and Barbuda offer a wide range of luxury resorts and accommodations, with world-class amenities and breath taking views. This sunny paradise offers smiles and memories that last a lifetime. Life is always better on a tropical island!