Camana Bay Ferry Service to Rum Point

Have you ever wanted to get to Rum Point, but not wanted to make the long, winding, hour-long drive from Seven Mile Beach? Have you ever wondered who was going to drive back if you all had a few "Original Mudslides" from the Wreck Bar? Have you never been to Rum Point, but want to give it a try? The answer to all of these question lies in the news that Camana Bay has started a new ferry service to and from Kaibo Yacht Club. 

While the Kaibo Yacht Club isn't exactly Rum Point, once there, you are just a 2 minute shuttle ride away from Rum Point. The ferry service currently runs every day except Monday with times varying by day. At a cost of just $20 C.I. per person, this is a rather affordable option to get to Rum Point without having to drive or charter a boat. 

The comfortable boat cruises from Camana Bay through the North Sound and to the dock at Kaibo Yacht Club. From there you are able to hop on a shuttle provided by the ferry service to be at Rum Point in about 35 minutes total. The reason the ferry is not able to drop-off directly at Rum Point is because the dock is in water that is too shallow for the boat.

Once at Rum Point, you are able to order food from their kitchen, including their terrific mahi mahi wrap or sandwich. This is also the home of the Original Mudslide. The sign famously asks, "Do you serve virgin mudslides?" with the response being "yes we do-a cup of ice is free." (This is why having a boat to get back to 7 Mile Beach comes in handy).

The next time you are on the island, give the new ferry service a try. After all, you can't really go wrong with an afternoon on the quiet, isolated beach of Rum Point.

This blog posting was brought to you by Cayman Condos. For information on any of our blog postings or to inquire about booking a condo, please contact our office at 800-999-1388. Something you love about the blog? Something you hate? Something you want me to write about? Let me know: [email protected].

 

Cayman's Top Attractions

When someone plans a vacation, undoubtedly the first question is “What is there to do there?” The nice thing about a trip to the Cayman Islands is laying on the beach, soaking up the rays, listening to the waves, and relaxing with an island drink in hand is enough to make any vacation great. However, if you want to get some relief from the sun, here are five must-see attractions on Grand Cayman.

 #5. Head to Georgetown for Duty-Free Shopping: I will admit, I’m not much for shopping, but even I like to visit the shops downtown once per trip. The shops are all duty and tax free, which allows for some great deals not found in the United States. Shop for sunglasses, jewelry, watches, leather, souvenirs, and more. Helpful tip: Visit the shops in Georgetown on a day when there are no cruise ships. You will be able to have several shops to yourself in a small walking radius. You can find out the cruise schedule at: 

Cayman Islands Cruise Ship Schedule

 #4. Swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Cove: While this is kind of pricey, I feel it is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You get to pet, kiss, and hold the dolphins, while learning all about this amazing creature. Plus there is no bigger thrill than floating on your stomach and waiting for two huge dolphins to swim up from behind you at full speed and push you up in the air by your feet (see picture). As a guy asked the trainer when we were there, "What happens if they miss your feet?", the trainer responded, "They won't miss." Let's hope not...

Dolphin Cove Website

#3. Dine at Casanova’s By The Sea. I don’t typically consider a good restaurant a tourist attraction, but Casanova’s is always a highlight of my trip. This Italian restaurant, overlooking the Caribbean Sea, offers a wide variety of pasta, seafood, and chicken entrees. Tony Crescente, a true Italian, is the owner and prides himself on authentic food from his homeland with family recipes. The service is impeccable and they definitely make every person feel welcome, as though you are part of their family. Whether on a romantic honeymoon get-away or there with a large group, the atmosphere at Casanova's makes this a must-try attraction. Even if you are making your first ever visit to Casanova's, the staff will make you feel like Norm from "Cheers", where everyone knows your name.

Casanova's Website

 

#2. Have a mudslide at the Wreck Bar at Rum Point: If you have ever had a mudslide in America or at any other bar in Cayman, you might think it’s pretty good. You haven’t had a mudslide until you try one from the Wreck Bar at Rum Point. The sign at the bar says it best: “How much for a virgin mudslide? Cups of ice are FREE!!” If you can find a captain to take you over via boat, that allows you to enjoy the mudslides without worrying about driving. If you have a rental car, it is about a 45 minute drive across the beautiful scenery of the Cayman Islands along the East End. Whether by boat or by car, Rum Point is a must visit attraction. Spend an afternoon here lounging on the beach and floating in the shallow water, or relaxing in a hammock after a mudslide and a mahi sandwich! Friendly tip from experience: when you are with 7 people---42 mudslides in one afternoon is about 28 too many.

