Photo: NASA / Public domain
Crystal beaches, turquoise water, island vibes – all in just one incredible day. Round-trip ferry from $190!
Book Your Day Trip NowLast updated: June 27, 2026 · Schedules and fares change seasonally — always confirm on the official Baleària Caribbean calendar before booking.
| Departure port | Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, FL |
|---|---|
| Operator | Baleària Caribbean (fast catamaran) |
| Bimini — crossing time | ~2 hours each way |
| Bimini — round-trip fare | from $190 + taxes |
| Freeport (Grand Bahama) — crossing | ~3 hours each way |
| Typical sailing days | Bimini: Wed/Fri/Sun (more in summer) · Freeport: Wed/Sun |
| Time on island (day trip) | Bimini ~6–7 hrs · Freeport ~4–5 hrs (overnight recommended) |
| Documents | U.S. passport book or passport card |
Whether you're craving a quick beach escape or want to explore island culture, we've got the perfect day trip for you. All trips depart from Fort Lauderdale – no Miami confusion here!
+ taxes | Round trip
+ taxes | Round trip
2 nights | Ferry + Hotel
Both islands are gorgeous, but they vibe differently. Here's the honest breakdown so you pick the right paradise for your day trip!
Learn from folks who've done this a hundred times. These insider tips will save you time, money, and make your Bahamas day trip absolutely unforgettable!
Ferry prices jump 30-40% last minute! Book at least a week ahead for the best deals. Friday and Saturday departures fill up fast, especially during winter and spring break. Pro move: Tuesday and Wednesday trips are usually cheaper and less crowded.
Check-in opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 7:50 AM for the 9:00 AM departure. Boarding closes at 8:00 AM sharp – they won't wait! Get there by 6:30 AM to avoid stress. Parking at Port Everglades is $20/day. Coffee shops nearby if you're early!
US passport or passport card required – no exceptions! Make sure it's valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date. Leave your passport card at home if you have the book version. You'll go through customs both ways, so have it ready!
Take Dramamine or Bonine the night before AND morning of – trust us on this! The ferry crosses the Gulf Stream, which can get choppy. Sit in the back-middle of the boat, keep your eyes on the horizon, and skip the heavy breakfast. You'll thank us later!
Bimini: Golf cart rentals ($80/day) at the dock – book while on the ferry over! Freeport: Taxis to Port Lucaya are $15, but limited. Book ahead in peak season. Or arrange rental car pickup at the ferry terminal if you want to explore more.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen (regular kind harms coral!), swimsuit, towel, and cash for tips & beach rentals. Small cooler bag with snacks and drinks saves money. Waterproof phone case for beach photos. Don't overpack – you'll be lugging it around all day!
Everyone hits the main beaches first. Go explore the quiet spots! In Bimini, walk 10 minutes past Radio Beach for your own private paradise. In Freeport, ask locals for their favorite swimming holes. You didn't come to the Bahamas to fight for beach space!
Ferry ticket ($190-$265) + lunch ($25-40) + golf cart/taxi ($15-80) + beach rentals ($20-40) + souvenirs ($30-50) = roughly $250-500 total per person for the day. Bring cash for small vendors who don't take cards. ATM fees on islands are brutal!
Everything you need to know before booking your Bahamas day trip. We've answered the most common questions right here!
Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale – NOT Miami! It's about 30 minutes north of Miami Beach, 20 minutes from Hollywood Beach. Check your ticket for the exact cruise terminal, as it can change. Don't fall for old websites saying "Miami to Bimini" – that service ended years ago.
Absolutely! Bimini gives you 6-7 hours on the island – plenty for beach time, lunch, golf cart exploring, and souvenir shopping. Freeport gives you 5 hours. It's tight but doable. If you want to really relax, consider the 2-night package instead. Day trips are perfect for "testing" the Bahamas before a longer vacation!
Balearia Caribbean rarely cancels (maybe 2-3 times per year for hurricanes). If they do, you get a full refund or reschedule free. Rough seas? The ferry handles it fine, but bring seasickness meds. Check weather forecast 2 days before and adjust expectations. Rain showers in Bahamas usually pass in 20 minutes!
Kids 5+ usually LOVE it! The ferry ride itself is an adventure. Bimini's beaches are super calm and shallow – perfect for little ones. Freeport has more to explore if your kids get bored easily. Pack snacks for the boat, dramamine if they're prone to motion sickness, and prepare for sandy everything when you get home!
Not really for a day trip! Golf cart rental in Bimini you can book on the ferry over. Beach clubs take walk-ins. Restaurants don't need reservations. The only exception: if you want to do a specific excursion (shark diving, fishing charter), book that 2-3 days ahead minimum. Otherwise, just wing it and go with the island flow!
Yes! US Customs allows 1 liter of alcohol per adult (21+) duty-free. Bahamian rum makes a great souvenir! Just declare it when you go through customs on return. Don't try to sneak extra bottles – not worth the hassle. Also, duty-free shopping in Bimini can save you 20-30% on liquor compared to US prices.
Loved the day trip and not ready to leave? Turn it into an overnight. Compare live hotel prices across booking sites on the map below — every booking supports BahamasHopping at no extra cost to you.
From $290/night
The island's flagship resort on North Bimini — marina, pool, beach club and casino. Closest stay to the ferry dock and the easiest upgrade from a day trip.
Check Availability
From $210/night
A relaxed Alice Town classic with a storied sport-fishing history, pool and walkable access to Radio Beach, bars and restaurants. Great mid-range base.
Check AvailabilityFor a full hour-by-hour Bimini plan, see our Fort Lauderdale → Bimini ferry day-trip itinerary, or browse the complete Bimini ferry guide. Disclosure: BahamasHopping earns a commission when you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Don't just dream about white sand beaches and turquoise water – you could be there tomorrow! Book your Bahamas day trip now and escape to paradise.
Find Your Perfect Day Trip