Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer

This tour review explores how a day trip to Bimini might fit into your travel plans, based on what travelers have shared and the details available. If you’ve ever pictured yourself zipping across the Atlantic on a speedy ferry, soaking up sun on a Bahamian beach, and maybe trying a bit of snorkeling or simply relaxing at a resort, this could be worth considering.

What we love about this trip is the spectacular ocean views during the high-speed boat ride and the chance to stand on Bahamian sands for the day—a quick escape from Florida’s bustling cities. Plus, with a round-trip transfer from Miami, it’s quite accessible for those based in South Florida. But, there are some quirks, like long wait times at immigration or the expense of on-island food, that might impact your overall experience.

This trip suits travelers looking for a cost-effective Bahamian adventure that offers plenty of free beach time, with optional activities to customize your day. If you’re willing to accept the logistical hiccups and enjoy a vibrant, sun-drenched day, this could be a memorable way to cross an ocean without needing a passport stamp every day.

Key Points

• Fast-paced adventure with a 49-mile boat ride offering great ocean scenery
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup from Miami or Miami Beach
• Six hours on Bimini to enjoy beaches, water sports, or explore the resort
• Cost considerations include optional paid activities and on-site food
• Long travel day with early departures and late returns, perfect for full-day seekers
• Mixed reviews highlight both the attraction of the destination and some logistical frustrations

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll begin your day early, with pickup options from your Miami or Miami Beach hotel, or you can meet directly at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. The departure time is around 5:00 am—an extremely early start, but necessary to maximize your time on the island. The journey to the Bahamas is about 79 kilometers (49 miles), traveling aboard a high-speed boat that promises an exhilarating ride.

Traveling by boat offers a different perspective than flying—think of it as a mini ocean adventure, with lots of opportunities for photos and spotting marine life. Reviewers often mention the smooth ride when the seas cooperate, but some also note that the boat can rock quite a bit, especially if the weather gets rough.

Arrival at Bimini

Once you reach Bimini, you’ll spend about six hours on the island. Your main destination is the Hilton Beach Club, a classic Bahamian resort offering a stunning stretch of beach and access to water sports—though these are at your own expense. The tour provides a free shuttle around Resorts World Bimini, making it easy to explore the area without renting your own golf cart, a popular activity here.

Many reviews highlight how beautiful Bimini’s beaches are, often better than Miami’s. Still, some note that the resort area can be quiet—not much is open or lively, which could be a plus if you prefer tranquil sands, or a downside if you’re expecting a bustling scene.

Activities and Timing

You’re free to snorkel, swim, sunbathe, or just stroll along the shoreline. The optional water sports (snorkeling, jet skis, parasailing) come at extra cost, so budget accordingly. One reviewer mentions that the island’s only attraction is its beaches, with little else open, so if you’re after nightlife or shopping, this might not satisfy.

A notable point from travelers is that the Bahamian resort and casino can be a highlight if you want a taste of local entertainment or gaming, and the free transportation helps you explore without hassle.

Return Journey

As the sun begins to set, it’s time to board the boat back to Florida. The return trip takes longer than the outbound leg, partly because of customs and immigration checks. One reviewer humorously summarizes it: “Long long day but worth it!”—and many agree that, despite the lengthy logistics, the beach and ocean views make it worthwhile.

The Ah-Ha Moments and Challenges

What’s worth it?

The ocean ride is a real thrill—fast and scenic, offering views of Miami Beach, the Atlantic, and Bimini’s lush coasts. Many travelers mention the quality of the boat and the attentive crew, which are important when spending over 11 hours on a trip. The beach at Bimini receives high praise, with some calling it “more beautiful than Miami beaches,” and others appreciate that the trip offers a bite-sized taste of the Bahamas without needing a passport for multiple days.

What are the drawbacks?

Several reviews point to disorganization and delays, especially at immigration and customs. One traveler laments waiting over two hours in line, which eats into the time spent on the island. Others mention that food and beverages on board and on the island are pricey, and not included in the ticket. The tour description clarifies that the day pass to Hilton Beach Club isn’t included, so expect to pay for food or drinks if you want them.

