Chaguaramas Marinas And Ecotourism
Chaguaramas, a former US naval base, is the north west peninsula of Trinidad, West Indies. It is a twenty minute drive along the coast from Port of Spain, the capital city. This peninsula is surrounded by an archipelago of five islands and eight islets.
The area so named by the Amerindians because of the numerous palms that once fringed it bay, is an extension of the northern range.
Chaguaramas is a National Park within which are marine related industries, educational institutions, a military museum, Defence Force headquarters, helicopter services as well as pubs and restaurants.
Three main rivers flow through Chaguaramas. Cuesa. The largest river, drains Tucker Valley, the most extensive lowland area. It meanders through the valley, beneath a canopy of overhanging bamboo stands. Lush vegetation along the river bank provides a habitat for a variety of animals including caiman, water fowl, egrets, crabs, turtles, river conchs, monkeys as well as several species of birds. Where the river meets the sea, a brackish water swamp has developed. At this point, bamboo stands give way to mangrove. Numerous crabs and snails find homes among the twisted roots of the mangrove. The brackish water is also a spawning ground for a variety of fishes.
Several sheltered beaches fringe the coast of the north west peninsula. The most popular is Chagville on the south coast followed by Macqueripe on the North coast.
The hills, rivers, valleys, parks, swamps, beaches, offshore islands together with its history and institutions provide a variety of recreational and educational opportunities for interest groups of all ages. Outdoor activities can include golfing, tennis, swimming, jogging picnicking, fishing, boating, hiking, snorkeling, nature study, photography, guided tours and kayaking.
The Chguaramas Public Golf Course in Tucker Valley offers a splendid golfing turf of nine holes and eighteen tee boxes which can be completed in ninety minutes by the average player. Extremely low green fees, golf club rentals and caddy services and available.
There are several already established bay areas along the Chaguaramas peninsula with marinas and boat services locations. Given the country's thriving pleasure and business craft activities, and the CDA's own support capabilities, the potential abounds for investors to lease, develop and provide new and/or expanded facilities for small or large fleet operations.