Learn to Dive in the Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands’ Highlights
The Cayman Islands are one of the places scuba diving became popular and due to conservation efforts much of the coral remains beautiful and alive. The Cayman Islands are made up of three islands: Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Each island provides a different diving experience.
Dives are either done from boats or the shore, but the good news is the boat ride to most dive sites is usually short at around 10 minutes. If you want to dive at all three islands, a liveaboard is the best option. During the night, the boat will travel to its next location, greatly reducing travel time. Alternatively, pick an island and resort that will be well suited to your taste.
Crystal-clear blue water and great visibility are some of the key features of diving in the Cayman Islands. The dive sites are usually deep walls. Also, there are a few interesting wrecks to explore. In addition, lionfish are considered an invasive species and can be hunted on nearly every dive.
When is the best time to go diving in the Cayman Islands?
Diving is possible all year-round. December to April tend to be the busiest. From June to October is hurricane season.
Water Temperature: The average water temperature is between 25°C and 30°C.
Currents: None to medium
Visibility: Between 20 to 30 meters is an average day in the Cayman Islands.
The Cayman Islands’ best dive sites
USS Kittiwake, Grand Cayman
The boat was stripped and purposefully sunk in 2011. It’s over 77 meters long, lying at a maximum depth of 21 meters. The ship has over 5 levels and even beginner divers can enjoy the wreck. The pathways have been cleared for penetration of the wreck at multiple points.
Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Grand Cayman
A mighty name for a mighty dive site. Located on Grand Cayman, this dive site is famous for its black coral, barrel sponges and purple sea fans. There are numerous swim-throughs to be explored. Due to its location, this site is usually only accessible via liveaboard.
Eagle Ray Roundup, Bloody Bay Wall, Little Cayman
Little Cayman’s most famous dive site, this marine reserve has great visibility and an abundance of marine life. This wall descends to over 2000 meters, and the wall at the top is covered in neon-yellow tube sponges, bioluminescent corals and sea fans. Nassau groupers, turtles, eagle rays and other marine life are found along the wall.
About the country
The Cayman Islands are a British overseas territory that neighbors Cuba and Honduras. There are many water related activities from sailing to jet skiing that can be done in the Cayman Islands. Get the opportunity to try out all water related activities!
The islands are filled with many secluded beaches, get off the beaten track, and explore the beaches without the crowds. Be sure to visit the Seven Mile Beach, made famous for its pristine blue water and white sand. Stingray City is one of the most popular attractions in the area, stroke and feed stingrays as they swim past.
Recreational Courses in the Cayman Islands
Dive Centers in the Cayman Islands
Getting to the Cayman Islands
Flying from Miami takes a little over an hour making it easily accessible to Americans. It’s only a 70 minute plane ride. There are direct flights to Owen Roberts International Airport on Grand Cayman from the US, Canada and other parts of the Caribbean. Grand Cayman is also a popular cruise ship destination with many operators spending one or two days on the island.
British Airways also operates direct flights from London several times per week. If you wish to visit Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, inter-island flights are available. To get around the islands, consider renting a car or bike.
Other important information
- Capital: George Town
- Official Language: English
- Demonym: Caymanian
- Currency: Cayman Islands Dollar (CYD)
- Calling code: +1345
- Driving Side: left
- Population: Over 71,000
- Pressure: Pounds/square inch (psi)
- First Stage: INT/ Yoke
