TRANSPORTATION

Cayman’s roads have undergone many changes recently, and there are many more to come with hopes of alleviating the Island’s rush-hour traffic congestion. These include the expansion of the Linford Pierson Highway, the extension of Elgin Avenue, Crewe Road realignment and Grand Harbour widening and improvement. Although this has significantly improved traffic, it has pushed the bottleneck elsewhere, meaning new road developments are perpetually planned and underway. The National Roads Authority will be working on the following projects in 2023. You can find out more about these and other projects by visiting www.caymanroads.com.

> Godfrey Nixon Way extension connecting Eastern Avenue to the main George Town area. > Airport Connector Road linking the roundabout by Cayman

International School with Sparky’s Drive in the Industrial Park.

Eventually, the road will link to the Owen Roberts International

Airport. > East-West Arterial widening to four lanes along a 0.6 mile long stretch of the highway from Poindexter Road to Hirst Road. > Frank Sound Seaview Road intersection upgrades include adding turning lanes. > East-West Arterial Road expansion extending from Woodland

Drive, Savannah to Lookout Gardens, Bodden Town, pending an

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). There is debate as to whether these changes will have a lasting

Everything you need to know about the rules of the road, licences, insurance, buying, renting or importing a car, along with, maintenance and alternative forms of transportation.

Rules of the Road

274 - Roundabouts 274 - School Buses & School Zones 275 - Cell Phones, Texting & Driving 276 - Children & Car Seats 276 - Drinking & Driving 276

Legal Requirements - Driving Licences

276 276 - Driving Instructors 276 - Converting an Existing Licence 277 - Licensing Your Vehicle 278 - Vehicle Transfer 279 - Disposing of a Vehicle 279 - Motorcycles & Scooter Licences 280 - Car Insurance 280

Rental Cars 280

Leasing a Vehicle 281

Importing a Vehicle

281 - Shipping Costs & Details 281 - Clearing Your Car Through Customs 282 - Duty Costs of Importing a Car 282

Buying a New Car 283

Buying a Used Car 284

Hybrid & Electric Cars

Car Maintenance & Repair - Tyres & Batteries - Roadside Assistance - Car Cleaning 284

284 286 286 286

Alternative Transportation - Bicycles - Motorcycles & Scooters - Public Transport 286 286 287 287

effect on reducing traffic congestion, or if widening the roads is more of a temporary solution. According to the DVDL the number of imported road vehicles grew by 26.2% in 2021 and records show that 57,193 vehicles are registered, and 61,441 driver’s licences have been issued.

To tackle unlicensed vehicles, the Government has installed several fixed scanners along Cayman’s road network. The first of which is mounted on the entrances and exits of the underpasses along West Bay Road and the Esterley Tibbetts Highway. The scanners read details from the vehicle’s electronic number plate, and the information collected will determine the status of the licence, registration, and insurance. Eventually, these machines may be able to issue electronic tickets, but for now, their purpose is to collect information for the police and traffic department and crack down on traffic and licensing violations.

Owning a car still has advantages including little traffic (outside of rush hour), free parking in most locations and virtually no traffic wardens! Depending on the size of your family and in which district of the Island you live and work, you may need multiple cars, unless you are prepared to be entirely beholden to the person that has the car.

It is unsurprising that owning and driving your own car is the most convenient, comfortable and speedy mode of transport in the Cayman Islands. Temperature, precarious driving, the lack of sidewalks and inadequate bike paths rule out walking or cycling for most people. The local bus network is intermittent and does not cover all areas. In addition, waiting in the hot sunshine to then sit on a crowded minibus with little or no air conditioning is not everyone’s idea of an ideal daily commute.

RULES OF THE ROAD all around the world where traffic laws can be quite different. It is therefore crucial that drivers know the rules of Cayman’s roads to drive safely.

Here’s what you need to know:

> We drive on the left-hand side of the road > Seatbelts must be worn by all passengers > Turning left at a red light, only after a full stop, is allowed and is legal > Using a mobile phone (unless hands-free) while driving is illegal > We have a few four-way stops. These work on the basis of whoever gets to the fourway stop first, after making a full stop, proceeds first > The speed limit on the Island varies between 25mph-50mph. Speeding tickets are freely dispersed to people who go over the limit > The speed limit for school zones is 15mph when a) amber lights are flashing or b) road markings or signs are posted > All drivers must give way to pedestrians on pedestrian crossings > Headlights must be fitted to dip left. Those importing cars from the US take note > The use of fog lights is not allowed > You cannot overtake if there is a solid single or double white (or yellow) line in the centre of the road > Accidents: The law requires that in the event of an accident involving injury to a person/ animal/vehicle, you must exchange names, addresses, DOB, registration numbers and your insurance details. Or report the accident to the police within 24 hours > Tinted car windows: Front windows can be tinted but must allow a minimum of 35% light transmission through. Rear windows can be made darker to a maximum of 15%. A strip of tint (any degree), no more than six inches may be placed on the windshield.

Roundabouts Along with road widening, roundabouts have been used as a means of controlling traffic flow. There are now over two dozen located around Grand Cayman, including a couple of three-lane roundabouts. Here are some rules that can assist you if you are unfamiliar with how roundabouts work and want to avoid an accident:

1) Always travel around a roundabout in a clockwise direction. Never turn right onto a roundabout or you will turn into the oncoming, one-way traffic! 2) All traffic approaching a roundabout must yield to the traffic that is already on it that is coming from your right. All vehicles already on the roundabout have right of way and you must wait for space to get onto it. 3) Use your indicators when approaching and exiting a roundabout. If taking the first exit, indicate left when approaching and exiting. If taking the right exit or going all the way around the roundabout, use the right indicator until you are about to reach your exit, then indicate left to leave the roundabout. If taking neither the left nor right but the straight-ahead exit, do not indicate on approach but indicate left just before taking your exit. Make sure not to overtake while on the roundabout. If a car is on your right and they want to turn left,

they have the right of way, and you may be in their blind spot. 4) When using a mini single-lane roundabout, merge left when space is available and keep left of the painted circle until you reach your exit. All other cars must yield to a vehicle on the roundabout. Be sure to indicate when exiting the roundabout. 5) When using two-lane roundabouts, if taking the first or second exit, keep in the left-hand (outer) lane. Keep in the righthand (inner) lane if taking a subsequent exit and maintain your position until the exit prior to the one you will be taking before merging to the outer lane. When merging prior to exiting, check your mirrors to ensure someone is not overtaking you on the outside. Use your indicators! See the diagram on the previous page for guidance. 6) When driving on a three-lane roundabout it is important to use caution. Know your intended exit as you approach and ensure you are in the correct lane.

The rules are: 1) Keep in the left-hand lane if taking the first exit and indicate left, 2) Keep in the middle lane if driving straight ahead and follow the lane marked with a straight-through arrow; indicate left just before you exit, 3) If taking a subsequent exit, use the righthand lane and indicate right while on the roundabout. Just before reaching your exit and as you exit the roundabout, switch to your left indicator. Check your mirrors before moving from the inner lane to the outer lane prior to exiting, to ensure that no one is overtaking you on the outside.

Using the Centre Turning Lane The turning lane in the centre of some roads is designed to help drivers turn without holding up other drivers. The lane should never be used for overtaking.

School Buses & School Zones Under the Traffic Act (2021 Revision), when a school bus has its lights flashing and has stopped to allow children to get on or off, drivers are not permitted to overtake. This applies to vehicles

shar•row noun /sharõ/

1. The Shared-Lane Marking indicating where a cyclist has the right to ride.

Under Cayman Islands Law, bicycles have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles. The Cayman Islands embraces safe, alternate transportation. Bike Safe. Drive Safe. Share the Lane.

MAY USE FULL LANE

Ex 1:

When lanes are too narrow to safely pass a cyclist, the cyclist must take the full lane. MAY USE FULL LANE

Ex 2:

A cyclist must take the full lane when passing parked cars in order to avoid open doors. < 3ft >

Ex 3:

Sharrows can also be found on wide lanes. A driver overtaking a bicycle must maintain a horizontal clearance of a least 3 feet between the car and bicycle, no matter the width of the lane.

For more information email us at nra@nra.ky or visit us at www.caymanroads.com or visit our social media page at www.facebook.com/nraroads

approaching the bus from both directions. If you approach a bus that is letting children off, stop at least 20ft away and wait until the bus has pulled away before you continue driving. You should also pay attention to the 15mph speed limits in designated school zones. At certain times of the day, warning lights flash outside schools and school zones, indicating to drivers that they need to reduce their speed.

Cell Phones, Texting & Driving A CI$150 fine is automatically issued to anyone seen driving while talking on a mobile phone unless it is handsfree or mounted. In section 78 of the Traffic Act (2011) it states: “in order to use your cellular device while driving it must be “hands free” with no more than one action of pressing a button to accept and end a call.” You are, however, legally allowed to use your phone while driving if you are calling 911 to report an emergency and it is impractical to pull your vehicle over.

Children & Car Seats Cayman’s Traffic Seat Belts Regulations (2012) state that any child travelling in a motor vehicle must wear a seatbelt or, for those under two, be seated in a car seat attached by a seatbelt. It also states that a rear-facing child’s car seat must not be fitted in a seat with a front airbag. Children’s car seats can be purchased from The Bump To Baby. Second-hand options can be found on EcayTrade (www. ecaytrade.com) and Facebook Marketplace.

Drinking & Driving Although the drinking and driving rules in Cayman are strict, it continues to be the leading cause of fatalities and serious collisions on Cayman’s roads. At the time of going to press, the Cayman Islands Government has a bill in process to lower the legal blood-alcohol level for drivers from 0.1% to 0.07% in an attempt to combat this issue. The RCIPS reports that there has been a 37% increase in driving under the influence (DUI) offences and a 22% increase in motor vehicle accidents. Approximately 36% of all DUI offences also involved a motor vehicle accident. The primary hotspot areas for these offences occur in central George Town and along the Seven Mile Beach corridor on West Bay Road. For more information and updates on the RCIPS operations, visit www.rcips.ky.

Drivers in Cayman should be reminded that the legal blood-alcohol limit for the Cayman Islands is 0.100% (100mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood) and will be 0.07% (70mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood) when the amendment bill is passed. If you are caught either driving or sitting in the driver’s seat of a car while over the legal limit, you will be fined CI$1,000 or imprisoned for six months, and you will lose your driving licence for a year. Having a DUI conviction can also affect your ability to obtain a work permit in Cayman.

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

DRIVING LICENCES Theory & Driving Tests for NonLicence Holders For those wanting a licence, the path is routine, but the process is quite slow. First, you must book a theory test of driving knowledge at one of the Department of Vehicle & Drivers’ Licensing (DVDL) offices or you can email: dvdlexambookings@gov.ky. You have 40 minutes to answer 40 multiple choice questions (on a touch screen computer) of which you must get 80% correct. The test costs CI$25 and, if there is space available, you can take the test at the time of booking. In the Cayman Islands you have to be 17 years old and a day to be qualified to apply for a licence. Take your passport on all visits to the DVDL test centre for proof of identification.

To learn all you need to know to pass the written test, the DVDL recommends that you review their official Road Code booklet, which can be found on their website, as well as parts of the Traffic Act (2021 Revision) and all of the Traffic Regulations 2012. Their website, www.dvdl.gov.ky, has a wealth of information on it, including links to all the traffic laws. Alternatively, there is a very detailed and well-informed driving instruction book called ‘Drive Safely in Cayman’ by Graham Walker, who started teaching driving in Cayman in 1992. He has retired from teaching on the road but still updates his book every other year. It costs CI$20 at local booksellers.

Having passed the theory test, you can then obtain a learner’s licence for CI$60, which is valid for six months and allows you to drive whilst accompanied by someone with a full Cayman licence (who has been qualified for two years). An ‘L’ plate must be visible on the front and back of the vehicle. Also make sure that your car insurance policy covers a learner driver; most will require that the learner is put on the insurance.

Four weeks after obtaining the provisional licence, the practical road test can be taken for a fee of CI$50. Note that it cannot be taken earlier than the four weeks or later than six months after obtaining the provisional licence. You can book an appointment for the practical road test in advance after passing the written test. A full driver’s licence will be issued when both exams are passed. For Groups 0-3 the fee is CI$75 for three years or CI$125 for five years. For group 4+, it is CI$120 for three years, CI$200 for five years or CI$400 for ten years.

