The Strait of Canso has long served as a maritime shortcut between the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean. In 1955, the Canso Canal opened as part of the engineering works for the new Canso Causeway that had finally established a permanent link for Cape Breton Island with mainland Nova Scotia. With the road-and-rail causeway blocking the strait, tidal locks allow the yacht to navigate the powerful currents into the 250-meter-long waterway. At the canal’s southern end, a long swing bridge opens up to allow maritime traffic through.

Surrounded by rugged terrain and lush vegetation, La Romana is home to crystalline waters, white sand beaches and impressive coral reef life. It's a gateway to charming villages such as Bayahibe, ecological trails and numerous golf resorts. In the town center is El Obelisco, painted with images of local Dominican life. Nearby Altos de Chavon is a replica 16th-century village and cultural center featuring artist studios, galleries, an archaeological museum and sweeping views of the Chavon River.