Cayman Brac

Rock Climbing

Aficionados consider the Brac among the world's leading exotic climbing destinations. If you are experienced and like dangling from ropes 140 feet above a rocky, churning sea, the Brac is the place for you. Unfortunately, if you want to learn the ropes, no organization promotes climbing or rents equipment such as ropes and safety gear—you need to bring your own. Through the years, climbers have attached permanent titanium bolts to the Bluff face, creating some 70 routes in seven prime regions around the East End, most notably the Spot Bay Areas, the North Wall, the East Wall, and the South Wall. Access is often via private property, so be respectful (though most Brackers will just invite you in for cold drinks and stimulating conversation). The number is still growing as aficionados create new ascents. Difficulty is high; the "easiest" routes are graded 5.8 by the Yosemite Decimal system; most are rated 5.10 to 5.12, though many experienced climbers argue some approach the dizzying 5.14 range, especially around the sheer, "pumpy" (rock-speak for adrenaline-flowing) Northeast Point. This is steep, gnarly terrain of varying stability, suitable only for experienced climbers. Most of the Bluff's faces are hard vertical to overhanging; many walls vault abruptly, if exhilaratingly, to the savage sea.

Climbing the Brac is rocking, but precautions are vital. Sturdy hiking boots are mandatory, since you'll traverse a wide variety of terrain just accessing routes. Leather gloves are also recommended, as most of the high-quality limestone is smooth but has sharp and jagged areas. Two ropes are necessary for many climbs, the longest of which requires 19 quickdraws. Gear should include ascending devices like prussiks and Tiblocs and shoulder-length slings with carabiners. Don't attempt climbs alone, and you're on your own even in teams should disaster occur. Agree upon rope tug signals, since the wind, waves, and overhangs make hearing difficult. Always analyze surf conditions and prevailing winds (which are variable) before rappelling, and double-check rap setup, anchors, and harnesses. Though titanium glue-ins replaced most of the old stainless steel bolts, many are deteriorating due to stress corrosion cracking; avoid any old bolts.

The Cayman Breakers condo complex has route maps and descriptions. Several world-renowned climbers have built (second) homes on the Brac, including Liz Grenard, John Byrnes, and Ian Stewart.

More Sports and Outdoors

• Bird-watching
• Diving and Snorkeling
• Fishing

• Hiking
• Rock Climbing
• Spelunking