Background

Sunken Pirate City of Port Royal

Explore the sunken ruins of Port Royal, once the Caribbean's most notorious pirate city, destroyed by an earthquake in 1692.

4.6

Once known as the "Wickedest City on Earth," Port Royal was a notorious pirate haven in the 17th century before an earthquake in 1692 submerged much of it underwater. Today, it's an underwater archaeological site offering a glimpse into a bygone era and a quiet fishing village with a rich history.

A brief summary to Sunken Pirate City

Local tips

  • Visit Fort Charles to see the Giddy House, a building tilted by the 1907 earthquake, offering a unique and disorienting experience.
  • Explore St. Peter's Church, rebuilt in 1726, and see the silver communion set rumored to be donated by Henry Morgan.
  • Try the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants; Port Royal is known for its delicious fish.
  • Remember that accommodations are limited, so book in advance, especially if you're looking for more than a basic room.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most affordable way to reach Port Royal from Kingston 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 $1. Look for the yellow buses with the Jamaican flag.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Kingston to Port Royal is a quicker but more expensive option. The journey typically takes around 23 minutes and costs between $35 and $45. Taxis are readily available in Kingston.

Unlock the Best of Sunken Pirate City

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Sunken Pirate City

Port Royal, Jamaica, a city synonymous with pirates, wealth, and natural disaster, holds a unique place in Caribbean history. Founded by the Spanish in 1518, it rose to prominence under British rule in 1655, becoming a strategic hub for trade and privateering. By the late 17th century, it was one of the largest and richest cities in the New World, infamous for its lawlessness and known as the "Wickedest City on Earth". Figures like Henry Morgan, Calico Jack, and Anne Bonny frequented its shores. On June 7, 1692, a massive earthquake struck, causing liquefaction of the sandy ground and a devastating tsunami. Two-thirds of the city sank into the sea, claiming approximately 2,000 lives and marking the abrupt end of its golden age. The disaster was seen by some as divine retribution for the city's sins. Today, Port Royal is a shadow of its former self, a small fishing town with a population of around 2,000. However, its submerged remains constitute a significant archaeological site, offering invaluable insights into 17th-century life. Underwater excavations have uncovered well-preserved buildings, streets, and artifacts, providing a detailed reconstruction of life in this colonial port town. Visitors can explore Fort Charles, St. Peter's Church, and the Giddy House, remnants of a captivating past.

Popular Experiences near Sunken Pirate City

Popular Hotels near Sunken Pirate City

Select Currency