Did you know there are several islands around the world called “Rum Island”? There’s one off the coast of Australia, one in the Falklands, one in the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve (Canada) & one near Scotland!
Australia’s Rum Island
Australia’s Rum Island is an island lying in Bass Strait north of Tasmania. It is the site of the 1797 ‘Sydney Cove’ shipwreck. This ship ran aground in relatively shallow water so a lot of the cargo could be salvaged. Noticing that the crew members were partaking of part of the cargo- (namely the rum!) the Captain had the spirits removed to a small nearby Island for safe keeping. This island subsequently was named Rum Island!
Falkland’s Rum Island
Falkland’s Rum Island is close to Sea Lion Island. Other nearby islands are called Brandy Island and Whisky Island! As it is cold and windy down there perhaps these names reflect the need for a warming drop of sustenance to live there.
Gulf Islands called Isle-de-Lis
There is also an island in the Gulf Islands called Isle-de-Lis which is also known as Rum Island. This name was given to it during the prohibition when it was used as a base by rum runners to smuggle spirits into the US (because it was close to the US/Canada border).
Scotland’s Rum Island
Scotland’s Rum Island – “Rùm” is one of the small islands in the New Hebrides, Scotland. For much of the 20th century it was known as Rhum because the owner didn’t want to be known as the “Laird of Rum”!
Rum Point – Cayman Islands
Although not actually a rum island, there is a places named Rum Point on the Cayman Islands, described as “a lovely getaway on Grand Cayman’s north shore. The lifestyle here is laid-back, focusing on swimming in the calm blue sea, swinging gently in a hammock and sampling the fine island food.” sounds like a nice place to visit!
If you know of another “Rum Island” somewhere in the world, comment below and we’ll include it above!
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