Call Us: (800) 918-5152
The Bahamas are a group of islands off the coast of Florida and Cuba. The term “Bahamas” can refer to both the country and the group of islands, as the two are not exactly the same thing. The island chain contains the Commonwealth of the Bahamas as well as several other nations including Hispaniola and The Turks. The area is near the Bermuda triangle, which despite legendary accounts to the contrary, does not experience a significantly higher rate of disaster than any other portion of the ocean.
Although a small nation, the Bahamas are a rather wealthy area. Per capita, Bahamans make nearly as much as residents of the United States or Canada, and much of this wealth comes from tourism. In fact, up to 60% of the income for the country involves tourism or tourism construction. This means that the country must carefully regulate imports and exports. Because of the lucrative nature of tourism, the Bahamas does not levy an income tax. Instead, taxes on payroll, property and wealth keep the national coffers filled.
Tourism revenue in the Bahamas can come from a variety of sources including cruises, guided exploration of the islands, SCUBA diving, snorkeling and other marine activities. The islands naturally lend themselves to activities involving the ocean. Green Citrus Travel Cruises is a cruise line that dedicates significant time in and around the Bahamas. Passengers on a Green Citrus Travel cruise can enjoy clear or cloud studded but sunny skies, warm weather, cool breezes and amazing views of clear water and white sand.
Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities in the Bahamas. The water is warm and clear, and the bright sunshine makes it easy to see what’s around. Also, the ocean is not immensely deep in the archipelago making features on the sea floor easily accessible. Bimimi is one of the best places in the Bahamas to snorkel. It is located close to Florida (about 50 miles away) and has shallow seas surrounding it. The SS Sapona shipwrecked in 1926 during a hurricane, and ran aground. Today, the wreck remains half in and half out of the water, and during calm seas makes for an interesting place to explore.
SCUBA diving, similarly to snorkeling, is a fun way to explore the ocean and fully experience the Bahamas. Although requiring more gear, training and safety equipment, SCUBA diving also offers a much deeper look at the ocean. Instead of seeing things from a distance, as when snorkeling, SCUBA diving provides the opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the sea life.
Parasailing is another great activity for tourists in the Bahamas. While the ocean offers seeming endless possibilities for exploration, there is much to see above water as well. Parasailing is a great way to get a high vantage point and drink in the beauty of this island nation. Tourists on a Green Citrus Travel Cruise often have the opportunity to get of the ship, and taking a ride on a parasail can be an awesome adventure.
Kayaking is another way to get up close and personal with the ocean, without actually getting into it. While a cruise ship offers views of the ocean, those views are from a multi-story high craft. There’s something about piloting and powering a small craft that really connects one to the ocean experience.
