There’s something special about visiting Providenciales in the off-season - quieter beaches, softer sunsets, and that satisfying feeling of having the island almost to yourself.
During arecent trip, the Island House LVM team enjoyed exactly that magic on a private cruise with Lady Turkoise, a boutique charter operating out of Turtle Cove Marina on Provo’s north coast.
Just minutes from Grace Bay West and perfectly positioned for exploring the intricate inlets and Cays of the Princess Alexandra Nature Reserve on the eastern tip of Leeward Settlement, Turtle Cove is the ideal starting point for a relaxed afternoon on the water. With a lone pelican overhead, the water clear and calm and the sky almost cloudless, we set out on one of those picture perfect Provo afternoons.
We sailed along the northern shoreline and were soon greeted by one of the island’s residents, a Green sea turtle lazily grazing on seagrass in the shallows. Oblivious to our excitement, we watched from the boat as he repeatedly dived then surfaced before disappearing out of view only too quickly.
We were thrilled to encounter one of these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Once critically endangered, it’s pleasing to learn they are now frequently spotted in TCI waters,a local conservation success story we were lucky to witness up close.
Once our green friend had glided away, the crew pushed further offshore, anchoring just past the breakers of the outer reef. Masks on, we took the plunge and jumped into dazzlingly clear water. Pleasingly warm, with incredible visibility, shoals of shimmering reef fish of all sizes soon joined us, flashes of electric blue, yellow, and silver beneath our feet.
After a blissful twenty minutes of swimming and snorkelling, under the watchful eye of first mate Elvardo, we returned to the boat rejuvenated for rum punch and snacks. The crew pushed on, and after an exhilarating half hour taking in the sights of Grace Bay beach from the water, we were soon treated to a taste of an entirely different habitat.
Tracing the edge of the mangroves, unique coastal wetlands, where sea meets land, thist angle of roots is home to juvenile fish, rays, baby sharks, turtles and an array of native bird species. Exploring this fascinating landscape can also be experienced by clear bottomed kayak, a definite ‘must do’ for the next trip to the islands.
With a soundtrack of gentle waves lapping the boat and Captain Davardo’s island playlist, the three-hour cruise passed by in a pleasant haze of sea, salt and sun. And bestof all? You’re always close to shore, making this trip perfect even for those without sea legs.
We were expertly skippered by Captain Davardo and first mate Elvardo throughout.The crew struck the perfect balance between laid-back island charm and professional seamanship from the warm welcome onwards. Easy and unforgettable, for small groups looking for a friendly, relaxed experience with a local operator, we can’t recommend Lady Turkoise highly enough.
Bring towels and reef friendly sunscreen. Masks and snorkels are provided, along with trademark island hospitality, chilled drinks and snacks. And don’t forget to bring some cash for tipping, our small way of thanking the hardworking crew for a memorable afternoon.
We suggest rounding off the afternoon with a stop at Mango Reef, Turtle Cove’s popular waterside restaurant and bar. With a spacious deck overlooking the marina, it attracts a cheerful mix of locals, charter crews enjoying down time, andoff-season city visitors like us.
The vibe was classic island - reggae, soft breezes, and a vast menu specialising in seafood favourites: sushi, tuna, blackened fish, conch, tacos and fish and chips. We visited during lobster season, so naturally local lobster tail, roll and salad were on the menu.
As we finished our cocktails, and as if the day needed another highlight, we were joined by one final island local, an elegant Night heron, perching casually beside us taking in the marina views. And the Piña Coladas? Easily some of the best of the trip.
This short excursion embodies everything that makes the TCI such a thrilling destination; sparkling waters, from family friendly shallows to coral reefs packed with marine life. We enjoyed wildlife encounters throughout, and natural, unhurried hospitality without the crowds.
With regular flights from the USA and UK, an island adventure is closer than you may think.
Ready to experience Turtle Cove for yourself?
Or let the Island House LVM Concierge handle everything - our guests enjoy exclusive access to our dedicated team for personalized excursion planning and restaurant reservations.
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