Quick Answer: Ferry to Bimini
The ferry to Bimini is a high-speed catamaran service connecting Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Bimini, Bahamas in just 2 hours. Operated by Balearia Caribbean, it's the fastest and most affordable way to reach Bimini from the United States.
- Operator: Balearia Caribbean (sole operator)
- Route: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades Terminal 21) ↔ Bimini
- Duration: 2 hours each way
- Frequency: 3-7 sailings per week (seasonal)
- Price: From $155 one-way / $190+ round trip
- Vessel: Jaume II (600-passenger high-speed catamaran)
- Schedule 2025/2026: Wed, Fri, Sun year-round + daily in summer
- ✓ 2-hour fast ferry crossing
- ✓ Free cancellation on most fares
- ✓ Instant email confirmation
- ✓ Compare all available dates
- ✓ Best price guarantee
Ferry to Bimini: Your Gateway to the Bahamas
The closest Bahamian island to the United States – just 50 miles from Florida
The ferry to Bimini offers the most convenient way to reach the Bahamas from Florida. Taking just 2 hours from Fort Lauderdale, this fast ferry service makes Bimini accessible for day trips, weekend getaways, or extended vacations. Whether you're searching for "ferry to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale" or "Miami to Bimini ferry," this is your complete guide for 2025 and 2026.
Located only 50 miles east of Fort Lauderdale, Bimini is the closest Bahamian island to the United States. The ferry to Bimini departs from Port Everglades Terminal 21 and arrives at Resorts World Bimini, giving you instant access to crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and authentic island culture.
Why take the ferry to Bimini instead of flying? The ferry offers significant advantages: lower cost (from $155 vs $400+ flights), no baggage fees, a scenic 2-hour journey across the Gulf Stream with dolphin sightings, and a relaxed boarding process. Plus, the ferry experience itself becomes part of your vacation adventure.
Balearia Caribbean operates the sole ferry service to Bimini, using their modern Jaume II high-speed catamaran. With capacity for 600 passengers and state-of-the-art stabilization, the crossing is comfortable even in moderate seas. Service runs year-round with increased frequency during summer months.
Ferry to Bimini Schedule & Prices 2025/2026
Current timetables and ticket prices for the Bimini ferry
| Season | Operating Days | Departure | Arrival | Price (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year-Round | Wed, Fri, Sun | 9:00 AM (FLL) | 11:00 AM (Bimini) | From $155 |
| Summer 2025/2026 (Jun - Sep) |
Daily Service | 9:00 AM (FLL) | 11:00 AM (Bimini) | From $155 |
| Holiday Periods | + Sat/Mon sailings | 9:00 AM (FLL) | 11:00 AM (Bimini) | $175-$200 |
| Day Trip Package | Same-day return | 9:00 AM (FLL) | Returns 6-8 PM | $219 incl. taxes |
Ferry to Bimini Ticket Prices (2025/2026)
- One-Way Economy: From $155 + taxes/fees (~$65)
- Round-Trip Economy: From $190-$325 depending on dates
- Day Trip (same-day return): $219 all-inclusive
- Premium Seating: +$30 each way
- Children (2-11): 50% discount
- Infants (under 2): Free (lap child)
Return Schedule: Ferry from Bimini departs at 6:00 PM (Winter), 7:00 PM (Spring/Fall), or 8:00 PM (Summer). Always confirm your return time when booking.
Money-Saving Tip: Wednesday departures typically offer the lowest fares. Book 2-3 weeks in advance for best prices. Join Balearia Club (free) for additional 10% discount.
Current Ferry to Bimini Deals & Offers
Special promotions for 2025/2026 travel
Holiday Season 2025/2026
Christmas & New Year sailings available! Book early for December 20 - January 5 sailings. Additional departures added for peak demand. Prices from $175 one-way.
Spring Break 2026
March-April 2026 dates now open! Daily service during spring break weeks. Book 6+ weeks ahead for best availability. Group discounts available for 10+ passengers.
Midweek Saver
Save up to 20% on Wednesday sailings! Lowest fares of the week. Less crowded ferries, same great service. Perfect for flexible travelers. From $155 one-way.
Ferry + Hotel Packages
Save 15-25% with bundle deals! Combine ferry tickets with Resorts World Bimini or Big Game Club stays. Includes resort credits and beach access.
Pro Tip: Sign up for Balearia Caribbean's newsletter to receive exclusive promo codes like "GOBAHAMAS" (up to 15% off). Flash sales are announced via email first.
How to Book Bimini Ferry Tickets
Step-by-step booking guide and money-saving tips
Online Booking (Recommended)
Book directly through Balearia Caribbean's website or authorized partners. Online booking offers the best prices, instant confirmation, and mobile tickets. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for best availability.
Phone Reservations
Call Balearia at 1-866-699-6988 for assistance. Phone agents can help with group bookings, special requests, and schedule changes. Available Monday-Friday 9 AM - 6 PM EST.
Terminal Purchase
Tickets available at Port Everglades Terminal 21, but expect higher prices and limited availability. Arrive by 7:00 AM for same-day tickets. Not recommended during peak season.
