Ship Schedules Port Authority of the Cayman Islands

The expected revenue for the companies from the new terminal was ~KYD 333 million (USD 400M) over its 25-year lifespan, based on estimated ~2 million passengers annually. Some of the top picks on the menu include fried rice, soup, chicken wings, seafood, and chop suey. With both an open menu and a buffet, the restaurant offers a delightful dining experience. Gelato & Co is an excellent place to stop by and enjoy some authentic Italian gelato. Crafted entirely by hand, the gelato comes in a diverse range of flavors, including mango, strawberry, coconut, and vanilla.

Carnival Ship Rescues 27 People Adrift at Sea in the Caribbean

When visiting during a cruise then it would depend on the cruise line. Now that you know why you should pay the Grand Cayman a visit, go ahead and plan your trip there. Don’t worry about the weather, the island just like most Caribbean islands in the west experiences a wet summer and a dry winter.

Passenger on Wonder of the Seas cruise ship goes overboard - The Independent

Passenger on Wonder of the Seas cruise ship goes overboard.

Posted: Thu, 31 Aug 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

A unique area featuring natural limestone formations are what gives “Hell” its name, and now you tell everyone you’ve been to Hell and back. Engage with the tradition and send your friends and loved ones a postcard from the Hell Post Office! This small stop is a famous landmark on Grand Cayman and great for everyone to enjoy during your cruise vacation. By keeping these practical tips in mind, visitors can enjoy a smooth and enjoyable experience in Grand Cayman.

Spend a Day at the Spa

When you paddle your kayak across calm, serene waters, you’ll see plenty of Grand Cayman’s elegant scenery, including the magnificent mangroves, home to a wide range of wildlife. Also, snorkeling through the crystal clear waters will let you observe a wide range of marine life, including stingrays at Grand Cayman’s famous stingray attraction. The ocean waters surrounding Grand Cayman are home to wonderful and exciting displays of marine life, including stingrays, sea turtles and a colorful array of fish.

Jewelry lovers can’t miss the selection of necklaces and bracelets made from local materials such as coconut shells, black coral, and Cayamanite. Additionally, you’ll find plenty of stalls selling a wide variety of spices, jams, and delicious local snacks. Shopaholics will love Bayshore Mall, a premier shopping complex located right by the South Terminal in George Town. The mall is known for its Kirk Freeport branch, offering luxury brands such as Rolex, Swarovski, and Cartier. But it is on the next block that the visitor will find the most interesting (but lesser talked about) attraction in George Town - the Cayman Islands National Museum.

There is no Wi-Fi available at the cruise port, but there are several shops and restaurants nearby that offer it for customers. Read on for our breakdown of the Grand Cayman Cruise Port, including address information, cruise line terminals, services and more. Grand Cayman cruise port is located in George Town, the capital of Grand Cayman nestled in the southwest corner of the island. As Cayman does not follow daylight savings time, scheduled arrival and departure times may differ from those supplied by the cruise lines.

Night Western Caribbean ItineraryDetails

Housed in a beautiful white colonial house, the museum showcases diverse exhibits of the Cayman Islands history and present reality. All these piers are within walking distance to the main attractions of George Town - Margaritaville, the Museum, all major Shops, and Restaurants. This guarantee offers you refunds for canceled trips to the island due to a hurricane watch alert.

Safety-wise, there’s no need to worry—the drivers are friendly and ensure the ride is safe. You’ll find the main bus depot on Edward St, right beside Heroes Square. The bus depot is only a few minutes’ walk from the cruise port in George Town. If other cruise ships are already anchored, you may find yourself at either the North or South Terminal.

On the next block, Guy Harvey also gives the name to an excellent restaurant with wonderful views - entrance on side street (Merrendale Dr). On the same block, the cruise traveler will not miss the Harley Davidson shop, the Blue Iguana Souvenir Outlet and the Church of God Full Gospel Hall. Remember Caymanians drive on the left, so be careful when crossing the roads.

There is a raised boardwalk at the site that gives you a better view of the area. Use Hell Road and drive approximately 100 yards past Hell Gas Station to get there. Then search for the Post Office sign and enter Hell on the left from Hell Road. At the end of the shortstop, mail yourself a letter from Hell’s post office and have a laugh once you receive it back at home.

Explore the island’s coastline while on top of these gentle creatures as your tour guide gives a commentary about the region. The greatest attraction on Grand Cayman other than Stingray City is the Seven Mile Beach. As the name suggests it is a seven mile long crescent-shaped stretch of white sandy beach. As your cruise ship approaches the port, you will cruise past this beach, taking in the length of its magnificent beauty. All these fascinating features provide a host of activities for cruise guests to engage in on their port day here.

