From Miami: Bimini or Grand Bahama Day Trip by Ferry

Traveling from Miami to the Bahamas for a day of sun, sand, and sea sounds like an easy win—especially if you’re craving a quick escape without the hassle of overnight stays. This ferry trip to Bimini or Grand Bahama offers a fantastic way to tick the Bahamas off your bucket list, all within a manageable 16-hour window. Whether you’re keen on relaxing on powdery beaches or trying out some water sports, this experience delivers plenty of options at a reasonable price.

One of the things we love about this trip is the blend of convenience and freedom it offers. You’re transported smoothly between the U.S. and the Bahamas, with ample free time on the islands to do exactly what you want—be that soaking up the sun, snorkeling, or exploring local shops. But it’s worth noting that, like any popular day-trip, it can be a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping to squeeze in a lot of activities or hop on a golf cart to explore.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want a taste of the Bahamas without the commitment of an overnight stay. It’s especially perfect for those based in Miami looking for an affordable, flexible day out—though keep in mind that optional water sports and extras are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

Key Points

• Flexible day trip with optional water activities
• Round-trip ferry transportation from Port Everglades
• Six hours of free time on the island to relax or explore
• Multiple departure times with convenient pick-up points
• Includes US Customs and Immigration procedures
• Potential for delays due to weather or customs issues

The Overview: What’s Included and What to Expect

This full-day ferry experience is designed to give you a compact yet fulfilling glimpse of the Bahamas. For around $277 per person, you get round-trip ferry transportation from Port Everglades, near Fort Lauderdale, with the departure typically around 9 AM. The journey takes about two hours each way, with the ferry arriving in Bimini around 11 AM or Grand Bahama around noon, depending on your destination.

Once on the island, you’ll have approximately six hours of free time. During this window, you can relax on stunning white-sand beaches, swim in clear turquoise waters, or opt for an array of water sports, such as snorkeling, jet skiing, or swimming with dolphins and sting rays. Many reviewers highlight how these activities contribute to the overall enjoyment, with some noting that “the views and water clear enough to make any water lover swoon.”

You can also rent a golf cart to explore the island at your own pace—an especially popular choice among those wanting to see more than just the beach. For those interested in a more relaxed experience, there are local restaurants and shops where you can sample Bahamian cuisine and buy souvenirs.

The return ferry departs around 5-6 PM, bringing you back to Florida by about 8 PM. Travelers should be aware that the schedule can vary slightly depending on the season and weather conditions.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Start at Port Everglades
The trip begins with a convenient morning check-in, which closes at 8 AM, so arriving early is wise to avoid last-minute stress. The pickup point is at 2021 Eller Dr, making it accessible for many Miami-area travelers. After boarding, the two-hour ferry ride sets the tone for a smooth crossing, with scenic views of the water that many find relaxing and beautiful.

Arrival in the Bahamas: Bimini or Grand Bahama
Once docked, you have roughly six hours of free time. Reviewers have shared that “everything was excellent” during their visit, with a few noting that Bimini, in particular, can be quite costly—so budget for meals, souvenirs, or optional activities. The island’s charm lies in its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and stunning beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just soaking in the scenery.

Activities and Exploration
While the ferry includes only the transport and free time, you can purchase a beach day pass or participate in water activities directly on the island. Options include snorkeling to see shipwrecks or marine life, jet skiing, or swimming with dolphins and sting rays—experiences that many reviewers found memorable. One traveler praised the “super nice” staff, noting how they made the experience smoother, especially when dealing with customs and security.

Exploring the Island
A highlight for many is renting a golf cart. It allows you to see more of the island at your own pace—an activity that reviewers recommend highly. Sightseeing, shopping, or grabbing local food are all feasible within the free time, though some noted that the island is quite expensive, so plan your spending accordingly.

Departure and Return
The ferry departs back around 6 PM from Bimini and around 5 PM from Grand Bahama, giving you a few hours to get ready for the return journey. The two-hour crossing back to Florida concludes your day trip around 8 PM, making it a long but rewarding day.

Experiences Shared by Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention the “beautiful views” and “friendly service” as key positives. Dilenia, who did the trip with friends, remarked that “everything was excellent” and advised keeping your budget in mind because Bimini is notably pricey. Matko pointed out that delays on the return due to customs can happen, with his ferry being delayed by two hours, so packing patience is essential.

Kinga simply said, “Perfect day at the perfect place,” emphasizing how well the trip met expectations. On the flip side, some noted logistical hiccups, like punctuality issues, which are common in busy ferry services but don’t necessarily detract from the overall experience.

The Practical Details

• Cost: $277 per person, including transport and free island time.
• Duration: Approximately 16 hours, from pick-up to drop-off.
• Departure: Typically around 9 AM, with check-in closing at 8 AM.
• Return: Around 8 PM.
• Travel documents: A valid passport or passport card is required, plus US re-entry authorization (like ESTA). No visa is needed for U.S., EU, UK, and Swiss citizens—always check before booking.
• Optional extras: Water sports, beach passes, and golf cart rentals are paid separately.
• Weather considerations: The provider isn’t responsible for delays caused by weather or customs issues.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This day trip is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a quick, affordable escape from Miami. If you’re someone who enjoys beach relaxation and water activities, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. It’s also a good choice if you want an easy, organized way to visit the Bahamas without the hassle of overnight planning.

However, it’s not ideal for pregnant women, infants under 6 months, or those who prefer a more leisurely pace or detailed exploration—since the schedule is tight and activities are optional. It’s also worth noting that the journey can be affected by weather or customs delays, so flexibility is key.

The Sum Up

This ferry day trip to Bimini or Grand Bahama offers an attractive mix of convenience, scenic beauty, and flexibility. You’ll get to experience some of the best parts of the Bahamas—white beaches, turquoise waters, and lively local shops—all in a single day. The ability to choose between Bimini and Grand Bahama means you can tailor your experience based on your interests, whether that’s relaxing on the sand or exploring island life.

The trip works best for those who appreciate independent exploration and want to avoid complex travel arrangements. It’s an affordable way to add a Bahamas adventure to your Miami trip, especially if you’re eager to try water sports or see marine life.

While there are some logistical quirks—like potential delays or the need to pay for extras separately—the overall value and the stunning scenery make this trip a worthwhile choice for many visitors. It’s an excellent way to dip your toes into the Bahamas’ famous hospitality and natural beauty without breaking the bank or committing to a multi-day stay.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to go on this trip?
If you’re a U.S., EU, UK, or Swiss citizen, no visa is required. However, you’ll need a valid passport and US re-entry authorization like ESTA. Always check the Bahamian immigration website for other nationalities.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers round-trip ferry transport and free time on the island. Optional activities like beach passes, water sports, or golf cart rentals are paid separately on the island.

How long are the free hours on the island?
You’ll have about six hours to relax, explore, or participate in activities before returning to Florida.

What time does the ferry leave and arrive?
Departure from Florida is around 9 AM, arriving in Bimini or Grand Bahama by about 11 or noon. Return trips depart around 5-6 PM and arrive back in Florida around 8 PM.

Is there any flexibility with the schedule?
The schedule is generally fixed but can vary with weather or customs delays. It’s best to stay flexible and arrive early for check-in.

Can I do water activities?
Yes, water sports such as snorkeling, jet skiing, and swimming with dolphins or sting rays are available but must be paid for separately. These activities are highly recommended for an enriching experience.

This ferry trip offers a practical, scenic, and flexible way to enjoy a taste of the Bahamas from Miami. Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, it provides a well-rounded day out with stunning views and plenty of opportunities for fun.