Grand Cayman Private Charter: Stingray City & Starfish Point

Summary

Swim with stingrays snorkel coral gardens relax at starfish beach

You’ll glide over Grand Cayman’s turquoise water on your own boat, swim alongside gentle stingrays at Stingray City Sandbar, snorkel among colorful fish at Coral Gardens, and unwind at peaceful Starfish Point. Local guides share stories (and fruit), making each stop feel relaxed and real. You’ll leave salty-haired and smiling — maybe even a little lucky.

What’s the experience like?

We were already laughing before we even left the dock in Grand Cayman — I think it was the way Captain Mike teased my friend about her floppy sunhat. The boat (ours for the morning, which felt kind of wild) hummed out over that clear blue water, and I kept catching whiffs of salt and sunscreen. Our guide, Li, handed out masks and told us stories about growing up here — he said his uncle still remembers when Stingray City was just a fisherman’s secret. I tried to picture that as we slowed near the sandbar, but honestly, all I could focus on was the sudden shadowy shapes gliding below us.

I didn’t expect to feel so nervous stepping into three feet of water — but then there they were: stingrays everywhere, soft and cool against my legs. Li showed us how to hold our hands flat so they’d brush past gently (he laughed when I squeaked). Someone nearby kissed a stingray for luck — apparently that’s a thing here? The whole place buzzed with this weird mix of excitement and calm. Afterward, we dried off in the sun while Li cut up fruit for us. It tasted extra sweet somehow.

Next stop was Coral Gardens. The water here looked almost fake — so clear you could count every stripe on the fish. Snorkeling felt easy; even if you’re not an expert swimmer, you can just float and watch parrotfish nibble at coral fans. There was this one moment where everything went quiet except for the sound of my own breathing through the snorkel — I still think about that sometimes.

We finished at Starfish Point. It’s quieter there, just shallow water and these bright orange starfish scattered everywhere like someone tossed them from a bucket (don’t worry, you can look but not pick them up). We sat on the sand eating sandwiches from the cooler and watching tiny crabs skitter by. Nobody rushed us back to shore; it felt like we could’ve stayed all afternoon if we wanted. So yeah — if you want a private Stingray City charter that actually feels personal, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Stingraycity, Coral Gardens, Starfish Pointe

• Arrive at Stingraycity Sandbar
• Swim with stingrays in shallow water
• Snorkel at Coral Gardens
• See colorful corals and fishes
• Visit Starfish Pointe beach
• Enjoy beach with various starfish

Top questions

How long does the private Stingray City charter last?

The tour covers three stops and typically lasts several hours; exact timing depends on your group’s pace.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Grand Cayman tour?

Yes, snorkeling masks are provided by the crew for use at Coral Gardens.

Can children join the private Stingray City charter?

Yes, kids are welcome; infants can ride in prams or sit on an adult’s lap.

What food and drinks are included during the trip?

You can choose between fruit platters or sandwich platters; soda and bottled water are also included.

Are hotel pickups available for this Grand Cayman boat tour?

Yes, transportation is offered for cruise ship passengers and hotels along Seven Mile Beach area.

How many people can join one private charter?

The boats accommodate small groups; larger boats are available for groups up to 75 people upon request.

Will our guide be in the water with us?

Yes, your local guide will be in the water at every stop to assist and share information.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or cruise port pickup along Seven Mile Beach, all snorkeling gear provided by friendly local guides who join you in the water throughout each stop, plus your choice of fresh fruit or sandwich platters with soda and bottled water served onboard before returning to shore whenever you’re ready.