Bimini Casino Ferry Not Up to Speed

The Bimini Superfast ferry linking Miami and Bimini, Bahamas, remains docked in Miami due to safety deficiencies, according to the Nassau Guardian.

The ferry service was to have launched last week, following its christening by Bahamas Prime Minister Perry Christie, signaling the debut of Resorts World Bimini Bay Casino and the start of twice-daily roundtrip service.

U.S. Coast Guard inspectors determined that a number of infractions needed to be corrected before the 1,600-passenger vessel is cleared for commercial sailing.

"We are working closely with the U.S. Coast Guard to complete all safety checks prior to launching service," said Resorts World in a statement.

Ferry service is available with Balearia Bahamas Express, a Spanish-owned company that operates the 358-passenger catamaran-style Maverick on three-hour sailings between Miami and Bimini.