When you think of the Caribbean, you are probably visualising sun, sea, sand and cocktails. Perhaps even those cute swimming pigs? But, what you might not realise is that there are lots of reasons to choose the Caribbean for your next adventure holiday, and not just because some of the islands are now on the UK green list (at the time of writing). Trust us when we tell you, there is lots to fulfil your adventurous soul.

For the water lovers

As you’d expect from island nations, there are a bevvy of ways to experience the sparkling water that surrounds them that doesn’t revolve around lying on the beach. Leave your reclining friends and family to top up their tan and try some of these adventure activities on for size.  

Wreck diving

Recreational scuba diving in the Caribbean has a history that goes back to the 1960s with crystal clear waters and wonderful marine life that includes squirrelfish, angelfish and coral reef. But arguably the real diving adventure is Caribbean wreck diving – there are 365 sites to keep you busy across the region including drug running boats, cruise liners, freighters and even military vessels. Some were sunk by Mother Nature, others on purpose for diving interest – but whatever your preference for type or location, you can find the wreck diving for you. 

Underwater Sculpture

In 2006, British sculptor ​​Jason deCaires Taylor created the world’s first underwater gallery off the coast of Grenada. There are over 100 figures in different configurations below the water, including a circle of figures based on local children. Time has allowed the ocean to start to claim them, with pieces colonised with coral and other marine life creating an experience that feels even more otherworldly. There are access options for all types of water lover, as you view the underwater sculpture park by snorkelling, diving or from a glass-bottomed boat.

Sparkle on the surface

Billed at the brightest bay in the world (Guinness World Records 2008), Mosquito Bay, Vieques, offers a truly magical experience. See the sea sparkle around you as you kayak through at night. This magical experience is courtesy of the bioluminescence caused by pyrodinium bahamense dinoflagellates, which is a type of algal bloom that releases light when disturbed. For the best experience plan your visit for a moonless evening.

For those who want to explore on land

Hiking a National Trail

You may be surprised to learn that the Caribbean has a National Trail. Based on Dominica, the 115-mile long Waitukubuli National Trail was opened in 2013 and takes in mountains and rainforests. If you wanted to walk the whole thing, it would take you around two weeks but it’s handily split into 14 sections, so you can do as much or as little of the route as you want. However, for the keen walker, the route offers everything from the coast and hot springs, to dense rainforest and the opportunity to summit the highest peak on the island, Morne Diablotins. The humidity and insects mean that this isn’t for everyone, but it certainly will burn some energy for those less suited to sitting poolside.

Harrison’s Cave from a different perspective

Harrison’s Cave might be one of the most well-known locations to visit when you take a trip to Barbados, but don’t let the photos of people in sedate trams fool you; there is more than one way to experience what has been described by some as the eighth wonder of the world. By choosing the Eco-Adventure tour you will be walking, wading and crawling your way through the active river cave system, just like early explorers would have done. Fun fact: Harrison’s stalagmites continue to grow each year. Expect to get a little wet and muddy, while your less adventurous travel mates can utilise the 1980s tram system. 

And so much more…

Other experiences of note: swim with the famous pigs (mentioned above) in Barbados, visit the Soggy Dollar bar for a Painkiller cocktail in Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands, and view flamingos in their natural habitat from Pink Beach, Bonaire.

Another World Adventures offers bespoke adventure holidays in the Caribbean – whether you prefer to be based on a boat or on an island. If you’d like to find out more about booking a bespoke adventure or adding an experience to one of our Caribbean sails, contact us for more information.