Photo: Photos by Justin Uzzell
For some, speed is everything. However, to truly appreciate the beauty of Cayman, it helps to slow right down, and a kayak snorkel safari fits the bill perfectly.
A kayak and snorkel safari is one of the best ways to explore Cayman’s marine habitat from above and below the water line. For more than ten years, Surfside Aquasports has been conducting such tours along South Sound, exploring the mangroves and seagrass beds with a kayak while a guide tells you more about the role the mangroves and seagrass beds play in Cayman’s ecosystem. The tour is designed to be easily accessible, so you don’t need to be an experienced kayaker or snorkeler to enjoy the experience. You don’t even need to own a mask and snorkel, as these are provided as part of the package.
From the red mangroves that help to protect the shoreline and provide shelter for many species of juvenile fish, to the fragile upside down jellyfish that can be found in secluded coves, the tour allows you to see things you might never notice otherwise.
From there it is a short paddle out to the swim platform from where you can explore with a snorkel, just enjoy the water, or even lie back and work on your tan. The water is shallow, but the coral heads in the area are frequented by a kaleidoscope of colourful reef fish that come in to feed on the algae, and in so doing do the coral a big favour as well.
The tour takes around three hours and kicks off with an introduction to your kayak and how to operate it safely, for even though the water is calm, warm and shallow, knowing how to manoeuvre is still quite important. It is also important to bring along some sun protection, including sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Transport to and from Seven Mile Beach area hotels are included in the tour as well, with tours priced at US$77 per adult, with kids under twelve accompanied by an adult paying US$38.50.
For more information call 916-2820 or visit caymankayakandsnorkelsafari.com.