A Bahamas ferry day trip is one of the best ways to experience the islands without booking hotels or taking time off work. Leave Fort Lauderdale in the morning, spend a full day in Bimini, and return to Florida the same evening. Here's everything you need to plan the perfect same-day Bahamas adventure.
Day Trip Quick Facts
- Departure: 9:00 AM from Fort Lauderdale
- Arrival Bimini: 11:00 AM
- Return Departure: 6-8 PM (seasonal)
- Island Time: 7-9 hours
- Price: From $198 round-trip
- Best Day: Wednesday (cheapest)
Bahamas Day Trip Itinerary
Here's our recommended schedule for maximizing your day trip to Bimini:
What to Do on a Bimini Day Trip
Radio Beach
The main beach, 15-min walk from ferry. Calm water, white sand, beach chairs for rent. Perfect for families.
Snorkeling
Colorful fish right off Radio Beach. Rent gear at the dock ($15) or bring your own. Honeymoon Harbour has stingrays!
Beach Bars
Try the rum punch at Sabor or Big John's. Local vibes, cold drinks, island music. This is what vacation feels like.
Conch Salad
Stuart's Conch Stand is famous. Watch them make it fresh - lime, onion, peppers, and fresh-caught conch. A must-try!
Bailey Town Walk
Colorful Bahamian village. Gift shops, local restaurants, Hemingway's old haunt. Get a feel for island life.
Golf Cart Tour
Rent a cart ($80/day, split with friends) and explore the whole island. North Bimini is only 7 miles long!
Day Trip Costs Breakdown
| Item | Budget | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry Ticket (Round-Trip) | $198 | $235 |
| Taxes & Fees | $70 | $70 |
| Parking (1 day) | $15 | $20 |
| Lunch | $20 | $40 |
| Drinks | $15 | $30 |
| Golf Cart (split 4 ways) | $20 | $20 |
| Snorkel Rental | $0 (bring own) | $15 |
| TOTAL per Person | $338 | $430 |
What to Pack for a Bahamas Day Trip
Essential Documents
- Valid passport book
- Booking confirmation
- Cash ($100-150 USD)
- Credit card (backup)
Beach Gear
- Swimsuit (wear it!)
- Towel
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Snorkel gear (optional)
Comfort Items
- Change of clothes
- Flip flops + water shoes
- Hat or cap
- Light cover-up
Smart Additions
- Snacks & water
- Seasickness meds
- Waterproof phone case
- Small cooler bag
Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay
Wondering if a day trip is enough? Here's how they compare:
| Factor | Day Trip | Overnight Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Island Time | 7-9 hours | 24+ hours |
| Cost (per person) | $300-400 | $600-800+ |
| See Sunset? | Summer only | Yes |
| Nightlife | No | Yes |
| Morning Snorkeling | No | Yes (best time!) |
| Best For | First-timers, limited time | Extended relaxation |
Our verdict: Day trips are perfect for a first visit, weekenders, or anyone on a budget. If you love it (you will), book an overnight trip next time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! 7 hours is plenty for a satisfying day trip. You can enjoy 3-4 hours of beach time, have a leisurely lunch, explore Bailey Town, and still have time to spare. Most first-time visitors find it's the perfect introduction to the Bahamas.
Technically yes, but it's not ideal. The Freeport ferry takes 3 hours each way (6 hours total travel), leaving only 5-6 hours on the island. Freeport is also larger and harder to explore quickly. Bimini is much better suited for day trips.
Don't miss it! There's only one ferry per day. If you miss it, you'll need to book a last-minute hotel (expensive, $200+) and buy a new one-way ticket for the next departure. Set multiple alarms and be at the terminal 30 minutes early.
Absolutely! Kids love the ferry ride (bring snacks and entertainment), and Radio Beach has calm, shallow water perfect for children. Kids under 12 get 50% off ferry tickets. Bring plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Wednesday is the best day - it's the cheapest ($198 round-trip) and least crowded. Sunday is also good. Avoid Friday/Saturday for budget travel as prices increase $50-80.
Ready to Plan Your Bahamas Day Trip?
Book your ferry tickets and experience paradise in a day
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