grand cayman rum tour

Rum and Beer Tour with Lunch

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Spice up your Caribbean vacation with a fun-filled Grand Cayman Rum and Beer Tour in the beautiful Cayman Islands. Sample many varieties of local rum and beer and sate your appetite with delicious local and international foods.

Tour Highlights

Hop aboard an air-conditioned motor coach and head over to the one-and-only rum distillery in Grand Cayman. At the rum distillery, you’ll be greeted with welcome shots and free samples of an endless variety of flavored rums while taking a guided tour of the facility. Next you’ll head to the Tortuga Rum Factory, where you’ll sample some local rums and world’s famous Tortuga Rum Cakes. Later enjoy a traditional Caymanian meal at an off-the-beaten-path restaurant in George Town.

Here are the highlights of the Grand Cayman Rum and Beer Tour:

Stop 1. Tortuga Rum Cake Factory – Sample local rums and world-famous rum cakes. Souvenir shops, bathrooms, and free WiFi available.

Stop 2. Cayman Spirits Co. – Do absolutely anything you want here, like take double shots of 180 proof rum and show off your dance skills on the counter! Tour of the factory, rum tasting, souvenir shop, bathrooms, and free WiFi available.

Stop 3. Lunch – Enjoy a traditional Caymanian meal at an off-the-beaten path restaurant in George Town. Bathrooms and free WiFi available.

Monday – Thursdays 2:00 p.m.

• Cruise Port pickup (North Terminal). Look for the Amvivo sign.

Tour by air-conditioned coach

Professional guide

Entrance fees

Bottled water

Complimentary crafted beer

Bring cash (USD) and a camera. Visa and MasterCard are also accepted.

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

Additional alcoholic beverages (available to purchase)

• Transportation from your hotel to pickup location

Minimum booking time 24 hours

Cancellations made before 24 hours get a full refund.

No refund within 24 hours of the tour date

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Cayman Rum Making & Tastings

• Experience the unique taste of Grand Cayman's handcrafted spirits, including the local favorite Seven Fathoms Rum
• Venture inside Cayman Spirits Company Distillery and learn the fascinating process of how this favorite spirit is crafted
• Engage in an exclusive rum-tasting session, trying Governor's Reserve Rum and Gun Bay Vodka
• Don't miss out on this top-rated, sell-out distillery tour

Rum aficionados and cultural connoisseurs unite for a tasty tour of Grand Cayman's Cayman Spirits Company Distillery. Your guided tour includes a transfer aboard a comfortable vehicle to this famous distillery, where you'll enjoy a one-hour tour and rum tasting to whet your palate. Enjoy sampling handcrafted spirits like the Cayman Islands' local favorite Seven Fathoms Rum and Distiller's Special--the seasonal drink that's only available at the distillery. You'll also learn how these delicious drinks are crafted, making it the perfect tour for tourists looking for a cultural experience and rum-tasting all in one.

Your epic tour begins with a pick-up from your pier in George Town, where you'll then take a transfer ride to the Cayman Spirits Distillery--the only place on the island of Grand Cayman where you'll find handcrafted, ocean-aged rum, vodka, and other liquor delights. This distillery has humble beginnings starting as a small place to brew the spirits over 10 decades ago but was later reopened in 2013 as a 5,000 square foot, fully operational distillery. Today, the Cayman Spirits Distillery is Grand Cayman's only place that manufactures liquor.

Discover how the distillery makes rum, vodka, and other spirits while on your guided tour, including the pots it uses like the Gun Bay Vodka Tower and the Vendome copper pot still--the 1200-gallon pot still used to create the fine spirits made on-site in large batches. You'll also get an inside look at how the distillery makes Seven Fathoms Rum with the original Christian Carl pot. Complete your tour with a delicious rum-tasting and sample shots of various drinks, such as Governor's Reserve Rum, Gun Bay Vodka, and Seven Fathoms Rum, before heading back to George Town.

From tasty rum sampling to a tour of Grand Cayman's only distillery, there's much to see and experience on this guided rum tour. Sign up for your liquor-filled tasting and tour today, and indulge in all the distillery has to offer.

Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery Runs the Best Rum Tours on Grand Cayman 

Between relaxing on the beach and working on your tan, you’ll want to fill your day with some fun activities. One of our favorite things to do is visit Cayman Spirits Co. for one of the best rum tours on Grand Cayman ! Here, you can try handcrafted liquors and take a distillery tour. With this fun excursion less than 10 minutes away from The Residences Seven Mile Beach in Grand Cayman, it’s the perfect activity to indulge in during your stay. 

Read on to learn more about their distillery tours. Then, request a free copy of our Vacation Guide for even more exciting activities to include in your Caribbean getaway!

Request the Guide  

All About Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery 

Cayman Spirits Co. was created in 2008 when the first small-batch of rum was handcrafted on the Georgetown waterfront. Now, the company has expanded to a variety of spirits while still using their small-batch techniques. Only local ingredients are used with West Indies distilling techniques, making the product authentic to the Caribbean.

Throughout the growth of Cayman Spirits Co. , the team has made many unique discoveries while practicing their craft. Because everything is handmade with attention to detail, the team was willing to experiment with their process. Experimentation is how they found their maturation process for their rum– they store it on the ocean floor. After trial and error setting up the first-ever undersea rum maturation site, the rum launched, and Cayman Spirits Co. was born!

Grand Cayman Rum Tours at Cayman Spirits Co. Distillery 

In 2013, Cayman Spirits Co. opened Grand Cayman’s only distillery, and they invite you to come visit! When you take a tour , you’ll be brought through their custom-built 5000 square foot facility. Be wowed by all the supplies they use such as the 30-foot tall Gun Bay Vodka tower! You can even see the original pot they brewed their first batch of rum in– it is still used today.

Your tour will conclude in the tasting room where you will receive samples of the spirits made here. Indulge in fresh batches of Seven Fathoms Rum, Gun Bay Vodka, Governor’s Reserve Rum, and the “Distiller’s Special.” You never know what the “Distiller’s Special” might be, but you can’t get it anywhere else! We recommend reserving your tour to Cayman Spirits Co. in advance; spots tend to fill up fast.

Additional Grand Cayman Food & Bev Resources 

• Foodies, Here’s Why You Need to Go to Taste of Cayman
• Why Cayman Cookout Is the Culinary Event of the Year
• Sip Sip, Hooray! Everything You Need to Know About Cayman Cocktail Week
• You Need to Dine at These Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, Restaurants
• Everything You Need to Know About Tortuga Rum Cakes
• Feast on the Best Caribbean Cuisine during Restaurant Month in Grand Cayman

Where to Stay While Visiting the Beautiful Cayman Islands

When you visit the Cayman Islands, you deserve to stay in luxury. Our pristine white sand beaches and sparkling oceans are best enjoyed when you have the perfect accommodations. After spending your days exploring the island and experiencing one of the best rum tours at Cayman Spirits Co. return to a gorgeous condo or villa. 

The Residences Seven Mile Beach has everything you need to create an unforgettable Caribbean getaway. Choose from properties of various sizes, each outfitted with elegant designer furnishings, high-end electronics, and gourmet kitchens. Come experience our Grand Cayman paradise!

Browse Our Properties 

Enjoy responsibly. If you're allowed to.

Cayman spirits co. | grand cayman's handcrafted spirits.

In rum’s golden age, flavour was earned from the sea. Rolling with ocean waves in the cool of a cargo hold imparted a depth and richness that could never be achieved on land.

Now we’ve reunited with the sea. With trial and time,we discovered rum’s ideal setting, where gentle currents rock Seven Fathoms Rum to full-bodied flavour...

In the depths of the Caribbean.

The sea keeps many secrets

It saved its best for you..

How we craft

Cane & copper.

We start with the harvest of fresh organic cane at the farms of Grand Cayman’s East End. Traditional West Indian techniques and our Christian Carl copper pot still transform fresh cane juice into young rum, carefully guiding its every step by hand.

Cask & Currents

We escort the rum in American white oak bourbon casks to a secret location off the Cayman coast. Anchored at 42 feet, an exact seven fathoms deep, our hand-crafted rum enjoys underwater currents that rock the spirit gently and consistent temperatures like nowhere on land.

