Grand Cayman: Private Charter to Stingray City, Starfish & Reef

Summary

Stingray City sandbar, starfish shores and Rum Point reef in one relaxed day

You’ll float with gentle stingrays at Stingray City’s shallow sandbar, cradle bright sea stars at peaceful Starfish Point, and snorkel among vivid coral at Rum Point—all with a friendly local crew guiding you every step. This private charter lets you set your own pace and soak up Grand Cayman’s North Sound without crowds or rush.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed as we pulled away from the dock in Grand Cayman was how quiet it got—just the hum of the boat and the slap of water underneath. Our captain, Mark, tossed me a cold bottle of water and grinned like he’d seen this all before (he probably had). We headed straight for Stingray City, which I’d heard about but honestly didn’t expect to feel so weirdly peaceful. The water was only up to my waist, warm and clear enough to see my toes—and then suddenly there were stingrays everywhere. They brushed past my legs like slippery velvet. Mark called them “underwater puppies,” which made us laugh but also felt true. I tried not to squeal when one nudged my ankle.

After that, we drifted over to Starfish Point. It’s quieter there—no crowds, just a couple of kids chasing tiny crabs along the sand. Our guide Li handed me a Red Cushion Sea Star and showed me how to hold it gently (I was nervous I’d drop it). The colors were unreal—deep orange against pale sand—and I caught myself just staring for a minute while everyone else took photos. There’s something about that spot—the way the breeze smells salty and sweet at once, or maybe it’s just being far from everything else for a bit.

We finished at Rum Point for snorkeling. The coral is wild here—bright patches with darting fish everywhere you look. I swallowed more seawater than I’d admit (Li laughed when I coughed), but seeing those fish up close made it worth it. You can grab a snack at the beach bar if you want; we just sat on the boat with our feet dangling over the side until it was time to head back. Honestly, I still think about that view across North Sound—the light on the water looked different somehow after all that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Stingray City and nearby reefs

• Watch Southern Stingrays at Stingray City
• Relax and observe Red Cushion Sea Star
• Snorkel at Rum Point reef

Top questions

How many people can join the private charter?

The boat fits up to 8 guests per group booking.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, use of snorkel and safety equipment is included.

Are children or infants allowed on board?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the charter is wheelchair accessible.

Can we choose our own stops during the tour?

Yes, you choose your stops—the itinerary is flexible within North Sound attractions.

Does the price cover everyone or is it per person?

The price is per group for up to 8 people—not per person.

Will there be other groups on our boat?

No, this is a fully private tour for your group only.

What attractions are usually included?

The usual stops are Stingray City sandbar, Starfish Point, and Rum Point reef.

What’s included

Your day includes a private boat charter with both captain and guide, bottled water plus cooler and ice onboard, use of all snorkel and safety equipment, and plenty of flexibility—you pick your favorite stops around Grand Cayman’s North Sound before returning comfortably together at the end.