SurfingBeing a coral island, a coral reef stretches all around
Barbados' coastline, providing for unlimited surfing conditions all over and is guaranteed to have surf somewhere along it's shores at almost any given day of the year. The east coast boasts the most powerful and biggest waves and the foaming surf of the 'Soup Bowl' is a favorite spot that is internationally recognized and the venue for the annual surfing contest. Surfboard lessons and rentals are available, as well as surf tours for the more experienced.
Scuba divingThe waters around Barbados are a treasure
trove of marine life. Barrier reefs, situated about one and a half to two miles (2.5 to 3km) from shore, are home to numerous schools of tropical fish, corals, turtles, rays and barracudas, while fringe reefs are found closer to shore with smaller coral formations and more plant life. These are home to marine life such as seahorses and eels. Barbados is also good for wreck diving; historic Carlisle Bay has numerous wrecks and is a popular dive location, as is Folkestone
Marine Park, where the artificial reef was formed by the deliberate sinking of the Greek freighter Stavronikita in 1976.
WindsurfingBarbados is one of the best wave windsurfing spots in the world, particularly from mid-November to the end of June when the moderate trade winds blow consistently over the shores. Beginners as well as experienced windsurfers will find ideal conditions in which to ride the waves, jump or simply sail. Silver Sands is a popular location, where the conditions are challenging but forgiving. A reef lies 820ft (250m) offshore and provides a steady three to seven foot swell (1-2m), although on some days the waves here can reach up to 16ft (5m).
Caribbean CruiseA cruise in and around Barbados is a relaxing way to travel between islands, enjoy beautiful views and revel in cruise ship luxury. There are various Eastern
Caribbean cruises that either board and disembark in Barbados, or feature the island as one of their main ports of call. Most ships dock at Deep Water Harbour, on the southwest corner of the island, near
Bridgetown. The port offers numerous duty free shops and Bridgetown is easily accessible by shuttle or taxi. Once in Barbados, there are a wealth of attractions and activities to keep visitors busy, and stunning beaches to relax on.From off-road Jeep safaris to swimming with turtles, or even surfing the 'Soup Bowl', holidaymakers in Barbados won't be hard-pushed for adventure. Those with extra time on their hands can try kayaking, or perhaps go down in a submarine to observe the underwater world! Other island attractions include the Animal Flower Cave, in St Lucy, and the village of Bathsheba's picture-perfect scenery, as well as two of the oldest buildings in Barbados, the Jacobean structures of
Drax Hall and St Nicholas' Abbey.With great weather all year round, Barbados is a superb cruise destination. There are also numerous packages and specials available to would-be passengers throughout the year, ensuring that anyone, at any time, can pack those sunglasses and set sail!
