LUCAYAN NATIONAL PARK Few may realize it, but right here on Grand Bahama we have some extraordinary treasures which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. These are not Spanish galleons sunk deep in the Bahamian blue waters, but rather natural wonders of global significance found at the Lucayan National Park. A drive from Freeport to the east end of the island is a study in contrasts. As you leave the neatly manicured roads of Freeport, you find yourself driving east on the Grand Bahama Highway with apparently nothing to stop and wonder at; that is, until turning into the Lucayan National Park. The park was established in 1982 after the discovery by scientist Jill Yaeger of an unusual centipede-like organism swimming in the underwater cavern system of the area. Further study revealed that the tiny opaque animal was not only a new species (Speleonectes lucayensis) but also a previously unknown class of crustacean which was given the name Remipedia (meaning: “oar foot”). The Park’s most remarkable aspect is that it contains entrances to, and a portion of, possibly one of the largest underwater cave systems in the world. Ben’s Cave and Burial Mound Cave (so named because of Lucayan remains found in the cave) provide an opportunity for tourists to enter and look into the mysterious but majestic watery openings. The cave system, with an astounding 6.4 miles already mapped out by researchers, was discovered when the ceiling of an underground cave collapsed years ago, exposing a crystal clear pool that was sometimes used as a dive site. Diving today is permitted only in Ben’s Cavern, and is strictly controlled and monitored by the park authorities, The Bahamas National Trust. Over time, many new discoveries have been uncovered. For instance, the caves are an important maternity site for migrating bats and as a result, the caves are closed to visitors from late spring through to the end of summer. In 1985, archaeologist Julian Granberry, with the assistance of local residents, conducted excavations at the park and confirmed that the area was an important Lucayan site. Visitors can also walk through five distinct ecological zones within the 40-acre park. Each zone has unique natural characteristics, ranging from the second highest dune on the island, to the whiteland coppice with its many land crab holes and huge poison wood trees. Nature trails and boardwalks link the various systems together for an interesting walk about the park. Marine and bird life are abundant and readily seen. Beyond the dune area lies beautiful Gold Rock Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Offshore, Gold Rock shimmers in the light of day. Surrounding the rock, submerged under the crystal waters, lies a fantastic coral reef system. Snorkeling to the rock is recommended only for intermediate to advanced swimmers as the distance is 1/4 mile each way. Proper safety precautions should be exercised when snorkeling over the coral as it lies in very shallow waters at low tide. Coral polyps are living organisms, and simply touching them with a fin will kill a section of the colony! The park’s rules can be summed up in one motto: “Take nothing but pictures, and leave nothing but footprints.” Admission The Lacayan National Park is one of 12 national parks operated by the Bahamas National Trust, a non-profit and non-governmental organization. Full time park officers now patrol and greet visitors at this remarkable park. A new admission feof $3.00 is now in effect for all non-resident visitors. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the BNT Rand Nature Centre in Freeport. The new monies being collected will facilitate the construction of improved restroom facilities and new visitor centre. The Rand Nature Centre is open Monday–Friday, 9am to 4pm, Saturday 9am to 1pm, tel. 352-5438. How to Get There: A number of tour companies run organized tours to the park. Check with your hotel tour desk for times and availability. Alternatively, a taxi may be hired, or car and scooter rentals are readily available on the island. As there are no gas stations between Freeport and the park, make sure you depart with a full tank! The park is located 22 miles east of Freeport—please refer to a tourist map for directions. For more information, contact the Bahamas National Trust at 352-5438.