Yachting the Bahamas

San Juan, founded in the 1520’s by Spanish settlers, is both the largest city and the capital city of Puerto Rico. A territory of the Unites States, Puerto Rico is comprised of the large main island as well as five smaller islands, including the popular islands of Vieques and Culebra (both ports of call on select SeaDream voyages). SeaDream docks in Old San Juan, the oldest part of the city. Parts of this historic port city are still surrounded by stone walls dating back to the 1500’s. Narrow cobblestone streets, small shops, and points of interest like Cathedral of San Juan Bautista make this charming city a great place to stroll. Guests sailing into or departing from San Juan will enjoy views of Castillo de San Felipe del Morro, a mid- 1700’s Spanish fortress. San Juan Luiz Munoz Marin Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive to the port in Old San Juan. Currency in Puerto Rico is USD.

Lying on the northern coast of Samana Bay, Samana is one of the Dominican Republic’s lesser traveled exotic gems. Its natural wonders take the shape of coconut palms contouring the sea, tropical rainforests, brilliant, white-sand beaches hugging the coastline, and charming villages. Discover local markets, dine in seaview restaurants, and perhaps spot some humpback whales. Adventurers can explore the island via ATV tour or by ziplining in Samana Bay.

One of the smallest inhabited islands in the Bahamas, San Salvador boasts sparkling inland lakes, reef-filled sea waters, miles of secluded white-sand beaches, and dive sites teeming with sea life. A stone cross on the shores of Long Bay mark Columbus’s landfall on the island; offshore, an underwater monument designates where La Pinta dropped anchor. Pace yourself to the rhythm of the island with a leisurely swim or bike ride around the bay.

Colorful coral reefs and serene beaches make Long Island a haven for snorkeling, diving, and bone fishing. Relax under the shade of pine trees at Gordon’s Beach, the southernmost white-sand beach on the island. Explore Long Island from the perspective two of its most impressive natural wonders, the Hamilton Caves, dripping with stalactites, and Dean’s Blue Hole, the world’s second-deepest saltwater blue hole, surrounded by limestone bluffs. The island is also home to St. Mary the Virgin Anglican Church, a now-abandoned stone church constructed by the Spanish in the 1600s and reputed to be the oldest in the Bahamas.

As part of the Exuma Cays, Staniel Cay is a magical corner of the Bahamas. Located south of Nassau, this island is an unsung paradise. Visit the infamous swimming pigs at Pig Beach, where numerous pigs race over to get your attention right above crystal-clear waters. Dive or snorkel in the sun-kissed beaches of Exumas and enjoy local dining options for an exclusive look at the Bahamas’ culture and cuisine.

The combination of urban centers and cultural treasures make Palm Beach the perfect getaway. Enter the heart of Africa by visiting the Panther Ridge Conservation Center or get up close and personal with manatees at the Manatee Lagoon. If you’re more into urban sightseeing, visit CityPlace for the top-rated dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences.