Blowing Point is a settlement located on the southwestern coast of the British Overseas Territory of Anguilla in the Caribbean Sea. It serves as the main maritime gateway for the island, featuring a ferry terminal that provides regular services between Anguilla and the neighboring island of Saint‑Martin (Marigot). The settlement lies within the district of St. John’s and is situated near the island’s capital, The Valley, to which it is connected by the primary road network.
Geography
- Coordinates: approximately 18°12′N latitude, 63°4′W longitude.
- The area is characterized by a shallow lagoon backed by mangrove wetlands, which historically facilitated the anchorage of small vessels. The surrounding terrain is relatively flat, typical of Anguilla’s low‑lying topography.
Transportation
- The Blowing Point Ferry Terminal is operated by several private companies, offering passenger and vehicle transport to Marigot, Saint‑Martin, with crossing times of roughly 20‑30 minutes.
- In addition to the ferry service, a small harbor accommodates fishing vessels and yachts.
- Road access to Blowing Point is provided by the main highway that links The Valley with the island’s western coast.
Economic Activity
- The settlement’s economy is largely centered on transportation services, tourism, and small‑scale fishing.
- Local businesses include restaurants, shops, and rental facilities catering to travelers arriving via the ferry.
History
- The name “Blowing Point” is believed to derive from a local wind pattern that enhances sailing conditions in the vicinity, though definitive historical documentation of the naming is limited.
Demographics
- Specific population figures for Blowing Point are not separately enumerated in recent censuses; it is considered part of the broader St. John’s district population.
Infrastructure
- Basic utilities such as electricity, water, and telecommunications are provided to the settlement, consistent with national standards across Anguilla.
- The area has limited accommodation options, with most visitors staying in hotels or guesthouses located elsewhere on the island.