Note: There is no difference in a driving licence for automatic or standard shift (manual) cars. You can take your test in either type of car and then drive whatever you like.

Driving Instructors Brand new drivers to Cayman’s roads should organise driving lessons with the following instructors who have been

Driving School - Burmon Scott Tel: (345) 927 1698. His wife, Cherry Marie Scott, offers a 2-hour theory lesson and pre-test on the driving rules, Tel: (345) 928 8284. Martin’s School of Motoring Tel: (345) 923 7218. For lessons in riding a motorbike, call

Keith Keller at the Cayman Islands Motorcycle Riders Association (Tel: (345) 945 7433).

Converting an Existing Licence According to the Traffic (Amendment) Act (2018), if you have a full, valid domestic driving licence from a Convention country, that is, a country within the Geneva, Vienna or Paris Convention on Road Traffic Agreement (see www. dvdl.gov.ky for a full list of applicable countries), you may drive on it for a period not exceeding six months. You must then take (and pass) the written theory test before your licence can be converted to a Cayman driver’s licence. However, if you fail to complete this transfer during those six months, then you will have to take both tests (theory and practical) in order to get a local driver’s licence. This basically means that people from all the major European countries, most major English-speaking countries (including Canada, the USA and South Africa), and a handful of Caribbean countries, are entitled to obtain a Cayman driving licence after they have passed the written theory test. You then have the option of getting a driver’s licence that is valid for three, five, or ten years.

If you currently have a learner’s permit or are enrolled in the Graduated Driver’s Licensing Program from another country, then you will have to schedule to take both the written theory and practical road tests in Cayman.

If you have an International Driving permit, you can legally drive on it for as long as it is valid. However, you cannot convert an International Driving permit to a Cayman driver’s licence.

If you have a full, valid driving licence from a country that is not a Convention country, then under section 29 of the Traffic Act (2021 Revision), you are allowed to drive for six months, if you drive a motor car, a truck not exceeding 8,500lbs, or a motorcycle under 125cc. After one month you are required to pass both the written theory and practical road tests. However, you do not need to hold a learner’s licence to sit the practical road test as you already have driving experience.

If you are caught driving without a valid licence, there is an automatic CI$4,000 fine or imprisonment for up to 12 months. If you are a legal resident, you can drive on Cayman’s roads if you:

> Have an International Driver’s permit. As long as it is valid, you are exempted from the requirement to hold a Cayman driver’s licence and can, therefore, drive legally on it. > Have a full, valid domestic driver’s licence from a Convention country. You can drive in Cayman for up to six months before having to pass the written theory test so you can

be issued with a Cayman driver’s licence. If you wait longer than six months, you will also have to pass the practical road test. > Have a full, valid domestic driver’s licence not from a Convention country. You can drive for one month in Cayman, but only a motor car, a truck not exceeding 8,500lbs, or a motorcycle under 125cc. To legally drive thereafter, you must obtain a Cayman driving licence by passing both the written theory and the practical road tests. > Have a full Cayman driving licence. Cayman driving licences are only valid for either three, five or 10 years. You will need to get your licence renewed promptly or you are effectively driving without a licence and therefore driving illegally. If caught driving without a valid licence, you will be suspended for a year. You must always have your driving licence and a copy of your car insurance with you when driving. Brand new drivers licences can be obtained for three or five years and cost between CI$75 and CI$200, depending on the category of vehicle. For those needing to renew their Cayman licence, the cost is CI$75 for three years or CI$125 for five years for Groups 0-3 or CI$120 for three years or CI$200 for five years for Groups 4.

If you are a visitor (i.e. not a resident and you don’t have a work permit):

> You can drive in Cayman provided you have a valid driver’s licence and insurance

coverage. > Visitors who have a full, valid driver’s licence from a convention country can drive for six months in Cayman. > Visitors who have a full, valid driver’s licence not from a convention country can drive for one month in Cayman, provided they only drive a motor car, a truck not exceeding 8,500lbs, or a motorcycle under 125cc (Section 29A Traffic Act 2021). If you lend your car or truck to a visitor, you must ensure they have a valid driving licence, otherwise they will be deemed to be driving illegally and this could invalidate your insurance.

You must be very clear on what your insurance company requires before covering you. Some policies have very strict age limitations, while some will not insure people until they are 21, 23 or even 25 years of age. Additionally, most insurance companies will not insure new drivers to drive an SUV until they have had a licence for one year.

Obtaining a Driving Reference Letter A driving reference letter, also known as a driving record, can be obtained from the DVDL which outlines the driver’s licence history in Cayman. The document costs CI$75 and takes approximately three working days to be processed. Obtain this before leaving the Island if you intend to drive overseas in places like Canada where you will not be issued, or reissued, a Canadian driver’s licence without it.

DVDL Offices The Department of Vehicle and Drivers’ Licensing (www.dvdl.gov.ky or email: dvdl. helpdesk@gov.ky) is authorised to inspect and test vehicles, register motor vehicles and maintain the register, issue licences in respect of motor vehicles and drivers, and conduct driving tests.

The Department of Vehicle & Drivers’ Licensing (DVDL) has three locations in Grand Cayman: > 990 Crewe Road, Red Bay, Tel: (345) 945 8344. Open: Monday-Friday 8.30am-4pm. > 9 Reverend Blackman Road, West Bay (Across from the West Bay Police Station),

Tel: (345) 949 7231. Open: Tuesday-Friday 10am-6pm and Saturday 9am-4pm. > 2035 Bodden Town Road (opposite the

South Coast Bar and Grill), Tel: (345) 244 5528. Open: Tuesday-Friday 10am-3pm, 4pm-6pm and Saturday 9am-3pm. The Department of Vehicle & Drivers’ Licensing (DVDL) in Cayman Brac and Little Cayman: > Cayman Brac District Administration

Building, Tel: (345) 948 2222. Open:

Monday-Friday 8.30am-4pm > Little Cayman District Administration

Building, Tel: (345) 948 1051. Open: Every other Thursday 9am-2.30pm LICENSING YOUR VEHICLE Your vehicle can be inspected and its registration renewed for up to 30 days before the expiry date. You can also renew your vehicle and driving licence online, just follow the tab on the DVDL website. No more waiting in line! You will still have to get your car inspected, but that process is usually quite quick and once they confirm your car has passed, the information will be recorded in their computer system.

The law does not require you to have a Cayman licence to register a car in your name, but if you are registering it in the name of a company, you must have a certificate of good standing from the Registrar of Companies, located on the ground floor of the Government Administration Building. The cost for one year’s inspection and licensing for a vehicle up to 2,500cc or a four-seater car (excluding the driver) is CI$215 (CI$180 registration, CI$35 inspection). Any vehicle that exceeds 2,500cc and does not exceed 8 seats (excluding the driver) costs CI$235. A Hummer costs between CI$535 and CI$1,035 per year. A truck up to 8,500lbs costs $435 per year (CI$400 registration, CI$40 inspection). Disabled vehicles have no annual licensing fee unless you own two, in which case you must pay standard fees for the second vehicle. Scooters, trucks and taxis have different prices for both inspection and licensing. Vehicle inspections are offered at the Crewe Road and Breakers locations. Avoid doing this on rainy days, as they will not inspect the cars if it is raining, or at the beginning and end of the month as they get very busy. You can also have your vehicle inspected at various automotive repair shops and many people will combine an annual car service with the car inspection process. You can find a list of approved private garages on the DVDL website. The garage will issue you with a Certificate of Roadworthiness, which you then take to the Vehicle & Licensing Department

when you go to renew the car licence.

Depending on the age of the vehicle and registration history, it can be inspected and licensed for one, three or five years. For five years, the vehicle must be brand new and not previously licensed in any country. Vehicles licensed for three years must not be older than ten years from the date of manufacture. Licence plates cost CI$75 per set. Personalised plates can be purchased for CI$400 per set (replacements cost CI$30). With the new electronic licence plates, you are required to place the coupon at the top centre of the windscreen, directly below the rear-view mirror. However, if you still have old plates, place the coupon within six inches of the edge on the left side or driver’s side, with the time period facing outside of the car.

Disabled Parking Badge To obtain a disabled parking badge, you can collect a form from the DVDL or download a PDF version from the DVDL website and have a licensed physician fill out the relevant portions, stating whether it needs to be temporary or permanent. Your application will then be reviewed and if approved, you can purchase a tag for $5 or you can choose to pay a fee of CI$75 for a licence plate. Visitors are allowed to use their international disabled parking badge for the duration of their trip to legally park in designated spots.

Transfer of Ownership When purchasing or selling a vehicle, you need to transfer the ownership. You and the buyer/previous owner must fill out a transfer form from the DVDL, or sign the transfer section of the log book in front of a witness from the DVDL.

In the unfortunate event that you are responsible for dealing with the vehicle of a person who has passed away, a death certificate or a notarized copy must be produced. If the spouse is seeking the transfer, then an original or notarized copy of the marriage certificate is required as well. If the person dies intestate is a CI$25 termination fee and you will have to pay any additional back-duty if accrued. You will then be required to surrender your registration plates, log book and coupon to the DVDL. If you are terminating your vehicle prior to the expiration date of your coupon, you may get a refund. Once this process has been completed, the vehicle cannot be driven on the road. The Department of Environmental Health charges a CI$75 fee to remove a derelict vehicle from private property and dispose of it, otherwise have it towed and dropped off at the George Town Landfill at any point during its opening hours (Monday-Friday, 7am-4pm). You must be the registered owner of the vehicle to terminate it. In exceptional circumstances, another person can terminate the vehicle if the registered owner has given written authorisation in an affidavit in the presence of a Licensing Officer, a Justice of the Peace or a Notary Public.

(without a will), then a notarised letter or affidavit must be produced stating that there are no other interested parties, including a spouse or any children who would otherwise be entitled to the property. If there is a will with multiple trustees/administrators, a letter stating that there is no objection to the transfer of ownership must be signed by all with a witness. Note that the notary public must be the same across all documents requiring notarisation.

A fee of CI$25 will be charged to complete the transfer. For further guidance with this process, visit www. dvdl.gov.ky.

Disposing of a Vehicle Before taking your vehicle to the George Town Landfill, you must terminate its licence at the DVDL. Fill out an ‘Application for Suspension/ Termination of Vehicle Licence’ form and present it to the DVDL along with photo ID and the vehicle’s registration certificate. There 199124_PRINT-IslandHeritage-Ad-RPage 1 8/13/21 2:52:11 PM

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MOTORCYCLE & SCOOTER LICENCES There are three groups of motorcycle licences: Group 0 (mopeds/ motor scooters), Group 1 (up to 125cc) and Group 1A (over 125cc). You must be at least 19 years of age to drive a motorcycle with an engine over 125cc.

If you have a bike licence from abroad that explicitly states that you are entitled to ride a bike over 125cc, then it may be possible to obtain a Full Group 1A licence by taking a theory test and paying a CI$75 fee. However, this largely depends on which country your licence has been issued in and is not guaranteed. If you already have a Group 2, 3 or 4 Cayman driver’s licence, then you can easily obtain a Learner’s Group 1 bike licence without having to take a written test. Having obtained it, you should book a practical road test. With a Provisional Group 1 licence, you are only allowed to carry a passenger who is the holder of a Full Group 1 licence.

If you don’t have a qualifying licence, then you need to pass both written and practical tests. Once you’ve obtained a Full Group 1 licence, you must wait one year before you can qualify for a Provisional Group 1A and after you have been tested again, you will be able to ride unlimited displacement motorbikes. However, if you are over 19 and can prove you have a Group 1 licence, then you can skip the 12-month wait time.

Cayman Custom Cycles (Tel: (345) 945 7433) offers this course, along with the Group 1 motorcycle training courses.

