Cayman Islands Helicopters have opened their new helipad on the waterfront of capital city Georgetown, aiming specifically at the cruise ship market.  Previously operating from Owen Robert International Airport, the transfer to and from the port (even though only 10 minutes each way!) did not encourage as many cruise passengers as expected.  With the new heliport right on North Church Street “between Burger King and Lobster Pot restaurant!), new focus will be given to attracting tour customers.

CIH’s website indicates three standard tours.  A “Seven Mile tour” actually refers to Seven Mile Beach is a 10 minute tour priced at $75.  Their most popular tour is the Stingray, 20 minutes at $120, while a whole island tour costs $295 per person for an approx 50 minute flight.  Advance bookings attract a discount on the company website.

The Cayman CAA confirmed the newly opened heliport had been certified in accordance with the Overseas Territories Aviation Requirements for commercial air transport operations – although it has taken two years for the operator to get all the approvals they needed to start operations from the new site.  Additional to that, owners Jerome and Nathalie Begot had spent five years finding and negotiating the site.

William P Johnson – HeliHub.com Washington correspondent