When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami with a group of friends or family, consider
Juliet Sailing and Diving
Why Juliet Sailing and Diving is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Juliet Sailing and Diving offers an exceptional liveaboard experience ideal for diving enthusiasts and adventure seekers looking to explore the vibrant marine life of the Bahamas. Founded in 2003 by Captain John Beltramo, whose extensive sailing and diving expertise in Bahamas waters spans over 15 years, this operation combines comfort, safety, and adventure aboard the Juliet, a 104-foot three-masted schooner originally built in 1974 and redesigned specifically for diving voyages. The vessel features six private cabins accommodating up to twelve guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized atmosphere. Guests enjoy modern conveniences, including a spacious main salon with entertainment facilities, ample deck space for sunbathing and dining al fresco, and well-equipped dive stations with easy access to gear and immediate tank refills. The Juliet departs primarily from Miami, offering convenient access without the need for flights to the Bahamas, catering to divers looking for accessible yet exclusive underwater excursions. The sailing routes cover the Bimini area and extend to breathtaking reefs along the Sataren Channel, where guests can experience some of the richest fish life and pristine dive sites in the region. Combined with hearty home-cooked meals, a vigilant and personable crew, and multiple daily dives suitable for Nitrox-certified divers, Juliet Sailing and Diving ensures a memorable and enriching gathering place for friends and diving enthusiasts alike.
Here's what people think of Juliet Sailing and Diving
As of recent, Juliet Sailing and Diving holds a 4.9-star rating based on 48 reviews.
User reviews overwhelmingly praise Juliet Sailing and Diving for its outstanding combination of adventure, comfort, and service. Divers commend the spacious and cozy cabins, clean and well-maintained facilities, and the intimate setting that allows for a camaraderie amongst guests and crew. Positive feedback often highlights the professionalism and friendliness of the crew, including the Captain, Dive Master, Chef, Engineer, and Marine Biologist, all of whom contribute to a welcoming and safety-conscious environment. Many reviewers appreciate the flexibility in dive plans, the quality of dive sites accessed, and the provision of amenities such as Nitrox for extended dive durations. The home-cooked meals and plentiful snacks receive high marks for quality and variety, enhancing the overall onboard experience. Guests also value the convenience of departing from Miami, which simplifies logistics compared to other destinations. On the other hand, some criticisms include the limited number of ensuite cabins, requiring some guests to share bathroom facilities, and occasional challenges related to unpredictable weather typical in open-water expeditions. Nonetheless, these minor drawbacks are frequently overshadowed by the crew’s commitment to guest comfort and safety. In conclusion, reviews firmly establish Juliet Sailing and Diving as a top-tier liveaboard dive operation that artfully balances thrilling underwater exploration with warm hospitality and attentive service, making it a preferred choice for repeat travelers and divers seeking a uniquely rewarding Bahamian adventure.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
David Stokes
One of the most professional operations I have ever seen. They took us to places that divers want to go to not just what was convenient. The entire staff are also divers which is a big plus. We never had to wait for a tank to get filled. They actually took interest in the divers and were more than ready and willing to help any diver with issues. Their dive maps and briefings were great. Finally the food was excellent. Would strongly recommend them to anyone seeking a live aboard
Cathy Mahoney
For the most wonderful scuba diving adventure , make plans on Juliet! The crew is awesome and you will have a great time.
wes knight
This a great dive operation. From the moment I booked the tripto the very end you are treated with value, kindness and friendship. The food was great and plentiful. The diving was top notch. The boat was comfortable, even for a big person (I'm 6'1" and 245 lbs). The owner/Captian, Liza, is super. She loves and takes pride in what she's doing.