Money-Saving Tips for Bimini Ferry Tickets
- Wednesday Departures: Save up to $80 by traveling mid-week
- Advance Booking: Book 21+ days ahead for early bird discounts
- Balearia Club: Free membership saves 10% on all bookings
- Promo Codes: Check for monthly codes like "GOCARIBBEAN" (15% off)
- Group Rates: Groups of 10+ receive automatic discounts
- Package Deals: Ferry + hotel bundles often save 20-30%
What to Expect on the Bimini Ferry
Complete guide to your ferry experience
The Vessel: Jaume II Catamaran
The Bimini ferry operates using Balearia's Jaume II, a state-of-the-art high-speed catamaran designed specifically for Caribbean crossings. With capacity for 600 passengers and a cruising speed of 32 knots, this vessel offers stability, comfort, and speed. The twin-hull design significantly reduces rolling motion, making seasickness less common than on traditional ferries.
Onboard Amenities
- Seating Options: Economy seats (included), Premium seats with priority boarding ($30 extra)
- Climate Control: Full air conditioning throughout interior spaces
- Café Bar: Snacks, beverages, light meals (bring your own food to save money)
- Outdoor Decks: Perfect for dolphin watching and photography
- Restrooms: Multiple facilities on each deck
- WiFi: Available but limited - download entertainment beforehand
- Entertainment: TVs showing movies, bring headphones
The Journey Experience
Your Bimini ferry adventure begins at Port Everglades Terminal 21, where you'll check in at least 90 minutes before departure. The boarding process is straightforward but strict – doors close one hour before sailing with no exceptions. Once aboard, you'll feel the powerful engines engage as the catamaran glides out of the port, passing massive cruise ships and Fort Lauderdale's impressive skyline.
The crossing itself is often highlight-worthy. As you traverse the Gulf Stream, the water transforms from coastal green to deep sapphire blue. Dolphins frequently race alongside the ferry, and flying fish skip across the waves. The outdoor deck offers spectacular photo opportunities, though it can be windy. About halfway through, you might spot other vessels, from luxury yachts to cargo ships navigating these busy waters.
Port Everglades Terminal 21 Guide
Everything you need to know about the departure terminal
Location & Directions
Address: 2021 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
GPS Tip: Search "Port Everglades Terminal 21" not just "Port Everglades"
From I-95: Exit 25 (Griffin Road), follow signs to Port Everglades
Parking Options
Terminal Parking: $20/day, closest to check-in
Overflow Lot: $15/day, free shuttle service
Valet Service: $30/day, worth it for convenience
Ride Share: Uber/Lyft drop-off directly at terminal
Check-in Process
Opens: 6:15 AM for 9:00 AM departure
Recommended Arrival: 7:00-7:30 AM
Check-in Closes: 8:00 AM SHARP
Documents Needed: Passport, booking confirmation
Essential Tips for Bimini Ferry Travel
Insider advice for a smooth journey
🕐 Timing is Everything
Arrive at Terminal 21 by 7:00 AM. The terminal location is confusing and parking fills quickly. Give yourself buffer time – missing the ferry means no refund and rebooking at full price.
💊 Prevent Seasickness
Take Dramamine or ginger tablets 1 hour before boarding. Sit in the middle deck where motion is minimal. Focus on the horizon if you feel queasy. The catamaran is stable, but Gulf Stream can be choppy.
📱 Phone Settings Critical
Enable airplane mode immediately after leaving port! Bahamas roaming charges are $10/MB. Use ferry WiFi for WhatsApp. Buy a BTC SIM card at Bimini dock ($30) if staying overnight.
🎒 Smart Packing
Bring snacks and water – onboard prices are steep ($12 sandwiches). Small coolers allowed. Pack sunscreen (it's $30 in Bimini), cash for tips, and download entertainment as WiFi is spotty.
🏖️ Beach Strategy
Radio Beach for families (calm, shallow), Blister Beach for parties, Spook Hill for Instagram. Rent a golf cart with others to split costs ($80/day ÷ 4 = $20 each). Everything's walkable but hot!
💰 Hidden Costs
Budget extra for: taxes/fees ($70), premium seats ($60 RT), parking ($20/day), food ($30-50), golf cart ($80), tips ($20). A "cheap" $235 ticket realistically costs $400+ per person.
Ferry to Bimini: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about the Bimini ferry service
The Bimini ferry takes exactly 2 hours from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini. Departure is at 9:00 AM from Port Everglades, arriving in Bimini at 11:00 AM local time (same time zone). The return journey is also 2 hours, with departure times varying by season (6:00-8:00 PM).
No, the Bimini ferry is passenger-only – no vehicles are transported. You don't need a car in Bimini anyway! The island is only 7 miles long. Most visitors rent golf carts ($80-100/day) or bicycles ($25/day) at the dock. Radio Beach is just a 15-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
You must have a valid passport book – passport cards are NOT accepted. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from travel date. Children and infants need their own passports. U.S. citizens don't need a visa for stays under 90 days. Bring your booking confirmation and arrival/departure card (provided on ferry).