CAR INSURANCE You can transfer ownership of a car without car insurance, but you cannot license the vehicle without insurance. The average cost of third-party cover for a mid-sized car not exceeding 2.5 litres (2500 cc) is likely to be in the region of CI$450 to CI$650 per year, depending on whether it is a convertible or a sports car (which are more expensive). Comprehensive insurance on a nearlynew second-hand CI$16,000 car would be in the region of CI$850 per year (with a no claims discount factored in). Insurance on a new CI$32,000 BMW 3 series would cost over CI$1,000 per year (with all discounts factored in). If you bring a letter from your existing insurance company stating that you have had no claims in the last year or more, you may be eligible for a discount. Also, be aware that banks insist on comprehensive policies covering cars they are financing and some insurance companies will not sell comprehensive insurance on vehicles over ten years old. Insurance rates vary considerably, so shop around. CG BritCay (SEE AD PAGE

145) and Island Heritage (SEE AD PAGES 142, 173 & 279) both advertise a broad spectrum of policies and benefits. For example, Island Heritage offers discounts for vehicles kept in enclosed garages overnight and secured with anti-theft devices. Note: third-party insurance is available on-Island, but it does not cover fire, theft or collision. It is a good idea to ask if the comprehensive policy covers hurricane or flood damage (also known as ‘acts of God’) as some companies do not. Also check your policy, as many will automatically only cover drivers aged 25 to 65 who have had a licence for 12 months or more. Insurance rates for teenagers who have recently passed their driving test are extremely high as they are seen as inexperienced drivers. You may find it easier to find car insurance on a secondhand four-door car than on a high-end sports car if you are under 23.

If you are caught driving without insurance, the police take it very seriously and you will be subject to a fine of CI$2,000, imprisonment for 12 months, plus the loss of your licence for 12 months or more. If you lend your car to someone knowing that the car is not insured, then they, plus you, as the owner of the vehicle, will be fined and lose your licence for 12 months. The law requires that you must carry your car insurance documents in your car at all times and present it to police whenever asked.

RENTAL CARS

Cayman has many top international rental car companies, as well as reputable local ones. Rates are higher in winter (from mid-December) but lower in the summer (from mid-April) and are comparable to those in the US. Vehicle options include everything from compacts to SUVs and convertibles. Most rental car companies offer resident rates.

To rent a car, drivers must have a credit/ debit card in order to make the reservation, be over the age of 21 years and have a valid driving permit. If you are under 25, depending on the rental company, you may not be subject to full coverage, may be charged more or may not be allowed to rent a car.

Alamo Rent-a-Car At the Airport, George Town Tel: (345) 945 7368

Apex Car Rentals At the At the Airport, George Town Tel: (345) 623 4808 Email: apex@abcayman.com

Avis At the Airport, George Town Tel: (345) 949 2468 Email: avisgcm@candw.ky

Budget Rent-a-Car At the Airport, George Town Tel: (345) 949 5605

Economy Car Rental At the Airport, George Town Tel: (345) 949 9550

Hertz 250 Owen Roberts Drive, GT (near the airport) Tel: (345) 943 4378

National Car Rental At the Airport, George Town Tel: (345) 945 7368

Super Slick Car Rental Tel: (345) 324 6260 Email: superslick3@gmail.com

ZÜN 10 Market Street, Camana Bay Tel: (345) 943 2834 or Email: info@zuncar.ky Rental and car sharing business. Drop zones can be found at Camana Bay, the Kimpton and Regatta office park.

LEASING A VEHICLE

For residents looking to live here for only one to five years, leasing may be a better option. The following companies offer car leasing:

Swift Auto Leasing Tel: (345) 927 5727 Email: info@swift.ky or www.swift.ky Swift Auto Leasing offers flexible and economical vehicle leasing options to meet the needs of new residents in the Cayman Islands. Their vehicle selection is reliable, fuel-efficient and convenient to drive. The lease offering includes 24/7 roadside support, insurance, vehicle licensing and all maintenance. A security deposit is required upon signing, along with the prepayment of the first month’s lease. The minimum lease term is three months at a rate of CI$500 per month. Lower rates are available with longer

lease terms. SEE AD THIS PAGE

Tony’s Toys Automotive Centre 91 Sherwood Drive, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 946 8697 Email: info@tonystoys.net www.tonystoys.net Tony’s Toys offers long and short-term leasing options for both part-time and full-time residents. Choose from a variety of sizes, makes and models, including Toyota, Mercedes, BMW and Honda. From compact to SUV, luxury to practical, there is something to fit every customer’s needs. Leasing rates start from CI$600 per month and all contracts include insurance, vehicle maintenance, roadside assistance and If you would like to import a car to the Cayman Islands, a brief summary of the process is as follows: you’ll need to get the car to the Port of Miami or Tampa, book the car on the next ship sailing to Cayman and clear US Customs. Note that if you are importing a vehicle from Japan, it will come through the port in Jamaica and then to Cayman. In the meantime, contact the shipping company/agent and take all your paperwork to Customs to pay duty (0% - 42% depending on the type and value of your car), plus a one-time fee for future car disposal (see the Environmental Disposal Fee section on page 282). Following that, head to the Port Authority to pay the port handling fees. You can then collect your car immediately once it arrives. You can hire a customs broker to help you with this process, as it can be fairly complicated and time consuming. For more information, go to www.online.gov.ky/cols/faces/home.

Keep in mind that the Island is hot, so a light coloured car with good air conditioning will be much cooler and also easier to sell in due course. Cars with manual transmission do not sell quickly in Cayman since most students learn to drive automatic cars and have no clue how to drive a manual transmission car.

Shipping Costs & Details The average cost for shipping a midsized vehicle (approximately 500 cubic ft or less) with either Seaboard Marine or Thompson Shipping is approximately US$2,000 (without insurance). They recommend you add insurance. Please contact them for a quotation.

US Customs Law states that the Vehicle Title for used cars must be stamped by US Customs for a 72-hour clearing period (excluding the day of delivery, shipping and weekends) prior to the shipping date. Please note that unless you’re buying your vehicle straight from the manufacturer, it is considered ‘used’ under US Customs Law. US dealerships will often gift a full tank of fuel with purchases, however, be aware that the vehicle will not be allowed to leave the US more than a quarter tank full. As this fuel limit can vary between shipping companies, it is best to ensure that your tank is empty. No personal effects may be placed inside the vehicle when shipping.

We recommend you use a broker to assist you when shipping a car to Cayman. They will help you gather the documents, including the car title, letter of intent, power of attorney and bill of lading. All vehicles must be delivered to the Port (or consolidator’s bonded warehouse) before US Customs clearance. Which port you take your car to will depend on the shipping company you choose to ship with. Three shipping companies ship to Grand Cayman:

Hyde Shipping Corporation 3740 W 104th Street, Suite 1, Hialeah, FL 33018 US Tel: (305) 913 4933 Cayman Tel: (345) 947 4933 www.hydeshipping.com SEE AD PAGE 51

For all your affordable vehicle leasing needs!

(345) 927 5727 info@swift.ky www.swift.ky

24/7 Roadside Support Fully Comprehensive Insurance Free Delivery & Pickup Maintenance & Repairs

Seaboard Marine Cayman 8001 NW 79th Avenue, Miami, FL 33166, USA US Tel: 1 (305) 863 4444 Cannon Place, Industrial Park, Grand Cayman Tel: (345) 949 4977 SEE AD PAGE 53

Tropical Shipping Port Address: 500 Martin Luther Jr. Blvd., Riviera Beach, FL 33404 Container Freight Station: 1489 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Riviera Beach, Florida 33404 Tel: (345) 949 8044 or (561) 881 3999

Clearing Your Car Through US Customs It is the owner’s responsibility to clear their car through US Customs or to appoint a customs broker to do so. The following customs brokers, based in Miami, can help:

Barrett Trade Services, LLC US Tel: (305) 477 1512 or Fax: (305) 477 1238 Email: abarrett@barretttradeservices.com

Deluxe Freight Inc. Tel: (345) 949 2350 or (305) 513 0156 Email: sales@deluxefreight.com

Crowley (Cayman) 10205 NW 108 Avenue, Suite 1, Miami, FL 33178 Tel: (345) 949 5989 or (305) 204 5133

These companies can also assist you with the transfer of a vehicle from the dealership to the port and help with cargo insurance. They will then send all the paperwork associated with the transaction via courier, so that you can collect them in Cayman.

When exporting a vehicle from the US, an ‘Export Power of Attorney’ from the shipper needs to be notarised by a US Notary.

Clearing Your Car Through Cayman Customs Once your car has landed at the port in Cayman, the shipping company will notify you. You can use a customs broker to clear your car through Cayman Customs, and they will handle the following steps on your behalf. However, if you are doing the

> First pre-register on the Customs Online

System (COLS) website (www.online. gov.ky/cols/faces/home) where you must complete the form and upload the supporting PDF documents. Once you submit the request, they will either approve the registration or they will let you know, via email, if other documents are required.

If approved, you will be given a COLS trader identification number (TIN) and login information. > Collect paperwork from the shipping company and pay the shippers. > Log in to the COLS website and follow the process to declare your shipment.

Supporting PDF documents needed include the bill of lading, title of the vehicle and the official invoice/valuation. Before submitting, you can review and confirm the information. Confirming the declaration will constitute your electronic signature, which will be legally binding. This process is subject to change as Cayman Customs is continually upgrading the system. > Once approved, Customs will send you an email, you then go to the Customs Office on

Owen Roberts Drive, Tel: (345) 949 4579 and pay the duty and environmental fee for your vehicle. > Obtain car insurance (you will need proof of insurance on the vehicle before picking it up from the Port). > Head to the Port Authority Warehouse on

Portland Road in Industrial Park and present the Customs clearance documents. A fee will be charged depending on the weight of your vehicle. > You will then be able to pick up your vehicle. > Go to the Department of Vehicle and

Driver’s Licensing (DVDL) and follow the inspection and licensing process. They will also need to see the vehicle’s certificate of title. Note: costs depend on the type of vehicle being licensed. Also be aware that, as per the Cayman Islands’ Traffic Act, it is an offence to keep a vehicle in the Cayman Islands without it being registered with the DVDL. See the Licensing Your Vehicle Duty Costs Of Importing A Car Since the Cayman Islands does not have direct taxation, the Cayman Islands Government charges import duty on all vehicles being imported into the Islands as a way of raising revenue. The percentage charged depends on the value and type of the car.

The import duty is calculated on what is known as the CIF value, which is the costof the car plus the insurance premium for its journey by ship, plus the sea freight charges. Here is a list of import duties based on CIF value:

CIF up to CI$20,000 = 29.5%

CIF up to CI$25,000 = 32%

CIF up to CI$30,000 = 37%

CIF from CI$30,000 and up = 42%

Duty Costs Of Importing An Electric or Hybrid Car See the list below for import duties on electric and hybrid cars for personal use based on CIF value.

Electric Vehicles: CIF up to CI$29,999 = 0% CIF up to CI$60,999 = 5% CIF up to CI$99,999 = 10% CIF from CI$100,000 = 15%

Hybrid Vehicles: CIF up to CI$29,999 = 10% CIF up to CI$60,999 = 12% CIF up to CI$99,999 = 15% CIF from CI$100,000 = 17%

Environmental Disposal Fee An Environmental Disposal fee is added to cover the cost of disposing of a vehicle in years to come. If a vehicle is valued at CI$12,000 (CIF) or less when imported, an environmental disposal fee of CI$1,000 plus a waste handling fee of CI$250 will be charged in addition to duty of 29.5%.

Exporting A Car From Cayman To ship a car off the Island, go to the shipping company and either get a letter

or dock receipt from them as proof of a vehicle being shipped off-Island. Then go to the DVDL and terminate registration of the vehicle and surrender the log book, coupon and licence plates. Go to Customs and fill out a vehicle export form. They will review your entry and either approve or deny it.

If approved, take this form over to Customs and they will then process the document. You can then arrange the shipping of the vehicle with a freight forwarder or one of the shipping companies.

BUYING A NEW CAR

Unlike some countries, there are no size restrictions on cars in Cayman (except Hummers, which cannot be wider than 6.7ft). Almost every make of car is available to purchase and you can own as many cars as you want.

