Caribbean Sea | Definition, Location, Map, Islands, & Facts

Caribbean Sea: Definition and Location

The Caribbean Sea is a suboceanic basin in the western Atlantic Ocean. It lies roughly between latitudes 9° and 22° N and longitudes 89° and 60° W. Covering an area of about 1,063,000 square kilometers, it forms a distinct marine region bordered by Central and South America to the west and south and the Greater Antilles and the Lesser Antilles to the north and east.

Geography and Islands

The sea encompasses numerous islands which are grouped mainly into the Greater Antilles—comprising Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic), and Puerto Rico—and the Lesser Antilles, a chain of smaller islands extending from the Virgin Islands in the north to Trinidad and Tobago near the coast of South America. These islands give the Caribbean its rich cultural diversity and attract millions of visitors for their scenic beauty.

Physical Characteristics

The Caribbean Sea is relatively shallow compared to the open Atlantic Ocean, with most of its waters less than 2,000 meters deep. Its basin includes various deep trenches and underwater mountain ranges. The sea’s waters are warm year-round, facilitating vibrant marine ecosystems and coral reefs, which are among the most diverse in the world.

Cultural and Economic Importance

This sea region has been historically significant for trade, colonization, and cultural exchange due to its strategic location. Today, it remains a vital hub for shipping, tourism, and fishing industries for the surrounding countries.

"The Caribbean Sea is a dynamic maritime region shaped by natural and cultural histories that continue to influence global patterns in economics and biodiversity."

The Caribbean Sea’s unique geographical position and rich natural resources make it crucial both ecologically and economically, supporting vibrant ecosystems and human communities alike.

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Britannica Britannica — 2025-11-27

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