Setting Sail to Rose Island

The day began with a gentle breeze and the promise of adventure as I made my way to the Margaritaville marina area. The anticipation was palpable as I joined a group of fellow explorers, all eager to embark on the Rose Island Snorkeling and Beach Club Experience. As someone who thrives on the thrill of the ocean, I was particularly excited about this excursion, which promised a blend of snorkeling, turtle watching, and a private beach club experience.

We were greeted by Amber, who checked us in and gave us a rundown of the day’s itinerary. True to island time, we had a bit of a wait before boarding the OO7 speedboat, but the laid-back vibe was a perfect start to the day. Once aboard, the speedboat roared to life, and we were off, skimming across the turquoise waters with the wind in our hair and the sun on our faces.

Snorkeling and Turtles: A Marine Wonderland

Our first stop was the Rose Island Reef, a vibrant underwater world that beckoned us to explore. As a former professional surfer, I’ve spent countless hours in the ocean, but there’s something uniquely magical about snorkeling. The reef was alive with marine life, and while we didn’t encounter a kaleidoscope of colorful fish, the beauty of the reef itself was captivating.

Next, we headed to Green Cay, where the real stars of the show awaited us—sea turtles. This was the moment I had been waiting for, and it did not disappoint. Spotting these gentle creatures gliding gracefully through the water was a dream come true. I was so entranced that I forgot to take pictures, but Ray, one of the crew members, kindly captured the moment for me. His enthusiasm and willingness to help made the experience even more memorable.

Relaxation at the 007 Beach Club

Our final destination was the secluded 007 Beach Club on Rose Island. This private oasis was a slice of paradise, complete with lounge chairs, hammocks, and a tiki hut serving up Bahama Mamas and rum punch. The atmosphere was relaxed and carefree, a perfect reflection of island life.

We spent the afternoon floating in the crystal-clear waters, feeding the resident pigs, and enjoying a delicious lunch of hotdogs and hamburgers. The exclusivity of the beach club meant there was plenty of space for everyone, and the absence of crowds added to the tranquility of the experience.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to the marina, the boat alive with music and laughter. It was a day well spent, a reminder of the simple joys of island living and the beauty of the ocean that I hold so dear. If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in the Bahamas, this is it.