Well-Timed Escape

When the time is right, we release the casks and introduce Seven Fathoms Rum to the world. And the world has thanked us. We’ve earned a Double Gold from WSWA, scored a 90 from Wine Enthusiast, became a favorite around the world, and made lots of friends along the way.

We think we’ve crafted a unique and truly exceptional spirit. The critics agree. But what really matters is when it is in your hand. Served neat, on a rock, or with fine cocktail ingredients, Seven Fathoms Rum is a premium rum that performs in every situation.

Why no one else ages rum this way.

Our knowledge of the pristine Cayman waters led us to the right spot at the right depth.

Our team’s tenacity let us try, test, and then try again, until we nailed it.

Our maddening love of authentic rum drove us to rediscover ocean-aging.

They’ve all been key to building this partnership with the sea, where our hand-crafted rum spends it’s years before we share it with you.

Seven Fathoms Rum

Signature drinks.

Seven Fathoms Neat

Many prefer this way of enjoying a premium rum: pour neat.

Enjoy the waves of flavor while watching the Cayman sun set over Seven Mile Beach.

Underwater Cave

By Antonio Hafner of GOH restaurant 2 oz Seven Fathoms Rum 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice 1 oz honey Shake and strain pinch of cardamom Garnish with blackberries, lemon twist and basil leaf

Bronze Road Cocktail

This one is dressed to impress: 2 oz Seven Fathoms Rum 1/2 oz Carpano Red Vermouth 1/2 oz Maraschino liqueur Dash of angostura bitters Shake and strain into a really nice glass Garnish with a lemon peel

Seven on the Rock

One good ice cube can help reveal hidden flavors without diluting your Seven Fathoms Rum much.

Seven Fathoms Rum 1 perfect ice cube

See More Drink Recipes

In Grand Cayman?

Come for a tour and tasting , now at premium stores, bars, and restaurants, where to find us , buy cayman spirits online .

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Rum Distillery Tour plus Beer Samples and Seven Mile Beach

West Bay Sightseeing Tour Plus Seven Mile Beach Visit

Guided George Town Sightseeing and Seven Mile Beach Tour

Hell Visit, Shopping and Beach Escape from Cayman Islands

• The Rum Deck
• Solis Restaurant
• Scuba Diving
• Boat Excursions
• Reservations

Stingray City Sail from Rum Point, Grand Cayman

• 11:00 am - 1:30 pm
• Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays
• Departs from Rum Point Dock

Rum Point Stingray City Trip Details

No trip to Grand Cayman is complete without visiting Stingray City. This incredible place is one of our island’s most iconic spots for a reason! With our parent company Red Sail Sports , you can immerse yourself in a truly unforgettable experience.

The tour sets sail from Rum Point Dock on a 65 ft catamaran, sailing the short distance across the North Sound to the Stingray City Sandbar, so it won’t be long until you’re in the crystal-clear water and playing with the friendly stingrays.

This tour is a two-stop excursion, so when you have finished at Stingray City, you move to a nearby coral reef for some incredible snorkeling. All the equipment you need is provided as part of the trip! Looking down on the teeming reef is a remarkable feeling, and one better experienced than described!

You will then make a leisurely return trip to Rum Point Dock under sail power. All that adventure works up an appetite, and the good news is that you will disembark a matter of steps away from our own Solis and The Rum Deck !

This Stingray City Sail runs on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. For departures on Mondays and Fridays, check out our Stingray City Trip from Rum Point . If you have any questions about any of our boat excursions from Rum Point , please don’t hesitate to contact us .

Stingray City Sail from Rum Point Highlights:

• Two-stop excursion; including the Stingray City Sandbar and a coral reef for snorkeling.
• Sail on a luxury catamaran.
• Relax on the bow nets of the catamran, or enjoy the shaded cabin.
• Refreshments available from on-board bar. (cash/card/room charge)

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Grand Cayman Sunset Cruise from Rum Point

• 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
• Departs from Rum Point Dock *Please note: Rum Point is on the North Side of Grand Cayman (an hour's drive from 7 Mile Beach)*
• Wednesdays Hit the "Proceed Booking" button below to see availability

Sunset Boat Tours in Grand Cayman

Do you daydream about lounging on a luxury catamaran surrounded by a calm, azure sea, watching the gorgeous colours of a Caribbean sunset? With Red Sail Sports, this experience doesn’t have to stay in your imagination.

On this Grand Cayman Sunset Cruise, you depart from Rum Point. Rum Point, in the Cayman Islands, is well known as the best hub for diving, eating, and having a great time on Grand Cayman. From Rum Point, you head out into the clear waters of the North Sound on a 65 ft catamaran. When onboard, you can relax on the bow nets, listening to the water rush beneath as you sip a delicious cocktail served from the onboard cash bar ($) along with light snacks.

Cayman sunsets are famous for their beauty, and there’s no better place to watch one unfold than out on the water. Our sailing catamaran is comfortable and equipped with everything you need for an experience you’ll never forget.

If you have any questions about this sunset boat tour in Grand Cayman, please don’t hesitate to get in touch .

Are you looking for more ways to make your nights on vacation memorable? Check out our wider range of evening activities in Grand Cayman . And our Grand Cayman boat excursions have everything you need for fun adventure in the daytime too!

Grand Cayman Sunset Cruise Highlights:

• Sailing on a 65' luxury sailing catamaran.
• Refreshments available from on-board bar. (Cash/card/room charge)
• Welcoming and friendly crew at your service.
• Restrooms on-board

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Related Tours

Grand Cayman PADI Freediving Course

Stingray City Sail from Rum Point, Grand Cayman

Rum Point & Stingray City Sail in Grand Cayman

7-Day Trip Itinerary For Grand Cayman, With Scenic Stops

• Seven Mile Beach is a must-visit destination in Grand Cayman with its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. It offers a variety of activities and amenities for all kinds of travelers.
• Exploring George Town is a great way to experience the vibrant culture and history of the Cayman Islands. From tax-free shopping to mouthwatering restaurants, there's something for everyone in this bustling capital.
• Stingray City provides a unique opportunity to swim with friendly Southern Stingrays in their natural habitat. This shallow sandbar offers a chance to interact with marine life and explore the surrounding coral reefs.

The largest of the Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman offers its visitors the chance to experience a breathtaking journey filled with sweeping landscapes and unique sights. Between the island's pristine white-sand beaches, world-class restaurants, and seaside bars, travelers will have no trouble filling their days with plenty of things to see and do in Grand Cayman . But for those who want to witness some of the island's most scenic landscapes they'll need to take the time to visit every corner of Grand Cayman. From the majestic Crystal Caves and rugged coastlines of the East End to the vibrant underwater world at Stingray City, here is a seven-day itinerary for Grand Cayman, filled with scenic stops.

Related: 10 Top Things To Do In Grand Cayman

Day 1: Seven Mile Beach

Soak in this beach's renowned white sand and crystal-clear waters.

The first thing every traveler should do after arriving in Grand Cayman is change into their swimsuit and head to Seven Mile Beach . Ranked as one of the top beach destinations in the Caribbean , the Cayman Islands is filled with spectacular beaches, and Seven Mile Beach may be the most famous of them all. This world-renowned beach features pillowy soft coral sand, crystal-clear waters, and an array of bars and restaurants that serve perfectly chilled tropical drinks. From snorkeling and swimming to relaxing on the sand or shopping in luxury boutiques, Seven Mile Beach has something to offer every type of traveler as one of the most scenic and famous spots in Grand Cayman.

• Cost: Free public access
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds
• Transportation: Parking available; accessible by bus or taxi

TIP: Just off the coast of Seven Mile Beach is the Kittiwake shipwreck , which, over the years, has become an artificial reef . Divers and snorkelers interested in exploring this famous site can easily reach the shipwreck by renting a kayak and paddling out to the wreck.

Day 2: Explore George Town

Enjoy ocean views, historical buildings, and world-class shopping.

After a day spent soaking up the Caribbean sun, travelers should devote their second day on the island to exploring George Town. As the capital of the Cayman Islands and one of the major ports for cruise ships in the Caribbean, George Town is a hub for politics, banking, and entertainment, featuring plenty of tax-free shops that are perfect for holiday shopping along with mouthwatering restaurants that blend all the cultures and cuisines that make up the island's diverse heritage. Visitors can easily spend the day wandering through this capital's charming Caymanian-style buildings and even explore the Cayman Islands National Museum to learn more about the region's rich history.

