SPANISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Get away from the noise and fast pace of the city and sail to a few of the Caribbean’s most tranquil islands. Culebra, Culebrita and Vieques are part of a group of islands known as the Spanish Virgin Islands, and are located east of the island of Puerto Rico. Here, one can experience miles of unspoiled shoreline. Get off the beaten path and relax! On Culebrita, Serenity abounds. This island is deserted except for wildlife, including free range goats. Hike to the oldest lighthouse in the Caribbean, Faro Culebrita, which is now a U.S. National monument. Construction of the lighthouse was completed in February 1886. In 1975, the U.S. Coast Guard replaced the light source with a solar powered light beacon. The spectacular views from the lighthouse are worth the hike up. There are three bioluminescent bays in the Spanish Virgin Islands: Mosquito Bay, Laguna Grande and La Parguera. Bio bays sparkle in the night because of the tiny Dinoflagellate organisms living there. These flagellates live throughout the oceans but are “stuck” in only select areas in high enough concentrations to be seen. When disturbed by the movement of the water, they light up and lace the ocean like jewels twinkling in the night. Experience this magical phenomenon from your boat, dinghy or kayak!