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Local drinks include rum, which is distilled on the island and served in a fruity punch, among other cocktails. For something authentically local, order a mudslide, made with vodka, Kahlua, Baileys, cherry, and cinnamon. The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Gardens, opened by the late queen herself in 1994, is 65 acres of woodland trails, gardens, and wetlands populated by butterflies, parrots, and other native birds. Visit the vibrant Colour Garden and the fascinating Heritage House for a glimpse into the tough life of early island settlers. You’ll also see the endemic blue iguanas basking in the sunshine; the gardens run a conservation program to protect this handsome but endangered lizard. Taxis are common at the cruise docks; rates are fixed and should be posted.
Grand Cayman Shore Excursions
The mansion dates from the colonial period and is a perfect beach escape for those who want to enjoy privileged treatment and exclusive service. If you're able to drive a bit from the cruise port, there's even more for you to do and thoroughly enjoy on the island. The Bioluminescent Bay is about a 50-minute drive from the port and may demand more of your time, but it's one of the most popular and awe-inspiring things to do in Grand Cayman. All cruise terminals are located within walking distance from most of downtown's highlights. There are some great spots for deep sea fishing just about a quarter mile from shore, where the ocean depths reach 2000 feet. Several boat charters offer passengers who wish to do some deep sea fishing, a great opportunity.
Grand Cayman Cruise Port
This coral reef stands out as an excellent snorkeling spot in North Sound, Grand Cayman, just a quick 5-minute boat ride from Grand Cayman Island. Sharkeez is an American-style restaurant and bar located right by the cruise port. You can enjoy a nice view of the ocean and the port from the restaurant, which also has a balcony. Explore the underwater wonders of Grand Cayman by taking the Atlantis Submarine Tour. If you’re keen on swimming with dolphins, Dolphin Discovery is an excellent choice.
Rum Point
A stroll along the beach quickly turns into an obstacle course of sunbathing tourists, sandy children and water sports vendors. There, you’ll find a variety of different souvenir shops, offering gifts, rum cakes, jewelry, clothing, and more. Just remember to keep track of time and leave plenty of leeway to tender back to your cruise ship. In addition to sea turtles, the Cayman Turtle Centre is also home to other marine life, including colorful tropical fish, marine rays, and sharks. You can view these creatures in the outdoor touch tanks or even participate in a snorkeling adventure in the saltwater lagoon.
For an authentic Caymanian shopping experience, the Cayman Craft Market is a must-visit. Located just a brief stroll from the George Town port, the market was originally set up to help Caymanians make a living by selling their locally crafted goods. The church’s colonial-style architecture is beautifully showcased by its white-washed, brick exterior and vibrant stained glass windows. Additionally, the church has a graveyard and several plaques that honor the lives of individuals who lost their lives at sea and in wartime. Renting a car is a great, cost-friendly transportation alternative to taxis or public buses.
Spend a Day at the Spa
Alternatively, your cruise ship may dock at the North or South terminals. These are smaller and consist of smaller terminal buildings with security gates and waiting areas. From there, you can directly access Harbour Drive, the main street in George Town, as well as tour buses and taxis. Visitors have two choices -- embrace the crowds and touristy places with a laid-back island mindset, or escape them. Secluded beaches, like Cayman Kai or Rum Point, are a cab ride away, and even Seven Mile Beach has its less crowded spots.
During our excursion to Grand Cayman, I decided to book a day stay at a hotel we’d already visited on a prior Cayman vacation (the Westin Grand Cayman). Because I was familiar with the island, I felt confident booking on my own. The Cayman Turtle Centre (formerly known as the Cayman Turtle Farm) is one of my favorite Caribbean attractions. It offers lots of family-friendly things to do and can be a fantastic place to spend the day. While you are able to purchase timed admission on your own, you can usually book an excursion which will take care of the all of the details for you.
The Cayman Islands Is Planning a New Boutique Cruise Destination - Caribbean Journal
The Cayman Islands Is Planning a New Boutique Cruise Destination.
Posted: Thu, 11 Apr 2024 19:52:48 GMT [source]
Whether you choose to unwind on pristine beaches, engage in thrilling water activities, or explore the history and wildlife of the island, Grand Cayman will leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re seeking relaxation under swaying palm trees or an adrenaline-packed day of water sports, Rum Point offers the perfect blend of beach bliss and adventure. It’s a place where you can unwind, explore the beautiful underwater world, and create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have a love for marine life and want to learn more about sea turtles, a visit to the Cayman Turtle Centre is a must during your time in Grand Cayman. Located in West Bay, this unique attraction is not only a sanctuary for sea turtles but also provides educational and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re seeking pure relaxation or thrilling water activities, Seven Mile Beach offers the perfect blend of both.
The Grand Cayman cruise port provides plenty of things to do and see, from spectacular beaches and lush forests to vibrant nightlife and world-class restaurants. Whether you’re exploring the stunning beaches, diving into the rich local culture, or setting off on an excursion, Grand Cayman promises an unforgettable cruise experience. At the reef, you’ll encounter a diverse array of sea life, including butterflyfish, turtles, and stingrays, amidst various colorful reef formations. While it may not rival the beauty of the Barrier Reef, Cheeseburger Reef is still worth exploring if you have the time.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking to pass some time, Guy Harvey’s Gallery is definitely worth a visit. Located right next to Bayshore Mall, the two story gallery showcases the world renowned-works of Guy Harvey. Guy’s vivid and detailed artworks revolve around themes of marine life, featuring marlins, sailfish, turtles, and sharks. George Town is the capital city of Grand Cayman and serves as the primary port of entry for ships heading to the island.
I love Grand Cayman so much that I’ve specifically looked for that port of call on the itineraries I’ve booked. It’s a place that I feel I can visit over and over again, with different things to do each time. If your cruise is visiting Grand Cayman for the day, here are the best things to do in Grand Cayman on a cruise.
Many visitors take advantage of the duty-free prices to purchase luxury items such as watches, perfumes, and designer clothing. As you arrive at Stingray City, you’ll be greeted by warm, shallow waters that are home to a population of friendly Southern Stingrays. These magnificent creatures, with their smooth gray bodies and gracefully sweeping tails, have become accustomed to interaction with humans over the years. They are known for their docile nature and welcoming behavior, making this experience safe and enjoyable even for those with no previous snorkeling or diving experience. Stingray City is a unique and unforgettable attraction in Grand Cayman that offers an extraordinary opportunity to get up close and personal with gentle stingrays. Located in the North Sound, this world-famous site is a must-visit for any cruise passenger looking for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
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