• Cost: The capital is free to explore; the Cayman Islands National Museum's general admission is $8
• Best Time to Visit: Late morning to avoid cruise ship crowds
• Transportation: Walkable city center; parking and public buses available

Day 3: Stingray City

Swim with the stingrays in this one-of-a-kind sandbar.

A day in Grand Cayman should be devoted to visiting Stingray City. Located in the North Sound of Grand Cayman, Stingray City is a shallow sandbar that lets visitors swim with friendly Southern Stingrays in their natural habitat. These stingrays have become used to humans and will happily interact with passersby. Many may even welcome gentle pets. Snorkelers in Stingray City will also encounter the fish and other marine life that inhabit the surrounding coral reefs.

• Cost: Tour prices around $60-$80 per person
• Best Time to Visit: In the morning for calmer waters
• Transportation: Accessible only by tour boats

Related: Does Grand Cayman Have The Best Snorkeling? Here's What To Know About Its Underwater World

Day 4: The Island's East End And The Blowholes

Escape to the east end of the island and witness rugged coastlines and epic blowholes.

Grand Cayman's East End is known for its dramatic landscapes, and none is more famous than the area's famous blowholes . Located on the southeastern coast, this area is characterized by its rugged natural beauty. This region also sees fewer tourists, as many visitors to Grand Cayman tend to stay on the west side of the island. In the East End, visitors can witness the magnificent blowholes in the area as seawater forces its way through natural rock formations. This untouched part of the island offers a serene, scenic escape and a rare glimpse into the island's untouched natural beauty, away from the more frequented tourist spots.

• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for optimal blowhole activity
• Transportation: Best accessed by car; limited public transport

Day 5: The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park And The Mastic Trail

Discover grand cayman's rare flora and unique fauna.

The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is a serene paradise that's home to an array of indigenous plants and wildlife, including the endangered Cayman Blue Iguana . Once done exploring the botanic park, travelers should visit the nearby Mastic Trail , a historic path that offers a glimpse into the island's native mangrove swamp and old-growth woodland area.

These natural attractions are not just visually stunning but also significant for their conservation efforts to preserve Cayman's biodiversity and combat deforestation.

• Cost: Botanic Park entry is approximately $12.50; Mastic Trail is free
• Best Time to Visit: Morning for cooler temperatures
• Transportation: Accessible by car; limited public transport

Related: 14 Best Caribbean Beaches You Should Visit (Without Worrying About Sargassum Seaweed)

Day 6: Cayman Crystal Caves

Explore the otherworldly beauty of the island's crystal caves.

About 40 minutes from George Town, nestled in the North Side's lush forest, lies the Cayman Crystal Caves . These ancient caves offer a unique opportunity to explore vast stalagmites and crystal-clear pools. When budgeting for a trip to the Cayman Islands , travelers must factor in a trip to these crystal caves.

Guided tours allow guests to discover the caves' geological wonders and historical significance. The island's earliest inhabitants sought shelter in these caves, which pirates also utilized as hideouts. Some legends say that buried treasure might still be hidden deep underground.

• Cost: Around $45
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for smaller crowds, cooler temperatures, and better lighting
• Transportation: Car recommended, parking available

Day 7: Rum Point

Soak in paradise and watch the sunset in rum point.

The last day in Grand Cayman can best be spent unwinding in Rum Point . Located on the northern coast of the island, this spot is known for its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque beaches. It's the perfect spot to relax or indulge in water activities while enjoying the Caribbean sun and some of the island's famous Rum Punch. Rum Point also has some of the most beautiful sunsets in the Caribbean, creating the perfect setting to end a stunning adventure in Grand Cayman.

• Cost: Free beach access; beach rentals vary in price
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for sunsets
• Transportation: Accessible by car or Catamaran ferry

A day in Grand Cayman: What to do while your cruise is in port

The Cayman Islands are in the western Caribbean Sea, about 275 miles south of Cuba, and are made up of three islands: Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman. It's a British overseas territory, so you'll likely notice some British influence in the cuisine and language, and in the popularity of sports like cricket.

