Port Royal

Jamaica

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Port Royal, Jamaica

Port Royal, a historic seaside town on Jamaica's south coast, is renowned for its infamous pirate past, vibrant harbour and scenic coastal views. It was once a bustling hub of pirates, merchants and traders in the 17th century, with Fort Charles and Fort Rocky serving as reminders of its strategic importance. The town's sunken ruins, preserved beneath the sea after the devastating 1692 earthquake, offer a unique window into Caribbean history. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, discover historic sites and actually dive down to witness incredible underwater relics up close too. With its tropical climate, rich history and Jamaican charm, Port Royal is a must-visit for history buffs, divers and cultural explorers alike.

What you NEED TO KNOW

  • Port Name & Location
    Port Royal, Jamaica.
  • Time Zone
    Eastern Standard Time.
  • Language
    The language spoken is English.
  • Currency & Shopping
    Jamaican dollar.
    • Famous For
      Port Royal is one of the most notorious pirate havens in history, once home to Henry Morgan, a Welsh buccaneer who famously plundered the Caribbean’s Spanish colonies.
    • Important
      Port Royal enjoys a tropical maritime climate with warm, humid conditions year-round along Jamaica’s south coast.
    • Fun Fact #1
      Its underwater ruins are a main attraction, from buildings and streets to cannons and artifacts, all remnants of the 17th-century city that sank in the 1692 earthquake.
    • Fun Fact #2
      In the 17th century, it was so overrun with pirates and debauchery that it earned the nickname “the wickedest city on Earth.”
      • Fun Fact: Foodies
        Savour jerk chicken or pork, curried goat, festival (fried sweet dough) and tropical fruits like mango, breadfruit and soursop - often paired with the island's famous rum punches for a truly authentic taste of Jamaica.
      • Fun Fact: Landmarks
        It's home to the historic Fort Charles, built in the 17th century to defend the city from invaders. Remarkably, parts of it survived the 1692 earthquake and can be experienced today.
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