Catamaran and sailing trips in Grand Cayman
Catamaran and sailing trips are one of the easiest ways to get out on the water at Grand Cayman. Most leave from the West Bay Road side of the island or from the North Sound, and a half-day trip usually takes in snorkel stops at Coral Gardens, Stingray City and Starfish Point. Private charters suit a small group that wants its own boat and its own pace.
Places to go
Tours to book
Prices are per person, booked with our partner, Shore Excursions Group.
What to expect
A catamaran trip here is usually a private half day on the water. Boats leave from West Bay Road and from the North Sound, and the reef stops are the main reason to go. Typical stops include Coral Gardens, Stingray City and Starfish Point, where you can snorkel over the reef and see the marine life that lives there.
Trips run about four hours. Sailing the North Sound reefs gives a calm, low-effort outing. You do not need to be a strong swimmer to join the snorkel stops, though a life vest or floating support is a good idea for anyone who is unsure in open water.
Where to go
- North Sound reefs. Private SeeVentures charters with snorkel stops at Sandbar and Starfish, sailing the calm reefs of the North Sound. North Sound, by boat.
- Coral Gardens. A reef snorkel stop on the private half-day catamaran trip, known for its coral. By boat. A trip that goes here: Private Half Day Grand Cayman Catamaran with Snorkel Stops, 4 Hours
- Stingray City. A sandbar stop where you can snorkel in shallow water alongside the rays. By boat. A trip that goes here: Private Half Day Grand Cayman Catamaran with Snorkel Stops, 4 Hours
- Starfish Point. A snorkel stop on the North Sound charters and the private catamaran trip. By boat. A trip that goes here: Private Half Day Grand Cayman Catamaran with Snorkel Stops, 4 Hours
- Blackbeard's Nancy. A replica schooner offering day sails and a dinner cruise from West Bay Road at Seven Mile Beach. West Bay Road at Seven Mile Beach, by taxi.
Getting there
When to go
Charters run year-round, so the season makes little difference to the schedule. Book ahead for a private boat, since the boats need to be arranged before the day.
Good to know
- Bring a swimsuit, reef-safe sunscreen and a towel, since you will be in the water at each snorkel stop.
- Ask the operator how the boat meets you and how you will get back afterward.
- Charters need booking ahead, so arrange the trip beforehand rather than on arrival.
Questions
Can I go sailing or catamaran snorkeling from George Town?
Yes. Most sailing trips leave from West Bay Road or the North Sound. A private half-day catamaran trip runs about four hours and includes snorkel stops at Coral Gardens, Stingray City and Starfish Point.
What snorkel stops are on a Grand Cayman catamaran trip?
A private half-day catamaran usually stops at Coral Gardens, Stingray City and Starfish Point. The North Sound reef charters with SeeVentures include Sandbar and Starfish snorkel stops.
Is a sailing trip in Grand Cayman suitable for first-timers?
Yes. The trips are easy and mostly seated on the boat, with snorkeling at each stop. Families and couples often choose private charters so the group sails together.
