ANTIGUA’S OFFSHORE ISLANDS Antigua is blessed with many offshore islands, often referred to as ‘the last refuge’ for local and globally significant wildlife. Of course, they can only be reached by boat, but as the seas are generally calm and the distances short they are accessible by small vessels, as well as by larger yachts - provided you can navigate between the coral reefs! Most of the day-trip cruise boats tie up close to the main islands. These are located in Antigua’s North Sound, an idyllic marine park off Antigua’s north-east coast and renowned for its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and relaxed Robinson Crusoe-like atmosphere. Great Bird island is particularly popular, although during the week one can often have the entire island to oneself. You may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the harmless and endangered small Antigua Racer snake to be found nowhere else in the world. A ferry service operates to Bird Island from Shell Beach Marina (call Ocean Adventures for times (268) 464-7576/561-1835). Nearby Guiana Island also has a wide sandy beach. Green Island further along the coast is particularly attractive and close to Harmony Hall for extra special lunches. Another smaller island which is accessible is Prickly Pear off the Hodges Bay area on the north coast. Day trips are available by Miguel’s Holiday Adventure - see www.pricklypearisland.com But most of the tiny islands which dot the sea are really just islets, home only to the seabirds which wheel and call overhead. These islets are not just rocks in the ocean, but are often covered in attractive green foliage. Another particularly interesting island is Rabbit Island, home to breeding colonies of the Caribbean Brown Pelicans which are the only diving pelicans in the world. 80
They raise their young in twiggy nests, clearly visible for anyone who is passing. Some have the good fortune to see the tiny babies with large beaks open, growing to become awkward juveniles, eventually flying off until the next season. Do not disturb them and view from a distance. At Hell’s Gate Island there is an incredible coral/ limestone bridge, formed by the elements over millennia. It is really a heavenly gate, but is perhaps named for the wild Atlantic sea visible through the archway. It is not recommended to stroll across the bridge because it is very fragile - we neither want to destroy this or ourselves! Some 25-miles away is Antigua’s ‘third’ possession, the remote and interesting island of Redonda where phosphate was once mined and guano collected for fertiliser. Nowadays it’s uninhabited and access is very limited. Only the most intrepid can go there and scramble up the sides to the flatter top where there are ruins of those earlier activities. Redonda was once home to rare goats, but now only the Frigate Birds wheel about overhead. One larger island close to the north shore is Long Island, the exclusive home of the rich and famous who appreciate the privacy Antigua accords such visitors. The exclusive Jumby Bay resort is here and even more luxurious after extensive refurbishments. Our unique offshore islands are usually pristine as everyone recognises the vital importance of leaving no trace of themselves behind. Visitors and Antiguans alike appreciate these wonderful offshore islands which retain the unique charm that has prevailed for so long and which will continue for future generations. We wish to thank the Antigua Environmental Awareness Group for their contribution to this article.