EXCURSION ON THE ATLANTIC COAST: RELIVE SAINT VINCENT AND ITS HISTORY

In a nutshell

Saint Vincent’s Atlantic coast tells the story of the British dominion over the country - from tunnels built by 18,000 African slaves to the old capital of Calliaqua, let us explore a past that comes to life before our eyes.

Main stops

• Saint Vincent: Byera Tunnel and Black Point Tunnel
• Old capital of Calliaqua

The programme

• We travel along the Atlantic coast of Saint Vincent and Grenadine surrounded by breath-taking scenery.
• The highway skirts banana plantations, coconut trees and marantas.
• The itinerary passes through the Byera Tunnel, built in 1813 to allow access to and settlement of the Caribbean territory.
• During the 19th century, Georgetown was the location of the last functioning sugar factory in the country: it closed down in 1962, then reopened to be closed down once again in 1984.
• We explore the “Sugar City” of Georgetown, where many British families used to live, before heading to the Black Point Tunnel, built in 1815 to transport sugar destined for export.
• Considering the knowledge available at the time, the tunnel is a true engineering masterpiece. A walk through the tunnel takes us back to a time when the British government imposed its dominion over the island importing 18,000 slaves who built both tunnels.
• After the tunnel, we can walk along the black sandy beach and enjoy tropical fruit and drinks.
• Passing through the tunnel is a truly fascinating experience.
• Streams of waters flow through the tunnel, so we recommend walking on the rocks not to get wet.
• On our way back, we pass through Calliaqua, the old capital, where we see Fort Duvernette (built around 1800 to protect Calliaqua), Young Island, one of the most elegant and exclusive islands in the area, and Restaurant Row before enjoying another breath-taking view of the port, city and mountains surrounding Kingstown.

Good to know

• We recommend that you book early because only a limited number of places are available.