Grand Turk is the capital island of the Turks and Caicos, and it is here that Christopher Columbus first made landfall on his initial voyage to the New World in 1492.
Grand Turk is consistently ranked among the top diving destinations, notably for its spectacular wall diving. The majority of the 40 dive sites are located along the west wall in the Columbus Landfall National Park, a short boat ride from the shore. Beginning at a depth of ten metres and plummeting down to over 2,000 metres, there are also plenty of snorkelling opportunities here too.
Highlights include encounters with hawksbill turtles, spotted eagle rays, Nassau grouper and reef sharks. The water temperature ranges from 24-28C between winter and summer and the sun is shining most of the year on this small island surrounded by stunning turquoise waters.
Humpback whales can be seen here seasonally and the uninhabited Gibbs Cay is a great place to see stingrays who swim right up to the shore. There is typically no current and great visibility along the coral and sponge encrusted walls, great for photographers.
Cockburn Town is the centre piece of the island with a wonderful selection of historical buildings and a rustic charm. The people are friendly and welcoming in this safe and relaxed community, where getting around by bicycle common practice.
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