However, Grand Cayman is mostly an upscale island paradise with tasty food, gorgeous white-sand beaches with clear blue water, and warm weather year-round. It stands out from its island neighbors thanks to singular features like Stingray City, where visitors can interact with the friendly sea creatures, and the Blue Iguana Conservation facility, which protects and breeds the endangered native species found only on Grand Cayman.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Grand Cayman is a staple port of call for many operators in the Caribbean . It's also a tender port, so guests are transported to shore in small boats. Carnival Cruise Line , Disney Cruise Line , Holland America , MSC Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line , Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean all sail here, as do luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises , premium cruise operators Celebrity Cruises and Oceania Cruises, and newer lines, including Virgin Voyages and Explora Journeys.

3 things TPG loves about Grand Cayman

• Some of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean.
• Excellent marine life that you can get up close and personal with.
• Top-quality food.

What we could do without

• The area directly by the port can house tacky souvenir shops, and items are overpriced.
• Most of the shops in George Town are closed on Sundays.
• Some people find tender ports annoying.
• It can be overcrowded due to its popularity among cruises and other visitors.

Grand Cayman fast facts

Grand Cayman is a popular warm-weather getaway destination not too far from the East Coast of the U.S. It boasts generally sunny weather, clear blue waters, and powdery, white-sand beaches, including the world-famous Seven Mile Beach.

Grand Cayman, a British overseas territory, is the largest of the three Cayman Islands and is home to the capital, George Town, where the port is located. George Town is a tender port, and cruise visitors will arrive at one of its three piers/terminals, but all are on the bustling Harbour Drive. The main docking terminal for tenders is the Royal Watler Cruise Terminal, which has plenty of taxis, souvenir shops and tourist information centers. The North and South terminals are smaller, but all three piers are within walking distance of George Town's attractions, shops and restaurants.

If you wish to go farther afield to Grand Cayman's attractions like Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City and Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park, public buses and taxis are readily available.

Arrival details

Cruise line tender boats will drop off passengers at one of three piers, all of which open onto Harbour Drive. The main docking terminal for tenders is the Royal Watler Cruise Terminal, which is in the northern part of George Town. If the port is busy, you might disembark at the smaller North or South terminals, which are south of Royal Watler and across from one other. Still, all three piers are within walking distance of George Town's main attractions.

Language: English is the official language.

Currency: The Cayman Islands uses the Cayman Islands dollar; 1 Cayman Islands dollar is equal to $1.20. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, though, and you can request either currency at some ATMs and banks in George Town. However, if you pay in U.S. dollars, note that you will probably receive change in Cayman Island dollars. If you use a credit card, it will be charged in U.S. dollars.

Time zone: Grand Cayman operates on Eastern Standard Time.

Top things to do in Grand Cayman cruise port

Much of Grand Cayman's interesting historical sites and museums are right near the port in George Town, including the (small) ruins of Fort George, Pedro St. James (the island's oldest building, now a museum), the Cayman Islands National Museum and the National Gallery. Tons of duty-free shops — locally owned, larger chains and luxury brand stores — await visitors.

Popular Grand Cayman excursions

Seven Mile Beach

A highlight of Grand Cayman is its pristine beaches, including the renowned Seven Mile Beach beckoning with its clear waters, about a 10-minute taxi ride from the cruise port. Beyond relaxing on the white sand and swimming in the calm water, visitors can enjoy water sports like jet skiing, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing.

Resort day pass

Reserve a room at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman for the day for access to complimentary nonmotorized water sports and a prime Seven Mile Beach location. The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa and Grand Cayman Marriott Resort are also options, and are situated just a short distance down the beach. You can use Marriott Bonvoy points at either property. If you are an IHG loyalist, the Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa is also on Seven Mile Beach. ResortPass has a day pass for The Grand Caymanian Resort, which has a pool and private beachfront on the North Sound Sea, starting at $70, including a $35 food-and-beverage credit.

Divers can explore several excellent dive sites, including the wreck of Kittiwake, a sunken U.S. submarine. Set up a dive or rent snorkel gear at Eden Rock Diving Center, Divers Supply or Don Foster's Dive Cayman.

