Scuba Diving in

Turks and Caicos Islands

The Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory, are an archipelago of 40 islands and cays located in the Lucayan Archipelago, southeast of the Bahamas and north of the Dominican Republic. Known for their pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts, the islands attract visitors from around the world.

Marine Species in

Turks and Caicos Islands

Dive Centres in

Turks and Caicos Islands

Dive Provo

800869
SSI Instructor Training Center

Geography

The Turks and Caicos Islands encompass a total land area of 948 square kilometers (366 square miles). The two main islands, Providenciales and Grand Turk, are the most populous and developed. Providenciales, often referred to as "Provo," is home to the capital, Cockburn Town, and the majority of the tourism infrastructure. Grand Turk, known for its historic Salt Pond National Park, serves as the administrative center.

Population

The population of the Turks and Caicos Islands is estimated at approximately 50,000. The majority of the population is of African descent, with a significant minority of European and Caribbean heritage. The official language is English.

Culture

The culture of the Turks and Caicos Islands is a blend of British, African, and Caribbean influences. The islands are known for their laid-back lifestyle, warm hospitality, and vibrant music and dance scene. Traditional cuisine features fresh seafood, conch, and local fruits and vegetables. Popular festivals include the Turks and Caicos National Festival in August and the Conch Festival in Grand Turk.

Economy

Tourism is the dominant sector of the Turks and Caicos Islands economy, accounting for a significant portion of the GDP and employment. The islands are home to numerous luxury resorts, marinas, and world-class dive sites. Other industries include offshore financial services, fishing, and agriculture.

History

The Turks and Caicos Islands were first inhabited by the Lucayan people, who were later displaced by Spanish colonization. In the 17th century, the islands were settled by English colonists who established salt production as a major industry. The islands became a British Crown Colony in 1766. In 1973, the Turks and Caicos Islands gained internal self-governance.

Major Landmarks

Here are some of the major landmarks in the Turks and Caicos Islands:

  • Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales: Renowned for its white sand, crystal-clear waters, and numerous beachfront resorts.
  • Grand Turk Lighthouse, Grand Turk: A historic lighthouse perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean.
  • Salt Pond National Park, Grand Turk: A protected area featuring the remnants of the islands' salt production industry.
  • The Bight Reef, Providenciales: A popular scuba diving and snorkeling destination known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
  • Mudjin Harbour, Middle Caicos: A secluded lagoon with dramatic limestone cliffs and a picturesque setting.