Water Sports

In addition to great scuba diving, the Cayman Islands offer many other in-water activities and the beaches are literally strewn with water sports operators. Popular water sports include:

Snorkelling - The undersea world of Cayman may be equaled but not surpassed and snorkelling is a good alternative to scuba if for some reason you are not able to dive. There are literally hundreds of sites where the water is shallow enough to snorkel and where you can experience the amazing diversity of our marine world. All of the reputable water sports operators will offer snorkel trips and will take you where the fish are plentiful. Snorkelling from the beach is an alternative to a boat snorkel trip and popular spots include the West Bay Cemetery Reef, Smith's Cove and Eden Rock. Contact Bayside Watersports for all your fishing and snorkelling needs.

Parasailing - An experience that will not be forgotten. You'll rise to about 200 feet, towed aloft by a powerful speedboat, your parachute gently lifting you skyward. Marvel at the view of the Seven Mile Beach and George Town harbour, and, as you glide through the air, the cruise ships below seemed dwarfed. Enjoy the ride by yourself or with a companion.

Jet skiing - The noise may be an annoyance to some, but you'll enjoy the exhilaration of zipping along at over 30 mph. A quick lesson in operating the watercraft, and some safety tips, and you'll be on your way. Always be aware of the divers down flags and respect swimmers in the area.

Sailing - Glide quietly along the water and enjoy the warm Cayman breezes as you steer your rented sailboat into the wind. Anchor in a shallow spot and snorkel or swim to cool off. Rather let someone else do the sailing? Then take a sailboat cruise to Stingray City or an evening dinner cruise into the sunset.

Windsurfing - We don't have the big waves of Hawaii but it's just as much fun. The beginner will get lessons in staying upright and steering the sailboard, then it's fun in the sun. The water will lap at your feet as you glide quietly along the gentle waves, pushed by the warm Cayman sea breezes. For the more experienced, the strong winds of the east coast of the island will offer a challenge.

Other water sports include kayaking, water skiing, knee boarding and banana boat rides. Most of the glossy tourist magazines that you'll find once you arrive will have more details about all of the above water sports.

In addition to water sports you'll find other above and below water activities including:

• Glass bottom boat rides
• Semi-submersible boat rides
• Submarine dives to 100, 800 or 1,000 feet
• Sailboat dinner cruises

Don't forget that the sun down here in the Caribbean will burn you badly if you over expose yourself. If you're not used to the sun, wear a strong sunscreen such as SPF 30 or higher. Many a vacationer has spoiled their trip with too much sun, too quickly. In addition, please remember that the damage caused by over exposure to the sun lasts long after the tan has faded.