#1. Take a boat on a snorkel trip to Stingray City. The highlight of any trip to the Cayman Islands is a day on the North Sound. There are several different captains that will take you out. The trip usually starts with a visit to Stingray City for a once in a lifetime opportunity to hold, pet, and play with these fascinating creatures. These create some great photo opportunities as the captains will feed and hold the stingrays allowing them to be held in a calm manner. The next stop is along the coral reef in the North Sound. It is here that you might see lobsters, nurse sharks, and lots of beautiful fish. Finally a stop by the coral gardens to look at schools of colorful fish, sea turtles, and even a moray eel, ends the wonderful day. 

This blog posting was brought to you by Cayman Condos. For information on any of our blog postings or to inquire about booking a condo, please contact our office at 800-999-1388. Something you love about the blog? Something you hate? Something you want me to write about? Let me know: [email protected].

The ABCs of Grand Cayman

I did a similar posting a couple years ago, but I thought it was time to refresh my list! Enjoy!

A: Atlantis-Take an under-water tour on the Atlantis Submarine. To spice it up a little bit, try the night trip.

B: Billy Bones-Visit the swim-up pool bar at Sunset Cove. With barside seating (out of the water) and barstool seating (in the water), they have all your favorite island drinks and a delicious food menu.

C: Camana Bay-Spanning 500 acres from Seven Mile Beach to the North Sound, there is something for everyone in this new village. Check out the shops, restaurants, movie theater and more.

D: Dog House-A popular destination for those die-hard sports fans wondering how they are going to see their favorite NFL team play on Sunday. This sports bar has all the games. Located in Red Bay, just East of downtown George Town.

E: East End: If you have a car, take a drive to the East End. It will give you a great view of the non-touristy part of Grand Cayman. You'll see a lot of locals, homes, schools and more as you make the scenic drive along the coast. On the way home, stop at the Lighthouse Restaurant for a great lunch.

F: Fidel Murphy's: This Irish Pub is located right next door to Sunset Cove and provides great food and drinks for a reasonable price.

G: George Town: Head to the heart of downtown Grand Cayman for some duty-free shopping. However, check out the cruise ship schedule and try to time your visit downtown on a day with no cruise ships.

H: Happy Hour: Enjoy Happy Hour on the patio of your condo with your favorite beverage (wine for me) and snacks as you watch the beautiful Cayman sunset.

I: Island Time: Rembmer that everyone in Grand Cayman operates on "Island Time". 9:00 means 9:20. There is no such thing as a quick meal. And sometimes you'll go to a shop in the middle of the day and there will be a sign that says "Be Back Soon" on the door. Don't worry about it. No problem, mon. You're on vacation.

J: Jolly Roger: Enjoy a sunset cruise on an old pirate ship, with all you can drink rum punch. Warning: These pirates go light on the juice.

K: Karma: Cayman's new sushi bar offers a great dining experience, complete with their specialty dessert-liquid nitrogen ice cream, prepared at your table from scratch.

L: Lazy: It's OK to be lazy in Cayman. It's your time to relax. Read a book. Lay in the sun. Cool down in the pool or ocean. Repeat.

M: Morgan's Harbour. Visit West Bay and make a stop at Morgan's Harbour for a great dining experience at Calypso Grill with waterfront seating.

N: Nature: Enjoy all the beutiful things nature has to offer on one island. Flowers. Palm trees. Plants. Animals. Fish. Sunsets. Moonlight. 

O: Ocean Swimming Cove: The newly created cove at Sunset Cove allows for swimming in the ocean perfect for kids as the cove keeps the water warm and protects against the big waves. Grab a drink and a raft and spend a few hours in the cove.

P: Positano: Casanova's is the Island's best restaurant and my favorite dish is the Spaghettini Positano. The atmosphere, wait staff, wine and food are second to none at this island treasure. Stop in and visit Tony, Gianni, Antonio and the rest of the guys for a night you won't soon forget.

 

Q: Quick: The vacation to Grand Cayman always goes too quick. Enjoy every moment because it truly is paradise.

R: Rum Point--Home of the Original Mudslide, Rum Point is a must-visit. If you can find a boat or jet ski tour to take you there, that is best because you don't have to worry about driving home after your Mudslides.

S: Stingray City--One of the more unique places in the world, Stingray City offers the opportunity to swim with, pet, and feed these amazing animals. You might even score with a stingray back massage. 

T: Turtle Farm--The Cayman Island's Turtle Farm is a great spot for children to visit where then can pet, hold, and learn all about turtles.

