Cruising the Caribbean is a dream for many boaters — and why wouldn’t it be? The balmy, tropical weather beckons! When you’re not cruising the picture-perfect, turquoise waters, you’re hopping onto islands big and small and continuing the day’s adventure on land. There’s nowhere in the world quite like it.

Well, almost nowhere. When the prospect of cruising the Caribbean gets logistically challenging — between passports, lodging, and transporting your boat — you can actually explore a piece of the stunning tropical sea a little closer to home. Even more surprising? It’s nestled in the Rocky Mountains.

That’s right: Bear Lake (which is situated on the border between Idaho and Utah) has been described as the “Caribbean of the Rockies,” and its stunning hue certainly lives up to the moniker. Just read on to learn more about exploring the lake on your Monterey Super Sport Boat!

A Colorful Conundrum

So, what makes Bear Lake (not to be confused with Big Bear Lake in California) so vibrant? It’s a good question with a surprisingly simple answer: limestone deposits in the lake! They reflect light in such a way that the H2O casts its signature brilliance. But as it turns out, color isn’t the only thing Bear Lake has in common with the Caribbean. The lake is also bordered by mountain foothills, which creates a back-to-nature feeling reminiscent of the tropical sea’s lush topography.

Hit The Water

While Bear Lake may not be quite as boundless as the Caribbean, it’s still quite spacious — 20 miles long and 8 miles wide, to be exact, given boaters in both Idaho and Utah plenty of room to cruise or kick back and relax with a beach campsite.

But of course, if you’re a Monterey boater, your preferred way to hit the water might be wakeboarding, or waterskiing. Fortunately, you can do them all (and then some!) on Bear Lake. The lake’s deep, open center is perfect for putting your water sports skills to the test during these final dog days of summer.

Closer To Shore

After you’ve set a new personal record or two, you can retreat closer to shore for continued water fun! Another way locals and travelers experience Bear Lake is by inland scuba diving — meaning the lake is just as thrilling below the surface as it is above. According to Utah State Parks, there are a few reasons Bear Lake (specifically Cisco Beach) makes for a great scuba destination, including the topography — the lake’s depth drops off fairly close to shore — and a rocky floor, which makes for excellent aquatic life.

Speaking of which, anglers have a lot to love about Bear Lake, too — including lake trout, Bonneville whitefish, and many more.

Another Caribbean pastime you can enjoy on Bear Lake? Paddle sports! Canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding gives you a chance to get even closer to the pristine water that gave Bear Lake its famous nickname.

Whether you’re cruising the Caribbean or simply the Caribbean of the Rockies, your Monterey lets you experience it all in style and comfort. We hope you enjoy a visit soon!