Reached from Las Terrenas’ shores, Creole Reef is a kilometer-long (0.6 miles) coralline chain covered with a variety of gorgonian sea fans, and frequently visited by large Atlantic stingrays.
Imagine an underwater ship cemetery, resting below the waters just south of the Samaná Peninsula, where centuries- old sunken boats lie off the DR’s northeastern coast. The peninsula’s surrounding coral reefs and Atlantic waves have been treacherous to many over the years, causing them to lose their plunder along the way.
Pirate Roberto Cofresí actually sunk his own ship at Punta Gorda, when approaching Spanish patrols intercepted him as he transported countless treasures. He made good his escape, but to this day, neither the ship nor its treasures have been found. In 1724, the Spaniards lost two galleons in the reefs near Miches, south of the Samaná Bay: Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, and Conde de Tolosa. The ships were carrying mercury for the Central and South American gold mines. Some of their remains are still scattered at the entrance to the bay.
