TL;DR: Fort Lauderdale to Bimini Ferry 2026
The Fort Lauderdale to Bimini ferry is a high-speed catamaran service operated by Balearia Caribbean, crossing the Gulf Stream in about 2 hours. It is the only scheduled passenger ferry to Bimini and the most popular way to reach the closest Bahamian island to the US mainland.
- Operator: Balearia Caribbean (sole scheduled operator)
- Route: Port Everglades Terminal 21 (Fort Lauderdale, FL) ↔ Fisherman's Village, Bimini Bay (North Bimini, Bahamas)
- Duration: ~2 hours each way
- Departure: 9:00 AM from Fort Lauderdale, return typically 6:00–8:00 PM from Bimini
- Frequency: 2–4 sailings/week year-round (Wed/Fri/Sun core), additional sailings in summer & holidays
- Price: From $93 + taxes one-way (~$155 all-in); round-trip from $230 + taxes
- Vessel: Jaume II high-speed catamaran (600-passenger)
- Distance: ~50 miles across the Gulf Stream
- Documents: Valid US passport book required (passport card not accepted)
Sources: Balearia Caribbean (baleariacaribbean.com) and Direct Ferries. Last updated May 2026 — schedules and prices change; always confirm before booking.
- ✓ 2-hour fast ferry crossing on Jaume II
- ✓ Operated by Balearia Caribbean
- ✓ Compare all available dates
- ✓ Mobile e-ticket confirmation
- ✓ US passport required (book valid 6+ months)
Ferry to Bimini: Your Gateway to the Bahamas
The closest Bahamian island to the United States – just 50 miles from Florida
The Fort Lauderdale to Bimini ferry is the most convenient surface route to the Bahamas from South Florida. Taking about 2 hours each way, the service makes Bimini practical for a same-day trip, a long weekend, or a longer island stay. This is your complete 2026 guide.
Located about 50 miles east of Fort Lauderdale, Bimini is the closest Bahamian island to the United States. The ferry departs from Port Everglades Terminal 21 in Fort Lauderdale and arrives at Fisherman's Village ferry deck in Bimini Bay, North Bimini — a short walk to Resorts World Bimini and a 5-minute drive (or water shuttle) to Alice Town and Bailey Town.
Why take the ferry to Bimini instead of flying? Compared with charter flights, the ferry is generally cheaper, lets you bring more luggage and a cooler, and turns the crossing itself into part of the trip — open decks, Gulf Stream views, and frequent dolphin sightings.
Balearia Caribbean is the sole scheduled passenger ferry to Bimini, operating the modern Jaume II high-speed catamaran (600-passenger capacity). Service runs year-round, with extra sailings added in peak summer and during US holiday weeks.
Fort Lauderdale to Bimini Ferry Schedule & Prices 2026
Current timetable and starting fares for the Balearia Caribbean ferry
| Season | Operating Days | Departure | Arrival | Starting Fare (One-Way) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year-Round | Wed, Fri, Sun | 9:00 AM (FLL) | 11:00 AM (Bimini) | From $93 + taxes |
| Summer 2026 (Jun – Sep) |
Additional sailings | 9:00 AM (FLL) | 11:00 AM (Bimini) | From $93 + taxes |
| US Holiday Periods | Extra sailings | 9:00 AM (FLL) | 11:00 AM (Bimini) | Higher fares typical |
| Day Trip | Same-day return | 9:00 AM (FLL) | Returns 6:00–8:00 PM | From $230 round trip + taxes |
Source: Balearia Caribbean (baleariacaribbean.com) and Direct Ferries, May 2026. Schedules and fares change — confirm current dates and pricing before you book.
Bimini Ferry Ticket Prices (2026)
- One-Way Economy: From $93 + taxes/fees (typically ~$155 all-in)
- Round-Trip Economy: From $230 + taxes per person
- Premium Seating: Surcharge per leg (varies)
- Children: Reduced fares offered (check current Balearia rates)
- Infants under 2: Lap travel typically permitted
Return Schedule: The Bimini-to-Fort-Lauderdale leg departs late afternoon to early evening, typically between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM depending on season. Always confirm your return time on your booking confirmation.
Money-Saving Tips: Wednesday departures usually carry the lowest fares of the week. Booking 2–3 weeks ahead helps with availability and price. Balearia Caribbean's free loyalty program (Balearia Club) sometimes offers small additional discounts — check current terms.
Ways to Save on the Bimini Ferry
Practical strategies that consistently lower fares for 2026 travel
Travel Midweek
Wednesday and Sunday sailings are usually quieter than Friday departures and tend to carry the lowest fares of the week. If your schedule is flexible, midweek pricing is the easiest single saving.
Book 2–6 Weeks Ahead
Last-minute fares (within ~7 days of sailing) are typically the most expensive. For peak summer weekends, US holidays, and spring break, booking 4–6+ weeks ahead is recommended for both fare and availability.
Group & Loyalty Discounts
Balearia Caribbean offers group rates for larger parties and a free loyalty program (Balearia Club). Terms change — check the operator's site for current discount levels before booking.
Ferry + Hotel
Bundling a stay at Bimini Bay/Resorts World Bimini or Bimini Big Game Club with your ferry can come out cheaper than booking separately, especially in shoulder season. Compare both ways before deciding.
Tip: Sign up for Balearia Caribbean's newsletter to be notified of any current promo codes and seasonal sales — promo availability varies and codes are time-limited.
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.
