Resorts World Bimini completed construction of a pier near its resort on the ocean side of North Bimini Island in the Bahamas.
The company will start using the new pier on Sept. 18, which will allow passengers on the Bimini Superfast ferry to disembark directly onto North Bimini Island instead of having to tender in on catamarans from the bay side, a process that cut the time available on the island.
In addition, Genting Group, owner of the resort and the ferry, will launch roundtrip ferry service from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini on Oct. 14 on Tuesdays-Thursdays at 9 a.m., returning at 9 p.m. Departures from Port Miami Fridays-Sundays are at the same times.
Roundtrip ticket prices from both Miami and Fort Lauderdale are $121.50 per person, although promotional fares are sometimes offered.
"The completion of the port at Resorts World Bimini further enhances our commitment to the island, offering guests more time in port and uninterrupted cruise service during the winter months," said Dana Leibowitz, president of Resorts World Bimini.
The resort's casino opened in July 2013, and the two-hour ferry service from Miami was launched at the same time.
The Bimini Superfast ferry can accommodate 1,600 passengers. Onboard amenities include two casinos, a two-story disco, restaurants and boutiques.
Construction of the deep-water jetty and terminal at the new pier initially encountered opposition from environmental groups, which argued that the location of the new pier would harm local marine life and damage coral.
The new dock includes a temporary customs and immigration facility. Permanent facilities are the next phase of the project. A restaurant, beach club and crafts market also are planned.
A 305-room marina hotel is expected to open later this year.
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