His friends muttered “Oh, Hell”, and the place later became known as “Hell”. Smith’s Barcadere is the sandy cove where you can snorkel from the shore. A calm sea, gentle waves, and an intimate atmosphere are what make it perfect for those who want to escape crowded places. The site has a sandy bottom and is packed with thousands of beautiful colorful fish, conchs, some stingrays, and starfish.

Stop by briefly at one of Grand Cayman’s top attraction, Hell and live to tell the tale. This way you will have a comeback every time someone tells you to “go to hell”. It is a huge formation of limestone found in the West Bay area of the island. It is a collection of black spiky and jagged rocks spread on a large piece of land, the size of a soccer pitch.

Book an excursion with your cruise line or trusted local tour operator and go on a diving adventure. If you wish to escape the crowds then visit Rum Point beach located an hour away from George Town or Cayman Kai both found in the northern end of the island. This is a great beach for swimming for everyone in the family including kids. It has for a shallow sandbar with warm turquoise waters protected by the coral and limestone rock formations a few yards out in the ocean. The Grand Cayman Cruise port is highly wheelchair accessible, and that includes all three terminals. There are several sidewalk ramps available and flat terrain present.

Located a 25-minute drive (17 km/10.5 miles) east of the George Town port, the White House is an exclusive private mansion offering all-inclusive service to its visitors. The mansion dates from the colonial period and is a perfect beach escape for those who want to enjoy privileged treatment and exclusive service. One of the major attractions on the island is the Grand Cayman Turtle Farm (Turtle Centre), situated in the West Bay district, a 20-minute drive (13 km/8 miles) north of the port. This piece of paradise is located on the west coast of Grand Cayman, north of George Town, and it takes less than a 10-minute drive to get there. Seven Mile Beach consists of several beach areas that are all considered public property.

CAY Shore Excursions

Table Of Content

• USS Kittiwake Shipwreck
• The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands
• Cayman Islands National Museum
• West and South Caribbean cruise ports
• (NEW) Grand Cayman Cruise Terminal

Nautilus is next to Rackam's and offers underwater tours on a semi-submarine with a spacious air-conditioned observatory but also sailing Catamaran excursions (3 hours) for to the world famous Stingray City. But it can also happen that you will be tendering to any of the other two piers when there are more than a couple of ships in port, which happens very often. Cayman Turtle Centre, which is in the northern part of the island and a 20-minute drive from the port, is another must-do in the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands were originally named “Las Tortugas,” which means “The Turtles,” by Christopher Columbus in 1503 simply because there was a surprising number of turtles swimming around the islands. The Cayman Turtle Centre was created in order to celebrate and commemorate these beautiful creatures. Located a 20-minute drive (12 km/7.5 miles) from the George Town port, on the southern coast of the island, Pedro St. James is the restored 18th-century plantation home offering history exhibits and tours.

USS Kittiwake Shipwreck

Around 120 yards/meters south of Paradise, you will find Eden Rock Diving Center - one of the best dives in Cayman - and 300 yards/meters farther, another diving center (Don Foster's Dive). Besides that, the island is home to tropical Caribbean attractions such as caves, forests, pristine white sandy beaches and crystal clear blue ocean waters that feature world famous dive sites like the Cayman wall. The Owen Roberts International Airport is about a 10-minute drive from the Grand Cayman Cruise Port. The easiest way to get to the cruise port from the airport is by taxi or pre-booked direct transfer, which includes privately-operated buses.

The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands

Grand Cayman is a tender port that is sometimes difficult to get into. There is an area allocated as an anchorage where ships must either drift or otherwise remain at sea for the duration of their visit. The cruise port is found in the capital city, George Town, the most populated location on all three islands.

Cayman Islands National Museum

Since the start, it's been our aim to provide the latest cruise news covering all the major cruise lines. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports.Millions of travelers rely on Cruise Hive in the United States, Europe, Australia, and around the world. The best place to start this experience at is at Eden rock or Devil’s Grotto diving center. There is a great deal of marine life at Devil’s Grotto and Eden Rock Dive sites including tarpon and reef fish. Other beaches include Kaibo Beach which offers a casual and shady beachfront in the North.

West and South Caribbean cruise ports

To explore Grand Cayman on your own, there are taxis right outside any of the Terminals and a Bus Station within walking distance with services to all main destinations, attractions and most highlights. This is arguably the best way to travel around, deserving an additional word about the public bus service in Grand Cayman. Cruise Hive was established back in 2008 and among the earliest blogs in the industry.

Sightseeing and Activities

Don’t forget to capture a photo beside the water fountain to remember your shopping spree. Explore the lively local art scene at the National Gallery of the Cayman Islands. The first floor presents changing art exhibitions from global artists, while the second floor highlights the rich landscape of Caymanian and Caribbean art. The gallery is 2.2 miles (3.5 km) from the cruise port in George Town, so you’ll probably need to travel by taxi. If you’re interested in the history of the Cayman Islands, a visit to the Ft.

