Grand Cayman: Stingray City, Starfish Point & Coral Gardens Tour

Summary

Swim with stingrays snorkel coral reefs and find starfish on Grand Cayman

You’ll feel stingrays brush past at Stingray City, drift over bright corals while snorkeling at Coral Gardens, and hunt for starfish in clear shallows at Starfish Point—all with local guides who keep things relaxed and real. Expect easy hotel pickup and drop-off plus all your gear handled for you. It’s more than just a tour—it sticks with you.

What’s the experience like?

We climbed onto the boat still a bit groggy from the bus ride out of George Town—maybe twenty minutes? The crew was already joking with us before we even left the dock. I remember the salt in the air mixing with sunscreen and that weird excitement you get when you’re about to do something slightly out of your comfort zone. Our guide, Marcus, handed out masks and told us stories about growing up here—how his uncle used to call the stingrays “sea puppies.” I didn’t know what to expect at Stingray City, honestly. But when we jumped in (it’s shallow, maybe waist-deep), these huge southern stingrays just glided right up to us. Their skin felt slippery and cool against my hands. Marcus showed me how to feed them bits of squid; I tried not to flinch but yeah, it’s a wild feeling.

After that rush, we motored over to Coral Gardens for snorkeling. The water was so clear I could see my own shadow on the sand below—kind of surreal. There were parrotfish everywhere, all those neon colors flickering around bits of coral. At one point I got distracted watching a tiny yellow fish dart in and out of a brain coral and almost lost track of the group (Marcus waved me back in). The current wasn’t strong but you do have to pay attention or you’ll end up floating off staring at nothing like I did. Still thinking about that silence underwater—it’s different than pool silence, like everything is softer.

The last stop was Starfish Point. It’s quieter there; you can hear people laughing but mostly it’s just gentle waves lapping at your ankles. We waded through warm water looking for starfish—bright orange against the pale sand—and snapped a few photos (gently! Marcus kept reminding us not to lift them out too long). Some local kids were selling coconut slices near the shore; I bought one just because it smelled so good. On the boat ride back, everyone seemed kind of sun-dazed and happy. My hair was full of salt and I found sand everywhere later, but honestly? Worth it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Stingray City and Coral Gardens

• Visit Stingray City sandbar
• Snorkel at Coral Gardens
• Take pictures at Starfish Point
• Relax on Starfish Beach
• Return to dock and board bus
• Drive back to cruise ship pier

Top questions

How long is the Grand Cayman Stingray City & Starfish Point tour?

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours total.

Is transportation included from my hotel or cruise ship?

Yes, round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus is included from port or hotel.

Can children join this tour?

Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult; infants must sit on an adult’s lap.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling equipment?

No, snorkeling equipment is provided as part of the tour.

What should I bring for this day trip?

You should bring towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, and a credit card if needed.

How deep is the water at Stingray City Sandbar?

The water at Stingray City Sandbar is shallow—about waist-deep for most adults.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; only water is provided but snacks are recommended.

Can I touch or hold the starfish at Starfish Point?

You may gently interact with starfish in their natural environment but should not remove them from water for long.

Are life vests available during the trip?

Yes, life vests are available for all participants.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus from your hotel or cruise port to the dock and back again after the tour; all snorkeling equipment provided; life vests for safety; fresh water onboard; experienced local staff guiding each stop; plus squid to feed the stingrays at Stingray City before returning sun-soaked in time for your ship or evening plans.