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Bioluminescence Tours in Grand Cayman
Explore the bioluminescent bay in Grand Cayman with tours ranging from eco-friendly kayak tours and electric boat trips to exclusive private charters.
Cayman is lucky enough to be one of just a handful of places worldwide where you can experience the Bioluminescence phenomenon. Bioluminescence is the emission of light by living organisms that live in the water. The concentration of these organisms in the bay is so high that when the water is disturbed it glows brightly. Promoted as one of nature’s best kept secrets, this is one tour that should not be missed!
Editor's Tip
To get the most out of these trips there needs to be little moonlight so tours do not run every evening. Please contact operators to confirm schedule.
What is Bioluminescence?
Bioluminescence is the creation and emission of light from living organisms through a chemical reaction involving a light-emitting pigment. This phenomenon is found in various organisms such as bacteria, fungi, insects, jellyfish and certain fish. It can be experienced in several parts of the world, including here in Cayman!
Bioluminescence becomes more visible when the water is disturbed. The light-producing organisms, such as plankton, emit light in response to physical agitation or movement in the water. When these organisms are disturbed, they release a burst of light as a defense mechanism or as a way to attract prey or mates.
Always be mindful of the environment and follow any guidelines provided by our tour operators to ensure a responsible experience with bioluminescence.
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Cayman Kayaks
Bioluminescence Tours
Cayman Kayaks was the first operator to offer this natural phenomenon as a tourist excursion in 2007. They offer guided tours by double kayak or Cayman's only electric boat. The boat's observation area between the hulls creates a perfect pocket of darkness to play in the bioluminescence. If you are passionate about the environment, this is the company to choose. They are committed to minimizing their negative impact on the environment by offering eco-conscious excursions. Head to the North Side in the late afternoon to avoid traffic, grab a bite, snorkel, relax at the beach, and then meet Cayman Kayaks for a memorable night experience!
10% off
Cayman Kayaks
Bioluminescence Kayak Night Tour
After a short kayak ride you can witness a rare and enchanting display of natural underwater lights.
Recommended ages: 6+
1.5 hours
From US$67.5
$75
10% off
10% off
Cayman Kayaks
Bioluminescent Electric Boat Tour
Aboard Nightshift, you will cruise to the bioluminescent bay beneath a star-studded night sky. The unique seating area is just 10 inches from the water, allowing your hands and feet to reach the surface to play in the bioluminescence.
Recommended ages: 4+
1.5 hours
From US$67.5
$75
10% off
White Sand Water Sports will meet on the dock at Kaibo around sunset. You can then take a slow and leisurely cruise around the little sound, stopping at starfish point and the jellyfish cay for an eco-tour while the sky becomes dark. You'll then travel to the bay and witness Cayman's bioluminescence.
5% off
White Sand Water Sports
Bioluminescence Boat Tours
Experience Grand Cayman's amazing glowing Bioluminescent Bay! These still, nutrient dense waters, may appear unremarkable during the day, but come night fall, the waters light up with glowing bioluminescent organisms.
Recommended for all ages
From US$71.25
$75
5% off
Cayman Islands Sailing Charters offer your visit to Bio Bay on a catamaran, meaning you get the benefit of being able to swim under the boat, consequently blocking out any light pollution and giving the best viewing conditions for the bioluminescence. The boat is equipped with snorkel equipment, a paddleboard, a washroom, satellite radio and a wash down hose.
Cayman Islands Sailing Charters
Bio Bay Tour
Experience the gorgeousness of swimming in bioluminescence in Cayman’s famous Bio Bay.
Recommended for all ages
3 hours
From US$500
