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Larry's Pick for 2005
I was invited the island of St. Eustatius (Statia) last summer and decided to spend a couple of days there diving
and seeing the island with a dive shop owner that was traveling with me. I was pleasantly surprised by the wonderful
diving, history, accommodations and charm of this small Dutch island.
Upon arrival the transfer agent from my hotel, The Old Gin House met us and took us for the 15 minute ride to the
hotel. Bobby gave us a brief rundown of the island and the only town called Oranjestad. The town has an upper level
and a lower level. Our hotel was on the lower level which is at sea level along with the dive shop, Golden Rock
Dive Center. There is a bluff that is right behind the hotel with path that goes up to the main part of town. The
Old fort sits on the bluff right above the Old Gin House.
Our garden view room at the hotel was large and had wonderful antique wood furnishings. After getting settled we
walked across the street to check in with Golden Rock Dive Center. Michele and Glenn Faires met us at the shop,
checked us in and took our gear to the boat which is about 2 blocks down the street. They also have equipment storage
and rental where the boat is docked. After breakfast all we had to do from then on is walk over to the boat, get
our gear and away we went. There is varied diving from a recent wreck sunk purposely, The John Brown to beautiful
reefs and walls. Not to be missed is diving in the old harbour where you can still see ballast stone and anchors
from trade ships that would stop at Statia while transporting goods to the US. You may even find a blue bead that
was used as trade. They can be worth up to $100 each.
The island itself is flat in the middle, and on one you will find "The Quill", the extinct volcano. You
can hike up The Quill and actually go over the rim into the bowl. Touring the old fort is a wonderful experience
also. Full of history, this island shares a past closely associated with the US. Walking through town you will
find many shops and wonderful restaurants. Do not miss a tour through the historical museum in town.
When walking around Statia many of the local inhabitants may follow you around, such as cows, goats and chickens.
This just adds to the charm of the island.
7 night packages start at $692 per person double occupancy and include 5 days of diving and breakfast daily. This
is a year long price.
So if you enjoy smaller islands with some unique history and terrific diving then Statia may be a place for you.
Feel free to contact me for further information at Caribbean Adventures toll free number of 800-433-3483 or email
me at larry@worlddive.com
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