Back away several feet and cogitate the simple complexity transpiring before you; thousands of diverse organisms attaining together as one single remarkable entity — Cayman’s living reef. .

After an appropriate surface interval, your second dive will be a 40-60ft Cayman reef dive or Cayman ship wreck dive. For most Cayman reef and wreck dives, dive operators offer a choice between a guided dive or a buddy dive, with the latter allowing you to pursue your individual interests at your own pace.

Cayman shipwreck dives and reef dives typically range in depth from 30-60 feet. Always begin your Cayman reef or wreck dive at the maximum depth planned and gradually ascend throughout your dive. Continuing your ascent alongside the Cayman reef as the sunlight gradually intensifies, you will notice a progressive increase in the spectrum of color. Fish, corals, sponges and fans will begin to impart their true resounding brilliance. Listen to the soft sublime sounds of the clicking of the snapping shrimp and the parrot fish pecking away methodically at the hard coral.

On the sandy bottom of most Cayman reefs and beside Cayman wrecks, you may encounter conch, flounder, garden eels and hermit crabs. Small holes & crevices frequently house eel, shrimp, crab, octopus and lobster. Look for outcroppings and overhangs to swim under; they are usually occupied by tarpon, grouper, silverside and numerous species of fish who prefer shade. Shine your light along the top and inside walls to reveal sponges, corals, algae and tunicates in a sparkling array of vibrant colors. Tube sponges are often home to tiny shrimp and goby fish. Brittle star, cowrie and nudibranch often inhabit sponges, sea fans and coral.

More detailed Cayman reef and shipwreck diving information

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Cayman reef diving is among the most relaxing and enjoyable experiences, with shallower depths affording ample bottom time to familiarize yourself with Cayman's intricate reef system. Diving Cayman reefs will expose you to thousands of species of fish and coral, brilliantly illuminated in Cayman's shallow waters. A flashlight is still highly recommended to further enhance the colors and detail of Cayman reefs, particularly in areas shaded by outcroppings, caves, tunnels, etc.

Cayman shipwreck diving is not considered penetration diving because all of the Cayman shipwrecks available for recreational diving have been made diver friendly. Hence, technical training and expertise is not necessary. Still, whenever diving Cayman shipwrecks, exercise sound diving practices such as the rule of thirds and never entering any area without a clear exit plan.

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Cayman Islands Reef and Shipwreck Diving - Grand Cayman Diving Information