After a sun-dappled day by the pool, just outside your suite at South Bay Grand Cayman, or laying on the nearby white sands of Seven Mile Beach, you might wonder how it is even possible to follow that up with something half as memorable to do in the evening. Oh, but there are so many choices. Perhaps the most enticing is a romantic sunset dinner sail on the tranquil, azure ocean waters aboard one of the island’s many luxury charters.

From sailboats to catamarans, you have ample choices from which to choose. A private charter among any such vessels allows you to set your own itinerary, from time and destination, to what you eat and drink, all while enjoying a breathtaking sunset overlooking the serene Caribbean water. Most charter companies also offer free pick-up and drop-off at your hotel.

Oh Boy Charters is a Grand Cayman favorite, offering sunset dinner cruises for up to 35 people. Imagine a fully catered and served dinner with drinks aboard the Oh Boy, a 60-foot, custom-built sport fisher outfitted with air conditioning, a state-of-the-art stereo system, comfortable seating, fully appointed bathrooms, and plenty of space. This three-hour cruise starts off with rum punches made from fresh local fruit, continues with dinner, and ends with a nightcap as you sail back into the harbor.

If you prefer spending your evening aboard a catamaran, consider Red Sail Charters, another excellent option for a romantic dinner cruise. For just $85.00 per adult and $42.50 per child, you can enjoy cocktails and a three-course meal aboard the luxurious Spirit of the Islands, a cutting-edge, 65-foot catamaran with every creature comfort imaginable. The three-hour, 15-minute trip picks up and drops off all guests at two separate locations on Seven Mile Beach.

Perhaps even more exclusive are the offerings from Cayman Luxury Charters. This company features romantic sunset dinner cruises aboard its luxurious, 42-foot Sea Ray sport yacht, Cayman Elusion, or its 29-foot Sea Ray sport yacht, Cayman Evasion. You can custom plan your own event on either, with daytime or sunset dinner trips available for up to 14 people on Cayman Elusion, and up to seven people on Cayman Evasion.

Regardless of what type of trip you choose, getting out onto the breathtakingly beautiful Caribbean seas surrounding Grand Cayman Island is sure to be a memorable experience for you and your family for years to come

You work hard, and when you want to unwind and get away from it all—the responsibilities you have at home, work, and in your community—you want to be relaxed to your core and have everything at your disposal. That’s why you love South Bay Beach Club in Grand Cayman, and it’s also why you love taking the entire family a short way away to the magic of Stingray City. This one-of-a-kind landmark will actually allow you and the kids to swim freely, in the warm, tranquil, tropical Cayman Island waters, with a living colony of real-life stingrays.

Stingray City boasts about 50 stingrays, whose numbers sometimes swell and who weigh roughly 150 pounds and are about five feet wide. These amazing, peaceful creatures swim gracefully in the waters of a shallow sandbar, making them accessible to adults and children of all ages and sizes.

An average of about 1,500 tourists visit the park every day, arriving via boats that depart along several spots on Seven Mile Beach. Each visit with the rays lasts about 20 minutes, during which Stingray City employees teach visitors about the stingrays, instruct them about how to respectfully handle these beautiful creatures, and how to feed them foody that is healthy for them. What’s most incredible is that the stingrays are wild and free to roam the wide-open seas as they wish—or to visit with lucky guests. As any guest who has interacted with them will tell you, when a stingray chooses to be with you and be fed by you, it can be a life-changing experience.

The hope of Stingray City is that visitors will come away not only having had an amazing experience, but also that they will have learned about these misunderstood sea beings and have a renewed understanding of their importance in the life of the ocean in Grand Cayman, and elsewhere. We emphasize safety in all ways, from that of the stingrays to every one of our guests, so that all outings are impactful and bring joy to every visitor.

Stingray City can accommodate individuals and groups. In addition to visiting our beautiful rays, we can set up other amazing excursions, from half- and full-day fishing trips, to celebrations and weddings on the water. All you have to do is ask and we will create an event that you will never forget.

The Kittiwake Shipwreck and Artificial Reef: Amazing Facts

The USS Kittiwake was a United States navy submarine used from its commission date on July 18, 1946 until the mid-90s. It was a Chanticleer-class vessel intended for rescue missions along the U.S. East Coast and in the Caribbean, though it was eventually taken to the Mediterranean in the late 60s. The decommission of the famed submarine occurred in 1994, when the title was transferred to the government of the Cayman Islands for an undisclosed sum. Kittiwake was intentionally sunk off the coast of Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman, on Jan. 5, 2011, to serve as an artificial reef.

Learn a few fun facts about this contribution to marine conservation.

Fact #1: The Submarine Is Protected Under Cayman Island Law

No one is allowed to touch or take anything from the artificial reef, or fish off it as per Cayman law. You must pay the entrance fee to visit the reef. Money from entrance fees is used to maintain and protect the reef.

Fact #2: It’s Diver Friendly

The Kittiwake was cleaned of all oils and chemicals before it was sunk. This was to avoid polluting the water and nearby reefs, and to help make the ship diver-friendly. Most of the ship’s internal fixtures were removed for the same reason. Open water divers are allowed to swim through the first three of the five ship decks. Advanced divers can swim all five. Dive highlights include a mess hall with tables and chairs, a decompression chamber, and a bathroom with mirrors so you can see yourself in your dive gear.

