Catalina Island (Dominican Republic) facts for kids
Catalina Island, Dominican Republic beach
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 Catalina Island, La Romana
Location in the Dominican Republic
Catalina Island, Dominican Republic
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| Geography | |
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| Coordinates | 18°21′36″N 69°00′17″W / 18.36000°N 69.00472°W |
| Area | 9.6 km2 (3.7 sq mi) |
| Length | 4.5 km (2.8 mi) |
| Width | 3.0 km (1.86 mi) |
| Highest elevation | 60 ft (18 m) |
| Administration | |
| Province | La Romana |
Catalina Island, also known as Isla Catalina, is a beautiful tropical island. It is found just 1.5 miles (about 2.4 km) off the coast of the Dominican Republic. This island is a popular stop for large cruise ships traveling through the Caribbean Sea. Many visitors come here to enjoy its sunny beaches. Some cruise lines, like Costa Cruises, even have their own private beach areas on the island.
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What is Catalina Island Like?
Catalina Island is not very big, covering about 9.6 square kilometers (3.7 square miles). It is home to many different natural areas. You can find sand dunes, mangrove forests, and amazing coral reefs here. The island itself is made from coral stone and has three flat areas, or plateaus. The highest point on the island is only 60 feet (about 18 meters) above sea level.
The waters around Catalina Island are full of wildlife. You can see many kinds of birds and colorful tropical fish. There are also places where the water is very shallow, thanks to natural sandbars offshore.
Island History
The famous explorer Christopher Columbus visited this island in May 1494. He was the one who named it "Santa Catalina."
The Pirate Shipwreck of William Kidd
On December 13, 2007, something very exciting was found near Catalina Island. Divers discovered the shipwreck of a 17th-century merchant ship. It was lying about 70 meters (230 feet) from the island, only three meters (10 feet) deep.
This ship was later identified as the Quedagh Merchant. This was a ship that belonged to the famous pirate, Captain William Kidd. He sailed it in 1699. A team from Indiana University, led by Charles Beeker, found the wreck. They have since created a special Marine Protected Area around the shipwreck. This helps to protect both the old ship and the coral reef around it.
The Quedagh Merchant shipwreck has been suggested as a "Living Museum in the Sea." This is a program that aims to protect important underwater historical sites and natural areas around the world.
Indiana University has worked with the Children's Museum of Indianapolis and a group called ONPCS. They were able to bring up one of the 26 cannons from the Quedagh Merchant. This cannon is now on display at a museum exhibit in Indianapolis. Students from Indiana University also teach visitors at the Children's Museum about the ship, maritime history, and how old artifacts are preserved.
Visiting Catalina Island
Catalina Island is a very popular place for tourists. Boats travel daily from La Romana to the island. Visitors come to enjoy the beaches, go snorkeling, and see the beautiful corals close to the shore.
Scuba Diving Adventures
If you love scuba diving, Catalina Island is a great spot! It has amazing coral reefs and many different marine animals. Popular dive sites include "the Wall" and "the Aquarium." When you dive here, you might see tropical fish like the sergeant major, damselfish, squirrelfish, and even stingrays. Many diving trips go to Catalina from Punta Cana every day.
Boating and Sailing Fun
Over the years, Catalina Island has also become a favorite spot for people who love yachts and boating. The island's beaches and clear waters are perfect for sailing, boating, and fishing. Many beautiful world-class yachts can often be seen anchored around Catalina Island.
See also
- Isla Saona
In Spanish: Isla Catalina (República Dominicana) para niños
