Work is progressing on Trinidad’s first theme park, with Skallywag Bay a landmark project for the island nation.

Offering families the chance to explore the land of the “Gruffles”, the pirate-themed adventure park, conceptualised by the Imagination Corporation, includes a railroad, bumper boats, climbing wall and jump, three family rides, an elaborate adventure golf course and a children’s play area.

Aimed primarily at the people of Trinidad, the 11,300sq m (120,000sq ft) park does offer the potential to help change the minimal tourism input on the island – it’s economy currently heavily reliant on oil.

“The design starts with the Gruffles themselves — twenty-four pirate creatures,” said Peter Sawatzky, who leads the artistic team for the Imagination Corporation.

“These original characters and their unique traits will inform and shape the world in which they live. While most pirate themed parks are a trip to the dark side, Skallywag Bay is quite the opposite. It is colourful and charming – designed to appeal to everyone in the family.”

A number of companies and suppliers have been involved in the project’s development since it broke ground, with engineering services provided by Trinidad-based Alpha Engineering, rock work/climbing wall by Createk, onsite rock work by Wavestone Sculpture, train and track by HillCrest Shops and other rides provided by SBF/Visa through Rides 4 U.

Imagination Corporation provided the master plan for the park, all concept artwork and all of the signage and features. They are also providing onsite consultation to ensure the original vision is carried out. No opening date has been set.