Cayman Islands

Cayman Islands Background

The Cayman Islands were colonized from Jamaica by the British during the 18th and 19th centuries. Administered by Jamaica since 1863, they remained a British dependency after 1962 when the former became independent.

Cayman Islands Information

• Population: 43,103 (July 2004 est.)
• Nationality: noun: Caymanian(s) adjective: Caymanian
• Location:: Caribbean, island group in Caribbean Sea, nearly one-half of the way from Cuba to Honduras
• Religions:: United Church (Presbyterian and Congregational), Anglican, Baptist, Church of God, other Protestant, Roman Catholic
• Ethnic Groups:: mixed 40%, white 20%, black 20%, expatriates of various ethnic groups 20%
• Land Boundaries:: 0 km
• Area: total: 262 sq km water: 0 sq km land: 262 sq km
• Coast Line: 160 km
• Climate: tropical marine; warm, rainy summers (May to October) and cool, relatively dry winters (November to April)
• Terrain: low-lying limestone base surrounded by coral reefs
• Maritime Claims: territorial sea: 12 nm exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
• Land Use: arable land: 3.85% permanent crops: 0% other: 96.15% (2001)
• Environmental Issues: no natural fresh water resources; drinking water supplies must be met by rainwater catchments
• Natural Resources: fish, climate and beaches that foster tourism
• Highways: total: 785 km paved: 785 km (2000)
• Railways:
• Ports & Harbours: Cayman Brac, George Town
• Airports: 3 (2003 est.)