Bimini Ferry Booking Checklist
- Pick your date(s): Wed/Fri/Sun are the core year-round departures from FLL.
- Compare round-trip vs. two one-ways: Round-trip from $230 + taxes is usually the better value.
- Have your passport ready: A valid US passport book (6+ months) is required at check-in.
- Plan arrival at Port Everglades: Aim for ~7:00 AM for the 9:00 AM departure; check-in closes at 8:00 AM.
- Book accommodation alongside the ferry: See Where to Stay in Bimini below.
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 are popular. The ferry arrives at 11:00 AM and the return leg departs 6:00–8:00 PM (season-dependent), giving you 6–9 hours on the island. That's typically enough for Radio Beach, a sit-down lunch, walking around Alice Town/Bailey Town and a short snorkel. Wednesday is usually the cheapest day; an overnight stay lets you catch sunset and calmer morning water.
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.
Economy fares start at about $93 one-way + taxes (typically around $155 all-in) and round-trip from $230 + taxes per person. Premium seating adds a per-leg surcharge. Wednesday and Sunday sailings tend to carry the lowest prices; peak weekends, holidays and last-minute bookings cost more.
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.
What Travelers Consistently Mention
Patterns we see in independent passenger reviews of the FLL–Bimini route
🚢 The crossing itself
Most reviewers describe the 2-hour catamaran crossing as smooth and faster than expected. Open decks and Gulf Stream views, including frequent dolphin sightings, are a recurring positive. Rough seas can occur; mild seasickness is the most common complaint.
⏰ Arrive early at Terminal 21
A repeated theme is to arrive at Port Everglades by 7:00 AM and to use GPS for "Port Everglades Terminal 21" specifically — the wider port complex can be confusing on a first visit. Check-in closes at 8:00 AM; missing it means rebooking.
💰 Onboard food & extras
Many travelers note that snacks and drinks bought onboard cost more than they expected and recommend bringing your own food. Day trippers also flag golf-cart rental in Bimini as the main extra cost to budget for.
This section summarizes themes from independent reviews on aggregator sites; we do not collect or publish individual passenger reviews of our own.
Ferry to Bimini vs. Other Options
Compare transportation choices to reach Bimini
Ferry to Bimini vs. Flying
Ferry advantages: Lower base cost (from $93 + taxes one-way), generous luggage allowance, relaxed check-in, scenic 2-hour Gulf Stream crossing, can bring coolers and food, no altitude/pressurization issues, arrives at the Bimini Bay/Fisherman's Village dock.
Flight advantages: Much faster in the air (~25 minutes), more flexible same-day connections via Bimini's South Bimini airport (BIM), less weather-dependent on most days, no seasickness risk.
Bottom line: The ferry usually wins for cost-conscious travelers, families and anyone who enjoys the journey. Flying suits time-sensitive trips or sailings cancelled by weather.
Ferry vs. Private Boat
Ferry advantages: No navigation required, predictable timetable, customs handled at the terminal, professional crew, lower total cost than fuel + dockage on a private vessel.
Private boat advantages: Flexible timing, can island-hop or fish en route, privacy, unlimited gear.
Bottom line: Unless you have a boat suitable for the Gulf Stream and the experience to skipper one, the scheduled ferry is safer, cheaper and more reliable.
Indicative Cost Comparison
| Option | Indicative price (per person) | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry (Balearia Caribbean) | From $93 + taxes one-way | ~2 hours | Most travelers |
| Charter / scheduled flight | ~$200–$400 one-way | ~25 minutes air | Time-sensitive trips |
| Private boat | Fuel & dockage scale with vessel | 2–4 hours | Experienced boat owners |
Prices are indicative ranges for 2026 planning, not current quotes.
Where to Stay in Bimini
Hotels and resorts close to the ferry terminal — compare live rates on the map below
The ferry arrives at Fisherman's Village inside Bimini Bay (North Bimini). All three of the most popular hotel choices below are reachable on foot or by short golf-cart ride from the dock. Use the interactive map to compare current rates across booking sites — booking through these links supports BahamasHopping at no extra cost to you.
Top Hotel Picks Near the Bimini Ferry Dock
🏨 Hilton at Resorts World Bimini
Walking distance from ferry dock · Bimini Bay, North Bimini.
Largest resort on the island, with a marina, multiple pools, restaurants and a casino. Best fit for travelers who want a full-resort experience steps from where the ferry lands.
Typical fares vary by season. Compare current rates →
Check Availability🎣 Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina
Alice Town, North Bimini · ~5-min drive / 15-min walk from ferry.
Historic sport-fishing resort with a marina, restaurant and laid-back rooms. Best fit for fishing trips, smaller groups and travelers who want classic Bimini character over big-resort polish.
Mid-range pricing in most seasons.
Check Availability🏖️ Sea Crest Hotel & Marina
Alice Town, North Bimini · Walking distance to Radio Beach.
Smaller, family-run hotel close to local restaurants and the public beach strip. Best fit for budget-conscious travelers who want a simple base near the action rather than a resort.
Often the cheapest North Bimini option.
Check AvailabilityDisclosure: BahamasHopping earns a commission when you book through these links via Stay22's auto-affiliate system. This doesn't change the price you pay. Learn more.
Ready to Book Your Ferry to Bimini?
Compare all available 2026 sailing dates · Operator: Balearia Caribbean · Mobile e-tickets
Check Schedule & BookOr jump to Where to Stay in Bimini ↓
More Bimini Ferry Resources
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.