Making the most of Cockburn Town
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Ships moor or anchor offshore at this port, with tenders carrying passengers ashore.
Sightseeing
Cockburn, San Salvador's capital, is pronounced "Coburn". This harbour village was named for George Cockburn, reputedly the first royal governor of The Bahamas to visit the remote island when he stopped in 1823.
A huge almond tree is the town's landmark. Important San Salvador occasions are usually staged here, including the Columbus Day parade each October 12.
Covering just three square blocks, the town combines old stone properties, dilapidated clapboard houses and modern buildings.
Getting around
Taxis are plentiful, but agree the price before setting off.
Bicycles cost $10 per day to hire from the Riding Rock Inn. Riding around the whole island takes five or six hours.
Nearby places
Numerous shallow reefs around the island let snorkellers see hundreds of fish species without scuba gear. A sharp drop in the continental shelf also creates many diving sites.
The island's many sandy beaches have helped tourism become its thriving principal industry.
Food and shopping
The Bahamas is also associated with Androsian batik cloth, made by a small workshop in Andros Town on a remote Out Island. The factory itself is fascinating, but batik products are also sold widely in Nassau, Freeport and major Out Islands such as Abaco and Eleuthera.
Money
The Bahamian dollar (B$) is the local currency. It has equal value to the US dollar, and both are accepted nationwide.
Staying connected
The language spoken is English.
Opening Hours and
Although shops in the Bahamas may trade on Sunday, almost all remain closed, leaving commerce especially quiet. On other days, morning is the best shopping time because crowds are smaller and temperatures are milder.