Deborah Fitzpatrick
This past October was my fourth trip on Juliet and it was the 3rd trip for my wife. This is our go to place to dive! Between her and I, we’ve been on Juliet from Miami to the Bahamas twice, once to St. Croix and once to Puerto Rico. So we’ve spent about a month total on the ship. We have also already booked a two week reposition trip for March of 2020. After spending a total of four weeks on this ship, I feel that I have a good understanding and have encounter all different people and experiences. Hands down, diving with the Juliet crew is like diving with friends and family. Safety is most important and then everything else after that is fun and enjoyment! Excellent dive site and dive briefings. A caring and attentive crew who always makes sure that you are taken care of and well fed. Very comfortable accommodations and you never feel overcrowded! Just hanging with the crew and other passengers and sharing stories, is truly an outstanding part of being on Juliet. I have been diving since 1986 and Juliet is by far the best dive operation that I have ever encounter! Liza, Kat, & Nate... Don’t change a thing! You truly offer an incredible experience BF&DF
Ken Barrick
I'd sail aboard the Juliet everyday if I could... unfortunately life gets in the way. The entire crew has been amazing during my times aboard. I've done the Bahamas and Mona Island itineraries and neither disappointed. Great crew, great food, smooth sailing and an all around good time. A shot from the water - Mona Island.
How to reach Juliet Sailing and Diving
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Why Juliet Sailing and Diving may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Juliet Sailing and Diving with your friends?
Juliet Sailing and Diving is an exceptional choice for a group gathering because it combines exhilarating adventure with cozy camaraderie in a unique sailing liveaboard experience. Whether your group consists of experienced divers, budding enthusiasts, or those simply looking for a memorable escape with friends or family, Juliet offers an unmatched setting to bond over shared discoveries. The intimate size of the vessel, hosting a maximum of 12 guests, ensures a warm, community-like atmosphere rather than feeling like a crowded cruise. The crew’s dedication to friendly service and creating a relaxed but engaging ambiance means everyone feels welcomed and looked after, encouraging socializing and connection. With a 4.9 rating based on 48 reviews, the overwhelmingly positive feedback attests to the consistently high standards of hospitality, safety, and excitement provided on each trip. It’s rare to find a place where group members can pursue their own interests—be it diving, snorkeling, or simply relaxing under the stars—and still come together to share stories, meals, and laughter in such a naturally inspiring and intimate environment. For groups aiming to deepen friendships while exploring marine wonders, Juliet Sailing and Diving is tailor-made to foster lasting memories.
What activities can you enjoy aboard Juliet Sailing and Diving?
Juliet Sailing and Diving primarily centers around scuba diving, offering four dives per day in some of the most beautiful underwater locations in the Bahamas and surrounding Caribbean islands. Divers can explore vibrant reefs, ledges, and caves teeming with Caribbean reef sharks, loggerhead turtles, and countless tropical fish species. One of the biggest draws is the freedom to dive without restrictive time limits; dives are only constrained by air supply and personal nitrogen load, which is a rare luxury, allowing divers to fully immerse themselves in the underwater world. Besides scuba diving, snorkeling is also a popular activity—non-divers in the group can join excursions tailored to snorkeling-friendly areas, ensuring everyone can participate in the water-based fun. The Juliet’s crew includes a dive master and a marine biologist who provide expert guidance, ensuring each dive is safe and educational. Onboard, guests can relax in cozy cabins, enjoy home-cooked, plentiful meals including fresh fruit and desserts, and mingle with others in comfortable common areas. By night, the ship offers a unique setting for stargazing and casual socializing on deck, creating an all-day adventure full of variety and group-friendly activities.
Why is Juliet Sailing and Diving perfect for group meetups?
The intimate capacity of 12 guests aboard Juliet ensures groups feel connected yet not overwhelmed by crowds, creating a perfect balance for socializing and private moments. The all-inclusive nature of these trips—covering lodging, meals, and diving—makes planning easy and stress-free for group organizers. Departing from Miami, it offers the convenience of accessible travel without the need for long flights, which is ideal for groups wanting to maximize vacation time together. The crew’s reputation for personalized, attentive service fosters a family-like environment where everyone feels valued, enhancing the group experience beyond just the destination. The boat’s design includes six private cabins with adequate storage and modern amenities, ensuring comfort during days filled with activity. The culinary experience aboard is another highlight; plenty of delicious, home-cooked meals and a variety of snacks and adult beverages encourage shared dining experiences, a core part of bonding on any trip. Furthermore, the range of dive sites suitable for different skill levels and interests means no one in the group is left out, making it an inclusive destination.
What makes the diving experience on Juliet Sailing and Diving stand out?
