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Douglas Bay Battery: A Coastal Sentinel

Explore Dominica's Douglas Bay Battery: A historic coastal defense offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's rich military past within Cabrits National Park.

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Located within Cabrits National Park near Portsmouth, Dominica, the Douglas Bay Battery is a historical landmark offering a glimpse into the island's strategic past and architectural heritage. Constructed in the 18th century, it served as a crucial coastal defense, protecting Dominica from potential invasions, and today provides stunning views of Douglas Bay and the Caribbean Sea.

A brief summary to Douglas Bay Battery

  • HGQG+H8C, Portsmouth, DM

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces, as the terrain around the battery can be rugged.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available within the immediate vicinity of the battery.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of nearby Fort Shirley and other attractions within Cabrits National Park for a fuller experience.
  • Check the opening hours of Cabrits National Park before your visit to ensure the battery is accessible.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are staying near Portsmouth, you can walk to Douglas Bay Battery. Head north along Bay Street, following the coastline. The walk to the Cabrits National Park entrance takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Once inside the park, follow the signs to Douglas Bay Battery, which is another 10-minute walk. Note that the walk involves some inclines.

  • Public Transport

    From Portsmouth, walk to the nearest bus stop on Bay Street. Take a minibus heading towards Purple Turtle Beach or any route passing the Cabrits National Park junction. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Inform the driver you wish to disembark at the junction for Cabrits National Park. From the junction, it's approximately a 10-minute walk to the Douglas Bay Battery within the park. The minibus fare is typically EC$3-5. Keep local currency handy. Bus fares range from EC$1.50 to EC$10.25 depending on the route length.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Portsmouth, a taxi to Douglas Bay Battery takes about 10-15 minutes. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey, but expect to pay around EC$25-EC$35. Taxis are readily available in Portsmouth, especially near the ferry terminal and main squares. A taxi from Portsmouth to Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM) is $11-$14.

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Discover more about Douglas Bay Battery

Douglas Bay Battery, a historical gem in Portsmouth, Dominica, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the island's rich military heritage. Constructed in the 18th century, the battery formed a crucial part of the coastal defense system, guarding against potential invasions and showcasing the architectural prowess of the era. Built in 1765 under British rule, its strategic location on a peninsula separating Douglas Bay from Prince Rupert Bay made it an ideal site for a defensive outpost. The French expanded the fortifications during their occupation between 1778 and 1784. The battery features sturdy stone walls, expertly crafted to withstand cannon fire. Cannons were strategically positioned along the ramparts to command the bay, ready to repel enemy ships. Supporting structures, such as powder magazines and barracks, were essential for maintaining a military presence. Exploring Douglas Bay Battery offers a unique opportunity to imagine life in 18th-century Dominica. Walking along the ramparts, visitors can envision soldiers scanning the horizon for approaching threats. Informative signage provides valuable context, detailing the battery's role in Dominica's defense. Perched on a promontory overlooking Douglas Bay, it offers panoramic views of the azure Caribbean Sea and the verdant hills. The contrast between the rugged fortifications and the serene natural beauty creates a captivating scene.

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