Explore nature and wildlife

Grand Cayman is home to several nature and wildlife attractions worth visiting. The most popular is Stingray City, a shallow sandbar in the middle of the Caribbean Sea where friendly stingrays gather and you can gently pet them. Many boat tours to Stingray City will also stop for a snorkel and visit Starfish Beach, a small island with abundant starfish. Some excursions stop in West Bay, where you'll find Hell — a small patch of eerie-looking black limestone. There's also a fire-engine-red post office from which you can send a "postcard from hell." Additionally, Rum Point is a beautiful scenic point near a bioluminescent bay.

Also, the Cayman Turtle Centre is a land-based lagoon where visitors can swim with sea turtles. A guided walking tour of Crystal Caves, on the north side of the island, about a 40-minute drive from the cruise terminal, brings you through the surrounding tropical forest area and three impressive caves with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. Queen Elizabeth II Royal Botanic Park is also on the north side. It's home to the Blue Iguana Conservation facility, which works to protect the endangered blue iguana that is only found in the Cayman Islands and offers tours to learn about the facility's breeding efforts to preserve this indigenous species.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Best Grand Cayman beaches near the cruise port

This is the main stretch of beach in Grand Cayman, and the most easily accessible from the port. It's too far to walk to, but you can take a short taxi or ride the public bus for just a few bucks.

Once on the beach, if you don't have a booking at a hotel, you must go to either the public beach area (look for "Beach Access" signs) or to one of the beach clubs and restaurants. There are several public beach sections that can be accessed by a path from the road marked "Beach Access." The most popular spots are Public Beach, Governor's Beach, and Cemetery Beach (which has excellent snorkeling). All beaches in Cayman are technically public and you can walk along or lounge on the beach. However, you can't use loungers that belong to a hotel or condo.

Coral Beach

The only remaining beach club is Coral Beach, and it welcomes cruisers for the day. Once you pay an entrance fee (from around $5), you will have access to its swath of Seven Mile Beach, bar and restaurant, restrooms and showers, chair and umbrella rentals, snorkeling gear rentals, cabana rentals, and free Wi-Fi.

If you want to go farther afield, take a car taxi, water taxi or private charter to Rum Point on the island's north coast. Some Stingray City boat tours may stop here. The beach is much smaller than Seven Mile Beach and the sand is not as powdery, but it's more off the beaten path. It also provides facilities like restrooms, restaurants and a small shop. Be sure to get a mudslide from the bar.

Cayman Kai Public Beach

Just a few minutes' drive from Rum Point, Cayman Kai Public Beach is a bit quieter and more secluded (boat tours don't go here). The facilities are basic, with just restrooms, but the water is pristine and excellent for snorkeling.

Related: Tips for booking the best cruise shore excursion for your money

How to get around Grand Cayman on your own

On foot: Many of Grand Cayman's historic sites and museums, Island Plaza, Bayshore Mall, and Cayman Craft Market are within walking distance of the cruise ship pier. All you have to do is get on your comfy shoes and take the few steps from your terminal to start exploring.

Taxi: Loads of taxis are around the port areas. Some taxis are not metered, but rates will be posted, while other will have meters. Tips between 10% and 15% are expected.

Bus: The public bus (there are 11 routes) is unsurprisingly the most affordable way to get around the island. The main bus station in George Town (known as the District Bus Depot) is by Heroes Square, one of the main landmarks downtown, and walkable from any of the port terminals. All routes start and end there. For shorter journeys, the cost is around $2.50 per person, and trips to the farthest destination can run up to about $10. You can usually flag down a bus on the street by waving.

Bike: Moped and scooter rentals are available. The typical rate for a day is $25, and you must wear a helmet. Driving is on the left side of the street.

Car: Car rentals are available, but you must have a driver's license from your home country. Driving is on the left side of the street.

Grand Cayman restaurants near the cruise port

Grand Cayman's history as a home to Indigenous, African, East Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, Danish, British, French, Chinese and other cultures has resulted in a diverse cuisine with ingredients from around the world. You can find many global cuisines done well here, and plenty of upscale restaurants . Freshly caught fish and seafood feature heavily, as do locally grown produce like cassava, coconut and mango. And don't forget "tree chicken," aka green iguana!

