Anyone been out to Gibb's Cay on Grand TurK?

[jeph]

I saw some snapshots on a similar website's message boards that had been taken from the shore of Gibb's Cay. Funnels of cruise ships docked at the terminal (near the southern end of Grand Turk) are clearly visible. I'd like to plan a trip out to Gibb's to see the local stingrays that gather there to accept snacks from day-trippers. A few questions for anyone who's been there and done that:

How long of a boat ride is it to get out there from the cruise ship terminal?

Are the tour operators who take visitors out to that beach allowed inside the port area to meet passengers coming off the ships, or must one go outside the gates of the complex to meet up with them?

Can I just book with them on the spot, or are advance reservations needed? (Our ship will be carrying a modest 1300 passengers, but I don't know what behemoths might pull in there later in the day...)

Assuming I book with them directly rather than going through the cruise line, about how much would it run for a trip that would allow an hour or two at Gibb's Cay? And would that price include use of snorkel gear that they provide?

Finally, can one pay by credit card or would I need to bring cash?

Any specific advice or recommendations would be much appreciated!

Thanks-- "jeph" (western MA)

[kooyster]

When I was there last time we booked through the cruise ship. I don't know if you can book separately. Usually if they have a contract with the cruise ship they will only book via them.

Once you get off the boat there is another small dock that you can see to the right of the cruise pier. You just meet the boat there. It's about a 1/2 hour boat ride if I remember correctly.

As soon as you get to the beach you will see all the stingrays. they come up to you right away for food. They also give you time to snorkel and can follow a guided tour. Yes they provide the life jackets and snorkel gear.

It's nice and shallow where the stingrays come to visit with you.

[jeph]

Thanks kooyster-- I think my next move will be to contact the tourism board in Turks & Caicos to see who makes these runs, and if I can book with them on my own.

Just out of curiosity, what ship were you on during your visit?