Falling for the Cayman Islands

Jean Pierce

That Cayman Cachet
The concept of the dive package was literally invented by Cayman pioneer Bob Soto. Arranging a trip is about as easy as making a phone call to your local dive shop or travel agency. But before you do, be forewarned: The Cayman Islands are not cheap. This British Crown Colony enjoys a high standard of living, and the fixed exchange rate is US$1.25 to the Cayman dollar (CI$).

But in return, you'll get dive operators who are about as professional as any you'll find in the Caribbean. Whether you're a newbie, a techie or somewhere in between, you'll be accommodated and you'll receive good value for that hard-earned dollar. Also, the Caymans run safe operations, thanks in large part to the high standards imposed by the Watersports Operators Association.

In the untamed days of the 18th century, Blackbeard the pirate, Sir Henry Morgan and other unsavory characters preyed on Central American shipping to and from Jamaica, which had to pass by the Caymans. Eventually the British became fed up with the situation. The result was a bloody battle off the north coast of Little Cayman - hence the name of that adrenaline-pumping dive spot, Bloody Bay.

With a stable government and a tax-free status, the islands began to prosper, eventually establishing themselves as one of the most successful offshore financial centers in the world.

Then, in the 1950s, with the development of scuba, the construction of the airport, and Bob Soto's first dive operation, tourists started to arrive to dive and fish. In the '70s, tourism really took off. Now, next to banking, it is Cayman's top industry. 

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