Upon arrival to the Cayman Island some things become immediately made apparent, taxi cabs provide locomotion anywhere for 5 dollars and I have not been living well enough! There is natural way of living, embracing the sun, the sea and the sand. There was never a lack of smiles on the faces of everyone on the island. This applied to even the smallest details of the normally mundane task of car rentals.
Choosing to use the country’s native auto rental proved to be a godsend. Not only was it the easiest over the counter transaction I've ever had encountered with regards to paperwork, but also was another place where we were treated like family.
Rick, the proprietor of the establishment came out and assisted his 16 year old daughter during our transaction in their family owned business. During our 45 min conversation we learned about his daughters attending school in the states and how they loved it there, but missed the paradise of home. Maybe it's the divine population and attitude that beacons them home? With only 41,000 people in the Cayman's and only ½ of them being native to the Cayman Islands, it's an easy task to find solitude or to seek solace in the company of others.
I opted to enjoy the company of others at the Jolly Roger Cruise, which is a great way to see the beauty of the island. Led by a band of bandits from days of old the Jolly Roger is indeed a true pirate ship. As you are led on board by the Captain's first mate, smelling the scent of the sea, I was instantly transformed to a period long since forgotten by those of us constantly landlocked. This vessel may not be quite as antiquated as the ships in the days of Blackbeard, but is still a joy to behold.
Birthed in 1986 to a private owner in Florida, this vessel already has years of seafaring under its belt. Originally designed as a replica of the Christopher Columbus's ship the Nina, it has worked in Grand Cayman, and earned an extensive stint as a home to one individual who chose a nautical life sailing the Caribbean. Now settling in the Cayman its fully functional 19 sails are a marvel. As I watched the pirates rigging the 80 ft vessel, I began singing "A pirate's life for me." Thankfully these pirates take care of all the work, allowing me to watch the sunset paint rays of gold upon the sea of the Grand Cayman. Sailing during golden hour peacefully compelled many of the couples during this romantic sunset to stake a private place embracing each other.
As everyone came together after their quiet time, the spirit of fun soon surged through the air as the pirates played reggae music. The island sounds infected the spirits of all aboard the galleon. The traditional rum punch brought about the free loving spirit in everyone. The quiet moments were now transformed into joyous group karaoke. It turns out not only is the love of the sea present in all of the members of this outing, ranging from Middle Eastern, Japanese, Canadian, French, but the spirit of Bob Marley as well!
Written by Neftalie Williams
Look for more writings about the Cayman Islands by Neftalie in the coming weeks
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