Cabrits Marine Reserve

The Cabrits Marine Reserve is one of Dominica’s most important protected marine areas. It is located on the island’s northwest coast and covers approximately 421 hectares of marine space between Prince Rupert’s Bay and Toucari Bay. Established in 1986 under the National Parks and Protected Areas Act of 1975. The reserve safeguards coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove ecosystems while promoting the responsible use of marine resources by local fishers, conservationists, and eco-tourism operators.

Location and Geographic Scope of the Cabrits Marine Reserve

Covering approximately 1,000 hectares of coastal waters and seafloor, the Cabrits Marine Reserve lies just offshore from Portsmouth, Dominica’s second-largest town. It stretches around the Cabrits Peninsula, wrapping the waters north and west of the Cabrits National Park, and includes sections of Prince Rupert Bay. The area features shallow reefs, volcanic rock formations, and protected anchorages, all within reach of land-based conservation and tourism facilities.

Its proximity to key infrastructure, including Douglas Bay, Cabrits Cruise Ship Berth, and several eco-resorts, makes it an ideal model for integrating marine conservation with economic development, particularly in Dominica’s northern tourism corridor.

Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystem Importance

The plays a vital role in sustaining Dominica’s Marine Biodiversity and protects an array of critical marine habitats. It is part of Dominica’s growing network of marine reserves and aligns with the country’s goals for sustainable tourism, climate resilience, and marine-based livelihoods.

Marine Ecosystems and Aquatic Life

The reserve’s marine habitats are rich and varied:

• Coral Reefs: Home to both hard and soft corals, these reefs support species such as bicolor damselfish, trumpetfish, and various parrotfish.
• Seagrass Beds: Dominated by Syringodium species, these beds provide essential feeding grounds for marine life, including green turtles and hawksbill turtles.
• Mangrove Wetlands: These areas support a range of species, from juvenile fish to crustaceans like freshwater crabs.

Terrestrial and Avian Biodiversity

The reserve is not only a marine haven but also a refuge for terrestrial and bird species:

• Birds: Over 160 species have been recorded, including Sooty Tern, Green Heron, Antillean Crested Hummingbird, and endemic birds like the Sisserou parrot (Amazona imperialis) and Jaco parrot (Amazona arausiaca).
• Reptiles and Amphibians: Species such as the Lesser Antillean iguana and various frogs inhabit the area.
• Mammals: The reserve supports mammals like the agouti and manicou (opossum).

Marine Mammals and Turtle Nesting

The waters of the Cabrits Marine Reserve are frequented by various marine mammals:

• Whales: Species such as sperm whales, humpback whales, and Bryde’s whales are observed in the area.
• Dolphins: Common sightings include spinner dolphins, pantropical spotted dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins.

Additionally, hawksbill turtles are known to nest on the beaches within the reserve, particularly in areas like Douglas Bay.

Human Use and Eco-Tourism

Regulations within the reserve support responsible use and low-impact tourism. Visitors can enjoy:

• Snorkelling in reef-safe zones
• Scuba diving excursions to sites like Douglas Bay Reef and Purple Turtle Reef
• Swimming and kayaking in calm, protected waters
• Fishing only by traditional methods in designated areas, by licensed local fishers

Boat operators and dive companies operating in the area must comply with marine park rules to protect the fragile ecosystems. The reserve is a major asset to marine tourism in the north, contributing to the Dominica Economy by drawing both international visitors and domestic eco-adventurers.

Management and Conservation Initiatives

According to the Management Plan for the Marine Section of the Cabrits National Park, the Forestry Wildlife and Parks Division of the Ministry of Environment holds primary responsibility for the management and development of national parks, including the marine section of the Cabrits National Park. However, the Fisheries Division, governed by the Fisheries Act (1987), also has provisions for the establishment and management of marine reserves, leading to overlapping responsibilities. Key conservation efforts include:

• Coral reef monitoring and data collection
• Patrols to prevent illegal fishing or anchoring
• Public education on marine resource protection
• Engagement of local schools and youth groups in marine science

The area also supports regional marine conservation programs coordinated through the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and international partners such as UNEP, FAO, and IUCN. These efforts reflect Dominica’s broader strategy to address climate change through blue economy initiatives.

Educational and Cultural Importance

The Cabrits Marine Reserve also contributes to local knowledge systems, marine education, and youth development. Schools from across the island visit the site for science excursions and conservation training. Its location adjacent to Fort Shirley in the Cabrits National Park makes it a natural extension of Dominica’s cultural and environmental education tourism.

The area also supports local storytelling, traditional fishing practices, and the preservation of marine folklore. Its linkage to coastal communities such as Portsmouth, Toucari, and Tanetane strengthens cultural identity and sustainable economic opportunity in the north.

Looking Ahead

As Dominica expands its marine ecosystems management efforts, the Cabrits Marine Reserve stands out as a leading example of protected area success. Its integration of ecological protection, tourism development, and community involvement makes it a model for future marine spatial planning across the island.

The reserve’s role in supporting Eco-Tourism, enhancing protected areas, and reinforcing Dominica’s identity as a whale watching capital of the Caribbean positions it as a strategic asset in national development. With ongoing support from the Government of Dominica, the reserve is poised to play an even larger role in strengthening the island’s resilience to climate and economic shifts, while preserving the marine heritage of northern Dominica for generations to come.