There are dealers that sell new cars at competitive prices. For example, a new 2022 Suzuki Swift GLX is listed at CI$22,900, the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu at US$23,400 and a 2022 Honda Accord EX-L at CI$38,900. For SUVs, which account for 80% of the car sales in the Cayman Islands, a 2022 Ford Bronco Sport is listed at CI$37,900; a 2022 Chevrolet Trax at US$21,400; a 2022 Toyota Fortuner at US$48,900; a 2022 KIA Sorento at US$38,900 and the 2022 Jeep Gladiator Sport at CI$59,900. Ask what the cost of the vehicle includes, such as licensing, maintenance and warranty.

New Car Dealers The following makes of car are sold by the authorised dealers listed below. Most dealerships do not carry a large inventory of parts but they can order them. Please note that there are no authorised dealers on the Island for Acura, Alfa Romeo, Buick, Citroen, Peugeot or Porsche.

Audi Audi Cayman Islands (Arch Automotive) 10 Market Street, Camana Bay Tel: (345) 943 2834 Email: archauto@archauto.ky BMW, MINI & Kia G.T. Automotive 52 Godfrey Nixon Way, George Town Tel: (345) 945 3415 Email: s.gunby@gtauto.ky or p.smith@gtauto.ky www.bmw.com.ky or www.gtauto.ky G.T. Automotive provides its customers with reliable and stylish vehicles at affordable prices.

SEE AD PAGE 277

Chevrolet Advance Automotive 113 Owen Roberts Drive, George Town Tel: (345) 945 9191

Honda, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, MercedesBenz, Mitsubishi & Suzuki Car City Ltd. 151 Industrial Way, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 949 0440

Hyundai & SSangYong Prestige Motors 125 Owen Roberts Drive, George Town Ford & Toyota Vampt Motors 368 Walkers Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 2245 Email: sales@vamptmotors.com www.vamptcayman.com SEE AD PAGE 286

JAC, Nissan, Tesla & BYD Motors LJM Energy 318 Eastern Avenue, George Town Tel: (345) 517 5137 or email: info@ljmenergy.ky Sells electric vehicles and electric car chargers.

Land Rover, Jaguar, Renault, Subaru, & Changan Trac Automotive 181 Dorcy Drive, George Town Tel: (345) 945 3876 Email: sales@tracautomotive.ky

Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz (Car City) 131 Industrial Way, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 949 0440

Volkswagen Arch Automotive 15 Portland Road, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 949 8221 Email: archauto@archauto.ky

Tony’s Toys Automotive Centre 91 Sherwood Drive, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 946 8697 Email: sales@tonystoys.net www.tonystoys.net An independent car dealer operating in the Cayman Islands for over 20 years, Tony’s Toys offers a wide range of new vehicles in various sizes, makes and models. The company can also source any vehicle not in stock and offers reasonable financing options to suit any budget with approval within 72-hours (terms and conditions apply). The Centre also services and repairs American, Japanese and

European vehicles. SEE AD OPPOSITE PAGE & 283

BUYING A USED CAR

There are many reputable used car dealers on the Island that will usually guarantee a car for three months, as well as sell parts for their cars and service them. It is recommended to buy from a dealer, rather than private sellers, as there is usually very little difference in the price and the dealer has to maintain a good reputation.

When buying a used car, be sure to verify that you are dealing with the official owner of the vehicle, otherwise you will encounter difficulties when transferring ownership. The cost of a reliable used car will depend on the make, model and size, but for CI$8,000 you should get a pretty reliable car.

A few of the rental agencies, such as Avis and Budget, sell their fleet of American and Japanese models every year and you can usually pick up a good car at a great price. You can also check out EcayTrade (www.

ecaytrade.com) and Facebook Marketplace for second-hand vehicles.

Used Car Dealers The following is a list of some wellknown car dealers that regularly carry a good stock of used cars:

Advance Automotive 113 Owen Roberts Dr, George Town Tel: (345) 945 9191

Avis At the Airport, George Town Tel: (345) 949 2468 Email: avisgcm@candw.ky

Budget Car Sales Tel: (345) 949 5605 or (345) 328 8446 www.budgetcayman.com

CARS Ltd. (Campbell’s Auto) 117 North Sound Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 7135

Car City Ltd. 151 Industrial Way, Industrial Park, GT Tel: (345) 949 0440

Distinct Imports 98 Walkers Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 6199 or (345) 929 6199 Email: sales@distinctimports.net

Tony’s Toys Automotive Centre 91 Sherwood Drive, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 946 8697 Email: customercare@tonystoys.net www.tonystoys.net An independent car dealer operating in the Cayman Islands for over 20 years, Tony’s Toys offers a wide range of pre-owned vehicles in various sizes, makes and models. Special orders are also available along with financing options to suit any budget and approval within 72 hours (terms and conditions apply). They also services and repairs American, Japanese and European

vehicles. SEE AD OPPOSITE PAGE & 283

Vampt Motors 368 Walkers Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 2245 Email: service@vamptmotors.com www.vamptcayman.com Vampt Motors sells second-hand Toyota and Ford cars that were previously bought from

them. SEE AD PAGE 286 Electric vehicles are a common sight on Cayman’s roads and can be imported duty-free if they are for personal use and valued up to CI$29,999. Hybrid vehicles, for personal use and valued under CI$29,000, have a duty of 10%, substantially less than the average rate of 22% to 42% for gas and diesel powered vehicles. On average, electric vehicles can be driven for 200 miles on a single charge (assuming a 66kWh battery capacity and three miles/kWh performance). For a list of electric car charging stations, visit www.caymanresident.com/hybridelectric-cars.

CAR MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

The combination of the sun’s rays and Cayman’s salty air can be hard on your car, but fortunately, road conditions in Cayman are much better than in other Islands in the Caribbean. However, driving in Cayman is similar to city driving where you are stopping and starting constantly and that causes the most wear on your engine, suspension, brakes, battery and tyres. We recommend checking your tyre pressure and fluid levels monthly. Probably the worst thing that your car will face is the silent, invisible rust maker, the salty air! If you plan on living on or near the water, your car will rust faster than normal if not taken care of. Getting your car undercarriage coated with a rust-proofing agent is also a very good idea. It costs roughly CI$250 (or CI$450 if you want the entire car done) and one coating properly maintained will indefinitely protect your car. Washing your car regularly will also extend the life of your car.

The sun can also damage your car. You can help prevent damage by waxing it at least once every six months and a simple sunshade for your windshield will keep your car interior cooler and protect the dashboard from cracking. You may also want to invest in window tinting, but make sure you follow current regulations

regarding the percentage of tinting you are allowed to use.

The following is a guideline on car maintenance and average costs, though the maintenance schedules vary by manufacturer and costs may increase if new parts are required:

> Every six months or 5,000 miles/7,500km a mid-service is recommended. This should cover almost all points on the car, as well as check your air conditioning filters, rotate the tyres and top up all of your car’s vital fluids (roughly CI$150). > A full service for your vehicle is recommended every two years, it includes all the above plus spark plugs, providing a complete check of your car. This service costs roughly about CI$400. It’s important to have your car serviced regularly to keep it running smoothly.

As a separate note, remember that in a hot climate like Cayman, the plastic interior in your car, such as dashboard and ducts, will heat up during the day and may release benzene, which is a known carcinogen, into your car. Remember to open the windows and allow your air conditioning to run for a moment, clearing the air before you close up the car and start driving.

The following are reliable car maintenance shops and dealerships:

Advance Automotive 113 Owen Roberts Drive, George Town Tel: (345) 945 9191 www.advancechevrolet.com

Arch Automotive & Goodyear Tyres 15 Portland Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 8221 Authorised service centre for most makes and models of Audi and Volkswagen.

Automotive Art 480 Shedden Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 7102 Email: info@autoartky.com

CARS Ltd. (Campbell’s Auto) 117 North Sound Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 7135 Car City 151 Industrial Way, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 949 0440 www.carcity.ky

G.T. Automotive 52 Godfrey Nixon Way, George Town Tel: (345) 945 3415 Email: s.gunby@gtauto.ky or p.smith@gtauto.ky www.bmw.com.ky or www.gtauto.ky G.T. Automotive offers a fully equipped service department with qualified automotive technicians for BMW, MINI and KIA vehicles. Each service comes with a complimentary exterior body wash.

SEE AD PAGE 277

General Automotive Services 194G Dorcy Drive, Industrial Park, Unit 3, GT Tel: (345) 746 9119 Offers repair services for Tesla and more.

Mercedes-Benz (Car City) 131 Industrial Way, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 949 0440

Superior Auto 14 Sherwood Drive, George Town Tel: (345) 949 9570 Email: info@superiorautocayman.com

Tony’s Toys Automotive Centre 91 Sherwood Drive, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 946 8697 Email: service@tonystoys.net www.tonystoys.net Tony’s Toys is a full-service automotive garage and collision body shop with highly trained technicians who can diagnose, service and repair European, Japanese and American vehicles. Headlight restoration, brake rotor cutting, corrosion-free rustproofing treatments and vehicle window tinting can also be taken care of at Tony’s Toys. SEE AD THIS PAGE & 283

Vampt Motors 368 Walkers Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 2245 Email: service@vamptmotors.com www.vamptcayman.com

FULL SERVICE GARAGE

MERCEDD BMW MINIS AUDI VOLVO RANGE ROVER

#91 Sherwood Dr., Industrial Park

623-8669 / 946-8697

Tyres & Batteries Cayman Islands Government regulations state that your tyres must be in good condition when they are checked at your annual car inspection. They also stipulate that you cannot alternate brands of tyres as this could cause your car to drive erratically. Batteries generally have a life span of four to five years; depending on the weather conditions, vehicle type and driving habits. The following reliable tyre and battery shops offer new tyre sales and repairs, as well as battery tests and installation. For used tyres try Larry’s (Tel: (345) 949 2685) on Shedden Road.

Arch Automotive & Goodyear Tyres 15 Portland Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 8221 Authorised dealer for Goodyear Tyres and a large selection of all tyre brands.

Automotive Art 480 Shedden Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 7102 Email: info@autoartky.com

Tony’s Toys Automotive Centre 91 Sherwood Drive, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 946 8697 or (345) 623 8669 Email: parts@tonystoys.net www.tonystoys.net Tony’s Toys stocks a wide variety of batteries, vehicle parts and accessories at affordable prices. With over 2,000 tyres in inventory, customers can choose from the top names in tyre brands. Special orders are also available.

SEE AD PAGE 283 & 285 Vampt Motors 368 Walkers Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 2245 Email: service@vamptmotors.com www.vamptcayman.com

SEE AD THIS PAGE

Roadside Assistance There is one dedicated roadside assistance provider in Grand Cayman, Autoshield. Some insurance providers will offer assistance as part of their coverage. Services often include battery jumpstarts, flat tyre changing and towing. ICWI offers their customers 24-hour roadside assistance if they are comprehensively insured. Unfortunately, the Sister Islands do not have any dedicated roadside assistance providers.

Autoshield Tel: (345) 640 0999 Email: info@autoshield.ky www.autoshield.ky Autoshield offers 24/7 roadside assistance which includes on-site assistance, emergency fuel top-up, flat tyre service and dead battery. They offer personal and corporate membership plans starting at CI$99 per year. The Autoshield membership plans also include vehicle consultation services.

Car Cleaning The Auto Spa (Tel: (345) 943 1946), on Godfrey Nixon Way, offers a wide range of cleaning packages and they charge CI$26.95 for a sedan and CI$31.95 for an SUV. You could also try Detail Pros (www.detailpros.ky), Supa Shine (www. supashineautodetailing.com) or you will also hear of numerous mobile car cleaners by word of mouth. They charge CI$35 for a sedan and up to CI$45 for an SUV.

ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION

Most people do not walk in Cayman due to the heat and rain but partly also because roads have little or no footpath.

Bicycles Bicycles and electronic bicycles are dutyfree, making them a more attractive option. Some people do ride bicycles and electrical bikes to work however, there are very few designated cycle lanes on-Island (though the Esterley Tibbetts Highway does have cycle lanes from West Bay to the Britannia roundabout).

In an effort to improve awareness and

road safety, the National Roads Authority (SEE AD PAGE 275) has painted symbols on some of the roads on Grand Cayman to indicate where the road is shared between bicyclists and motor vehicles. You will find the markings located on South Church Street by Paradise Restaurant and North Church Street by Delworth’s Esso. The shared lane markings, or sharrows, are either white or green symbols with two chevrons and a bike.

