How to Get to the Cayman Islands – A Comprehensive Overview

As a small Caribbean island paradise, it’s no wonder that the Cayman Islands is a popular holiday destination. Whether looking for a high-end resort or a laid-back beach retreat, it’s easy to find exactly what you’re after in the Cayman Islands. Flights to the Cayman Islands are available from several cities in the United States. Many depart from Miami, now the world’s cruise capital.

Flights

When planning to visit the Cayman Islands as a Caymanian born and raised in a foreign country, it is necessary to undergo the Cayman Islands passport application or visa application process. Grand Cayman, the largest of the three islands, is a lively destination where you can enjoy a night out on the town or soak up some sun on one of the island’s white sand beaches. You can also head to neighboring islands, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac, for a more laid-back break from the action. Renting a car is the best option to get around the islands. You can find rental agencies across the street from Owen Roberts International Airport on Grand Cayman or Charles Kirkconnell International Airport on Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. You’ll need a valid passport, domestic driver’s license and a Vehicle Environmental Recovery Fee (less than $10) to rent a car in the Cayman Islands.

Another way to get around the islands is by taking a public minibus. The buses are a fun, inexpensive way to see the island. The bus system operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Cruise Ships

Grand Cayman has become a favorite port of call for many cruisers. This small island in the Western Caribbean is home to world-class shopping and the one-of-a-kind Stingray City. Like any other cruise destination, you’ll want to read all the rules and regulations for a safe, enjoyable stay. Most importantly, you should know that you will be governed by the island’s COVID-19 laws of dress and personal hygiene. Most major cruise ships will have some excursions available while in port. These tours are a great way to make the most of your time on the island, but you may also want to explore Grand Cayman alone. If you are okay with a little hiking, check out the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, where you can walk through colorful gardens, nature displays and a lake area that is a habitat for the Cayman Blue Iguana. You can even take a ride on a historic steam train. Several shops in the Bayshore Mall are worth checking out. These include Del Sol, Cariloha, Tortuga and Tanzanite International. You can also find many souvenir items here, including some only available in the Cayman Islands.

Ferries

The Cayman Islands are connected by ferries, both domestically and with neighboring islands. For example, a ferry from Grand Cayman to Little Cayman takes 1.5 hours and departs at 8:30 am on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Getting to the islands by ferry is an excellent option for travelers who want to visit several islands in one trip. A few islands that can be reached by ferry include Cayman Brac, Anguilla, and Utila.

While the ferry is convenient for traveling from island to island, it only offers direct access to other islands. You may need to take a taxi from Grand Cayman to Roatan, then a ferry to Utila, and then another taxi to La Ceiba.

If you’re planning a long journey, consider using the ferry to travel from George Town on Grand Cayman to Rum Point on Little Cayman, for instance. This 35-minute boat ride is more convenient to get from one end of the island to the other than a long and winding road journey. The Sister Islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman are a short plane ride from Grand Cayman. The islands have several attractions and activities, including the Cayman Turtle Centre. These islands are also known for their world-class diving and snorkeling.

Rental Cars

Getting around the Cayman Islands by car rental is the most convenient and comfortable way to explore. There are plenty of rental agencies at the airport and in Seven Mile Beach, as well as at cruise ship terminals and hotels. Renting a car also allows you to plan itineraries and stop at attractions unavailable on organized tours. It’s also a great way to save money on taxi fares. To rent a car in the Cayman Islands, you must be at least 21 years old and present your passport or driver’s license from your home country. Some companies have age requirements that are higher than others, so make sure to check with your specific agency before booking a car.

If you’re traveling with kids, remember to bring a child seat for your vehicle. This will prevent unwanted injuries if the child isn’t properly restrained in the car.