Little Cayman is very popular with divers.  PHOTOs by Southern Cross Club

Pledging 10 percent of its accommodation charge in support of research work at the Central Caribbean Marin Institute (CCMI), Southern Cross Club is now offering visitors from Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac special rates.

As part of its getaway packages this month, the Little Cayman-based property will provide each guest with a gift bag with vouchers and merchandise, valued at $50, and a free upgrade to a deluxe unit, on an availability basis.

“Between hurricanes and the economy, it has been a tough year and we thought we’d offer a chance for locals to get away and enjoy the tranquillity of Little Cayman and at the same time help CCMI recover from Gustav and Paloma,” said Peter Hillenbrand, owner of the Southern Cross Club and Chairman of the Board for CCMI.

Founded in 1958, the 12-room boutique resort caters mainly to divers and fishermen.

The CCMI conducts and facilitate research, education, conservation and outreach to sustain marine diversity for future generations. CCMI said its programmes provide a solid foundation for education and awareness for students and researchers both in the Caribbean and around the world.

Guests may arrange a tour of CCMI’s Little Cayman Research Centre during their stay, the tour organisers said.