Cayman Islands: Stingray City, Starfish Point & Coral Snorkeling Tour

Summary

Swim with stingrays and spot starfish on a Cayman Islands boat day

You’ll float over colorful reefs at Coral Gardens, stand among gentle stingrays at Stingray City (with a local guide nearby if you get jumpy), and wade through warm shallows at Starfish Point spotting starfish under your toes. Pickup is included from George Town or Seven Mile Beach—just bring your sense of wonder (and maybe a waterproof camera).

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to feel nervous about the stingrays. But standing in the clear waist-deep water at Stingray City, watching those big, soft shapes glide around my ankles—yeah, it gets your heart going. Our guide, Marcus (born and raised here), grinned and told us not to worry. “They’re like puppies,” he said, and then he just reached out and stroked one right across its back. It felt smooth and cool, almost rubbery. The kids on our boat squealed when one brushed past their legs—I probably did too if I’m honest.

Before that stop, we’d already been snorkeling over Coral Gardens. The water was so clear it almost looked fake; you could see every flick of a fish tail below. I kept getting distracted by the sunlight shifting across the coral—somehow it looked pinker than I expected? My mask kept fogging up but I didn’t even care. There was a moment where someone pointed out a turtle off to the left but I missed it because I was trying to adjust my fins (rookie mistake). Still kicking myself for that.

The last stop was Starfish Point—shallow water, warm as bathwater, with these bright orange-red starfish scattered everywhere like someone had dropped them from above. Our guide reminded us not to pick them up (apparently they’re sensitive), so we just knelt down and watched them move ever so slightly in the sand. It’s quieter there—no engine noise, just soft voices and the occasional splash. I caught myself thinking how weirdly peaceful it felt after all the excitement earlier.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel and explore marine life

• Travel to Coral Gardens
• Snorkel and observe coral formations
• Visit Stingray City
• Feed and photograph stingrays
• Go to Starfish Point
• Relax and view starfish

Top questions

How long does the Stingray City & Starfish Experience tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel or port pickup included for this Cayman Islands tour?

Yes, complimentary pickup is provided from central George Town hotels or Seven Mile Beach resorts.

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer to join the snorkeling part?

No, life jackets are required during snorkeling stops for safety and all fitness levels are welcome.

Can children participate in this tour?

Yes, this tour is suitable for all ages including young kids.

Will there be a guide during the experience?

Yes, professional local guides accompany you throughout the tour.

Are drinks provided on board?

Sodas and water are included during the excursion.

Where does the tour depart from?

The main departure point is Royal Watler Terminal in George Town.

Can I bring my own camera for photos with stingrays?

You can bring a waterproof camera or use the onboard photographer’s services for photos.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or port pickup from George Town or Seven Mile Beach, all snorkeling equipment (life jackets too), guided boat transfers between Coral Gardens, Stingray City sandbar, and Starfish Point—with plenty of time at each spot—plus sodas and water along the way before returning you back where you started.