The Ultimate Guide to the Grand Cayman Cruise Port in George Town

Grand Cayman itself has a comprehensive bus system with 11 routes, covering major spots like Seven Mile Beach, Hell, and Rum Point. Anyone who has ever had the opportunity to pet, play and swim with a dolphin will tell you, that it’s one of the best experiences in the world. And they are right, dolphins are amazing creatures who are warm, friendly and very lovable. Visit Queen Elizabeth 2 Botanical Park and enjoy a unique combination of culture, history, and beauty.

(NEW) Grand Cayman Cruise Terminal

Carnival Cruise Line Opens Bookings For 2025 Western Caribbean Cruises - Porthole Cruise and Travel

Carnival Cruise Line Opens Bookings For 2025 Western Caribbean Cruises.

Posted: Thu, 21 Sep 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

All cruise terminals are located within walking distance from most of downtown's highlights. George Town is the capital city of the Cayman Islands, a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean Sea. It is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, duty-free shopping, vibrant restaurant scene, and year-round tropical weather. Welcoming an impressive 1.7 million cruise passengers each year, the city ranks among the top Caribbean cruise destinations. On the ocean side, with a spectacular location and view, Paradise is both a restaurant (cuisine doesn't match the quality of the location) and shore diving and snorkeling spot.

Don’t forget to try mouthwatering American classics like BBQ pork sandwiches, chicken club sandwiches, mac-n-cheese, and fries. Aside from the excellent food, reviewers often mention the stunning views, great rock music, and friendly service. As you explore the market, you’ll come across a variety of items ranging from hats, bags, and paintings, to intricately carved woodwork.

According to FCCA data (Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association), in 2019, the Cayman Islands were visited by 2+ million cruise tourists. Exploring George Town on your own can be fascinating, but limiting yourself to the city means missing out on other attractions in Grand Cayman. Discover more about these points of interest in my article about the best things to do in Grand Cayman. The Cayman Islands National Museum is the perfect place to learn about the colorful history of George Town and the Cayman Islands. Situated just opposite the South Terminal, it’s an ideal spot to unwind following a day of shopping in George Town.

You’ll also find some vibrant murals depicting the history of the fort. The George Town Public Library holds historical significance, with the old front-facing building dating back to 1939. The original white-painted building showcases the classical Caribbean architecture of its time. The newer three-story building, known as the Maples Wing, was constructed in 2009.

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. Terminal buildings at all cruise ship tender docks are small, shaded areas where passengers are gathered for tours or wait there to be tendered back to the cruise ship. The world-famous Seven Mile Beach attracts with its crystal clear waters, amazing panorama and infrastructure featuring numerous hotels, seaside bars and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a more genuine shopping experience, make your way to the Cayman Craft Market, which is only a three minute walk from the port. At the market, you’ll find local vendors selling a wide range of products crafted from local materials. Heroe’s Square serves as a tribute to the Caymanians who have devoted their lives to improving the Cayman Islands. The spot is a good place for a calm break and perfect for history buffs who want to learn more about the islands. Within the square, there are plenty of memorials and statues that illustrate the island’s rich history. You’ll find Heroe’s Square in the middle of Fort St, which is a three minute walk from the cruise port.

You’ll find Gelato & Co at The Island Plaza, just a short three minute walk from the cruise pier in George Town. If you’re looking for some souvenirs to remember your trip to the Cayman Islands, visit the Blue Iguana Boutique. Situated right on the waterfront, this shop provides a diverse selection of island-themed souvenirs, including clothing, jewelry, bags, hats, sunglasses, phone cases, and belts. What’s great about this boutique is its focus on sustainable and organic fabrics, along with its reasonable prices. After you’ve spent some time at the gallery, savor a meal at Guy Harvey’s Boathouse Grill, a fantastic seafood restaurant with scenic views of the ocean. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the stunning George Town harbor.

Although many a cruise traveler may feel uneasy with public buses in the Caribbean, you shouldn't be as these are very safe, very well kept and a great way to travel around in Grand Cayman. Though 20 things to do in Grand Cayman may seem a lot, believe it or not, this list barely scratches the surface. Other activities that you can enjoy include island hopping, helicopter tours, golfing and even local brew tasting. Enjoy a ride on well-trained horses along an isolated beach with pristine sand and through the shallow waters.

To get to the Wreck of the Cali, all you have to do is turn left upon exiting the terminal, walk along the main street for less than 5 minutes and you’ll spot the fish market. Opposite the market, there is Rackham’s dock, from where you can swim to the wreck that is located 40 yards off the shore. It lies at a depth of ft and is easily spotted as the water is quite calm and clear. The distance being long, this snorkeling site is not recommended for first-time snorkelers, but if you don’t mind swimming, this place is perfect.