Caribbean favorites like cracked and fried conch, goat curry, cassava cake, fish fry, lobster, and whatever fish is freshly caught appear on many menus that serve local cuisine.

With panoramic views of the azure Caribbean Sea, Heritage Kitchen is on the sleepy Boggy Sand Road in West Bay. The food coming out of the adorable, brightly colored cottage includes fresh local seafood like conch fritters, Cayman-style grouper and coconut mahi mahi, while Sundays bring a barbecue. Order your food at the window and enjoy your meal on a picnic table or sit along the sea wall.

Macabuca tiki bar is the place to go for conch in all forms: breaded cracked conch, conch fritters and conch chowder. You'll also find smoked jerk pork rib, Cayman-style lobster tails and blackened mahi, plus beautiful waterfront views at the casual eatery that juts out into the ocean on a rocky slip.

Grand Old House and its sister spot, the Wharf Restaurant, both offer high-end waterfront dining with plenty of fresh fish and seafood. Each evening, patrons gather to watch the massive tarpon fish get fed on the dock.

For the finest fine dining on the island, book a table at Blue by Eric Ripert, the famous chef of Michelin-starred Le Bernardin in New York; Ripert's only restaurant outside of Manhattan is here, inside The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Splurge on the seafood-heavy tasting menu and enjoy the best wine selection on the island.

You may want to visit the island's only distillery, Cayman Spirits, which has been making small-batch spirits at a state-of-the-art facility in George Town since 2013. It offers three daily guided tours and tastings. The Seven Fathoms Premium rum is aged in casks in the ocean, where they roll with the current.

Grand Cayman cruise port shopping

Shoppers looking for authentic, handmade souvenirs should head to the Cayman Craft Market, just a five-minute walk from the port, on the corner of Boilers Road and South Church Street. There, you'll find items like handwoven hats, wood carvings, paintings, and jewelry made from local shells and black coral, as well as spices, jams, hot sauces, pickles and other locally made food products. Hair braiding is also done here.

The popular Tortuga Rum has a duty-free shop at the cruise terminal, and many cruisers buy rum cakes as souvenirs. Also close to the port is the Island Plaza shopping mall, which features mostly locally owned shops alongside major international brands. Blackbeard's Liquors and Churchill's Cigars are ideal for any spirits and cigars (including Cuban) you may want. You'll also find Pandora, Swarovski, Ulysse Nardin and other international brands. Cardinal Avenue features luxury shops like Cartier Boutique, Magnum Jewelers, Kirk and La Perfumerie. Artifacts Ltd for antiques and collectibles and La Casa del Habano for Cuban cigars are also nearby.

For serious shopping, head to the opposite side of Harbour Drive by South Terminal to the massive Bayshore Mall, which is filled with luxury shops, both local and international. Kirk Freeport and Kirk Gallery are must stops for luxury items. There is also the day spa Tips n Toes, Timezone, Swatch, Lalique and souvenir shop Grumpy Turtle.

Related: Things you should never buy on a cruise ship (or in port)

Free things to do in Grand Cayman

About 3 1/2 miles from the cruise port (close to Seven Mile Beach) is Camana Bay, a multiuse town center with shopping, dining, a local artisan market and fun outdoor spaces. Kids will love the two interactive fountains here. The fountain in Jasmine Court is ideal for the smaller ones. Older kids will dig the fountain on the Crescent, with dancing waters and skyward bursts that reach up to 30 feet. A 75-foot-tall observation tower provides panoramic views of Grand Cayman. The stairs up are lined with a stunning mosaic mural.

Bottom line

Grand Cayman has plenty of overcrowded touristy spots and shops and restaurants that feel expensive. However, the Cayman Islands' largest island is a diverse location where you can find historic attractions, some of the world's most beautiful beaches, eclectic cuisine, extensive shopping, and excellent nature and wildlife excursions. Grand Cayman's excellent weather, beautiful landscapes and marine animal encounters make the port a must-see on Caribbean cruises.

Of course, lounging on one of Grand Cayman's white-sand public beaches is free and a fabulous way to spend the day.

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