MONTEGO BAY MARINE PARK

It is the largest marine reserve in the Caribbean and the first national park established in Jamaica. Established in 1992, the marine reserve extends from Sangster Airport to the islet of Sea Winds, approximately 15 km2 which includes the sandy spit developed as a beach along the Hip Strip. It is established as a non-profit trust and NGO. Its purpose is to protect the environment and marine resources of Montego Bay, which is composed of three marine environments: mangroves, seaweeds and coral reefs. Each of these environments is home to numerous animal and plant species, whose survival maintains a fragile ecological balance. A guide of the rules to be respected by all, visitors as well as industrialists or fishermen, and of the severe sanctions corresponding to the infringements, has been published. It is available at the diving centers. The trust organizes cleaning operations on the coast (for example, 21,000 plastic bottles have been recycled since its creation!), as well as programs to raise awareness about nature protection among students and schoolchildren in Montego Bay. Among the warnings for tourists, let's remember a few. Do not touch the corals under any circumstances, the smallest contact can cause irreversible damage. Leave plants, shells and fish in the water, even if they are dead. Boycott black coral or turtle shell handicrafts (sea turtles are protected in Jamaica).