Bell Channel Inn: Simple, cost-effective.
by katvg
I went to Grand Bahama specifically for diving, so I didn't want to spend a fortune on a hotel when I'd be out on a dive boat all day! Bell Channel Inn fit my needs - small, inexpensive, simple. It's not fancy, maybe a bit "aged" by some folks' standards. If you're fussy and expect the 5-star amenities, you won't like it. I personally don't care if a room has a chip in the paint or if the decor isn't fancy. The room was clean & comfortable; efficient air-con, private balcony, two double beds, refrigerator & many storage cabinets. Rate was around $84 US per night.
All the staff were very friendly & helpful. They have a small restaurant/bar on site. Nothing very gourmet, but it works. They're open from 6 or 7am (I forget) until 11pm so you don't have to rush to eat. Geannie will explain all the local tour options & book trips if you like, but it's not a "hard sell".
Also perfect for my needs: they have their own dive shop on site - Caribbean Divers. They have a smaller boat so it's not a giant crowd of divers getting in everyone's way. The most we had on the 2nd day was 7 divers plus Pressly (Captain & dive leader) and Jerry (dive leader). I had my own gear but the rental gear other divers were using was new. Pressly & Jerry run a professional outfit!
The only drawback: if you want to check out the bars, casino, shops, or other restaurants in the tourist shopping area (Lucaya marketplace), it's a 15-20 min. walk. Not very hard to find the marketplace, but some people may prefer being "closer to town". Also, the pool is very small so it's more for soaking in than actual swimming. (one benefit of smaller hotel out of the main tourist area - it's quiet!)
When I go back for more diving, I'll be staying here again!
Dive shop on site: several divers I met were actually coming to Bell Channel from other hotels, just for the dive operation.