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Port Royal: From Pirate Haven to Sunken City

Explore Port Royal: Discover pirate history, sunken treasures, and colonial landmarks in this unique Jamaican town.

Once known as the "wickedest city on Earth," Port Royal was a bustling hub of piracy and commerce in the 17th century. A devastating earthquake in 1692 sunk a large portion of the city into the sea, marking a dramatic end to its golden era. Today, it's a quiet fishing village with a rich history and archaeological treasures.

A brief summary to Port Royal

  • Port Royal, JM

Local tips

  • Visit Fort Charles to explore the oldest fort in Port Royal and learn about its role in protecting the town.
  • Take a boat trip to Lime Cay for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing on a pristine white sand beach.
  • Explore the Giddy House, a former artillery store tilted by the 1907 earthquake, for a unique and disorienting experience.
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at one of Port Royal's local restaurants, offering a taste of authentic Jamaican cuisine.
  • Walk along Church Street to see St. Peter's Church, dating back to 1725, and other historic buildings.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kingston, the most affordable way to reach Port Royal is by taking the Line 98 bus. The Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) operates this route, with buses departing from Kingston every 30 minutes. The journey takes approximately 44 minutes and costs around $1. The bus drops you off in Port Royal, within walking distance of the main attractions.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Kingston to Port Royal offers a faster but more expensive option. The journey typically takes around 23 minutes and costs between $35 and $45. Taxis are readily available in Kingston, and it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your trip.

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Discover more about Port Royal

Port Royal, located at the end of the Palisadoes at the mouth of Kingston Harbour, boasts a captivating history as a major center of shipping and commerce in the Caribbean. Founded by the Spanish in 1494, it later became a stronghold for English privateers and pirates in the 17th century, earning its infamous nickname. Figures like Sir Henry Morgan and Blackbeard Teach frequented its shores, contributing to its legendary status. In 1692, a catastrophic earthquake struck, causing two-thirds of the city to sink into the sea. This event dramatically reshaped Port Royal, leading to the rise of nearby Kingston. The sunken city remains an important underwater archaeological site, offering valuable insights into 17th-century life. Today, Port Royal offers a unique glimpse into the past with attractions like Fort Charles, St. Peter's Church, and the Giddy House. Visitors can explore the town's historic streets, imagine its vibrant past, and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants. Boat trips to nearby Lime Cay provide opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.

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