Cayman Wildlife: 5 Unusual Things to See on Your Private Charter
Of course, you’ll see lots of gentle stingrays on your adventure — but there are other fascinating sea critters to look out for too, including some of the most unusual Cayman wildlife.
When you join us on a Crazy Crab private charter, you’re not just signing up for a boat ride — you’re stepping into one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the Caribbean. The Cayman Islands are home to a wide variety of fascinating creatures, both on land and in the sea, making them a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
The crystal-clear waters around Grand Cayman are alive with surprises, from vibrant coral reefs to mysterious seagrass beds. While Stingray City is the headline act, the rest of Cayman’s waters are filled with amazing things to see in Grand Cayman, including unusual marine life you won’t want to miss. Here are five creatures our guests are always excited to spot.
1. Upside-Down Jellyfish
No, your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you — these quirky creatures really do hang out upside down! Upside-down jellyfish (Cassiopea) prefer a life of lounging on the sandy seafloor with their bell flat against the bottom and their frilly tentacles reaching skyward like underwater flowers.
Why? Those frills contain symbiotic algae that need sunlight to make food, so the jellyfish act like little solar panels, pulsing gently to stay in place.
Look for them in calm, shallow waters such as Starfish Point or mangrove lagoons, where they thrive in their pristine natural environment. They’re mesmerizing to watch, but avoid touching — their mild sting is harmless to most people but can be irritating. Spotting one on your private charter is like discovering a living science experiment right under the boat!
2. Spotted Eagle Ray — A Highlight of Grand Cayman Wildlife
Spotting a spotted eagle ray is one of the most breathtaking moments you can have on the water. With wingspans that can reach over 8 feet, beautiful white spots scattered across their dark backs, and those long, ribbon-like tails, they look like underwater angels.
These rays are graceful swimmers, often gliding across sandy areas near coral reefs. If you’re really lucky, you might witness one leap completely out of the water — a rare and unforgettable sight.
Eagle rays are shy but curious, so stay calm and let them do their thing. They’re one of Cayman’s true natural treasures and a highlight for anyone interested in Cayman wildlife.
3. Red Cushion Sea Star
Sea stars are a guest favorite for good reason — they’re beautiful, photogenic, and found in some of Cayman’s most picturesque spots. The red cushion sea star is one of the largest sea stars in the Caribbean, with bold red and orange hues that glow against the white sand.
You’ll often see them at Starfish Point, where they rest in the shallows and make for perfect photos. But here’s an important tip: sea stars need to stay underwater to breathe, so always admire them where they are.
Our Crazy Crab crew will show you the best way to observe them safely, keeping Cayman’s marine life healthy for future visitors.
4. Green Sea Turtle — Iconic Cayman Wildlife
Few moments are more magical than seeing a wild green sea turtle cruising through the water. Grand Cayman is home to several species of sea turtles, making them some of the island's most magnificent creatures.
In fact, sea turtles were once so abundant in Cayman waters that when Christopher Columbus first arrived, he named the islands "Las Tortugas" in their honor. These gentle grazers spend their days grazing on seagrass, playing a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem's balance. Their presence helps maintain the health of seagrass beds, which in turn supports a multitude of other marine species.
The Cayman Turtle Centre is the main attraction for those wanting to learn more about turtles. Visitors can observe sea turtles up close, discover different turtle species, and participate in conservation-focused activities. The centre’s efforts highlight just how important turtles are to Cayman wildlife.
If you keep your eyes open while snorkeling near Coral Gardens, you may spot one resting on the bottom or gliding gracefully to the surface for a breath. Occasionally, we even see them in the mangroves during our eco-tours — a rare and very special treat.
5. Moray Eel
For adventurous snorkelers, spotting a moray eel peeking from a reef crevice is a thrill. With their long, snake-like bodies and toothy grins, they can look intimidating, but they’re usually just curious and harmless if left alone.
Moray eels are ambush predators, waiting patiently for a fish or crab to swim by before striking with lightning speed. Watch quietly from a distance and you might see one slip out of its hole and snake along the reef, showing off its incredible flexibility.
One of the best places to keep an eye out for them is during our guided snorkeling at Rum Point Reef, where healthy coral formations provide the perfect hiding spots for these fascinating creatures. They’re a reminder of just how full of surprises animals in the Cayman Islands can be.
Every Trip is Different — That’s the Magic of Cayman Wildlife
No two Crazy Crab adventures are ever exactly alike. One day, you might see eagle rays gliding in formation. Next, a green turtle might pop up next to the boat.
Cayman’s underwater world is always full of surprises, and part of the fun is never knowing which wild neighbors will come out to greet you. Whether you get to see stingrays, turtles, or other Cayman animals, every trip will bring you something unforgettable.
Ready to see for yourself? Book your private charter with Crazy Crab today and come face-to-face with stingrays, starfish, and all the unusual things to see in Grand Cayman.
