The Short Version (TL;DR)
- No direct Miami→Freeport ferry exists. The fast ferry to Grand Bahama sails from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), ~30–45 min north of Miami.
- Operator: Balearia Caribbean · Days: Tuesday & Saturday · Crossing: ~3h 45m.
- Fares from ~$148 one-way (round-trip from ~$240). Book 2+ weeks ahead for the lowest price.
- Freeport's harbour is remote — arrange a rental car or taxi before you sail.
- U.S. citizens need a valid passport for sea travel to the Bahamas.
| Actual departure port | Fort Lauderdale – Port Everglades, Terminal 21 |
|---|---|
| Distance from Miami | ~30–45 min drive north (25–30 miles) |
| Operator | Balearia Caribbean |
| Sailing days | Tuesday & Saturday |
| Departure / crossing | 9:00 AM · ~3h 45m |
| Fares (2026) | From ~$148 one-way · from ~$240 round-trip |
| Passport | Required for U.S. citizens (sea travel) |
Source: Baleària Caribbean & Direct Ferries, 2026. Schedules and fares vary by season — confirm before booking.
How to Actually Get from Miami to Freeport
Step 1: Get to Fort Lauderdale
From Downtown Miami: 35-40 min
From Miami Airport: 30 min
Options: Uber/Lyft ($35-60), rental car (park at port for $20/day), or shuttle
Step 2: Board at Port Everglades
Check-in: Opens at 6:00 AM
Terminal doors close: 8:00 AM sharp!
Departure: 9:00 AM (Tue & Sat)
Step 3: Arrive in Paradise
Arrival: around midday in Freeport
Return departure: early evening (~6:30 PM)
Back in FL: by ~10:15 PM
Miami vs Fort Lauderdale: What's Available
| Route | Status | Operator | Schedule | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale → Freeport | ACTIVE | Balearia Caribbean | Tuesday & Saturday | From ~$148 one-way |
| Miami (PortMiami) → Freeport | NOT AVAILABLE | None | No service | N/A |
History lesson: There used to be ferries from Miami back in the day, and every year there's rumors about them coming back. Been hearing "next year" since 2019! Until it actually happens, Fort Lauderdale's your only option for getting to Freeport by ferry.
Why Freeport Is Worth the Longer Crossing
More Island, Less Crowds
Grand Bahama is about 96 miles long, against about 7 for Bimini. It has long stretches of beach, among them Gold Rock Beach.
Fishing Paradise
Deep water is close to shore, and local guides charge about $400 for a half day against $600+ in Bimini.
Port Lucaya Marketplace
The marketplace has live music, restaurants serving conch fritters and shops for souvenirs.
Critical Info About Freeport Port
The ferry docks at an industrial port that's literally in the middle of nowhere. You CANNOT walk to anything fun. Here's what actually works:
- Rental Car: $60-80/day — book NOW, not later!
- Taxi: $14-20 per person each way (family of 4 = $112+ round trip)
- Port Shuttle: $7 per person to Port Lucaya (runs hourly, sometimes)
Recommendation: Rent a car. Shared between a family, it costs less than taxis and allows exploring the island.
Practical Tips for Freeport
Timing is Everything
Book at least 2 weeks ahead to save $30-40 per ticket. Summer schedule sometimes adds more days — check in May!
Pack Like a Pro
Bring Dramamine — 3.75 hours can get rough! Pack snacks (ferry café is pricey). Download movies for kids. Reef-safe sunscreen (they check at some beaches now).
Money Matters
US dollars work everywhere, but bring cash for taxis and tips. ATMs at Port Lucaya if you need more. Everything costs about 30% more than Florida — budget accordingly!
Beach Strategy
Gold Rock Beach: Stunning but 25 miles away (need that car!). Taino Beach: Closer, has restaurants, perfect with kids. Lucaya Beach: Walking distance from Port Lucaya, super convenient.
Tickets & Seats
Premium seats ($30 extra) include snacks and priority boarding — worth it with kids or if you get seasick! Economy is fine, just board early for good seats together.
Make it a Long Weekend
A day trip is too rushed for the travel time. A stay of three full days leaves time to explore.
Freeport vs Bimini
The two islands suit different trips:
Choose Bimini if:
- Quick weekend trip (2-hour ferry)
- First time taking a ferry
- Kids get seasick easily
- Want to walk everywhere
Choose Freeport if:
- Want variety and space (4+ days)
- Love beaches without crowds
- Into fishing or diving
- Don't mind renting a car
- Want "real" Bahamas experience
Ready for Your Freeport Adventure?
Remember: Book from Fort Lauderdale, NOT Miami!
Check Ferry AvailabilitySummary
The ferry leaves from Fort Lauderdale, not Miami. The crossing to Freeport is longer than the one to Bimini, and a rental car or taxi is needed once on Grand Bahama. In return the island has more beaches, more activities and more space. Book the rental car ahead and bring seasickness tablets for the 3.75-hour crossing.
Where to Stay in Freeport & Lucaya
Because the crossing is long, most people make Grand Bahama an overnight or long-weekend trip. These hotels are within easy reach of the ferry harbour and Port Lucaya Marketplace. Compare live prices on the map below.
Top Hotel Picks Near the Ferry
Pelican Bay Hotel at Lucaya
Waterfront boutique resort on Bell Channel Bay, steps from Port Lucaya Marketplace's restaurants and live music. Three pools, swim-up bar — the most convenient base if you're car-free.
From ≈ $187/night
Check Availability →Viva Fortuna Beach by Wyndham
All-inclusive beachfront resort on Fortuna Beach, about 20 minutes from downtown Freeport. Four restaurants, unlimited drinks, non-motorized water sports included — a solid fixed-price option for families.
From ≈ $250/night (all-in)
Check Availability →Disclosure: BahamasHopping earns a commission when you book through these links. This doesn't affect the price you pay. Learn more.
Miami to Freeport Ferry: FAQ
Is there a direct ferry from Miami to Freeport?
No. There's no ferry from PortMiami to Freeport. The only fast ferry to Grand Bahama leaves from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Terminal 21), a 30–45 minute drive north of Miami, run by Balearia Caribbean.
How much does the ferry to Freeport cost in 2026?
One-way fares start from about $148 per person, with round-trips from roughly $240. Prices climb on weekends and in peak season, so book two or more weeks ahead for the lowest fare.
What days does the ferry run?
Twice weekly — Tuesdays and Saturdays. It typically departs Fort Lauderdale at 9:00 AM, arrives Freeport around midday, and sails back in the early evening (around 6:30 PM).
How long is the crossing?
About 3 hours 45 minutes each way on the Balearia Caribbean fast ferry.
Do I need a passport?
Yes — U.S. citizens need a valid passport for sea travel to the Bahamas. Baleària Caribbean accepts only a valid US passport book or US passport card, from adults and minors alike, and states in writing that birth certificates, photo ID and naturalization certificates are no longer accepted. General WHTI sea-travel rules are more permissive — which is why many guides say otherwise — but the carrier's condition is the one applied at check-in. See our Bahamas ferry passport guide. Non-U.S. citizens should check visa rules before travelling.
Last updated: August 2026 · Facts verified against Baleària Caribbean & Direct Ferries.