JA’S FIRST FLOATING BAR SAID STRONGER AND BETTER AFTER US$1-M HURRICANE LOSS
Ocho Rios, St Ann; May 26, 2025
Poko Loko, Jamaica’s first floating bar, swept away last year by Hurricane Beryl, is up and open to the public again, in Ocho Rios, St Ann.
The floating bar, on Ocho Rios Bay, was opened Sunday evening, May 25, 202,5, after the facility was rebuilt and anchored by a barge able to withstand a category 4 hurricane. The reconstruction, including facilities for all the conveniences, was done at a cost of more than US $1 million.
(Chilling on the upper deck)
Anthony Warren, one of the five investors – two from Jamaica and one from the US — told the North Coast Times that everything from freight for the material to workers’ wages had gone up since last year June when the facility opened. He said he and his partners were committed to the project of creating the entertainment centre and attraction in Ocho Rios.
He said the barge supporting Poko Loko is stronger, and arrangements have been made this time with two entities to move the structure away should a hurricane threaten.
(Late evening Ferry)
Poko Loko with a Mexican theme entwined with Jamaican flavour, offers cuisine and drinks samples of which were provided for guests at the soft launch, Sunday evening.
There are 65 staff members, increased from 55 previously, and the business continues its support of three St Ann schools.
Access to Poko Loko is by boat from Mahogany Beach, a popular attraction less than a mile from the Ocho Rios Town centre.
Guests at the soft launch Sunday evening were greeted by live entertainment with music and dancing by the Poko Loko dancers. Cocktails were served.
ANTHONY WARREN looks to a bright future for Poko Loko. Watch
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