The Bimini ferry uses a stable catamaran design that handles waves well. Most crossings are smooth, but the Gulf Stream can create moderate chop. About 15% of passengers experience mild seasickness. Sit in the middle deck, take motion sickness medication preemptively, and focus on the horizon. Rough seas may cause cancellations 5-10 times yearly.
Yes! Day trips give you 6-9 hours in Bimini (arriving 11 AM, departing 6-8 PM depending on season). This is enough time to enjoy Radio Beach, have lunch, explore Bailey Town, and maybe snorkel. Wednesday day trips are cheapest at $155 one-way. However, staying overnight lets you experience sunset, better dining, and calmer morning waters.
Balearia Caribbean will notify you 24 hours before departure if cancelled due to weather. You can reschedule for free or receive a full refund. Cancellations happen 5-10 times annually, usually during hurricane season (June-November) or winter storms. Always book refundable accommodation and consider travel insurance for weather-related disruptions.
Your ticket includes: ferry transportation, one piece of luggage (50 lbs), one carry-on bag, standard economy seating, and basic onboard amenities. NOT included: taxes/fees ($70), food/drinks, premium seating ($30), extra baggage ($25), parking, or ground transportation in Bimini.
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for best prices and availability. Summer weekends sell out 4-6 weeks in advance. Wednesday departures rarely sell out but booking early saves money. Last-minute tickets (within 7 days) cost 30-50% more. Holiday periods require 6-8 weeks advance booking.
There is no direct ferry from Miami to Bimini. The ferry to Bimini departs from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades Terminal 21), which is about 30 miles north of Miami. The drive from Miami Beach to the ferry terminal takes approximately 45 minutes. Many travelers stay in Fort Lauderdale the night before for early morning departures.
The ferry to Bimini costs from $155 one-way (plus ~$65 in taxes and fees) for economy class. Round-trip tickets range from $190-$325 depending on travel dates and season. Day trip packages (same-day return) are $219 all-inclusive. Premium seating adds $30 each way. Wednesday sailings offer the lowest prices.
The best time for the ferry to Bimini depends on your priorities. For calm seas: March-May and October-November. For best weather: December-April (dry season). For lowest prices: January-February (excluding holidays) and Wednesday departures. Avoid hurricane season (June-November) if you're concerned about cancellations. Summer offers daily service but higher prices.
You cannot consume your own alcohol on the ferry – drinks must be purchased onboard at the café bar. However, you can bring sealed alcohol in your luggage to take to Bimini (within Bahamian customs limits: 1 liter of spirits or 1 case of beer per adult). The duty-free shop in Bimini often has better prices than buying in the US.
Ferry to Bimini Reviews
Recent passenger experiences (2025)
"Took the ferry to Bimini for our anniversary – absolutely perfect! The 2-hour journey flew by and we spotted dolphins. Check-in was smooth, staff professional. Wednesday tickets saved us $120 compared to weekend prices. Bimini exceeded all expectations!"
"Great ferry service but arrive EARLY! Terminal 21 at Port Everglades is tricky to find – use GPS. The catamaran is comfortable with a stable ride even in choppy water. Bimini is paradise. Only complaint: bring your own snacks, onboard prices are steep."
"Fourth time on the ferry to Bimini! Perfect for families. Kids love watching for dolphins from the deck. Radio Beach is just 15 min walk from the terminal. Split a golf cart rental with another family ($20 each). Already booked our spring break 2026 trip!"
Ferry to Bimini vs. Other Options
Compare transportation choices to reach Bimini
Ferry to Bimini vs. Flying
Ferry Advantages: Lower cost (from $155 vs $400+ flights), no baggage fees, relaxed check-in, scenic 2-hour journey, can bring coolers/food, easier with kids, no altitude issues, arrives at Resorts World Bimini.
Flight Advantages: Faster (25 minutes), multiple daily departures, less weather-dependent, no seasickness risk.
Verdict: The ferry to Bimini wins for budget travelers, families, and those who enjoy the journey. Flying suits business travelers or those with very limited time.
Ferry to Bimini vs. Private Boat
Ferry Advantages: No navigation required, predictable schedule, much cheaper ($155 vs $800+ fuel), no boat maintenance, customs handled for you, can relax during crossing, professional crew.
Private Boat Advantages: Flexible schedule, can explore other islands, fishing opportunities, privacy, bring unlimited gear.
Verdict: Unless you own a suitable boat and have Gulf Stream experience, the ferry to Bimini is safer, cheaper, and more reliable.
Cost Comparison: Ferry to Bimini
| Option | Price (per person) | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry (Balearia) | $155-200 one-way | 2 hours | Most travelers |
| Flight (Charter) | $200-400 one-way | 25 minutes | Time-sensitive |
| Private Boat | $800+ (fuel) | 2-4 hours | Boat owners |
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Helpful guides for your trip planning
Bimini Beach Guide
Complete guide to Radio Beach, Blister Beach, and hidden gems. Best spots for families, snorkeling, and beach bars.
Where to Eat in Bimini
From Stuart's Conch Shack to Big Game Club, discover the best restaurants and bars accessible from the ferry terminal.
Bimini Accommodation
Hotels and rentals near the ferry dock. Compare Resorts World, Bimini Big Game Club, and vacation rentals.