Private Half-Day Stingray City Charter — Grand Cayman Snorkel & Starfish Beach
Step off the boat into waist-deep turquoise and meet the gentle stingrays at the famed North Sound sandbar. This private half-day charter combines snorkeling at Coral Gardens and the Barrier Reef with a relaxed stop at Starfish Beach.
The Experience
Before You Go
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply a biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen before boarding to protect corals and avoid reapplying in the water.
Secure a well-fitting mask
Bring your own mask if you prefer a guaranteed fit — rentals are provided but fogging can cut visibility.
Watch your step on the sandbar
Move slowly around stingrays and keep fins low to avoid kicking fragile tails or stepping on hidden animals.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Even short rides across the North Sound can be choppy for sensitive travelers — ginger or patches help.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Rum Point for a low-key beach bar and shallow snorkeling north of the sound
- •Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park for terrestrial native flora and blue iguana views
Wildlife
- •Southern stingrays
- •Green sea turtles
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize no-feeding rules and reef-safe products—follow crew guidance to minimize disturbance to rays and coral and avoid removing marine life.
The sandbars and reefs formed from coral growth and ocean currents; Stingray City became a wildlife interaction site after fishermen used shallow channels to clean fish, attracting rays.
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects coral and complies with local conservation guidance.
Personal snorkel mask
Ensures a secure fit and clearer vision than some rental masks.
Water shoes
Protects feet on sandy, rocky shorelines like Starfish Beach.
Waterproof camera or housing
Captures encounters with rays and colorful reef life without risking your phone.
Common Questions
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes — the sandbar is shallow and crew provide flotation devices, but non-swimmers should remain near the boat and follow staff instructions.
Are snorkeling gear and life jackets provided?
Yes; snorkeling equipment and life jackets are included, but many guests bring personal masks for comfort.
Can I touch or feed the stingrays?
No — the crew will explain safe interaction protocols; touching and feeding beyond guided demonstrations is discouraged to protect animal health.
What is the cancellation policy for bad weather?
Full refunds are typically available if the operator cancels for bad weather; guests should cancel at least 24 hours beforehand for a full refund per the tour policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
George Town, Grand Cayman
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be comfortable entering shallow saltwater and swimming short distances
Ready to Explore George Town?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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