The Montego Bay Marine Park is a vast area of protected sea water surrounding the entire length of Montego Bay (from the Donald Sangster International Airport to the Great River). The park includes the waters of Doctor's Cave Beach, Aquasol Beach, Cornwall Beach and Dead End Beach as well as the private beaches of hotels in and around Montego Bay. Certain activities (such as fishing and water sports) are prohibited or restricted in various parts of the park in order to preserve the underwater environment for future generations.
The Montego Bay Marine Park can be explored simply by going for a swim at any of the beaches in Montego Bay. To get a closer look at the aquatic wildlife take along a snorkel and mask or join an organised snorkelling or glass bottomed boat trip out on the reef. For a more immersive experience there are several scuba diving schools in Montego Bay which run diving trips for experienced divers and curious non-divers (as well as diving courses for those looking to get certified). Alternatively, trips in a submersible boat are run from the park's headquarters at the Pier One marina.
In addition to famous beaches, Montego Bay Marine Park encompasses a range of aquatic environments including:
Coral Reefs (which make for great diving)
Mangroves (which provide a rich ecosystem for marine life and can be explored by kayak)
The Montego Bay Marine Park is managed by the Montego Bay Marine Park Trust, which was established in 1991. There is a research centre at the Marine Park's headquarters at the Pier One complex. You can pay a visit to learn more about the activities of the trust park, including:-
Scientific monitoring (such as observation of fish, coral and beach erosion)
Community outreach programs (such as teaching members of the community to respect the marine environment and help to preserve it for future generations)
Enforcement of the laws of the park.
Montego Bay Marine Park
