City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Dominica

Dominica, known as the "Nature Isle of the Caribbean," boasts a stunning array of natural attractions that appeal to boaters, adventure seekers, nature lovers and serenity seekers. This beautiful island is located in the eastern Caribbean between Guadeloupe and Martinique. At 29 miles long and 16 miles wide, it's the largest of the Windward Islands.

Let’s check out a few things to do from private boat slips for rent and marinas.

Morne Trois Pitons National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Morne Trois Pitons National Park is home to many of Dominica's natural wonders, including:

• Boiling Lake: The second-largest hot lake in the world, reached via a challenging hike through the rainforest
• Trafalgar Falls: Twin waterfalls that are a short hike from the park entrance, offering impressive views and the opportunity to swim in natural pools
• Emerald Pool: A beautiful waterfall and pool surrounded by lush greenery, accessible via an easy walk
• Valley of Desolation: A geothermally active area with hot springs and fumaroles, often visited on the way to Boiling Lake

Champagne Reef

Named for the bubbles that rise from volcanic activity on the seafloor, Champagne Reef offers an extraordinary snorkeling and diving experience with its warm and crystal-clear waters filled with marine life. It’s a favorite to visit from private boat lifts for rent and marinas. 

Scotts Head

A picturesque village located on the southern tip of the island, Scotts Head is known for its stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. It's also a great spot for snorkeling, diving and hiking.

Indian River

The scenic Indian River, navigable by boat, winds through dense mangrove forests and was featured in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" movies (the Witch’s House). A guided boat tour offers a peaceful way to explore the rich flora and fauna from private boat lifts for rent. 

Cabrits National Park

Located on a peninsula near Portsmouth, the 1,313-acre Cabrits National Park is home to Fort Shirley, a restored 18th-century British garrison. The park offers hiking trails through forests and wetlands and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.

Roseau

Dominica's capital city, Roseau, blends colonial architecture with vibrant Caribbean culture. Key attractions to visit from private boat docks for rent include:

• Botanical Gardens: Features a wide variety of tropical plants, trees and birds
• Old Market Plaza: A historic market where you can find local crafts, spices and souvenirs
• Morne Bruce: A viewpoint offering panoramic views of Roseau and the coastline

Waterfalls

One of the tallest waterfalls in Dominica, Middleham Falls can be reached via a moderately challenging hike through the rainforest. The waterfall cascades into a pool that is perfect for a refreshing swim before heading back to a private boat lift for rent.

A stunning waterfall located in the southeast of the island, Victoria Falls is accessible via a guided hike that takes you through beautiful landscapes and river crossings.