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Grand Cayman is a staple in the itineraries of many major cruise lines, offering travelers a mix of sun-soaked leisure, aquatic adventures, and cultural explorations. Snorkeling enthusiasts can encircle the area while gazing at the 10 ft (3 m) drop-off, where there are even more starfish. Note that there is some boat traffic, so be careful when snorkeling around the area. At Starfish Point, you can explore a shallow body of water where you will find Red Cushion Sea Stars, renowned for their striking red and orange colors.
Public Bus
If you want the experience of snorkeling with stingrays in slightly deeper water (and less people), a good suggesting is Stingray City Snorkeling. There are a variety of boats and catamarans that you can book, either with the cruise line or with a local tour company. Heading to the beach is one of the most fun, easiest and most economical activities for a family coming to Grand Cayman on a cruise. Seven Mile Beach is closeby and arguably one of the most beautiful beaches you’ll see in the Caribbean.
Cayman Turtle Center
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the beach, indulge in water sports, or simply enjoy a lazy day basking in the Caribbean sun. Although it’s technically only five and a half miles in length, the famous Seven Mile Beach is a long series of white coral sands and small coves lined with cafés and restaurants. You’ll find everything from waterfront cocktail lounges to sun umbrellas, stand-up paddle boards, and kayaks here. Bring a mask and snorkel; spectacular marine life over the coral reefs just offshore makes this a good spot for beginners. If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Grand Cayman’s stunning beaches, beach horseback riding is the perfect activity.
Practical Tips for Visitors to Grand Cayman Cruise Port
There is an elevated platform from where you can take unique photos and observe this natural marvel. There are two gift shops where you can purchase souvenirs, as well as a post office from where you can send your postcards from Hell to your loved ones. The tour of the caves lasts usually up to 1h 30 minutes, and there is also a gift shop where you can get souvenirs and refreshments. The site has a sandy bottom and is packed with thousands of beautiful colorful fish, conchs, some stingrays, and starfish. The Grand Cayman Cruise port is highly wheelchair accessible, and that includes all three terminals. This art gallery that focuses on the visual arts is definitely worth a visit should you be keeping it local and staying around Georgetown and nearby the Grand Cayman Cruise Port.
On the same block, the cruise traveler will not miss the Harley Davidson shop, the Blue Iguana Souvenir Outlet and the Church of God Full Gospel Hall. Right after, the bright colors of Margaritaville stand out in the Island Plaza Mall. Margaritaville in George Town is a bit smaller than most in the Caribbean but the ambiance is pretty much the same. At the end of the block, Cardinal Avenue is a continuation of the best shops in George Town - Cartier Boutique, Magnum Jewelers, Kirk, La Perfumerie, Time Zone, among others.
The port itself is modern and well-equipped, ensuring a seamless and comfortable arrival. After disembarking, you’ll have a variety of options for exploring this Caribbean paradise. The island’s warm waters are teeming with colorful marine life, and several shallow reefs are perfect for snorkelers of all experience levels. Several operators in the area offer guided snorkeling tours of the island’s best spots. Your ship will drop anchor off of George Town which is on the west side of Grand Cayman. All shore excursions begin at the George Town cruise ship port, which is near downtown.
Caribbean Travel Insurance Tips
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Nearby, you’ll also find places to eat and drink, such as Snappers, Island Squeeze, and Tortuga Rum Co. Now that you know why you should pay the Grand Cayman a visit, go ahead and plan your trip there. Don’t worry about the weather, the island just like most Caribbean islands in the west experiences a wet summer and a dry winter. Explore the lush East side of Grand Cayman by taking a fun and exciting island safari tour.
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Is Grand Cayman walkable?
George Town is the capital city of Grand Cayman and the port which all cruise ships visit. For those that have never been in this very popular cruise port, the cruise traveler should know that this is what is called a tender port. George Town offers a lively shopping experience, with a variety of conveniently located stores near the cruise port. The two most popular shopping hubs near the port are The Island Plaza and Bayshore Mall. You will find there a wide range of international and local shops, offering everything from clothing and jewelry to local souvenirs, art, and crafts. Grand Cayman is a tender port, meaning that cruise ships remain anchored in a large bay in front of George Town.
