Bequia

Bequia (/ˈbɛkw/ BEK-wee or /ˈbɛkw/ BEK-way) is the largest island in the Grenadines at 7 square miles (18 km2). It is part of the country of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and is approximately 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) from the nation's capital, Kingstown, on the main island, Saint Vincent. Bequia means "island of the clouds" in the ancient Arawak. The island's name was also 'Becouya' as part of the Grenadines.

Bequia
Bequia
Bequia
Bequia
Geography
LocationCaribbean
Coordinates13°00′54″N 61°13′48″W
Area7 sq mi (18 km2)
Administration
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Demographics
Populationabout 5,300
Ethnic groupsAfrican, Scottish and Carib
Additional information

Bequia Marine Conservation Area
IUCN category VI (protected area with sustainable use of natural resources)
Area367.5 km2 (141.9 sq mi)
Established1987
WebsiteBequia Marine in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Bequia has a history of whaling which was introduced by the Yankee whalers in the 19th century. Its people are only allowed to catch up to four humpback whales per year using traditional hunting methods. The limit is rarely met, with no catch some years.

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