U: UV Rays--No matter how much sun you are used to or how much you tanned before you visited, lots of sunscreen is going to be needed. The Cayman Islands are located on the equator and combined with the reflection of the sun off the pool and ocean, the perfect receipe for sunburn.

V: Video Camera: Take a video camera because there are sure to be moments you will want to remember forever.

W: Watersports--Take a walk down 7 Mile Beach and visit any of the Watersports stands. Jetski. Parasail. Kayak. Banana Boat Rides. They have it all for you or your family to enjoy.

X: XoXo: Weddings. Honeymoons. Anniversaries. There is no more romantic place than Grand Cayman in the world.

Y: Year-round: Grand Cayman is a year-round destination. There is never a bad time to visit Cayman. Whether in the hot summer months, or the warm winter months, the Cayman Islands are always comfortable and the water is always warm.

Z: Zoo: The Grand Cayman waters offer your very own under-water zoo full of animals and fish.

This blog posting was brought to you by Cayman Condos. For information on any of our blog postings or to inquire about booking a condo, please contact our office at 800-999-1388. Something you love about the blog? Something you hate? Something you want me to write about? Let me know: [email protected].

 

 

North Sound Wave Runner Tours

    There is no better place for relaxation than Cayman, but if you’re looking for a little adventure, there is plenty of that available as well.  Taking a wave runner tour is one of the most exciting and liberating ways to explore the North Sound.  Fat Fish Adventures offers a fun and thorough tour with an excellent mix of riding the waves, and seeing the various sights that make the North Sound in Grand Cayman so special.

    Fat Fish does a fantastic tour from start to finish.  They will pick you up right at your condo and take you to the jet-ski launch.  While they offer the option to ride double or triple, I recommend getting your own wave runner.  This allows you to go as fast (or as slow) as you want and makes it easier to ride the waves when it gets bumpy.  Fat Fish provides you with life jackets, snorkel gear, and an excellent and knowledgeable guide, Richard.  After a quick run through of the rules and regulations, you are off – full speed - trying to keep up with your energetic guide. 

    First stop on the tour is Starfish Beach.  The deserted shores are beautiful, and the knee-deep water attracts plenty of starfish.  Be sure to bring your camera – Richard creates some excellent photo-ops of you holding the starfish. 

    After leaving the beach, it is a quick trip to Stingray City Sandbar.  The smaller group of a jet-ski tour gives you plenty of one-on-one time with your guide to learn about these amazing creatures.  You have the opportunity to hold them, feed them, and give Stingray kisses for good luck.  Once everyone has had their stingray fun, you will head off to a coral reef for some snorkeling.

    One of the best parts of this snorkel experience is having Richard right there in the water with you.  He points out things you may never see on your own, and as an experienced lobster catcher, he often grabs one for you to see up close.  At this reef, you may also see barracuda, nurse sharks, and eels, along with all sorts of colorful and interesting fish. 

    At this point, you will have worked up quite an appetite which is perfect since the last stop is at Rum Point for lunch – and of course their famous mudslides.  Rum Point has some of the best food on the island, and after a long morning of North Sound adventures, you will be ready for it! 

    After lunch, it’s time to head in.  It’s a long trip back, but those of you looking for some adventure will love hitting the waves and attempting to keep up with Richard, who is always full speed ahead.  I recommend wearing sunglasses (with a strap) because you will get splashed, and be prepared for a bumpy - but extremely enjoyable - ride. 

    The Fat Fish wave runner tour is one of the best tours I have done in Cayman, and quite possibly one of the easiest ways to see many North Sound attractions in a short amount of time.  They pack a lot into the trip but it’s a fun day out on the water that I would recommend to anyone. 

 

This blog posting was brought to you by Cayman Condos. For information on any of our blog postings or to inquire about booking a condo, please contact our office at 800-999-1388. Something you love about the blog? Something you hate? Something you want me to write about? Let me know: [email protected].

 

So where exactly is Grand Cayman?

Amazingly, Grand Cayman is only 22 miles long and 7 miles wide (at the widest point), which makes it seem like you are isolated in a small speck of tropical paradise.

However, people rarely take the time before visiting to look and see where they are actually going to be. Have you ever been relaxing in the ocean in the Cayman Islands and said, "Wow! I'm so comfortable, I'm going to just float to Cuba?" If you were to float uninterrupted from Grand Cayman, where exactly WOULD you end up? Would it be Cuba? Well that depends on which side of the island you are floating. Let's take a look!!

•  If you are floating along Seven Mile Beach in front of your condo and floated directly West, the first land you would hit, if you floated in a straight line for 378 miles, is somewhere between Cozumel, Mexico and Belize.
• If you are floating in the North Sound or at Rum Point, and floated directly North, you would run directly into Cuba after floating for 150 miles.

