Cayman Crystal Caves & Pedro St James OR Botanic Gardens

We did the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park and Crystal Caves tour with CayTours. The Botanic Gardens were first, followed by the Crystal Caves. A few things I wish I had known beforehand: CayTours requires a printed voucher, so make sure you have one with you. If you’re staying in George Town, plan on about 45–60 minutes in the car, and allow roughly 1.5 hours at each stop. If it’s hot, definitely bring a disposable water bottle or refillable canister to carry water with you. There is quite a bit of walking and you’ll be outside for a good portion of the tour. Also, bring cash for tips. The tour guides do not have a way to accept electronic payments for gratuities, which we didn’t realize ahead of time. Overall, both places were worth seeing and it was a nice way to experience a different part of Grand Cayman. Just plan for a longer outing with the drive time and come prepared with water, your printed voucher, and cash for tips.

Upon arrival, we met with our agents and took us to the van that took us to the caves right on time. It was our first time with this tour company and we will be using their services from now on. Highly recommended.

We were very concerned about meeting the group by 9 AM as our ship was not to disembark until 8:30 AM with tenders added to the wait time. Days leading up to the tour, the staff was very patient and used great communication. As it turned out, we got off the ship earlier than expected and the rest is history! The caves were interesting, and although humid even in December, there wasn't a mosquito problem that was stated with repellent offered beforehand. We weren't told about a drink/food offer at our own cost, so hardly anyone ordered anything. I can say that a daiquiri for $17 was a bit excessive. Afterward, we were dropped off at Pedro St James Castle for an hour of interesting history and home tour. Transportation was nicely appointed with leather seating although a little tight for two average adults. If you aren't a beachy person while in port, this tour is recommended.

The tour first drove us over from the cruise ship port over to the Crystal Caves. The tour began by going to the tree house where it was suggested we could order lunch at the restaurant and it would be ready for us to eat after completing the tour of the caves. When we came back from the tour the burgers were ready, but the fries were cold. After taking a couple of bites we were told we were out of time and to eat our lunch on the bus. Later discovered that we got charged over $500 for the lunch. Totally ridiculous! The rum tasting at Pedro St. James was also too rushed. We got little samples of 3 rums after the tour and then immediately back on the bus.

Our guide Yves was excellent! Knowledgeable and entertaining. Our guide Marlena at the castle was very knowledgeable and friendly, answering all our questions.

Our tour guide, Oscar, was very informative and funny! Also had a great interaction with Nancy at Cay tours. She contacted me prior to the tour to see if transportation was needed and was in contact until the tour ended.

Very cool! Staff was incredibly knowledgeable!! Do yourself a favor and go and bring a water bottle.

Wonderful experience. Tour guide was very patient and knowledgeable. We plan to tell all our friends and family, this tour is a must!!!

Back at the Château Grand BARRAIL restaurant for a moment with the family. Very relaxing setting on the terrace under a beautiful sun. Cuisine as refined as ever, tasty dishes and a beautiful presentation. Thanks to his boss. Always a pleasant welcome and attentive service. Everything is perfect. To do again.

+1

The tour bus had no leg room and I am only 5’4 . If you have been to other caves doesn’t waste your time and would advise to just look at the castle on you tube . Not worth the money .