Floyd’s Pelican Bar ranked among world’s top boat-only dining spots

Floyd’s Pelican Bar has been ranked sixth globally on a list of the world’s top boat-only dining destinations, earning international recognition for its unique setting and authentic Caribbean charm.

The popular Jamaica south coast attraction was highlighted in a new global ranking compiled by BoatBooker, which evaluated restaurants accessible exclusively by boat and known for distinctive dining experiences. An accompanying infographic map showcasing the featured locations was also released as a visual guide for travellers.

Built on a sandbar nearly a mile out at sea, Floyd’s Pelican Bar was described as offering the ultimate “castaway” experience. Constructed entirely of driftwood and palm thatch by a local fisherman named Floyd as a hangout spot for friends, the rustic structure has since become a bucket-list destination for visitors worldwide while retaining its raw, unpolished character.

Reviewers frequently praise the simplicity of the menu, which typically features fresh lobster or fish caught nearby and cooked to order, often paired with a cold Red Stripe beer. Another longstanding tradition highlighted in the ranking is the practice of visitors carving their names into the wooden floorboards or leaving small souvenirs behind, creating what has become a living record of global travellers.

BoatBooker said the rankings were guided by specific criteria, including that each restaurant must be reachable exclusively by boat, maintain a high Google Maps rating and have at least 100 verified reviews. The company said it prioritised authentic settings and experiences that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

“For a trip to Jamaica’s South Coast, the 20-minute boat ride out to this stilted hut is the opening act that heightens the senses before the first plate of fresh seafood is served,” the company noted.

Floyd’s Pelican Bar was also described as one of the Caribbean’s most famous “middle of the ocean” taverns, located on a shallow sandbar roughly three-quarters of a mile offshore between Negril and Black River. Surrounded entirely by turquoise waters and accessible only by boat, the venue allows guests to swim, sunbathe and dine in the middle of the sea.

Another Caribbean destination featured on the list was Lime Out in the US Virgin Islands, ranked fourth. The floating taco bar in Coral Bay offers boat-side service and a relaxed atmosphere and can only be reached by charter, kayak or paddleboard in order to protect the delicate seafloor.

Photo courtesy of Lime Out Restaurant

The full top 10 list includes Ithaa Undersea Restaurant in the Maldives, Cloud 9 in Fiji, The Chill Penida in Indonesia, The Rock Restaurant in Zanzibar, Trattoria Il Focolare in Italy, Téchnē Restaurant & Social in Greece, Fogo Island Inn in Canada and Stocks Hotel in Sark, Guernsey.