As cycling is not as common as it is in, say the UK, drivers do not give cyclists due care and attention. In addition, Cayman does not have specific laws, such as minimum passing distances, to protect cyclists like other countries do. It cannot be stressed enough how vigilant cyclists need to be on Cayman roads. Bicycles are considered vehicles, therefore cycling into facing oncoming traffic is illegal. Uncle Bill’s and Kirk Home Centre sell a good selection of bicycles, cycle helmets and bicycle equipment including lights. You may also want to register your bicycle with the police department. They will record your bicycle’s serial number and place a marking on it that is only visible under a UV light.

Another option for exploring by bicycle is bike sharing and rental. Cycle

Cayman (www.cyclecayman.com) has eight stations: three in Camana Bay, one at Regatta Business Park, one in Cricket Square, one at the Government Administration Building, one at Dart Park and one at the old Cayman Craft Market in George Town. They also offer a bicycle touring service. Paddle Wheel (www. paddlewheel.ky) also sells a selection of bikes and offers bike rentals with half day, full day, three day and weekly rates. They also offer tours as well as bicycle maintenance and repair services.

Motorcycles To drive a motorbike over 125cc, you have to wait 12 months after getting your licence, then take a practical road test. This type of motorcycle also requires that the motorist be at least 19 years of age. Those holding a Learner’s Licence cannot carry a passenger and helmets must be worn at all times.

Automotive Art 480 Shedden Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 7102 Email: info@autoartky.com

Cayman Custom Cycles 4 Dorcy Place, Dorcy Drive, Industrial Park Tel: (345) 945 7433 They run motorcycle and scooter riding instruction courses for Group 1 and Group 1A licensing, plus tours of the Island on Harleys. They service and repair all makes and models of motorcycle, offer roadside assistance and do custom paint jobs and powder coatings.

Center Lane Motors 170 Seymour Road (Dump Road), Industrial Park Tel: (345) 929 7172

SUPER SOCO 83 Breezy Way, George Town Tel: (345) 945 4252 or (345) 946 5045 Sells 100% electric motorcycles and mopeds.

Scooter Rentals Electric scooters are a great way to commute for lunch, and around central

Bird Scooters Bird scooters can be found around various parts of Grand Cayman. The cost for renting a scooter is US$1 to start and US$0.49/minute after that. Download the Ride Bird app to find out more.

On the Sister Islands, scooters are a great way to explore. Scooters can be rented for approximately US$50 per day which includes insurance, delivery and pick-up.

Scooten! Scooters! Little Cayman (across from the airport) Tel: (345) 916 4971 www.scootenscooters.com They rent single Yamaha 50cc scooters for US$35 for three hours and US$50 for eight hours. The rental cost includes a free tank of gas, helmet and free delivery and pick-up.

Public Transport – Buses Cayman has a reasonably good public bus system. There are 11 bus routes and eight different coloured circles on the front and rear with a route number in the middle and ‘Public Bus’ written along the side. Be sure to check if the bus is en route to your destination before getting in. All routes run to and from the bus depot in George Town, where there is a Public Transport Inspector from 6am-7pm MondaySaturday (except for public holidays) to supervise all bus operations.

There are over 125 designated bus shelters and bus stops on the Island, but the best way to catch a bus is to simply wave one down from the side of the road. If you hear a bus beeping at you, it is the driver checking to see if you need to be picked up. Most buses carry between 1429 passengers. The average fare is CI$2 per journey or CI$3.50 if you take a long trip such as George Town to East End or North Side. Anywhere beyond Hutland Road, such as Rum Point and Cayman Kai, will cost CI$8. The best routes for buses are on the main roads around retail areas and non-residential areas. There are also regular scheduled buses that run along South Church Street, South Sound Road, Walkers Road, Fairbanks Road, Industrial Park and Owen Roberts Drive. To view the bus route map, visit www. caymanresident.com/live/transportation/ public-buses.

The Public Transport Board has formulated a strategic plan that includes long-term, mid-term and short-term objectives for the Public Transport Unit. A set of goals has been established towards a better and more reliable public transportation system. These goals include: integrating existing infrastructure with advanced technology, ensuring there is professional leadership and adequate staffing, promoting/ inspiring the use of the bus system and making route information easily accessible.

There are plans to alleviate traffic congestion by creating a national bus system, however, this project is not projected to start until January 2024.

Public Transport – Taxis Taxis are an option but they are more expensive than buses. You will find plenty of taxis at the airport, in George Town and parked at many of the major resorts along Seven Mile Beach. A reliable taxi firm is

A.A. Transportation Service, Tel: (345) 926 8294.

The Cayman Islands Government’s digital fare calculator, CI:GO aims to ensure consistent and transparent pricing for taxi fares by setting standard prices for routes. The app allows passengers to plug in their route, pieces of luggage and the number of passengers and see what the fare should cost in both US and Caymanian dollars. The CI:GO app is available for free in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Another alternative is Flex - an Uberstyle app that allows users to request a ride at any time and day of the year. The Flex User app is available to download for free on Apple and Android. THE Tell them you saw it in the

Boating

Everything from where to boat, safety considerations, navigating the waters, boat security, boat maintenance and repairs, marinas, boat trips, sailing charters and marine rules and regulations.

Protecting the Marine Environment 288

Where to Boat in Cayman 290

Photos courtesy of John Molyneux, Julie Corsetti & Rebecca Davidson

Safety Considerations 291

- Rules of Boating

291 - Boat Training 291 - Navigation/Boating at Night 291 - VHF Radio/Boat Security 291 - Protecting Your Boat in a Hurricane 292 - Boat Insurance 293

Buying & Maintaining a Boat - Boat Dealers 293 293

Marinas & Fueling Stations 294

Getting Out on the Water 296

- Boat Leasing Club

296 - Boat Rentals 296 - Tours & Private Boat Charters 296 - Sailing 297

Fishing 297 - Fishing Trips & Tournaments 297 - Fishing Restrictions 298

Boaters, fishermen, snorkellers, divers and naturalists all agree that the Cayman Islands is an idyllic location. The Islands are globally renowned for their beautiful, warm, blue and crystalclear water; therefore, a magazine about Cayman would not be complete without a chapter dedicated to the joy of being out on the water.

PROTECTING THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT

Acting responsibly on the water is essential for preserving the wellbeing and unspoiled beauty of Cayman’s seas. Cayman has many laws that help keep marine life, society and the environment safe, and there are many ways you can help protect the marine environment. Coral reefs are essential to the health of Cayman’s marine ecosystems. These colonies of fragile marine creatures are easily damaged by boat anchors, hulls, human contact and even contemporary sunscreen. Recent studies suggest that most sunscreens contain damaging chemicals (oxybenzone and octinoxate), which, even in small doses, can stunt coral growth, cause coral bleaching and affect marine creatures like shrimp and clams. Instead, use rash guards and reef-friendly sunscreen when you are in the water and avoid spray sunscreens that contain excess chemicals. Take extra precautions when operating and anchoring a vessel, snorkelling or diving and ensure that your children and visitors know not to touch or break off any coral.

Report any marine conservation offences, as well as injured,

dead or accidental hooking of turtles to the Department of Environment (DoE), Tel: (345) 949 8469. See below for a list of useful numbers in the case of an emergency while on the water and to report any marine offences.

Plastics that end up as ocean debris contribute to habitat destruction and kill tens of thousands of marine animals each year. To reduce the impact of plastics on Cayman’s marine ecosystem, we encourage you to reduce your plastic usage, recycle all the rubbish you can and pick up garbage you find on the shore or at sea. See the Being Green chapter for recycling locations for glass, plastic and other waste.

WHERE TO BOAT

SEVEN MILE BEACH (SMB) Seven Mile Beach is on what is typically the calmest side of the Island, but it does occasionally get battered by nor’westers in the winter months and tropical storms in the summer months. Navigation is easy here because there are no barrier reefs in this area; however, the only boat ramps on SMB are at the Lobster Pot dock and at the beginning of North West Point Road in West Bay. Boaters will often anchor off beach bars and restaurants like those at The Westin, The Ritz-Carlton and Kimpton Seafire hotels. You can also take your boat around from the North Sound or South Sound to Seven Mile Beach, but you need

Important Phone Numbers

Flying Dutchman (345) 329 7723

(Call if your boat has broken down/is sinking/has sunk)

Cayman Port Authority (345) 949 2055 Joint Marine Police Unit (345) 649 7710 Harbour Patrol (345) 925 5772 US Coast Guard (RCC Miami) (305) 415 6800

VHF Radio Channels (Police/DoE/Port Security) 16

To report offences, such as poaching, to the DoE: Grand Cayman/DoE (345) 916 4271 Cayman Brac/DoE (345) 925 3647 Cayman Brac Police (345) 948 0331 Little Cayman/DoE (345) 925 0185 Little Cayman Police (345) 948 0100 to be familiar with the channels through the reef in North Sound, have a suitable and well-maintained boat and be prepared for a slightly rougher trip outside of the reef until you get to the calmer waters off Seven Mile Beach.

Currently, there are no gas stations where members of the public can dock and refuel along the west side of the Island. If you are considering regularly keeping your boat in the water overnight, it is mandatory to seek authorisation from the Department of Environment (DoE) to install a mooring. Unfortunately, even with a mooring, your vessel and engine are vulnerable to theft.

Nor’westers can occasionally make the sea very rough, and if you are not conscious of the weather conditions, your vessel could easily be damaged. Even though several commercial and personal vessels regularly anchor overnight off SMB and George Town, it is not advisable. A propeller from another vessel could accidentally cut the anchor line, and if the anchor drags, the wind will take the boat offshore.

Snorkellers and divers in this area should be flying the ‘divers down’ flag; however, when travelling close to shore, always be cautious. Do not exceed five knots within 600ft of the coast, and do not anchor in marked boat channels, coral, diving or swimming areas. Note: designated swimming areas in beachfront properties and hotels must not be entered by any vessel.

NORTH SOUND Several launching ramps provide access in this area, and most boat owners keep their boats docked in North Sound. The Sound is enclosed by a barrier reef and has a network of canals that provide excellent protection from weather in all but the most extreme conditions, like as a hurricane. Theft is uncommon, and canals generally offer access to fresh water and fuel stations.

North Sound also offers excellent shallow snorkelling areas, like Coral Gardens and the world-renowned Stingray City. North Wall diving is also excellent, but sea conditions can be rough. Beachside bars and restaurants at Rum Point and Kaibo and boat hangouts at Starfish Point and the Mini Sandbar are popular stops for the boating crowd.

Morgan’s Harbour is also popular where Calypso Grill and Tukka West, Restaurant & Bar are located right on the water, but keep in mind that docking space is limited and an onshore breeze can make docking a challenge. Just to the north of Morgan’s Harbour is an area called Barkers that offers miles of undeveloped white sand beaches and some good light tackle fishing for bonefish. Navigate carefully; it is easy to strike a coral head and damage your propeller and the coral. Watch out for kite surfers, too. At the Cayman Islands Yacht Club, boaters can enjoy two more fantastic restaurants, Morgan’s Seafood Restaurant and bàcaro. Both restaurants are popular with boaters, and there is ample docking space. You can also take your boat to George Town Yacht Club (GTYC) or Camana Bay. At GTYC, you can enjoy lunch or dinner while the children play in the pool. Camana Bay is suitable for both large and small boats and has a wellmarked entry and free sheltered docking with access to lots of restaurants and bars.

North Sound is great for fishing and catching conch and lobster but you must abide by the Marine Parks Act. Violations can result in serious fines, confiscation of your boat or even a prison term. Although partially enclosed by a barrier reef, the Sound can get choppy. If your boat is under 22ft long, you (and your guests) are very likely to get wet from sea spray on an average day.

The Central Mangrove Wetland is on the east side of the Sound and is a protected Environmental Zone. All in-water activity, fishing and anchoring are completely prohibited, but boats can access the area provided they do not exceed five knots. People enjoy kayaking around the canal systems and in English Bay, located east of Kaibo, as it is a great nature experience.

The Cayman Islands Sailing Club is on the south western side of the North

Sound, and you will often see dinghies sailing out from the club. Larger sailboats venture into the Sound, but access through the reef is fairly shallow, so boats with drafts greater than 10ft cannot enter. Watch out for areas that have shallow coral heads, like The Blowers, Fisherman’s Rock, Barkers, the Standards and FourWay Reef. These areas have claimed many propellers and some boats.

