As the sun casts its golden glow over the shimmering azure waters of the Caribbean, an air of excitement permeates the deck of the Scarlet Lady. Today is the day of the best party you can only get to from the sea at Bimini Beach Club.
As the Scarlet Lady gracefully docks at the Bahamian island of Bimini, I am struck by the sheer beauty of the surroundings. Crystal-clear waters lap gently against pristine white sands while swaying palms beckon us to explore this tropical paradise. Stepping onto the island, I am greeted by the warm sea breeze and the infectious energy of fellow sailors, all eager to make the most of our day ashore.
We get off the ship and walk about 2 minutes to where the tram/golf carts await. If you are a RockStar (which you are) you can hop on a golf cart and they will whisk you away to wherever you want to go. If you are a normal Red Bracelet Sailor, then wait on the tram. After you get on you have a 5-minute ride to the beach club, but first, you will be taken to the heart of Bimini where locals are waiting for anyone who does not want to get to the Beach Club right away. They offer everything from personal Golf Carts, shopping, and excursions.
We usually just proceed to the Beach Club because we like to find a chair or two, depending on how many people are joining us.
One of the first decisions to make upon arrival at the Bimini Beach Club is where to settle in and soak up the sun. With its laid-back atmosphere and abundance of amenities, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some may opt for the comfort of a plush beach chair, strategically positioned along the shoreline to offer uninterrupted views of the ocean. Others may prefer to unwind in one of the inviting hammocks scattered throughout the club, swaying gently beneath the shade of palm trees.
For me, however, the choice is clear: I make a beeline for the vibrant Beach Club pool area. Here, sleek loungers line the water’s edge, offering the perfect vantage point for taking in the lively atmosphere of the club. The pool itself is a refreshing oasis, inviting guests to cool off with a leisurely swim or simply float serenely under the Caribbean sun. With a refreshing cocktail in hand from one of the nearby bars, I find myself settling into a state of blissful relaxation.
One might wonder if reserving a cabana is necessary to fully enjoy the Bimini Beach Club experience. However, I quickly discovered that this is far from the case. While cabanas certainly offer a touch of luxury and exclusivity, complete with personalized service and additional amenities, they are by no means essential for a memorable day ashore. The Beach Club’s ample seating options, from loungers to hammocks to poolside tables, ensure that every guest can find their own slice of paradise without the need for a cabana reservation.
In fact, opting to forego a cabana allows for greater flexibility and spontaneity in exploring all that the Bimini Beach Club has to offer. Without being tied to a specific spot, I am free to wander the grounds at my leisure, discovering hidden gems and unexpected delights around every corner. From beachside games and water sports to live music and DJ sets, there is no shortage of activities to keep guests entertained throughout the day.
Of course, no visit to the Bimini Beach Club would be complete without indulging in its culinary offerings. Virgin Voyages prides itself on its innovative dining experiences, and the Beach Club is no exception. Whether craving fresh seafood grilled to perfection, tropical-inspired cocktails bursting with flavor, or light and refreshing salads to satisfy any appetite, there is something to tempt every palate. With multiple dining options available, including both casual fare and upscale cuisine, guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to satisfying their hunger and thirst.
As the day draws to a close and the sun begins its descent toward the horizon, I find myself reluctantly bidding farewell to the Bimini Beach Club. With its laid-back vibe, stunning natural beauty, and wealth of amenities, it’s no wonder why this idyllic oasis has quickly become a favorite port of call for Virgin Voyages sailors. As I step back aboard the Scarlet Lady, I carry with me memories of a day spent in paradise—a day that I will cherish long after the voyage has come to an end.
Pro tip: If you’re looking for a party vibe, head to the right side of the Beach Club when you walk in. That’s where you’ll find the DJ, pool floats, foam party, and a Spring Break atmosphere. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, the left-hand side is usually a lot calmer. You can still hear the music when the DJ starts, but you won’t be in the center of the party. If neither of those options suits you and you prefer sand and saltwater, the beach has plenty of chairs for any beach lover to set up for the day!