New for 2007, Cayman's largest and most eagerly anticipated tourist attraction, Boatswain's Beach is now open.

Pronounced 'Bo-suns' Beach, this one-of-a-kind, 23-acre adventure marine park promises to become one of the most exciting attractions in the Caribbean.

Boatswain's Beach celebrates Caymanians' stewardship of the seas and relationship with nature through tactile, colorful, educational and memorable experiences.

The park allows visitors to experience the rich history of Caymanian life in a fun and safe environment while providing opportunities to observe and interact with native flora and fauna. In keeping with its cultural heritage, Boatswain's Beach is the new home of the world renowned Cayman Turtle Farm.

As part of the emphasis on Cayman's heritage, the historic Cayman Turtle Farm has made its new home within Boatswain's Beach. The only one of its kind in the world, the turtle farm is home to over 11,000 Green Sea Turtles, ranging in size from six ounces to six hundred pounds each. Visitors can tour an actual working farm, which is both educational and entertaining, and turtles are available for guests to hold for an amazing and unique photo opportunity.

The Cayman Turtle Farm has held a long-standing tradition of releasing some of the turtles that have been bred at the farm. This tradition was initially inspired by the Cayman Turtle Farm's commitment to both its conservation initiatives of ensuring the continuation of the species, and of the on-going research that will help biologists learn more about turtle migration and nesting behaviour. Visitors to the island can have the opportunity to actively participate in an annual turtle release, as this year's annual release takes place early November 2007. This is an once-in-a-lifetime experience and those interested in participating should send an email to [email protected] for more information.

The turtle farm breeds the Green Sea Turtle, named for the green colour of the fat deposits inside its skin. Other turtle species exhibited on the farm include the Loggerhead Turtle, the Kemps Ridley, and the beautifully patterned Hawksbill Turtle.

The new expanded facilities at Boatswain's Beach will ensure visitors continue to learn more about these amazing sea creatures as well as our new additions including the predators, birds, crocodiles, and other exciting creatures. The new park will house a world-class research and educational facility that will focus on the conservation of sea turtles.

The new Breaker's freshwater pool, one of the parks main highlights opened to the public on July 15, 2006. Visitors can now enjoy a refreshing, cool dip in the ever inviting Breaker's fresh water tidal lagoon and dine on a scrumptious meal at Breaker's Snack Shack. Items on the menu include jerk chicken and pork, hamburgers, sandwiches, and desserts amongst other delights.

The first quarter of this year, the park will offer visitors a unique opportunity to swim and snorkel with fish and other marine life in its 1.3 million gallon salt-water lagoon. Guests can also peer into the predator tank and come nose-to-nose with sharks and eels. For those less adventurous, wander through the beautiful free-flight bird aviary or stroll down an historic Caymanian street complete with porch side artisans. Children and adults alike will delight in interacting with starfish, urchins and crabs at the touch pool. Everyone will enjoy the experience of the finest Caymanian cuisine at a variety of locations throughout the park.

For those wanting to take a little of Boatswain's Beach home, 18 shopping kiosks are located throughout the park, as well as a 3,500 square foot Boatswain's Beach retail centre located in the reception building.

The farm is open seven days a week from 8:30am to 4:30pm and is wheelchair accessible. Entry for adults is US$60.00 and US$25.00 for children 2-12; children under 2 have free entry in to the park (prices are subject to change). The farm is located on Northwest Point Road in West Bay, just eight miles from George Town.

Boatswain's Beach launched its membership club on December 9th, 2006, providing everyone with the opportunity to receive continuous updates, discounts, travel opportunities around the world, and many other exciting membership only activities at the park. For information on the club, and to receive updates and press releases on the park, contact [email protected].

Boatswain's Beach can also cater for functions of all types and sizes. Whether your party is an anniversary, birthday, business affair, Christmas, or New Year function, Boatswain's Beach can host any occasion. As small as a group of 10 or as large as a group of 2,000 people, Boatswain's Beach can make it happen!

With its ability to weave entertainment, education, and conservation together in one cohesive package, Boatswain's Beach will take your next business event to another level. Furnished by an eccentric sunset, Caribbean music in the background, an array of delectable foods and the finest wines and spirits, your special event will turn into a beautiful evening that will never be forgotten.

Boatswain's Beach will handle all the details, from catering and decorations to music and entertainment.

For more information on having your next event at Boatswain's Beach, please contact the Special Events Coordinator, Mr. Gary Dominguez at 949-3894 Ext. 4002 or at [email protected]

For more details on Boatswain's Beach visit www.boatswainsbeach.ky.