Fact #3: The Ship Is Only 15 Feet Below the Water During Low Tide

The famous ship is a mere 15 feet below the water during low tide, and 64 feet below the surface during high tide.

Fact #4: It Recovered the Black Box From the Challenger

Most of the Kittiwake’s missions are naturally classified, but it’s still possible to look up stories about the sub’s heyday. For example, the sub recovered the black box from the tragic Challenger space shuttle explosion in 1986 after it fell into the stormy waters of the Atlantic.

Fact #5: Swimming Outside of the Wreck Is Not Recommended

Swimming outside or anywhere near the artificial reef is not considered safe. It is a “high-traffic” area for marine life, including the gentle-yet-enormous whale sharks.

What other facts do you know about the Kittiwake and its function as an artificial reef?

The 5 Best Things About Island Life

Ah, island life. It’s one lifestyle many dream of, whether for retirement or another reason. So, what makes living on a tropical island so wonderful and idyllic? Here are five of the top reasons to consider island life.

1. The Beach: Living the island life is perfect for anyone who loves the beach. White sands, the sound and spray of the ocean, the scent of the salt air, the shells—the beach is even wonderful when it’s cloudy out. The landscape takes on a haunting, mysterious quality that’s inspired paintings, poems, and endless other creative works. If you enjoy swimming in the ocean, running along the coastline, engaging in water and beach sports, or simply lounging while taking in your surroundings, island life is something to aspire to.

2. The Activities: Watersports are just some of the many activities to partake in while living or staying on a tropical island. Parasailing, waterskiing, and boating are all water-tastic favorites, but there is also a lot of land action to enjoy. Hiking is a favorite pastime; stroll through a jungle setting to a remote location or walk around a dormant volcano. Nature abounds in tropical settings, and there’s plenty of beauty to feast your eye on.

3. The History: Island life allows you to immerse yourself in the history of the land. Was the island used as a treasure trove for pirates? The Cayman Islands has such a stunning pirate history that its tourism board created a week’s worth of annual celebrations. There’s even a mock pirate raid! How about historic landmarks, such as forts and other battle sites? How did the cultures on the island of your choice merge to form the unique paradise it is today? If you’re a history buff, islands and island chains offer a lot to learn about.

4. The Atmosphere: Tropical islands are frequently known for featuring “island time.” Island time refers to that laid-back, easy, peaceful feeling that causes you to relax. Moreover, island residents take their time—they know everything will get done, and there’s no need to go a mile a minute. Many talk about the sense of relief and relaxation they experience when they switch to island time.

5. The Sunsets: Who can argue with the gloriousness of a tropical sunset? The orange sun seems to fall behind the waves to create a beautiful setting perfect for romantic nights out, family fun, and individual enjoyment and contemplation. The supreme beauty of a tropical island sunset is paradise found.

What are your top five favorite things about island life?

Official Guide to Cayman Islands West Bay

Caribbean-style architecture, winding roads, white sands, blue water, gorgeous sunsets…there are plenty of reasons to visit Cayman Islands West Bay. The mainly residential district features some of the most popular Cayman Island attractions, as well as lots of great restaurants and places to stay. Learn a little about Cayman Islands West Bay to make your trip that much more memorable.

Attractions

Swim with local wildlife at the Cayman Turtle Farm, one of the most famous attractions in the Cayman Islands. Sea turtles and other colorful marine life abound at this attraction, which is near the historic Cayman Street. The Caribbean Aviary is also near the turtle farm and features a variety of exotic feathered friends.

Other top attractions in Cayman Islands West Bay are the Kittiwake Shipwreck & Artificial Reef. The Kittiwake was a submarine used by the U.S. Navy from 1946 until 1994. It was intentionally sunk in 2011 to create an artificial reef. Divers can explore the five decks, which feature pieces from the sub’s glory days, including a decompression chamber. Must-see attractions in Cayman Islands West Bay also include the Barkers National Park and deserted beach, the Cayman Motor Museum, and Dolphin Discovery Grand Cayman.

Restaurants

Enjoy a range of restaurants in Cayman Islands West Bay, including casual spots and fine dining wonders. Among the best is Casa 43, a Mexican eatery featuring a delicious menu and amazing margaritas. The Bistro is another favorite that brings a “taste of Paris” to the Caribbean. This establishment is located in the center of Seven Mile Beach and is renowned for mussels with pomme frites, tuna tartare, and other savory dishes. Enjoy the “shack chic” stylings of Calypso Grill, a fine dining establishment featuring fresh caught fish from the restaurant’s adjacent deck. Other recommendations include Alfresco, Cracked Conch, Heritage Kitchen, and Liberty’s.

Accommodations

Rest after a long day of fun in the sun at one of Grand Cayman West Bay’s best hotels. Grand Cayman Beach Suites is a 53-room boutique hotel that includes an 18-hole golf course and dive center, as well as plenty of amenities. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach & Resort is an airy resort that provides guests with prime Seven Mile Beach spots. Other top options include the Sunshine Suites Grand Cayman and the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman.

Activities

Enjoy a range of wonderful activities on Cayman Islands West Bay, such as horseback riding, kite surfing, and swimming with dolphins. You can also decide to “take a trip to Hell” and send postcards to friends! Hell is so named for the quarter acre of blackened calciferous rock it features.

It is impossible to get bored while staying on Cayman Islands West Bay! Relax, have an adventure or two, and immerse yourself in the local culture. You will undoubtedly leave the island feeling refreshed and renewed.