Best of Boating

Spending time on Cayman’s beautiful waters is the high point of any visitor’s itinerary, and rightly so! The calm, crystal clear waters and the cooling breeze make for perfect boating conditions. The majority of boat trips tour the North Sound, a 35 square mile area of water protected by the reef, which guarantees calm waters and great snorkelling opportunities. It is also home to the world famous Stingray City and Sandbar.

BOAT TRIPS

When it comes to deciding what type of boat trip you’d like to go on, there are several factors to consider, such as whether to opt for a private or group tour, whether to spend a full or half day on the water and where to stop for lunch. A private charter gives you flexibility to set your own itinerary: choose what time you set off, where you go, for how long and where to eat lunch. It’s completely up to you. You might even get access to boat toys such as tubes, water skis and wakeboards. Best of all, you get to enjoy the whole experience with just your friends and family.

A group tour will mean you have to follow a set itinerary; however, the cost will be much lower. Boats are well-equipped and comfortable and you might even make a few new friends on your trip!

Most charters, whether private or otherwise, will provide a free pick-up/drop-off service for the Seven Mile Beach area, snorkelling gear and complimentary water, ice and snacks.

POPULAR ITINERARIES

Stingray City See the Stingray City section on the opposite page for more details on Cayman’s number one attraction! Starfish Point A beautiful calm beach where you will find plenty of starfish. The sea here is warm, shallow and perfect for kids. Make sure not to remove the starfish from the water – it will kill them. Snorkelling Stop A snorkelling stop along the reef to locations like Fisherman’s Reef or Coral Gardens, should not be missed. You‘ll find the visibility is incredible and you will see an abundance of tropical fish and healthy coral. You might even spot the resident moray eel. Reef Fishing Experience the thrill of catching reef fish fairly easily. Most charters practise catch and release so the next excited fisherman can enjoy the fun too. See page 39 for more information on fishing charters. Lunch! Enjoy a delicious beach picnic with Frank’s Water Sports (SEE PAGE 44) or Cayman Luxury Charters (SEE PAGE 41). Alternatively, refuel at Kaibo, a laid back beach bar with exceptional food and drinks. You can also try waterfront restaurants Bàcaro (SEE PAGE 77), Calypso Grill, Morgan’s or Tukka West for their seafood. For casual waterfront dining try George Town Yacht Club or have a relaxed lunch at Camana Bay – ample dock space and waterside seating make it the

perfect stop. SEE PAGES 86-95

SEVEN MILE BEACH - Insider TipS

Book a private charter with Paradise Pontoons (SEE PAGE 46) and let their crew help you discover exciting snorkel spots like the USS Kittiwake and the coral reefs. They also offer a relaxing evening cruise along Seven Mile Beach, with complimentary bubbles served aboard.

For something a bit different, take a ride with Parasailing Professionals (SEE PAGE 85) along SMB. Ride 400ft up in the air and experience incredible views of Cayman.