Tortuga Rum – 40 years in the making
In 1984, while working for Cayman Airways, Captain Robert Hamaty and his wife Carlene, an in-flight supervisor, founded Tortuga Rum Company. Today, 
Tortuga has become synonymous with the spirit of the Cayman Islands, offering not just a taste of the tropics, but a slice of history as well.
From its humble beginnings as a small family business, Tortuga has grown into a powerhouse of Caribbean rum and rum cakes, delighting visitors and locals alike with its exquisite flavors and unwavering commitment to quality. The story of 
Tortuga began with a dream to share the unique culture and flavors of the Cayman Islands with the world. Drawing inspiration from Christopher Columbus’ discovery of the islands and the abundance of turtles he found there, the Hamatys chose the name “Tortuga” for their venture, evoking a sense of adventure and discovery.
In 1987, the Hamatys opened the first Tortuga duty free liquor store and later that year introduced 
the now world-famous Tortuga Rum Cake. For years Carlene had baked rum cakes for special occasions, using a four-generation old family recipe. Friends encouraged her to make it part of the Tortuga line and the rest, as they say, is history!
Today, Tortuga rum cakes are still made according to Carlene’s secret family recipe, using only the finest ingredients and hand-glazed with Tortuga Gold Rum aged in oak barrels for five years. The result is a moist, delectable treat that encapsulates the essence of the islands in every bite.
But Tortuga’s offerings extend beyond just rum cake. The company’s line of rums, including Tortuga Light Rum, Tortuga Gold 
Rum, and an array of flavored options, has become a staple souvenir for visitors to the Cayman Islands. From classic varieties to exotic blends like Banana, Coconut, and Mango, Tortuga offers a taste of paradise in every sip.
Yet, Tortuga is more than just a purveyor of fine spirits and desserts—it’s a symbol of entrepreneurship, passion, and tradition. Over the 
last 40 years, the company has expanded its reach to become a leading retail, wholesale, and duty-free liquor business in the Cayman Islands, boasting a distribution portfolio of over 300 brands.
Now, visitors can experience the magic of Tortuga firsthand with the opening of the Tortuga Visitor Experience and Bakery Tour at its North Sound Road location in Grand Cayman’s capital, George Town. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by the warm scent of freshly baked cakes. Watch as the bakers work their magic, mixing, 
baking, and glazing each cake with care. And yes, you bet your bottom dollar there are samples involved—because what’s a trip to Tortuga without a taste test?
But it’s not just about the cakes and 
rum. The folks at Tortuga are passionate about sharing their island heritage with visitors from near and far. Take a stroll through the Visitor Centre and you’ll learn all about the history of Tortuga, from its humble beginnings to its rise as a Caribbean icon. It’s a journey through time and taste, and one you won’t soon forget.
So, as you set your sights on the Cayman Islands, be sure to carve out some time to explore the tantalizing world of Tortuga. Whether you’re indulging in a slice of history with their iconic rum cake or savoring the rich flavors of their renowned rums, you’re in for a truly unforgettable experience—one that’s been 40 years in the making.