SOUTH, EAST & NORTH COASTS On the south, east and north coasts, there are areas where you can find undeveloped beaches, great fishing and pristine diving and snorkelling. On the first few times you venture out, you may want to be accompanied by a local guide, as it is easy for your propeller to hit a coral head if you don’t know where you are going. It is very likely that if you are out on the water, you will be approached by a vessel operated by Marine Parks or Marine Police officers. Have fun but be aware that penalties for breaking the rules on the water are very serious. Before boating, it is worth reading the Marine Parks Rules and Regulations and the Port Authority laws.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

RULES OF BOATING Boating rules and conventions have evolved over the years and are now codified in the Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea. In all circumstances where a collision is possible, these rules determine which vessel has right of way and which must take avoiding action.

The basic rules are that all boats approaching each other must pass port to port (left to left), i.e. opposite to driving on the road in Cayman. Power boats must always give way to sail-boats, and boats that are overtaking must keep clear of other boats. These are the basics, but make sure to read up on more complex situations.

BOAT TRAINING Boat training is a form of vocational training that helps beginners learn the ropes and can help boost employability, give companies formal safety qualifications and even lower boat insurance.

See the Vocational Training section in the Education chapter for a list of companies that provide boat training.

NAVIGATION A GPS or a chart plotter is highly recommended; however, basic navigational knowledge is helpful. Get to know landmarks on the horizon, like the airport, the landfill, The Ritz-Carlton, Kimpton Seafire, Harbour House Marina and more. Fixed or hand-held GPS units can be purchased from Harbour House Marina, Kirk Marine or Scotts Marine.

Whenever you are on your boat, insert any navigational aids as marks on your GPS. These can be channel markers for your canal, floating metal mooring buoys in the Sound or the main channel markers. This can help if you are in a situation with no visibility or out at night and discover a channel marker light is out.

The world is divided into two regions for navigation markers. Cayman is in Region B, which uses the convention that red port marks are on the left when exiting a channel. Remember this by using the mnemonic “Red Right Returning”. This is the opposite system to the UK and Europe.

If a vessel is approaching from your port side, you will see a green light and have right of way. A vessel on your starboard side will show you its red light, so you must give way. The most dangerous situation is if you see both a red and a green light, as this means you are looking at a head-on collision. Make a distinct course change to starboard so the other vessel knows you are taking avoiding action. Remember: “If two lights you see ahead, turn to starboard, show your red”. This information is crucial when boating at night.

BOATING AT NIGHT Darkness distorts perceptions. Therefore, at night, winds seem stronger, waves seem bigger, and it is difficult to tell if a light is 600ft or two miles away. Out on the North Sound, it is impossible to see the water depth or coral heads, especially on a moonless night. At night, safe boating involves more common sense. Ensure your navigation lights are working so other boats can see you and carry a powerful torch, at least a million-candle power, so you will be able to pick out channel markers from 300ft away. Use your GPS if you have one.

Although many channels have lights, be aware that markers can drift, and if one marker light is not working, it is easy to mistake a working middle marker for a defunct outer marker.

VHF RADIO If you are out of mobile phone range in an emergency, use a VHF radio to call Port Security on channel 16. Tell them your boat name, position and coordinates, and the nature of the problem, and they will help. Although channel 16 is the emergency channel, it can carry routine calls to establish communication. Once contact has been made, the conversation must be switched to another working channel. Mayday calls on channel 16 are for life-threatening emergencies only.

Boat owners should acquaint themselves with VHF etiquette in the case of an emergency. In order to have a VHF on board, the boat must have a Maritime ICT Licence, and the operator must have the appropriate Maritime Radio Operators’ Certificate for the type of equipment on the vessel. In Cayman, the legal framework for VHFs is a nightmare as few boats have a licence, and virtually no operators have the required certification. Visit www.ofreg.ky/ict/ship-radio for more information.

BOAT SECURITY Although a relatively rare occurrence, there have been incidences of boats being stolen. Store expensive equipment indoors as the theft of valuable fishing, diving and boating equipment/gear has become more frequent, and you

are advised to take extra precautions when securing your boat at night. More common is the theft of small engines, movable outboards and electronics. If you see any suspicious activity, please report it to the police immediately and provide a full description, including serial numbers, of anything that has been stolen.

There are devices on the marine market that can help protect your boat. Speak to a marine professional for more information:

Boat Locks: Installing a lock mounted directly to the steering wheel of your boat will help discourage theft of your boat.

Marine Magellan: Includes wireless sensors that monitor intrusion, high water, shore power loss, low batteries and more. Should any of the wireless sensors be triggered, the device will call the designated parties and relay a personalised pre-recorded voice message of the event. The device also allows the owner to call the boat to receive a system status and remotely manage operations like switching on lights or battery charging circuits.

Sat-Trak GPS Tracking: Suitable for boats, wave runners and jet skis, Sat-Trak devices allow you to monitor the location of your asset online, track activity and recover from theft. Devices include real-time tracking and reports, map and satellite views, and location notifications by text or email when the craft leaves the dock. Satellite tracking will aid the police in the recovery of your boat by tracking its last known location and direction.

Spot Trace: Allows you to track your assets using satellite technology. Once motion is detected, you will instantly receive a text or email and it will allow you to follow them on the map from your phone or computer. This is popular for smaller boats.

Advice and security products can be bought from the following companies:

Harbour House Marina Tel: (345) 947 1307 www.harbourhousemarina.com

Scotts Marine Tel: (345) 949 4186 www.scottsmarinecayman.com

SEE AD PAGE 289

The Security Centre Limited Tel: (345) 949 0004 Email: info@security.ky The Security Centre carries SATTRAK geotracking devices that allow you to track, monitor and record your boat’s movements 24/7 in real-time. Private security personnel are also available to ensure your marine vessels are secure and monitored.

SEE AD PAGES 186 & 269

PROTECTING YOUR BOAT IN A HURRICANE There are several precautions you can take to protect your boat during a hurricane. Store boats and trailers ashore, if possible,

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for a better chance of survival. If not, tie your boat together with other boats and do not put it parallel to the shore as waves can capsize it. Remove the bimini top or any items on deck that could become projectile objects in strong winds. Unstrapping masts on sail-boats is also strongly advised. Remember to take everything, including all paperwork, insurance records and electronics, off the boat. Make an inventory, including serial numbers, with photographic or video evidence, of items left on board. For more information on how to secure your boat before and during a storm, visit www. caymanresident.com.

BOAT INSURANCE Boat insurance is not compulsory in Cayman; however, obtaining it can offer peace of mind. If you have obtained a loan from your bank to purchase your boat, they will most likely require you to have insurance. The following companies offer boat insurance. Please also refer to the Settling In chapter for a list of other insurance providers.

Bogle Insurance Brokers Ltd. 34 and 35 Pasadora Place, Smith Road, GT Tel: (345) 949 0579 or (345) 623 0579 Email: service@bogleins.com Offers comprehensive and standard liability marine insurance. SEE AD PAGE 143

CG BritCay BritCay House, 236 Eastern Avenue, GT Tel: (345) 949 8699 Email: property_ky@cgcoralisle.com www.cgcoralisle.com Offers insurance for leisure and other small boats. Receive US$500,000 third party liability at no additional cost. Optional cover for trailer, punt and personal effects. SEE AD PAGE 145

Pensum Services Unit A7, Cayman Business Park, GT Tel: (345) 923 6655 Email: insurance@pensum.pro www.pensum.pro Pensum’s marine insurance covers a wide range of yachts, runabouts and other pleasure crafts, as well as charter and work boats. Typical marine insurance covers hull, machinery, protection and indemnity. Pensum has 16 years of experience in international maritime insurance and provides a professional service that is fast, friendly and efficient.

Island Heritage Insurance Tel: (345) 949 7280 Email: customercare@islandheritage.com.ky www.islandheritageinsurance.com Their yacht insurance covers third-party liability and protection for boat owners from risks like fire, theft, sinking, weather damage

and collision. SEE AD PAGES 142, 173 & 279

BUYING & MAINTAINING A BOAT

Once you have decided on the type of boat, the next thing to decide is whether you want a new or used vessel. Several brokers specialise in used boat sales and they can also help with the process of buying a new one, whether in Cayman or overseas.

Brokers can help determine what you need in a boat and scour the market with you as your ally. Plus, if you purchase a boat from a local dealer, you have the benefit of on-Island warranty service.

There are several new boat dealers in Cayman, so pricing is competitive. The sales staff are also very knowledgeable and know a lot about the nature of the market and our waters.

BOAT DEALERS, MAINTENANCE & OUTBOARD ENGINES

Automotive Art & Yamaha Power Sports 480 Shedden Road, George Town Tel: (345) 949 7102

Avalon Marine Tel: (345) 945 5103 Mobile: (345) 516 7708 Email: rafe@avalonmarine.ky Mobile and fixed location boat maintenance, repair and full management services for all vessels and watercraft. Mechanical, engine, plumbing, electrical, electronics and cosmetics and captain services. Haul launch and storage for boats and trailers. Brokerage for new and used boats, both local and international. Extensive experience working in the local and US market to find, survey, purchase and deliver boats to Cayman. SEE AD PAGE 299

Boating Made Easy 256 North Church Street, George Town Tel: (345) 749 7555

Cayman Power Sports & Marine Tel: (345) 943 2005 Email: service@cpsm.ky

Compass Marine Tel: (345) 916 0660 Email: mike@compassmarine.ky

Harbour House Marina (HHM) Marina Drive, Prospect Tel: (345) 947 1307 Email: info@harbourhousemarina.com HHM is a full-service marine facility and Boston Whaler dealership. They also sell Sea Ray, Release Boats and Honda Marine. HHM is the only authorised applicator of Sea Hawk antifouling paints in the Cayman Islands.

Kirk Marine Eastern Ave, George Town Tel: (345) 946 3575 www.kirkmarine.ky Kirk Marine is one of Grand Cayman’s most well-stocked fishing tackle, boating and marine stores and carries all the major brands. They have a full-service boatyard and are authorised distributors for YOLO Paddleboards and Sea-Doo. The parts department has a large inventory of trailer parts, engine parts and boat repair and maintenance supplies.

SEE AD OPPOSITE PAGE

MooreMarine Services Tel: (345) 949 6672 Email: info@mooremarineservices.ky

Pro Yacht Tel: (345) 945 4676 Email: info@proyacht.ky Emergency Tel: (345) 516 4676

Sells Robalo, Jupiter Marine, Invincible Boats, Viking Yachts, Valhalla Boatworks, Cummins, and Kawasaki.

Scotts Marine The Barcadere Marina, George Town Tel: (345) 949 4186 Email: info@scottsmarinecayman.com www.scottsmarinecayman.com Located at Barcadere Marina on North Sound Road, Scotts Marine is a full-service marine centre and boat yard with a 110-tonne marine travel lift, and a 15,000sq ft showroom, chandlery and service centre. Scotts Marine is Cayman’s exclusive factory-authorised Mercury Marine and Volvo Penta dealer and is an authorised dealer for Fischer Panda marine generators, Yamaha and Yanmar marine engines, providing manufacturer-backed warranty and a factorytrained and certified service team. They are also exclusive dealers for Tiara yachts, Scout, Pursuit, Cobalt and Bayliner boats, along with Hobie sailboats, kayaks and SUPs and offer a full line of marine batteries, parts, accessories, electronics, safety equipment, fishing supplies, apparel and

more. SEE AD PAGE 289

MAINTAINING A BOAT If you buy a boat, bear in mind that a combination of salt and sun is the perfect cocktail for rust and ageing! Taking a few minutes to hose down the boat with fresh water after a trip out on the sea is probably one of the easiest maintenance procedures you can do. This will reduce the chance of corrosion in your engines, bimini tops, snaps and other metal parts. It is recommended that you also do the following:

> Flush your outboard motors, preferably using products like Salt Terminator, each and every time you take out the boat. > Give your boat a soapy wash using a premium marine non-phosphate and non-toxic “boat wash”. This will ensure that you get rid of any contaminants from the sea while retaining all your waxes and keeping the environment safe. Never use a household detergent on your boat! > Wax your boat using a premium marine wax once every six to 12 months. This will revive the look of the boat considerably and protect the boat from salt and sun.

