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San Salvador (Rum Cay)
This is the most historical island in The Bahamas and believed to be the first landfall of Christopher Columbus on his initial voyage. Four separate monuments mark the exact spot Columbus came ashore, however, it is generally regarded that he landed at Long Bay where a big stone cross stands. Called Guanahani by the native Lucayan (Arawak) Indians, Columbus renamed the island San Salvador ("Holy Saviour,") noting in his journal, "The beauty of these islands surpasses that of any other and as much as the day surpasses the night in splendour."
However, the island subsequently became the headquarters of the buccaneer George Watling and carried his name (Watling Island) until 1925, reflecting his great influence. At that time, the name "San Salvador" was transferred from another island, now called Cat Island, and given to "Watling Island" (San Salvador) under the belief that it seemed a much more likely match for Columbus' description of Guanahani.
Today, the island is the ultimate escape with miles of pristine and secluded beaches, and an emerald-blue sea of such sparkling clarity that divers have visibility of up to 150 feet, for more challenging reef and wreck dives, divers can dive at High Cay, Low Cay, and Middle Cay. Thanks to its many sandy beaches, the island's prosperous main industry is tourism. About 1,000 people reside on San Salvador Island and its principal community is Cockburn Town, the seat of local government.
The Gerace Research Center (formerly the Bahamian Field Station) is located on the north end of the island on the shores of Graham's Harbour. Over a thousand students and researchers use the station every year as a base of operations from which to study tropical marine geology, biology, and archaeology. The island is home to many shallow-water reefs which allow snorkelers to observe hundreds of fish species without the use of SCUBA equipment. It is also known for its quick drop in the continental shelf, allowing for numerous dive sites.
Recently, gold that’s believed to be that of Captain Kidd was discovered on the island, causing an island-wide dispute as to who actually owned the land where the gold was thought to be. The gold is reported to be buried coin from a shipwreck. The government had to step in and call a halt to the excavation of the gold site over despite as to who has rights to the fortune, owners of the property of the scavengers who found the gold.
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