Harbour Island or “Briland” as known by it's residents it one of the oldest settlement's in the Bahamas and once served as the Bahamas first capital. The first settlement was founded over 300 years ago almost 100 years before United states became a nation.
The early adventuring residents of this 3 mile long and 1 mile wide island were skilled shipbuilders and farmers. In the late 1800s, Dunmore Town became a respectable shipbuilding and sugar refinement center.
Sugar refinement became a important skill in the early part of this century when alcohol was outlawed in the United States. Dunmore Town went into full production refining sugar and producing Rum, understandably it was a very popular place. Although the sugar and Run are no longer produced.
Bahamas Ferries day excursions to Harbour Island is popular among the adventuring traveler. What 300 years of history has left behind is one of the most charming Islands in the Bahamas.
Strolling through Dunmore Town one can feel quite relaxed and charmed by the warm and friendly “Brilanders” and the quaint New England Loyalist architecture complete with white picket fences. As if this isn't enough Harbour Island also features one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. Here is a street map of Dunmore Town you can use to get around. It is recommended you rent a golf cart for your visit to Harbour Island.
The powdery pink sand beach of Harbour Island is thought of by many as being one of the finest pink sand beaches in all of the Bahamas. While you are on Harbour Island ask the residents for directions to the “hill steps” which were cut out by prisoners with a underground tunnel from the cove to Rock House. You might also want to visit Titus Hole, a cave with a open mouth that overlooks the harbour and is said to be the first jail of Harbour Island.
Bahamas Ferries Route & Schedules to Harbour Island & Spanish Wells
For a “Day Excursion” to Harbour Island, contact Bahamas Ferries at (242) 323-2169 or check their website: Bahamas Ferries