Grand Cayman: Stingray City & Starfish Point private boat tour

Summary

Swim with stingrays and wander quiet shores on Grand Cayman

You’ll step onto your own boat in Grand Cayman with a local guide, meet friendly stingrays at Stingray City, spot starfish along quiet shores at Starfish Point, and snorkel colorful reefs with all gear included. With space to relax and time to linger where you like best, it’s an easygoing day trip you’ll remember long after your feet dry off.

What’s the experience like?

We climbed onto the little Sea Ray boat just after lunch — sun already high, but the breeze kept things easy. Our guide, Marcus, handed me a mask and grinned like he’d seen a hundred nervous first-timers before. “Ready to meet some locals?” he joked, meaning the stingrays at Stingray City. I could smell sunscreen and salt in the air, and honestly my heart was thumping a bit. The water out here is this weird blue that almost looks fake in photos, but it’s real — you’ll see.

Stingray City was busy from afar but our captain steered us to a quieter patch. The rays glided up so close I could feel their soft weight brushing my legs (not slimy at all — more like velvet). Marcus showed us how to feed them; I tried not to flinch when one sucked the food right out of my hand. He laughed and said everyone does that the first time. There were families on other boats but we had space to ourselves — no shouting or crowds, just some quiet splashing and those odd little squeaks stingrays make when they’re excited (I didn’t know they did that).

Afterward we drifted over to Starfish Point. It’s calmer there — hardly anyone around except a couple of kids poking at shells. The sand felt powdery underfoot and I found myself crouching down just watching these bright red starfish sitting still in the shallows. Marcus told us not to pick them up for too long (“they need water on their skin”), which made sense once you see how slow and peaceful they are. We sipped cold sodas from the cooler and let our feet dangle off the side of the boat for a while — I think I lost track of time here.

The last stop was snorkeling over some coral in about 12 feet of water. Fish everywhere — yellow ones mostly, darting between rocks. I kept fogging up my mask because I forgot how to breathe properly through the snorkel (classic), but nobody cared. Marcus pointed out a parrotfish munching away at coral; he said if you listen underwater you can actually hear them crunching sometimes. Didn’t expect that part.

I still think about floating there with sunlight flickering through the water and nothing but muffled sounds all around me. If you want a day trip from Grand Cayman that feels personal — not rushed or crowded — this private boat tour is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Half-Day Boat Tour

• Board 25ft Sea Ray Sundeck boat
• Visit Stingray City
• Stop at Starfish Point
• Snorkeling in 12-15 feet water

Top questions

How long does this private boat tour last?

This is a half-day charter; exact timing depends on your preferences but expect several hours on the water.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkeling gear is included for everyone on board.

Can we customize our stops?

Yes, you can request different stops or adjust the itinerary when booking.

Are drinks included on this tour?

Soda and bottled water are provided during your trip.

Is this tour suitable for young children or infants?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed on board.

Will there be other people on our boat?

No, this is a private charter just for your group with a local guide.

Are life jackets available?

Life jackets are provided for all guests as part of the inclusions.

Can we bring our own food or beverages?

You’re welcome to bring your own snacks or drinks if you’d like.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by your local guide in Grand Cayman, use of life jackets and snorkeling equipment for everyone in your group, bottled water and sodas onboard, plus food for feeding stingrays at Stingray City before returning whenever you’re ready.