When a Bahamas trip takes shape, the first search is usually for flights. For Bimini and Grand Bahama there is a second option from Fort Lauderdale, the Balearia fast catamaran. The ferry's price advantage depends on the date, the number of travelers and the amount of luggage. This comparison sets out where the ferry is the better choice, where a flight is, and what to check before booking.
The Short Version
- Cheaper for Bimini & Grand Bahama: the ferry usually beats flying once you count baggage, parking and airport hassle.
- Fort Lauderdale to Bimini in about 2 hours on the Balearia fast catamaran; fares typically $180–$280 depending on date and fare class (operator pages, Aug 2026).
- No direct ferry to Nassau or Exuma from Florida — those destinations still need a flight.
- Everyone needs a valid passport, children included.
- Baggage: check the operator's current baggage policy before booking; allowances have changed.
Which Islands the Ferry Reaches
Scheduled ferries from Florida currently serve Bimini and Grand Bahama (Freeport) only. There is no direct passenger ferry from Florida to Nassau or the Exumas. To reach those islands you fly, or take a ferry to Bimini or Freeport and connect onward by air or inter-island boat. The comparison below therefore applies to Bimini and Grand Bahama.
Where the Costs Differ
The ferry fare shown is the lead-in price for one direction; it rises with season and demand. Airline tickets can look cheaper at face value, but checked-bag fees, airport parking and the cost of getting to the airport narrow the gap, and families travelling with gear should compare the operator's current baggage policy against airline fees. Add all of these items for your own dates before deciding.
What the Crossing Offers
Time on the Water
The outdoor decks give a view of the open water, and dolphins are sometimes seen from them. The crossing to Bimini takes about two hours.
Luggage Allowance
Allowances have changed, so check the operator's current baggage policy before booking, especially if you bring coolers, fishing gear or snorkel equipment.
Door to Beach
Arrive at the terminal between 6:15 and 6:45 AM for the 9:00 AM sailing, cross in roughly two hours and walk off the boat at Alice Town. A flight is shorter in the air, but it adds an early airport arrival, and Bimini's airport is on South Bimini, so a water taxi follows.
On Board and on Arrival
© Wikimedia / CC BY-SA 4.0
© Peter Asprey / CC BY-SA 3.0
© Pietro / CC BY-SA 2.0
The practical difference for families is freedom of movement. Children can walk around the ship instead of staying belted into an airplane seat, and nobody has to pass airport security or deal with pressure changes in the ears.
Downsides of the Ferry
Weather can affect ferry schedules, especially during hurricane season (June 1–November 30, with the roughest stretch in August and September). Sailings can be delayed or cancelled around storms. If you travel in those months, book a flexible fare and consider travel insurance.
Travelers who get seasick easily can take Dramamine before boarding. The ferries are large, stable catamarans, a different experience from the small water taxis used for short hops between cays.
Ways to Keep the Cost Down
- Book your round-trip online and well ahead — fares climb as the sailing date gets closer
- Travel mid-week (Wed/Thurs) — those sailings are usually the cheapest
- Use an off-port parking lot near Port Everglades instead of the terminal garage — often about half the price
- Bring your own snacks and drinks — there's no airport-style liquid limit on the ferry
- Sign up for the ferry operator's newsletter to catch seasonal fare sales before they sell out
- Infants often ride free and older kids at reduced fares — always check the current child rates when you book
- Compare ferry + hotel booked together vs. separately — sometimes a package shaves money off both
The Bottom Line
Flying is the only practical choice for Nassau or Exuma, since no direct ferries run from Florida. For Bimini and Freeport on Grand Bahama, the ferry deserves a price check next to the flight, above all for travelers with coolers, fishing gear or children.
The ferry takes longer on the water and requires the early terminal arrival (6:15–6:45 AM for the 9:00 AM sailing). In return it avoids security lines, per-piece airline baggage fees and the water-taxi transfer from the island airport. For a short trip with little luggage, a cheap flight can still come out ahead, so compare the totals for your own dates.
Last updated: May 22, 2026 — fares, routes and schedules checked against current Balearia Caribbean information. Prices are guidance only and change with season and demand.