Cost vs. Value

At $289 per person, the price covers the boat ride, land fees, and transportation within Resorts World Bimini. However, the optional activities—like snorkeling or jet skis—cost extra, and food is on your tab. Several reviews acknowledge that the trip is a bit expensive considering the extra costs for meals and activities, but many still consider it a good value for a full-day Bahamian escape.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Departure

Starting at around 5 am, you’ll be picked up or meet at Port Everglades. The early start is crucial to maximize your time on Bimini, but it might be tough for those not used to such early mornings.

The Boat Ride

The high-speed ferry offers a chance to enjoy the open water, with some reviews describing the ride as “rocking constantly,” but overall smooth for most. Expect to be on the boat around 2 hours each way, with some travelers feeling seasick—so bring motion sickness remedies if necessary.

Arrival and Free Shuttle

Once on Bimini, you’ll have about six hours to enjoy the beach, water sports, or a casual exploration. The free shuttle makes it easy to visit different parts of the resort, including the casino and restaurants, although most reviews note that food and drinks are expensive.

Beach and Water Sports

The beach is the star attraction—beautiful, clean, and quiet, perfect for sunbathing or swimming. Water sports like snorkel trips or jet skis are available but at additional cost, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.

Return and Customs Checks

The journey back can take longer due to immigration procedures. Multiple travelers mention waiting over two hours at customs, which can be frustrating but unavoidable given the process.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

One reviewer shared, “Bimini was beautiful. I would book this if you just really want to go to the beach out there. The resort is dead and nothing is open hardly. People sell golf carts to you so you can drive around the island and that’s a must.” This highlights how the island offers a peaceful retreat, but not a lively tourist scene.

Another noted, “The ferry rocked constantly on the water to and from Bimini… The boarding was cumbersome but it was due to all the checks.” This points to some logistical inconveniences but also highlights the adventure of the trip.

A common theme is the long travel day, with some saying, “It’s a long long day but worth it!” or “Started at 6 am and back around 1:30 am, but the beach made it worthwhile.” That’s the reality of a day trip—be prepared for a full 12+ hours.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re craving a quick, scenic escape to the Bahamas, enjoy the thrill of a high-speed boat ride, and are willing to accept some logistical hassles, this trip offers a cost-effective way to experience Bimini. The stunning beaches and clear waters are what make it worth considering despite the early mornings and busy customs lines.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less rushed island experience, or if food and activities at the resort are crucial to your day, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Plus, long wait times at immigration are a recurring theme for those who value smooth, stress-free travel.

This tour offers a taste of the Bahamas with a splash of Florida—perfect for sun-seekers, adventure lovers, or those craving a brief tropical getaway without the hassle of overnight accommodations.

FAQ: Practical Questions Answered

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered from Miami and Miami Beach hotels, but you need to arrange this in advance. If not, you can meet directly at Port Everglades.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup or meeting at Port Everglades is around 5:00 am, so be prepared for an early start.

How long is the boat ride to Bimini?
Approximately 2 hours each way on a high-speed ferry, with some rocking depending on sea conditions.

Is food included?
No, meals and drinks on board and on the island are extra. The tour does not include a meal pass, so budget for additional expenses.

How much time do I get on Bimini?
About six hours to relax, swim, or explore—enough to enjoy the beach and maybe try water sports.

Are there optional activities available?
Yes, water sports like snorkeling, jet skis, and parasailing are available for extra fees.

Is the beach pass included?
No, access to the Hilton Beach Club is not included in the ticket, and the day pass must be purchased separately.

Can I book this trip if I don’t have a passport?
Yes, since it’s a day trip from the U.S., a valid passport is required for travel to the Bahamas.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum group size is around 100 travelers, which helps keep things manageable but still lively.

To sum it up, this Bimini day cruise offers a lively ocean adventure combined with a beautiful beach escape, especially suited for those who want a full-day Bahamas experience without overnight travel. Keep expectations realistic about logistics and costs, and you’ll find it can be a memorable, if somewhat chaotic, way to enjoy a slice of island paradise.