Jamaica’s iconic Floyd’s Pelican Bar has once again secured its place on the global travel map after being named one of the world’s top boat-only dining destinations by boating platform BoatBooker. Ranked sixth overall, the rustic hideaway off the coast of Treasure Beach stands proudly alongside unique restaurants in places such as the Maldives, Fiji, Zanzibar and Greece, further cementing the South Coast’s reputation for unforgettable experiences.
The recognition comes at a particularly meaningful time. After suffering complete damage during Hurricane Melissa, the beloved bar officially reopened on January 31st, marking a powerful return for one of Jamaica’s most distinctive attractions.
A Driftwood Dream in the Middle of the Sea
Perched on a sandbar nearly a mile offshore, Floyd’s Pelican Bar is unlike any other dining spot in Jamaica. Built entirely from driftwood and palm thatch by local fisherman Floyd Forbes as a place to relax with friends, the structure has grown into a global bucket-list attraction while still holding on to its raw, laid-back charm.
The experience begins long before the first bite. A 20-minute boat ride across the calm waters of Jamaica’s South Coast sets the tone, building anticipation as the tiny wooden structure slowly comes into view on the horizon.
Once there, the simplicity is part of the magic. Visitors often enjoy freshly caught lobster or fish prepared on the spot and served with an ice-cold Red Stripe. It is a true “catch, cook and chill” experience that captures the essence of coastal Jamaican life.
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Rising Again After Hurricane Melissa
The Pelican Bar’s latest recognition follows a challenging period. The structure was completely destroyed during Hurricane Melissa, leaving many wondering if the iconic bar would ever return. For locals, visitors and the wider Jamaican diaspora, the loss felt deeply personal, as the bar had become a symbol of the South Coast’s culture and character.
But true to its story of humble beginnings and resilience, the team rebuilt. On the very day of the grand reopening on January 31st, there were early setbacks when a boat engine failed and the weather turned overcast. Still, Floyd and his team pressed on, fixing the engine on the spot and ensuring guests made it safely to and from the bar.
The moment turned into a powerful reminder of what the Pelican Bar represents: determination, community spirit and a deep love for what they do. Its return is more than just a reopening. It is a testament to resilience and the strength of the people behind it.
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A Living Memory Board of Global Travellers
One of Floyd’s Pelican Bar’s most beloved traditions is the practice of carving names into the wooden floorboards and walls. Over the years, thousands of visitors from around the world have left their mark, turning the bar into a living scrapbook of shared stories and journeys.
Despite its international fame, the spot has retained the easygoing atmosphere of its beginnings. That balance between global recognition and local authenticity is part of what made it stand out to reviewers and travellers alike.
How the List Was Chosen
BoatBooker’s selection focused on destinations that deliver something truly unique. To qualify, each restaurant had to be accessible only by boat, maintain a strong rating on Google Maps, and have at least 100 verified reviews. The emphasis was on experiences that feel special and impossible to replicate anywhere else.
The final top 10 list spans the globe, from the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant in the Maldives to Cloud 9 in Fiji and The Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar. Jamaica’s Pelican Bar sits proudly among them, representing the Caribbean’s contribution to this niche but growing style of travel.
A Win for Jamaica’s South Coast
For Jamaica, the recognition is more than just a ranking. It shines a spotlight on the island’s South Coast and the kind of immersive, authentic experiences that continue to draw travellers seeking something different.
Floyd’s Pelican Bar has long been known locally as a place to unplug, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak in the beauty of the Caribbean Sea. Now, with its reopening and this global nod, it stands as a symbol of renewal as much as it does adventure.
As travel trends continue to favour meaningful and unique experiences, the little driftwood bar in the middle of the sea proves that even after being knocked down, it can rise again, stronger than ever.
