Over the next few years, there was a constant exchange of power between the Spanish, the French, the English and the Dutch, who had now joined them. While the Buccaneers got on well and even started to pull and free slaves from their sides, the French and English settlers kept fighting each other. As with Port Royal, the island was given to the Buccaneers, who wanted to settle there and in turn protected the island from the Spanish the called themselves Brothers of the Coast. From that year onwards, the island was divided between the English and the French and there was even an attempt to introduce slavery. This led to a confrontation in 1629 which resulted in the newcomers being chased away again and the Spanish began to build a fort on the island.ĭrawing of Tortuga island during Bucaneer and Pirate period, 17th century, by unknown ( x)Ī year later, however, the French returned and drove the Spanish out. Therefore, it was not surprising that the Spanish did not stay alone for long and that the French and English also showed interest after they had already wanted Hispaniola. The island itself is 40 km in size, has abundant fresh water and arable land, and is perfectly defensible because of its shape. Tortuga is located on the north side of the large and famous island of Hispaniola (modern Haiti), about three nautical miles from the coast. Interestingly, Columbus is said to have given it the name Isla Tortuga - Turtle Island, referring to its appearance. Like Port Royal, the island was originally settled by the Spanish around 1598. Tortuga was probably one of the most famous pirate ports along with Port Royal.

Island of tourtage