The wax can be applied by hand, but it’s easier with a good dual-action polisher to get the job done quickly. > Use a non-slip floor cleaner for your boat floors, marine aluminium cleaner for the aluminium top and premium marine vinyl cleaner and protector for all vinyl.

All washing, waxing, polishing and compounding can be applied on all painted or gel-coated, fibreglass or urethane surfaces, including the engines and engine covers, interior floors and gunnels, to keep them all shining like new. Invest in good covers for your boat and engine to prolong their lives. Blocking out the sun is by far the best solution to keeping everything pristine.

Use only marine products, including brushes, for scrubbing and ensure that all products used don’t endanger aquatic life or degrade our waters. Marine cleaning products can be purchased at Harbour House Marina, Kirk Marine and Scotts Marine. These companies also offer boat cleaning services.

If you keep your boat in the water fulltime/permanently, you will need the hull to be coated in anti-fouling paint. This process will need to be repeated annually to protect your boat from barnacles and algae. If left uncoated, marine growth will cause a drastic reduction in the performance of your vessel as well as risk long-term damage to the hull itself and engine(s). It is recommended that antifouling is carried out by a professional boat handler who can haul your boat out of the water, and trained staff will apply it. Anti-fouling is extremely caustic and is carcinogenic, so it should be applied using the appropriate cover ups, including a full respirator mask and gloves.

Engine service should be undertaken regularly and in conjunction with the warranty. This would normally be carried out at the same time as anti-fouling. Fluid levels should also be checked regularly along with the batteries.

AllMarine & Outdoors Tel: (345) 945 7767 or (345) 321 2424 Specialises in remaking, refitting, repairing and restoring marine upholstery.

Harbour House Marina Tel: (345) 947 1307 Email: info@harbourhousemarina.com Suppliers of custom-made boat covers, boat seats, cushions and bolsters, boat enclosures, bimini tops and marine carpets.

Boat Storage Many of the major marinas provide boat storage, alternatively contact Boating Made Easy, Tel: (345) 749 7555.

BOAT LICENSING FEES The Government imposes an annual licensing fee on vessels in Cayman, which is collected by the Port Authority. It is the responsibility of a boat owner to complete a licensing form and let the Port Authority know of any changes. Licensing fees are charged yearly. Boats under 21ft are free, 21-30ft is CI$200, 31-40ft is CI$1,000, 41-50ft is CI$2,000, 51-60ft is CI$3,000, 61-70ft is CI$4,000, 71-80ft is CI$5,000, 81-90ft is CI$6,000, 91-100ft is CI$7,000 and all boats over 100ft are CI$10,000. Jet skis for private and commercial use are free. Commercial boats also need to be licensed, but the process is a little more complicated than for pleasure vessels. Note that there is no licensing fee so long as a valid business licence is submitted with the application. To download a form, visit www.caymanport.com/forms/. You can also register your boat and its name; however, this is not required for private local vessels.

For large vessels that move internationally, Cayman offers various vessel registration options; visit www. cishipping.com for more information.

MARINAS & MARINE FUELLING STATIONS

MARINAS The Cayman Islands is a British Overseas Territory and, as such, is a highly regulated

jurisdiction with entry to the Islands controlled exclusively by CI Immigration and HM Customs. The official port of entry for Grand Cayman is the main port on the west coast of George Town. Without exception, once arriving within 12 miles of the Islands, all vessels wishing to clear into Cayman waters must notify CI Port Security via VHF 16 for instructions on how to proceed. They are open MondayFriday, 8.30am-4pm, and Saturdays, 8.30am-12.30pm. An extra fee is applied when you enter out of these times. It is entirely up to Port Security to direct you to your clearing-in point as determined by Customs and Immigration, and failure to notify the authorities of your arrival in Cayman waters or to comply with Port Security instructions can result in fines and penalties for the vessel. You must have a passport valid beyond the date of stay to enter. However, with advance notice, and timely receipt of relevant documentation, it is also possible to request Customs and Immigration clearance for visiting vessels at the Barcadere Marina in George Town.

The Barcadere Marina The Barcadere is a world-class, award-winning marina located in George Town, right next to the Owen Roberts International Airport. It features direct access to the North Sound and other local attractions like the world-famous Stingray City and diving on the North Wall. The marina offers berthing for boats and yachts up to a maximum of 8ft draft, with individually metered water and power. There are luxury washrooms, free wireless internet and nightly security, all in a safe and secure environment. Their dockside fuel station, Scotts Landing, features premium ValvTect marine fuel and offers a sewage pumpout service. Also located onsite is Scotts Marine, the Island’s exclusive Mercury Marine dealer, which features a full-service boatyard with a 110-tonne marine travel lift and a 15,000sqft sales and service centre representing all of the top marine brands. The Barcadere Marina is also home to George Town Yacht Club, a casual waterfront bar and restaurant with your choice of inside, poolside or dockside dining. The food is delicious and well-priced, and it is a recipient

Award Winning Environmentally Friendly Marina Showroom, Chandlery Haul-out & Boat Yard

• Grand Cayman’s only true full service marina facility • Located in George Town, right next to

Owen Roberts International Airport • Accommodating vessels up to 100' long and 8' max draft • Metered power and water at every slip and free WiFi • Luxury washrooms with showers and lockers • Safe, secure and well lit, with nightly security and CCTV

• Valvetect marine fuel specially formulated for marine engines • Land side and dock side fuelling • Delivery available right to your boat or generator • Complimentary dock side sewage pump-out • Ice, bait, snacks and refreshments

Fuel Station & Convenience Store

Open Hours Mon to Sun, 7am to 7pm

• Featuring boats from Tiara, Pursuit, Cobalt, Bayliner Trophy and Scout • Now featuring Hobie Stand Up

Paddleboards, Kayaks and Sailboats • Dealers for Mercury Marine, Yamaha,

Yanmar and Volvo Penta motors • Boat yard with 100 ton Marine Travel Lift • Service center and chandlery •

favorite brands

Open Hours | Mon to Sat 8am - 5pm

Yacht Club, Restaurant, Bar & Clubhouse

• Local and International cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood • Casual waterfront and poolside dining • Fresh catch every day • Arrive by land or sea, lots of parking for cars and boats • Private Clubhouse for parties and events, contact us for rates

Open Hours: Mon to Fri, 11am to 9pm kitchen closes, Sat & Sun, 8:30am to 9pm kitchencloses.

of TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. Visit www.gtyachtclub.com. Tel: (345) 949 3743 or visit www.barcadere.com. SEE AD PAGE 295

The Cayman Islands Yacht Club and Marina This marina can be found in Governor’s Creek on the west side of Grand Cayman. It can cater for up to 166 boats of varying sizes (30ft to 150ft long with a maximum draft of 6.6ft). The facility offers 24-hour manned security, full CCTV coverage and private dock access via secure key cards, which provides peace of mind for your vessel. There is a fuel depot for both boats and vehicles, wet slips and individual pump-out systems, as well as power and water on each slip and a whip panel, which allows onboard refilling of dive tanks – a great convenience to commercial dive operators. There are two restaurants onsite and a fully stocked convenience and liquor store, bar and chandlery. To contact them for more information or to rent a dock, Tel: (345) 747 2492 or visit www.ciyachtclub.ky.

Harbour House Marina (HHM) HHM offers canal dockage with direct access to the North Sound with free showers, wifi, electricity and water. Full dockside maintenance services are offered as well as boat storage with 24hr security. Tel: (345) 947 1307 or email: service@harbourhousemarina.com.

Kaibo Marina Open to boaters using Kaibo Restaurant & Bar, Kaibo Beach Espresso and Upstairs at Kaibo is a 26-berth Poralu Marina floating dock. Its environmentally-friendly design allows sunlight through to the water below so that marine life can flourish. Offering electricity and water hookup and locked-gate walkways, the 26 boat slips are available for short-term, overnight and long-term rental. Visit www.kaibo.ky to make a dock booking.

MARINE FUELLING STATIONS On the North Sound there are three marine fuelling stations – Scotts Landing at the Barcadere Marina, the Cayman Islands Yacht Club on Governor’s Creek and Harbour House Marina on the south side of the Sound. All three locations sell gasoline and diesel. No ethanol gasoline is sold at marinas in Cayman, and the only land-based location is Refuel (Tel: (345) 745 3835) at 126 Maclendon Drive, Industrial Park in George Town.

Please note that Cayman Islands Law states that all fuel stations must display their fuel prices in CI dollars per imperial gallon, except at marinas where prices must still be displayed in CI dollars per imperial gallon but may be dispensed and charged in CI dollars per US gallon, which is approximately 20% less per volume than an imperial gallon.

The diesel being sold in Cayman today is ultra-low sulphur. However, it is worth checking which marine fuel stations add a lubricity booster to their fuel to help prevent deposits from accumulating in fuel injector pumps. Scotts Landing, located at the Barcadere Marina, is the Island’s exclusive dealer for ValvTect Marine fuel, which is specially formulated to ensure the best performance from your boat or watercraft but is also ideal for use in generators and will improve the performance of vehicles and other equipment. They are open 7am-7pm, seven days a week, and feature dockside and landside fuel dispensers for your convenience. They guarantee to provide only ultra-low sulphur diesel and premium 93 octane gasoline. The Valvtect additive causes fuel to burn more cleanly, reducing harmful exhaust emissions while cleaning your motor’s fuel system and combustion chambers and it is proven to increase performance and fuel economy by up to 7% in independent testing. It also increases the stability of the fuel and contains extra water dispersants and corrosion guard technology. The diesel additive boosts cetane level and lubricity, making it more suitable for EU diesel engines using the lower cetane US spec diesel available on-Island. Scotts Landing also offers a full-service dockside sewage tank pump-out service for boats.

GETTING OUT ON THE WATER

BOAT LEASING CLUB For those who think they might only be in Cayman for a couple of years but still want to get out on the water or for those who don’t want the associated costs of maintaining a boat, joining a boat club may be a good solution.

The Leisure Boat Club is a boutique service offering an exclusive boating lifestyle to its members without the hassles of ownership. Tel: (345) 949 6672 or email: info@ leisureboat.ky.

BOAT RENTALS For those wanting to get out on the water, visit the Sandbar and its resident stingrays, snorkel the Coral Gardens, take a sunset cruise or explore the North Sound. These are a few of the great options suggested over the next couple of pages. You can also find more information, including times and prices, by visiting www.explorecayman. com. If you want to rent a sailing dinghy, Laser or Pico, then a great option is to call

the Cayman Islands Sailing Club, Tel: (345) 947 7913 or email: booking@sailing.ky.

TOURS & PRIVATE BOAT CHARTERS Numerous companies offer North Sound boat and snorkelling trips. Half-day trips usually include stops at the Sandbar and the Coral Gardens to snorkel. Full-day trips include all the stops mentioned above but also include conch hunting (when in season) and a delicious local seafood lunch either cooked and served on board the boat or on the beach at Cayman Kai. For the latest information on tours and private boat charters, visit www.explorecayman. com.

Cayman Eco Adventures (Tel: (345) 916 0503) offers both power boat and catamaran trips to Stingray City and Starfish Point, plus a stop for snorkelling and then lunch at Kaibo. Cayman Ferries (Tel: (345) 325 7777) runs a ferry service from Camana Bay to Rum Point and Kaibo and back. The 30-seat ferry leaves Camana Bay every two to three hours. Tickets must be booked using the Cayman Ferries Passenger mobile app available on

charters aboard their four stunning boats with access to watersports such as reef fishing, jet skiing and tubing. Set your own itinerary and enjoy a superb day or evening on the North Sound. Crazy Crab (Tel: (345) 927 2722) provides private boat charters to Stingray City and other areas of the North Sound. Five Star Charters (Tel: (345) 769 1365) provides luxury private charters aboard their 48’ Sea Ray Sundancer. Choose from a half day or full day cruise and set your own itinerary; watersports such as jet skiing and tubing are also available. Frank’s Watersports (Tel: (345) 925 2783 or (345) 945 5491) runs half and full-day snorkel lunch outings and Stingray City trips. Get Bent Charters (Tel: (345) 925 6425) offers trips to Stingray City with a stop at one of Cayman’s best lunch spots on the water. You can even add in some reef fishing to your trip. Paradise Pontoons (Tel: (345) 321 0000) offers private charters along Seven Mile Beach. Cruise along the tranquil waters or choose from activities like guided snorkel trips to areas such as the USS Kittiwake or the coral reefs. Evening tours

are also available. Reel-Fin-Addict Charters (Tel: (345) 929 2396) specialises in private charters to Stingray City aboard their 38ft Intrepid power boat. Trips include stops at the Coral Gardens and Starfish Point in the North Sound.