Diving on Juliet is exceptional not only for the diverse marine life and fantastic visibility but also because it offers a sense of freedom and adventure rarely found on other liveaboards. The guiding philosophy is to allow divers to explore at their own pace—there are no rigid dive times, only limits imposed by safety considerations. This approach encourages exploration and longer underwater excursions, which many divers find deeply rewarding. The presence of a skilled dive master and biologist adds an educational dimension; guests can learn about local ecosystems and better appreciate the underwater environment. The routes taken include famed dive spots throughout the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands, such as Bimini, known for crystal-clear waters and unique dive sites. Additionally, the crew’s commitment to safety, even in less predictable weather, means divers can trust their well-being while enjoying thrills beneath the waves. This combination of freedom, education, and excellent diving conditions makes the overall underwater experience on Juliet truly memorable.
How does the onboard atmosphere and crew enhance the experience?
The crew aboard Juliet Sailing and Diving is widely praised for creating an atmosphere of warmth and professionalism that transforms a vacation into a meaningful shared experience. Comprising a captain, engineer, chef, dive master, and a marine biologist, this tight-knit team ensures every guest is cared for, from safety considerations to personalized service. Their thoughtful touches, such as hosting “Fish of the Dive” challenges and providing free parking near the dock, add to the comfort and enjoyment of guests. Meals prepared by the chef are plentiful and delicious, contributing to a pleasant daily rhythm between diving and relaxation. The crew’s genuine enthusiasm and expertise inspire trust and foster a community feeling, encouraging newcomers and veterans alike to bond over common passions. This friendly, family-style environment onboard transforms days into nights filled with conversation, laughter, and shared discovery, amplifying the joy of the natural surroundings.
What kind of accommodations and amenities does Juliet Sailing and Diving offer?
Accommodations on Juliet are cozy and practical rather than luxurious, designed to maximize comfort and functionality for liveaboard life. The vessel features six private cabins that can sleep two each, with options for fold-down bunks or larger beds depending on your group’s needs. Each cabin is equipped with basic amenities such as sinks and ample storage, and two cabins have private ensuites with showers and toilets, while the others share spotless, regularly serviced facilities. The boat’s three-mast schooner design enables serene sailing during summer months, with space on deck for relaxing and socializing. Inside, common areas provide a comfortable setting for rest, meals, and entertainment. The focus on thoughtful practicality means guests can easily transition from thrilling dives to restful downtime without sacrificing comfort. The availability of home-cooked meals, fresh fruit, snacks, and adult beverages round out an onboard experience that caters fully to the needs of a group eager to unwind and enjoy quality time together.
How accessible is Juliet Sailing and Diving for travelers?
One of Juliet Sailing and Diving’s biggest advantages is its easily accessible departure point from Miami, eliminating the need for complicated or expensive flights to remote islands. This accessibility is particularly appealing for groups, simplifying logistics and reducing travel time. For U.S. travelers especially, destinations like Bimini in the Bahamas are reachable with minimal restrictions, making it a convenient yet exotic getaway. Guests can bring their own dive gear, including tanks, which streamlines preparation and allows divers to rely on familiar equipment. Free parking near the dock adds a practical convenience often missing in dive travel. This combination of location, flexibility, and traveler-friendly policies enhances its appeal as a meetup spot where convenience aligns with adventure, making weekend or weeklong trips equally feasible for groups with diverse schedules.
What kind of memories and experiences can groups expect to take away?
Groups who choose Juliet Sailing and Diving can expect to return home with rich memories of vibrant underwater exploration coupled with immersive social experiences onboard. The unique blend of adventure and relaxation creates a balanced trip where thrills in the sea are complemented by meaningful conversations around dinner tables or under starlit skies. Many repeat guests have noted the sense of friendship and community that emerges from sharing discoveries and challenges during dives and leisure time. The natural beauty above and below water inspires awe and offers ample opportunities for underwater photography or simply appreciating marine life up close. Celebrations such as birthdays or special occasions find a magical backdrop aboard Juliet, enhanced by attentive crew and the exceptional ambiance of life at sea. These memories often become treasured stories shared long after the voyage, reinforcing the bonds formed during the shared adventure.
In sum, Juliet Sailing and Diving offers a distinctive and compelling venue for group meetups that want more than just a typical trip. Its winning combination of adventure, comfort, expert-led diving, and a warm, intimate social environment make it ideal for strengthening friendships and creating lasting experiences around the shared joy of sailing and diving.