Resorts World Bimini yesterday said its Miami ferry service had brought 40,000 persons, or 80 per cent of its normal annual visitor numbers, to the island in just three months.

“Some days my biggest problem is figuring out where to put everyone, so we expanded and built a roof deck to accommodate guests,” says Edith’s Pizza and Take Out proprietor, Edith Romer, whose home-made creations such as Lobster Pizza are a hit with visitors. “I can go through 80 pounds of flour on a busy day. It’s incredible.”

“We used to close down for six months every year because there was no business,” said Ashley Saunders, owner of The Dolphin House Museum.

“We’ve had so much business this year that we stopped renting rooms and just operated as a museum. In fact, I’ve had to hire two additional tour guides to fulfill the demand.”

“Traditionally after Labour Day the island receives few visitors, and resort staff shifts are reduced to two to three days a week,” says Zilpha Kemp, transportation supervisor for Resorts World Bimini.

“This year we’re working full time. I’ve never experienced anything like this in the nine years I’ve worked on the property.”

Edward Reckley, who owns and operates the water sports rental equipment on Paradise Beach, added: “I see a great opportunity with Resorts World Bimini. I’m planning to add a variety of water activities for guests next year, including parasailing and a jet ski tour.”

At a special Town Council meeting earlier this month, Resorts World advised it would market Bimini-based businesses on the ship to ensure passengers have ample information about the offerings outside of the resort property.

“Fifty per cent of Bimini SuperFast passengers who remain on the island stay at Resorts World Bimini; the rest stay at other properties on the island,” said Resorts World’s Colin Au. “We are committed to promoting all the businesses and properties on Bimini so that everyone can prosper.”

Iona Stuart, who owns a store at the Straw Market in Alice Town, has set up a second shop at Resorts World Bimini’s Fisherman’s Village. Other shop keepers have been invited to do the same.