SAILING Sailing Charters

Cayman Eco Adventures (Tel: (345) 916 0503) offers catamaran trips to Stingray City and Starfish Point, plus stops for snorkelling and lunch at Kaibo. Neil Galway of Sail Cayman (Tel: (345) 916 4333 or email: neil@sailcayman.com) is RYA Yacht Master certified. Sail Cayman offers exclusive private sailing and powerboat charters for full or half-day charters. Point Blue Sailing (Tel: (345) 925 7772 or www. pointbluesailing.ky) offers full or half-day snorkelling trips, with lunch and dinner options also available.

Red Sail Sports (Tel: (345) 623 5965) boasts a fleet of five luxury 65ft sailing catamarans. They also offer snorkelling trips along Seven Mile Beach. Ask about their resident discounts. Finally, Captain Bryan offers catamaran sailing tours to Starfish Point, Stingray City Sandbar and Barrier Reef (three-and-a-half hour tour).

Evening Sailing Evening sailing trips in Cayman are a special experience and luckily there are several options available. Sail Cayman (Tel: (345) 916 4333) offers sunset sails seven days a week. Sail with Friends (Tel: (345) 548 8060) offers private trips on their 38ft catamaran. Their sunset tours are particularly enjoyable. Red Sail Sports (Tel: (345) 623 5965) offers several evening sailing options on one of their 65ft catamarans. Cruise the coastline on their popular Sunset Sail or dine onboard their Dinner Sail with food served fresh off the barbeque.

Sailing & Yacht Clubs If you are a keen sailor, you may want to

join the Cayman Islands Sailing Club (Tel: (345) 947 7913). Sailing lessons for adults and children are available throughout the year. Training rotations for kid and adult lessons are offered on their Hartley fleet and other dinghy fleets, as well as J22 lessons for the more advanced sailors who are interested in racing. There are also opportunities for those with their own larger sailboats, as the cruiser fleet arranges periodic races, rallies to the Sister Islands and Cuba, full moon sails and get-together ‘sailaways’. The Sailing Club has a scenic clubhouse overlooking the North Sound and often hosts parties and socials. Various types of sailing boats can be rented by the hour, half or full-day, and members get a discount. Email: rharvey@sailing.ky or coach@sailing.ky for information about their skipper course, learn-to-sail camps, school lessons, sponsorship and sailing schedule. Visit www.sailing.ky for more information and rates. SEE AD PAGE 429

Another option is the George Town Yacht Club (GTYC), based at the Barcadere Marina at the end of North Sound Road in George Town. The GTYC includes a club house with a restaurant and bar, changing rooms with showers and lockers and a recreational pool for families and kids. Anyone can dock their boat right up to the restaurant and bar, which offers a casual ‘back porch’ dining experience. This family-friendly facility provides a full roster of events and activities, regularly attracting the larger public on weekends and also serves as a popular private party venue. For more information email: info@barcadere.com or Tel: (345) 949 3743.

FISHING

Fishing Trips & Tournaments Numerous companies offer deep sea fishing trips and guests will have the opportunity to catch blue marlin, white marlin, sailfish wahoo, mahi-mahi and tuna. Cayman Eco Adventures (Tel: (345) 916 0503) offers full day or half day deep sea and reef fishing trips aboard their Everglades 435CC; a comfortable and speedy power

boat. Reel-Fin-Addict Charters (Tel: (345) 929 2396) run private deep sea and reef fishing charters from their 55’ Ocean Yacht Super Sport. Their crew are award winning anglers.

Cayman’s annual fishing tournaments are hugely popular. The Cayman

Islands Angling Club puts on numerous tournaments during the year, including the annual Cayman Islands International Fishing Tournament, held every year in April or May. Visit www.fishcayman.com for more information.

Light Tackle Game Fishing Bonefish, tarpon and permit can be caught around all three islands, but Little Cayman is renowned for inshore gamefish, and there are some spectacular fishing opportunities for those who enjoy the sport. Bonefish can be found on the ‘flats’; these are inshore waters that are typically shallow and covered in turtle grass. In many areas of Little Cayman you can find these flats right along the edge of the coastline. Bonefish usually weigh less than 12 pounds and are known as the ‘grey ghost’ or ‘phantom’ fish. Pound for

pound, bonefish are one of the fastest and strongest of all the salt-water fish species. They are considered to be among the world’s premier gamefish and are highly sought after by anglers.

On the south side of Little Cayman, there is an inland pond that got its name ‘Tarpon Lake’ because it is packed with tarpon, otherwise known as ‘Silver King’. The fish in Tarpon Lake never seem to grow above 15 pounds, but they can be taken on the fly rod and with spinning tackle.

To access the fish in the lake, you will need a guide or a small boat because you need to row around. The bottom of the lake is not suitable for wading because the mud is deep, and the perimeter of the lake is a dense thicket of red mangroves. The best time to go is early in the morning. If you get there shortly after sunrise, it is possible you may witness what is known as the ‘tarpon frenzy’, when the Gambusia minnows (a small bait fish) get pinned against the edge of the pond by a large number of tarpon and the minnows are unable to shelter in the roots of the mangroves because hundreds of herons and egrets are waiting on the banks. The birds crowd the edge of the mangroves and strike at any minnows within reach. It is an awesome spectacle with a constant roar of tarpon hitting the surface as they gorge themselves on the bait fish. During this frenzy, it is almost impossible to avoid catching a fish if you present the fly or lure anywhere close to the action.

Fishing Restrictions Anyone can fish from the shore or from a boat in deep water, but there are very strict rules on the size of fish you can catch and there are some you must immediately release if you catch by mistake. The rules are as follows: Jewfish (goliath grouper), tilefish (whities), filefish (pipers) and angelfish, including Grey, French and Queen angels (old monks), are protected and not allowed to be taken from Cayman waters at any time.

Of the fish that you can catch, there is Divers, snorkellers and fishermen can obtain training and a licence from the DoE to cull them. Do not attempt to catch one without proper training. For more information, contact the DoE. Tel: (345) 949 8469, email: doe@gov.ky or visit www.doe.ky/marine/lionfish-invasive. See the Diving chapter for details.

an eight-inch minimum size on all other species except goggle eyes, sprats (herrings), silversides, anchovies and fries, including loggerhead and fine fry. However, there are different rules for Nassau groupers. There is a 16’’ minimum catch size throughout all of the Cayman Islands, year-round, and no Nassau groupers can be caught using a speargun. Nassau grouper cannot be taken from the 1st of December to the 30th of April. Outside of this, there is a catch limit of five per person or five per boat per day, whichever is less. No one may take Nassau grouper from a Designated Grouper Spawning Area and no fishing (by line or speargun) can be done within a mile radius of a Designated Spawning Area. The same applies to fish pots. If you see any fishing taking place in or around a Grouper Spawning Area call 911 immediately, and a police boat will be sent to investigate.

Designated Grouper Spawning Areas In accordance with DoE regulations, the designated areas are Coxswain Bank and South West Point in Grand Cayman, the east and west end of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman and the Twelve Mile Bank. We discourage you from catching or eating grouper as they have been over-fished and the population has been severely depleted.

Licences For Fish Pots & Spearguns Fish pots and spearguns must be licensed by the National Conservation Council, and only Caymanians over the age of 18 may be granted a licence. Spearfishing or laying a fish pot trap within a one-mile radius of a designated conservation area or from the 1st of November to the 31st of March is prohibited. When entering the country, you must declare all spearguns. Email: doe@gov.ky or visit www.doe.ky.

Lionfish Hunts & Culling Licences Lionfish are an invasive species and a significant threat to our marine ecosystem. Lionfish consume the majority of small fish on a reef within a relatively short amount of time, and have no natural predators in the Caribbean Sea. Lionfish are venomous.

MARINE RULES & REGULATIONS

You are obliged to familiarise yourself with the applicable boating, marine and environmental laws when using Cayman’s waters. These include catch and size limits, open and closed seasons and restrictions in each protected area. Breaches of the law are treated as serious offences and anyone committing an offence against the National Conservation Act and its regulations is liable to a fine, imprisonment or both. Tel: (345) 949 8469 to report any offences.

The Department of Environment (DoE) has an app called ‘CaymanDoE’, which has up-to-date information and maps on Cayman’s marine parks and National Conservation laws. You can also visit www.doe.ky to download the marine parks map. Boating and navigational laws can also be found on the Port Authority’s website (www.caymanport.com).

Lobster, Conch & Other Catch Limits Lobster season is closed from the 1st of March to the 30th of November. Catch limits per day in open season are three per person or six per boat (two or more people), whichever is less. Lobster tails must be a minimum of six inches long, and only spiny lobster (P. argus) can be taken. Conch season is closed from the 1st of May to the 31st of October. Catch limits per day are five per person or 10 per boat (two or more people), whichever is less. Lobster and conch may never be taken from a marine protected area.

Whelk season is closed from the 1st of May to the 31st of October and the catch limit is two-and-a-half gallons in the shell or two-and-a-half pounds of processed whelks. Nassau grouper closed season is

from the 1st of December to the 30th of April. During the open season, the catch limit is five per person or five per boat per day, and only fish between 16 and 24 inches (inclusive) may be taken. No one may spear Nassau grouper. All of the above rules also apply to the purchase of lobster, conch, whelk or grouper caught in Cayman waters.

Echinoderms (starfish, sea eggs, urchins, sea cucumbers, sand dollars, etc.) and elasmobranchs (sharks, stingrays and other rays) may not be taken from Cayman waters at any time. No one may disturb, harass or harm turtles. Furthermore, no one may take turtles in Cayman without a licence. Possession of turtle eggs is prohibited.

No one may use food to attract any sharks in Cayman waters. For a list of protected fish, go to www.doe.ky.

Taking any marine life (dead or alive) while scuba diving is prohibited. Do not wear gloves while diving or snorkelling. Damaging coral in any manner is illegal. Marine Park Regulations & Anchoring Cayman’s marine parks were put in place in 1985. Due to environmental stressors, like declining fish populations, reef degradation, climate change and rapid population growth and development, marine parks are extremely important for Cayman’s fish population to remain sustainable. The marine parks in the Cayman Islands cover 48% of the coastal waters near Grand Cayman, 43% on Cayman Brac and 57% on Little Cayman. You cannot take any marine life, whether alive or dead, within a Marine Park Zone. Line fishing from shore is permitted, as is line fishing at depths of 80ft or more. Taking fry and sprat with a fry or cast net is allowed.

Note: fish traps, spear guns, pole spears and other nets are prohibited. No anchoring is permitted; only the use of fixed mooring is allowed. The exception is that boats of 60ft or less may anchor in sand, so long as no grappling hook is used, and neither the anchor nor the rope or chain will impact coral. Anchoring is also permitted in designated port anchorage areas. Contact Port Security on VHF channel 16. In Bloody Bay, Little Cayman, restrictions have been placed on the use of the marine park, and no commercial operations may use it without a licence. Visit www.doe.ky for details.

Replenishment Zone Regulations In Replenishment Zones, line fishing and anchoring are permitted, as long as you do not damage coral. Boats must not impact coral in any way. Taking conch or lobster, and using spear guns, pole spears, fish traps and nets are prohibited.

Environmental Zone Regulations Restrictions in the Environmental Zone are strictly enforced. The rules are no marine life, whether alive or dead, can be taken, no in-water activities are permitted, the public may only access at speeds of five mph or less and no boat can drop anchor. Line fishing, fish traps, nets and spear guns are strictly prohibited.

rafe@avalonmarine.ky www.yachtworld.com/avalon