• If you are floating on the East End, and floated directly East, you'd be headed straight towards Haiti, which is 578 miles away.
• Finally, if you are floating on the South Side of the island near Boddentown or Breakers, and floated directly South, the first land you would hit would be Panama in Central America, which is 724 miles away.

While I wouldn't recommend trying to float the hundreds of miles of Caribbean Seat that separate the Cayman Islands from these various locations, it gives you some perspective of just where exactly you are when you are relaxing in paradise.

This blog posting was brought to you by Cayman Condos. For information on any of our blog postings or to inquire about booking a condo, please contact our office at 800-999-1388. Something you love about the blog? Something you hate? Something you want me to wrtie about? Let me know: [email protected].

My Top 5 Cayman Islands Attractions

When someone plans a vacation, undoubtedly the first question is “What is there to do there?” The nice thing about a trip to the Cayman Islands is laying on the beach, soaking up the rays, listening to the waves, and relaxing with an island drink in hand is enough to make any vacation great. However, if you want to get some relief from the sun, here are five must-see attractions on Grand Cayman.

 #5. Head to Georgetown for Duty-Free Shopping: I will admit, I’m not much for shopping, but even I like to visit the shops downtown once per trip. The shops are all duty and tax free, which allows for some great deals not found in the United States. Shop for sunglasses, jewelry, watches, leather, souvenirs, and more. Helpful tip: Visit the shops in Georgetown on a day when there are no cruise ships. You will be able to have several shops to yourself in a small walking radius. You can find out the cruise schedule at: 

Cayman Islands Cruise Schedule

 #4. Swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Cove: While this is kind of pricey, I feel it is a once in a lifetime opportunity. You get to pet, kiss, and hold the dolphins, while learning all about this amazing creature. Plus there is no bigger thrill than floating on your stomach and waiting for two huge dolphins to swim up from behind you at full speed and push you up in the air by your feet (see picture). As a guy asked the trainer when we were there, "What happens if they miss your feet?", the trainer responded, "They won't miss." Let's hope not...

Dolphin Cove

#3. Dine at Casanova’s By The Sea. I don’t typically consider a good restaurant a tourist attraction, but Casanova’s is always a highlight of my trip. This Italian restaurant, overlooking the Caribbean Sea, offers a wide variety of pasta, seafood, and chicken entrees. Tony Crescente, a true Italian, is the owner and prides himself on authentic food from his homeland with family recipes. The service is impeccable and they definitely make every person feel welcome, as though you are part of their family. Whether on a romantic honeymoon get-away or there with a large group, the atmosphere at Casanova's makes this a must-try attraction. Even if you are making your first ever visit to Casanova's, the staff will make you feel like Norm from "Cheers", where everyone knows your name.

Casanova Restaurant

 

#2. Have a mudslide at the Wreck Bar at Rum Point: If you have ever had a mudslide in America or at any other bar in Cayman, you might think it’s pretty good. You haven’t had a mudslide until you try one from the Wreck Bar at Rum Point. The sign at the bar says it best: “How much for a virgin mudslide? Cups of ice are FREE!!” If you can find a captain to take you over via boat, that allows you to enjoy the mudslides without worrying about driving. If you have a rental car, it is about a 45 minute drive across the beautiful scenery of the Cayman Islands along the East End. Whether by boat or by car, Rum Point is a must visit attraction. Spend an afternoon here lounging on the beach and floating in the shallow water, or relaxing in a hammock after a mudslide and a mahi sandwich! Friendly tip from experience: when you are with 7 people---42 mudslides in one afternoon is about 28 too many.

Rum Point

#1. Take a boat on a snorkel trip to Stingray City. The highlight of any trip to the Cayman Islands is a day on the Sea Fire with Captain Gleason Ebanks. However, there are several different captains that will take you out. The trip starts with a visit to Stingray City for a once in a lifetime opportunity to hold, pet, and play with these fascinating creatures. These create some great photo opportunities as the captains will feed and hold the stingrays allowing them to be held in a calm manner. The next stop is along the coral reef in the North Sound. It is here that you might see lobsters, nurse sharks, and lots of beautiful fish. After the snorkeling, a wonderful meal is served on the boat that consists of Mahi Mahi, islands style potato salad, and banana plantain. Finally a stop by the coral gardens to look at schools of colorful fish, sea turtles, and even a moray eel, ends the wonderful day. 

 

 

While there are many things to do in the Cayman Islands, and everyone has different tastes, these five attractions are “must-see” whenever I visit!!