Operator News

Bahamas – Genting launches Resorts World Bimini ahead of Miami ferry

By Phil - 3 July 2013

Genting has now unveiled the latest addition to its Resorts World brand, the Resorts World Bimini in the Bahamas, in a partnership with RAV Bahamas.

It has been forced to delay the launch of its planned ferry from Miami to its Resorts World Bimini casino in Bimini Bay in the Bahamas after it failed to pass US Coast Guard stipulations.

Genting officials explained that the launch of the boutique resort and casino is part of the group’s growth strategy in the Americas.

Located less than 50 nautical miles or two hours away from Miami, is a 750-acre luxurious beachfront resort containing villas, restaurants, a fisherman’s village with shopping and dining options, not to mention the largest marina in the Bahamas.

Genting Malaysia Chairman and Chief Executive Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, said: “The whole Resorts World Bimini experience is also extended to the Bimini SuperFast. It is our idea to have our customers board a fast cruise ship to the resort and also to give them the option to enjoy cruising experience with top service and entertainment facilities onboard our new ship. It’s a double enjoyment experience. This new resort will attract many new visitors from the US and other countries.”

Initially scheduled to set sail at the end of June, it is not currently known when the 32,000-ton vessel will begin ferrying passengers to the new casino.

Janet Espino-Young, Chief of the Inspection Division at the US Coast Guard revealed that crew failed to meet requirements getting passengers off the ship and into lifeboats within 30 minutes. She said there was an ‘overall lack of proficiency by the crew to respond to an emergency situation.’

“Even if it is a two- to three-hour trip to Bimini, we need to make sure passengers are not put in high-stress, threatening situations,” she explained. “The Coast Guard has provided the owners of the ferry with a list of discrepancies and will be reevaluating both the vessel and the crew when repairs and training are complete.”

She added that the Coast Guard would continue working with the crew to iron out any remaining discrepancies.

With a capacity for more than 1,500 passengers, the ferry called SuperFast Bimini plans to offer two trips a day: the first leaving at 9 am and returning at 7 pm, and a second ‘Night Party Cruise’ leaving at 9 pm and returning at 5 am.

Dana Leibovitz, President of Resorts World Miami, said: “We will provide information about the SuperFast’s inaugural sailing as soon as it becomes available.”