Cayman Islands Shipwrecks by Semi-Sub & National Museum
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Port
Georgetown, Cayman Islands
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Activity Level
Easy
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$59.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 2 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Board a state-of-the-art semi-submarine developed for comfort and maximum viewing of the shallow reefs. It departs from the dock by the George Town cruise ship pier. The vessel does not submerge; instead, you descend into the hull of this cruising underwater observatory and sit in air-conditioned comfort five feet below the surface of the water.
You will view abundant marine life through large, clear windows as you explore.
View a dramatic shipwreck, the Cali -- a steel schooner built in 1900. This ship ran aground 100 yards off the coast of Grand Cayman in 1944. A knowledgeable marine expert will provide answers to your questions and informative narration on the fantastic underwater world around you.
The semi-submarine takes you to see the wreck of the Balboa -- a 375-foot freighter traveling from Cayman to Cuba in 1932 when she encountered one of the worst hurricanes in the island's history.
Return to the pier, and the crew will escort you to the Cayman Islands National Museum directly across the street. Here you will see a 15-minute video on the settlement and development of the Cayman Islands; then you'll have time to browse among the museum's two permanent exhibits at your own pace. The Natural History Gallery gives visitors a realistic look at the diversity of environments and species found in the Cayman Islands. The Cultural History Gallery offers exhibits on the political and judicial systems, life in the islands, and the nation's seafaring history.
Following your visit to the museum, you can make your way back to the pier at your leisure.
Notes:
Participants must negotiate 10 steps to board the semi-submersible. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Tour does not operate on Sundays.