The Greater Antilles

The Greater Antilles are a group of larger islands in the Caribbean Sea. They include 4 major islands – Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola and, the smallest, Puerto Rico. These islands (as the rest of the Caribbean) enjoy warm sunny weather, beautiful sandy beaches and lush vegetation, intermixed with a variety of cultural, social and historical traditions. These vibrant and diverse islands have much more to offer to their guests than just warm sea and sun and sandy beaches.

Hispaniola is an island divided between the two very different countries – Dominican Republic and Haiti.

The island lies in the heart of the Caribbean archipelago and is known for beautiful white sand beaches as well as 5 mountain ranges that stretch throughout the island. It is mountainous and forested, with plains and plateaux. High mountains and long white beaches surrounded by crystal blue sea make a spectacular view.

When sailing Haiti, don’t miss visiting Ile de la Tortue, a famous 17th century pirate base, and an island of wonderful beaches. And in Dominican Republic, be sure to attend one of the worldwide famous festivities or music festivals.

Jamaica is an island with top-ranked beaches in the Caribbean. This easy-going island offers you a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful scenery and great nightlife. The beaches on the north coast particularly stand out and the fishing and diving opportunities here are exceptional. On this island you will find a variety of the most breathtaking geographical formations in the Caribbean, from beaches and waterfalls to rivers and caves. It is the country of intense colours, lively music (home of reggae) and dynamic and socially and politically aware people.
For relaxing time, visit the Jamaican garden centre Ocho Rios, where you can fish, dive, shop, play golf or polo… Duns River Falls is one of many extraordinary beautiful parts of these gardens.
Montego Bay is a worldwide popular resort, and Port Royal was the pirate capital of the Caribbean, that attracts nautical archaeologists, pirate enthusiasts and treasure hunters.

Puerto Rico (a US territory, but political independence is a controversial matter among the local population) is the smallest of the Greater Antilles, located between the Hispaniola and the Virgin Islands. Its lifestyle is the culmination of combining the native Taino culture with influences from Creole, Spanish, African, and American civilizations.

The island is partially covered by the incredible El Yunque Caribbean National Rain Forest, a home to over 400 species. While the east and north parts of the island are abundant with vegetation, the southern region is more arid and rocky. Just opposite the rainforest in the east is a Guanica Dry Forest, where you can find many indigenous species. Puerto Rico is also well known for wonderful tropical beaches; some of the most beautiful are in San Juan.

Except enjoying the exceptional beaches and exciting nightlife in popular casinos, in Puerto Rico you can go exploring the tunnels, mazes and dungeons of a 400-year-old fortress San Felipe del Morro, as well as relax in Las Cabezas de San Juan, most complete nature reserve with a spectacular lighthouse.

Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean. The country of Cuba includes the main island as well as other nearby islands such is the Isla de la Juventud (the Island of Youth). The exception is the Guantanamo Bay at the eastern part, which is lased by the US. It is a communist country, which was until recently closed for foreign influences. Today it is a popular tourist destination with many exclusive tourist resorts; they are enclosed areas, reserved especially for the tourists and off limits for the local population who don’t work there.

Cuba is a country with particularly rich history, strong cultural identity and passionate and vibrant lifestyle, music and people.
Particularly attractive sailing areas are by the south coast of the island, but the entire island is a beautiful mix of mountain ranges and plains with over 200 bays and 289 sun drenched beaches. The main ports are located in the provinces Cienfuegos, Havana, Manzanillo, Mariel, Matanzas, Nuevitas and Santiago de Cuba.
Enjoy sightseeing the 17th century colonial architecture of Matanzas, Cárdenas, and, of course, Havana, which is one of the liveliest cities in Latin America.
For fun at the beach visit Playas del Este near Havana, María la Gorda beach and resort, Varadero or Isla de la Juventud.

 

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