If you have never explored the warm, crystal clear waters of the Cayman Islands, you are missing out on the experience of a lifetime. Known by many as a haven for offshore investing for private business owners and international corporations, the Cayman Islands offer diverse activities and sightseeing opportunities.
World Famous Stingray City
Take a short boat ride out to the sandbars where the water is only three feet deep. Jump in and be greeted by over a dozen of the island’s friendly stingrays. Fishermen began feeding them squid – their favorite food – back in the 1980’s. Since then, they have come to associate the sound of approaching boats with the serving of a meal, and they happily greet all who visit them. Swim or snorkel with these majestic creatures and take the opportunity to feed them bits of squid right from your own hand. It is an experience you will never forget.
Experience the Pirate’s Life
In the 17th century, Grand Cayman was known to be a safe haven for pirates and all of their stolen treasures. Now you can relive the experience by taking a two hour cruise aboard the Jolly Roger – an authentic replica of a 17th century Galleon. While you are aboard, watch a pirate trial that ends in a dramatic sword fight. Kids will love it as well, as they get to help hoist the main sail, fire the cannons, or make a family member walk the plank at the end of a blunted sword. Finally, dive in and take advantage of the opportunity to snorkel the Cayman Islands’ brilliant waters during the swim break.
Submerge Yourself
The air-conditioned, ultra modern, 48 passenger Atlantis XI submarine takes you from shallow reefs and the shipwrecks in George Town Harbor, to plunging into the 100 foot depths of coral canyons. For those who do not dive, this may be one of the best ways to experience the underwater beauty of the Cayman Islands for yourself. The Atlantis Deep Dive Submarine is celebrating 20 years of service, and has taken more than 10 million passengers into the depths of Cayman waters.
Visit a Turtle Farm
At Boatswain’s Beach you can visit the Cayman Turtle Farm. This research, conservation, and preservation facility for sea turtles also offers you the opportunity to interact with one of the farm’s 16,000 sea turtles, ranging in size from as small as six ounces to over 600 pounds. Swim or snorkel in the 1.3 million gallon lagoon, take a stroll through the free flight aviary, or get an up-close view of eels and sharks in the predator tank.
See a Blue Iguana
The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park includes a conservation and breeding facility for the rare blue iguana, which you may be lucky enough to spy a glimpse of when you visit. This 65 acre facility offers trails for backpacking or hiking, a two and a half acre color garden, and a fully restored Cayman farmhouse from the turn of the century. It contains original furnishings and has fences and dry walls made from old coral.
In addition to the many activities that abound in the Cayman Islands, this spectacular destination also offers world-class diving in the many marine parks, miles of sugary sand beaches, luxurious hotels, and spas that allow you to relax and indulge yourself. There is teeming nightlife, with jazz, calypso, reggae, and rock and roll music, and an abundance of bars and restaurants. The entire family can be entertained while reveling in the beauty of these Caribbean islands.
