Grand Cayman: Stingray City, Starfish Point & Snorkel Tour

Summary

Swim with stingrays then drift over coral gardens before relaxing at Starfish Point

You’ll wade among wild stingrays at Stingray City, snorkel bright reefs with tropical fish swirling around you, and unwind at peaceful Starfish Point — all with a friendly local guide handling logistics and hotel pickup. Expect laughter, salty air, and a few surprises you’ll probably keep thinking about long after you’ve rinsed off the sand.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway across the North Sound before I realized how salty the air tasted — like someone had just splashed a bucket of ocean on my lips. Our guide, Marcus, handed out juice boxes and grinned when he caught me squinting at the horizon. “First time?” he asked. I nodded, trying not to look nervous about meeting the famous stingrays of Stingray City. The boat ride from our hotel pickup was quick but loud, everyone chattering or snapping photos as Grand Cayman slipped away behind us.

I still remember that first step off the boat — water up to my waist, sun sharp on my shoulders, and then suddenly a ripple underfoot. The stingrays glided in so close I could see their eyes blinking up through the clear water. Marcus showed us how to hold our hands flat (“like pancakes!”) and one of them brushed right past me. It felt cool and slippery, not slimy like I’d expected. My niece squealed when another one bumped her leg; even Marcus laughed at that.

Afterwards we headed for Coral Gardens — or maybe it was Barrier Reef, I honestly lost track because I was so distracted by the colors underwater. Parrot fish zipped past my mask in flashes of blue and yellow. The salt stung my nose a bit but I didn’t care; floating there felt weirdly peaceful. Not everyone wanted to snorkel far from the boat (my uncle bailed after five minutes), but the crew had floaties for anyone who needed them, which helped.

Starfish Point was quieter than everywhere else — just a handful of people scattered along the sandbar, sunburned and happy-looking. The starfish really do move if you watch long enough (slowly, but still). Someone tried to teach me their real name in Spanish but I forgot it as soon as we started talking about lunch plans back on shore. Sometimes you just want to stand there with your feet in the sand and not think too hard about anything else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Stingray City and snorkeling tour

• Hotel pickup and transport to marina
• Boat ride to Stingray City
• Wade and interact with stingrays
• Snorkel at Coral Garden or Barrier Reef
• Boat ride to Starfish Point
• Relax and observe starfish
• Return boat ride to marina
• Transport back to hotel

Top questions

How long is the Stingray City & Starfish Point tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours including transport from your hotel or cruise port.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this Grand Cayman tour?

Yes, snorkeling gear including goggles, life vest, and fins are included in your booking.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer for the snorkeling part?

No; if you’re not confident in open water, let your crew know—they have floaties available.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes; infants can ride in a pram or stroller and must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

What should I bring to Stingray City & Starfish Point?

You should bring your own towel, sunscreen, snacks, and motion sickness medicine if needed.

Is hotel pickup included for this Grand Cayman excursion?

Yes; round-trip hotel or cruise ship port pickup and drop-off are included in your tour.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip hotel or cruise port pickup on Grand Cayman, all boat transport between stops like Stingray City Sand Bar and Starfish Point, use of snorkeling equipment (goggles, life vest, fins), drinks like water or juice onboard, plus guidance from a local crew who’ll help you get comfortable in the water before bringing you back again at the end.