In love with the South Florida mixology and bar scene? Then, you just might be in luck when embarking on a Virgin Voyages cruise.
Local cocktail venues Better Days and the newly opened The Dead Flamingo pop-up in Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood have found a home on the adults-only Virgin Voyages experience (currently disembarking from the Port of Miami).
The Shhh…Experience is the newest offering for guests aboard the cruise ship, and with no photos allowed of the 20-person den, secrecy surrounds the speakeasy. We do know that the menu includes recipes inspired by the land-bound bars, but with a rotating cocktail selection, guests are promised to be surprised with each visit.
Eddie Fuentes, leader of the experience on the ships, and self-appointed Maestro of Merry Mayhem at both cocktail spots, took the time to chat with us about the secretive and cozy experience onboard where travelers will get a taste of the South Florida cocktail scene.
The Miami cocktail community is once again making waves, literally. How does it feel to have been chosen for such a unique experience and where do you get your inspiration from?
I’m proud to be a part of it. My inspiration stems from my Miami upbringing and 18 years in the hospitality business, from reopening the iconic Fontainebleau to the industry-favorite Broken Shaker, and now, to our own brick-and-mortar, The Dead Flamingo pop-up. Miami is becoming the “IT” city once again, with Michelin-star restaurants, top 50 best bars, and now, the best cruise ship experience in the world.
How did Virgin Voyages approach all of you to create this experience on board?
When Virgin Voyages approached us through Unfiltered Hospitality with the idea of bringing Better Days onto a cruise ship, the answer was an enthusiastic “DALE!” Imagine crafting cocktails alongside international bartenders and crew and relaxing on the pristine shores of Bimini—it was a no-brainer. [Better Days bartender] Will Thompson, who got the call first, quickly looped me in with an irresistible proposition: “Hey, you want to work on a cruise?” The experience was nothing short of spectacular.
How do you feel about currently being a part of the Virgin Voyages family? It seems like you’ve certainly made some special connections with others there.
From the moment we stepped on board, it was clear that Virgin Voyages is redefining the cruise experience. Shout out to Milena, one out of five incredibly talented mixologists managing all the cocktail programs, and to Augusto, the head of F&B [food and berverage—Ed.] on the ship. The camaraderie and friendships formed on VV were truly special.
What can guests expect onboard from this new activation?
Our activation on Virgin Voyages is a unique, must-try experience. While I can’t reveal all the secrets, I can promise exclusive cocktails, interactive games, and ever-changing trivia. Each Miami bar featured on the ship can showcase its unique vibe and flavors, and we brought the fun and tropical energy of Better Days. Our cocktails highlight Caribbean flavors, such as fresh papaya and coconut, and we were thrilled to also spotlight our new concept, The Dead Flamingo, a pop-up bar in Little Havana.
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