OK, so Bar One isn’t technically a beach bar, since it sits (floats, actually) at the edge of the harbour in Port Elizabeth, just a bit offshore from Princess Margaret Beach. But Bequia’s “first floating bar” is a funky, friendly experience and well worth the effort to get to. Not that it requires much effort – it’s just a 5 min, $10 EC per person ride in a water taxi (such as Blessing or Phat Shag) from the harbour or Princess Margaret Beach. The bar can arrange the taxis for you.

It’s basically a compact, squarish floating platform, with swing seats and benches surrounding a simple bar. A roof provides ample shade. And to add to its overall hipness, it’s solar powered.

It may be small and surrounded by water, but thanks to bartender and owner Ivor Simpson, Bar One punches well above its weight when it comes to cocktails.

It’s a great place to spend a bit of time with a tasty drink and good conversation, while taking in the comings and goings of picturesque Admiralty Bay.

What will you have?

More than you’d think at first glance – at least when it comes to drinks.

Beers: Hairoun and Carib. Not a lot of storage space for multiple brands.

Cocktails: This is where Ivor really shines. He’s designed an original, innovative cocktail menu, and prepares each drink with meticulous care. I tried the Ultimate Dirty Bloody Mary, made with vermouth, olive juice and hot peppers, among other things. Excellent! As my late father-in-law used to say, “tastes like another one”.

Food: Peanuts…but several different varieties!

 Asides

Bar One floats nicely under the radar – yeah, I know. Clientele mainly consists of locals, yachties and people staying on the island. Ivor deliberately, and thankfully, doesn’t go after the cruise ship crowd. After all, it’s a small place (Ivor claims it can hold 30-40 people, but I’m not so sure about that), and its low-key vibe is part of its charm.

Reflections… 

Their motto is “Sip. Float. Relax”. That pretty much sums it up. If you’re up for that and not much more, you’ll have a great time.

IC 2019