Meet Your Island Ferry Crews

The folks who'll get you to paradise safely (and probably share some local secrets along the way)

The Bahamas Ferry Fleet at a Glance

6+ Major Operators
25+ Routes Covered
700 Islands Connected
2M+ Happy Passengers Yearly

The Big Players in Bahamas Ferry Travel

From international high-speed ferries to local island hoppers, here's who runs the show

Balearia Caribbean

Your gateway from Florida to paradise

Most Popular
Main Routes Fort Lauderdale to Bimini
Fort Lauderdale to Freeport
Fleet High-speed catamarans
450+ passenger capacity
Journey Time 2 hours to Bimini
3.75 hours to Freeport
Amenities Free WiFi, Cafe, Duty-free shop
Premium lounge available
"I've taken Balearia more times than I can count with my family. Always on time, super clean, and the crew treats kids like VIPs. Pro tip: grab seats on the upper deck for killer views of Bimini approaching!"
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Bahamas Ferries

Inter-island connections since forever

Main Routes Nassau to Spanish Wells
Nassau to Harbour Island
Fleet M/V Bo Hengy III
Traditional ferry vessels
Schedule Fri, Sat, Sun only
8:00 AM departures
Special Features Vehicle transport available
Local island vibe
"Weekend-only schedule can be tricky for tourists, but locals swear by them. The crew knows everyone by name, and you'll probably make friends before you dock. Just don't expect fancy - it's all about the authentic experience!"
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G&L Ferry Service

Abacos island hopping specialists

Main Routes Marsh Harbour to Hope Town
Man-O-War Cay & Guana Cay
Fleet Small passenger ferries
20-30 passenger capacity
Frequency Multiple daily departures
Every 1-2 hours
Journey Time 20-45 minutes
depending on destination
"These guys are the lifeline of the Abacos. Super frequent service means you're never stuck anywhere. Captain Jerry once waited 5 minutes for us when we were running late - that's island time hospitality!"
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Green Turtle Cay Ferry

Your express to laid-back island life

Main Route Treasure Cay to
Green Turtle Cay
Schedule 8 daily crossings
6:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Journey Time 15 minutes
Quick & scenic
Bonus Golf cart rentals on arrival
Package deals available
"Short ride but stunning views! The sunset return trips are magical. They'll help arrange golf carts too - essential for exploring New Plymouth's colonial charm."
See Schedule Book Crossing

Bahamas Mail Boats

The original island connectors

Adventure Mode
Coverage All major Out Islands
Weekly service
Departure Point Potter's Cay Dock, Nassau
Evening departures
Journey Time 5-12+ hours
Overnight trips common
What to Expect Basic accommodations
Authentic island experience
"Not for everyone, but if you want the REAL Bahamas experience, this is it. Pack snacks, bring a sleeping bag, and prepare for an adventure. You'll have stories for years!"
Mail Boat Guide Check Routes

Quick Operator Comparison

Find the right ferry for your island adventure

Operator Best For WiFi Food A/C Price Range
Balearia Caribbean Florida to Bahamas ✓ ✓ ✓ $$$
Bahamas Ferries Nassau to Out Islands ✗ Snacks ✓ $$
G&L Ferry Abacos island hopping ✗ ✗ Open air $
Green Turtle Ferry Quick crossings ✗ ✗ Open air $
Mail Boats Remote islands ✗ BYO Limited $

Insider Tips from a Ferry Regular

Little secrets that'll make your journey smoother

Book Direct vs. Third Party

For Balearia, their website often has flash sales. For smaller operators, calling directly sometimes gets you group discounts they don't advertise online.

Arrival Times Matter

Show up 45 minutes early for international ferries, 20 minutes for domestic. But for mail boats? The departure time is more of a suggestion!

Pack Smart

Smaller operators have limited storage. Soft bags work better than hard suitcases. Always bring a light jacket - A/C can be arctic!

Cash is King

Big operators take cards, but smaller ferries and mail boats often prefer cash. ATMs on Out Islands can be sketchy, so stock up in Nassau.

Seasickness Strategy

Dramamine 30 minutes before boarding. Sit in the middle of the boat, eyes on the horizon. Ginger candy helps too!

Stay Connected

Save operator phone numbers in your phone. Cell service can be spotty on islands, but most docks have decent signal for last-minute changes.