A visit to George Town is not complete without experiencing the city’s vibrant energy and exploring its unique offerings. From duty-free shopping and delicious dining to historical sites and cultural attractions, George Town has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the charm and excitement of the capital as you create lasting memories of your time in Grand Cayman. If you’re a fan of art, make sure to visit the Cayman Islands National Gallery. This gallery showcases the work of local and international artists and offers a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse art scene of the Cayman Islands. From paintings and sculptures to mixed media installations, there’s something to inspire every art enthusiast.
You’ll often spot them clinging to the sea floor, gracefully moving with the ebb and flow of the tide. It’s a magical sight to see the starfish in their natural environment, effortlessly blending with the surrounding seagrass and providing a vivid burst of color. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Cayman Islands at the Pedro St. James National Historic Site. Located in Savannah, Grand Cayman, this beautifully restored plantation house is a living testament to the island’s history and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. If you’re visiting Rum Point on a weekday, you’ll have the chance to experience the local culture at the Rum Point Beach Bar. Enjoy live music and dancing while sipping on a refreshing cocktail or a famous Mudslide, a frozen drink made with rum, coffee liqueur, and Irish cream.
The only form of public transportation on the island is the public bus, which unfortunately doesn't operate at the airport. The funding was from both cruise companies plus a loan from CIBC-FirstCaribbean International Bank. The expected revenue for the companies from the new terminal was ~KYD 333 million (USD 400M) over its 25-year lifespan, based on estimated ~2 million passengers annually. Local currency is the Cayman Island dollar (visit xe.com for current rates), but U.S. dollars are also accepted throughout the island. The Cayman Islands are an international banking center, so finding a financial institution is not difficult. If you love horses and want to experience the natural beauty of Grand Cayman, this West Bay Beach horseback riding excursion might be perfect for you.
Water sports equipment rental shops and local boat tour operators can be found on the beach as well, especially on its northern ends. Starting with Wreck of the Cali located about 40 yards offshore from Rackham’s dock in George Town. Go snorkeling at this site to explore the marine life resting under the corals. Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands is one of the most popular cruise ports on the western Caribbean cruise route. Approximately 1.4 million cruise passengers visit the island annually and it’s easy to see why. Located a 25-minute drive (17 km/10.5 miles) east of the George Town port, the White House is an exclusive private mansion offering all-inclusive service to its visitors.
Located about 20 minutes away from the cruise port in Georgtown, this restored former Great House, built in the 1800’s, offers a look back into the history an heritage of Grand Cayman. There are interactive and media exhibits and visitors can view the building filled with authentic period furniture and artifacts. Glass bottom boat tours offer the option to get out and snorkel or dive, or to stay on the boat. This is a great excursion if you have some in the family who want to get right in the water, and some who’s rather not. You’ll see marine life and coral and sit comfortably while viewing tropical fish and in shipwrecks (depending on the tour).
Passengers are then transported to the terminals by double-decked tender boats, typically owned either locally or provided by the cruise ship. Located quite close to the cruise port on Harbour drive, this museum is housed in a picture perfect 1800’s former government building. It has several exhibits that emphasize Grand Cayman’s culture and heritage.
While exploring George Town, take a break from shopping to sample the local cuisine. The city boasts an array of dining options, ranging from casual beachside cafes to fine dining restaurants. Indulge in fresh seafood, traditional Caribbean dishes, and international cuisine.
Now I need to warn you, the town of Hell is really small and there isn’t too much too see. There are black/grey limestone rock formations and a touristy post office where you can have postcards stamped from the town of Hell, Grand Cayman islands. That being said, if you’re on a sightseeing tour, and this is part of it, it’s a bit of touristy fun. If you chose only one excursion while on your cruise, it would be a trip to Stingray City Sandbar, Grand Cayman.
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