A Bimini day trip from Florida sounds almost too good to be true. You can leave South Florida in the morning, cross the Atlantic by fast ferry, spend several hours enjoying clear turquoise water in The Bahamas and return to Florida that evening.
The trip is possible, but it costs more than the advertised ferry fare once you include parking, food, transportation around Bimini and optional activities.
The regular passenger ferry departs from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale—not downtown Miami. The crossing takes approximately two hours, and same-day round-trip tickets are available on selected dates.
Here is everything you should know about the Bimini ferry schedule, ticket prices, passport requirements and the real cost of taking a one-day trip to The Bahamas.
Bimini Day Trip From Florida: Quick Overview
| Trip detail | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Florida departure point | Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale |
| Bahamas destination | North Bimini |
| Ferry operator | Baleària Caribbean |
| Approximate crossing time | 2 hours each way |
| Advertised day-trip fare | From approximately $250 round trip |
| Regular day-trip days | Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday |
| Recommended terminal arrival | Approximately 6:15–6:45 a.m. |
| Passport required | Yes |
| Time available in Bimini | Up to approximately 8 hours |
| Realistic solo budget | Approximately $310–$450 |
| Realistic couple’s budget | Approximately $600–$850 |
Prices and schedules can change by travel date, season and availability. Always confirm the final price and departure time before making other reservations.
Can You Really Visit Bimini From Florida in One Day?
Yes. Baleària Caribbean operates a high-speed ferry between Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale and Bimini.
The sailing takes approximately two hours in each direction. On designated day-trip sailings, passengers leave Florida in the morning, spend part of the day in Bimini and return in the evening.
The ferry company says day-trippers may receive up to eight hours on the island. Your actual sightseeing time will depend on the sailing schedule, immigration processing, disembarkation and the required return check-in time.
This is an international trip, even though Bimini is only about 50 miles from South Florida. You must carry the correct travel documents and complete border procedures in both countries.
Also Read: Yes, You Can Take a 2-Hour Ferry From Florida to The Bahamas
Does the Bimini Ferry Leave From Miami?
No regular Bimini fast ferry currently departs from central Miami.
The ferry leaves from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. The operator generally uses Terminal 21, although terminal assignments can change.
The commonly listed terminal address is:
Port Everglades, Terminal 21
2021 Eller Drive
Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316
Confirm the terminal number on your booking confirmation before traveling.
If you are staying in Miami, allow enough time to reach Fort Lauderdale early in the morning. Driving time can vary significantly with traffic, and port security may add another delay.
Leaving a Miami hotel around 5:00 a.m. may be necessary for some sailings.
How Long Is the Ferry From Fort Lauderdale to Bimini?
The advertised crossing time is approximately two hours.
However, the complete travel process takes much longer because passengers must:
- Arrive several hours before departure
- Check in and present travel documents
- Pass through security
- Complete immigration procedures
- Wait for boarding
- Disembark and clear immigration in Bimini
- Check in again for the return journey
- Clear U.S. Customs after returning to Florida
A two-hour ferry crossing can therefore become a very long travel day.
Current Bimini Day-Trip Ferry Schedule
Baleària Caribbean currently advertises Bimini day-trip departures on:
- Monday
- Wednesday
- Friday
- Sunday
A typical Florida departure is scheduled around 9:00 a.m.
Check-in may begin at 6:00 a.m., and the terminal doors may close at 8:00 a.m. The operator recommends arriving between approximately 6:15 and 6:45 a.m.
Passengers who arrive after the terminal closes may be denied boarding.
The return time from Bimini can vary. Check the exact departure and mandatory check-in times printed on your confirmation and boarding documents.
Do not plan your day around an old online timetable. Ferry schedules can change because of demand, weather, operational requirements and seasonal adjustments.
How Much Does the Bimini Ferry Cost?
Baleària Caribbean currently advertises the Fort Lauderdale-to-Bimini route from approximately $235 per passenger.
Its dedicated day-trip offer starts at about $250 per passenger for round-trip ferry transportation.
The final price may change according to:
- Travel date
- Seat availability
- Demand
- Fare category
- Taxes and port fees
- Optional seat upgrades
- Luggage
- Booking changes
- Promotional offers
The $250 day-trip fare should be treated as a starting point rather than a guaranteed price for every date.
Always continue to the final payment screen to see the complete total before booking.
Real Cost of a Bimini Day Trip From Florida
The ferry is the largest expense, but it is not the only one.
Here is a practical budget for one adult starting in South Florida.
| Expense | Budget estimate |
|---|---|
| Round-trip ferry | $250–$300 |
| Port Everglades parking | About $20 |
| Breakfast or ferry snacks | $10–$20 |
| Lunch in Bimini | $20–$40 |
| Drinks and water | $10–$25 |
| Local transportation | $10–$75 |
| Beach or activity expenses | $0–$100+ |
| Souvenirs and tips | $10–$40 |
| Estimated total | $310–$620+ |
A careful traveler who walks, eats inexpensively and spends the day at a free beach may keep the total close to $310–$375.
A traveler who rents a golf cart, orders drinks and books an activity can easily spend $450–$620 or more.
Realistic Budget for Two People
A couple should plan for approximately:
| Expense | Estimated cost for two |
|---|---|
| Ferry tickets | $500–$600 |
| Parking | About $20 |
| Food and drinks | $70–$140 |
| Shared transportation | $40–$150 |
| Activities | $0–$250+ |
| Tips and miscellaneous spending | $20–$60 |
| Estimated total | $650–$1,220+ |
A realistic middle-range budget for two people is approximately $700–$850 without an expensive excursion.
Costs increase quickly if you book snorkeling, fishing, a resort experience, or a private tour.
Sample Budget: Cheapest Reasonable Day
This example focuses on enjoying Bimini without booking a paid excursion.
- Ferry ticket: $250
- Port parking: $20
- Packed breakfast or snack: $10
- Local lunch: $25
- Water and one drink: $15
- Shared taxi or basic transportation: $20
- Beach time: Free
- Tips and miscellaneous costs: $15
Estimated total: $355 per person
This budget is possible if the lowest fare is available and you avoid a golf-cart rental, resort upgrade and organized tour.
Sample Budget: Comfortable Day Trip
This version allows more flexibility.
- Ferry ticket: $275
- Port parking share: $10
- Breakfast and onboard snack: $20
- Golf-cart or local transportation share: $50
- Lunch and drinks: $55
- Beach rental or small activity: $50
- Tips and miscellaneous spending: $25
Estimated total: $485 per person
This is a more realistic target for travelers who want to explore without monitoring every dollar.
Is a Resort Day Pass Included?
Some limited-time Bimini day-trip promotions include access to Resorts World Bimini.
At the time of writing, the ferry operator advertises a promotional day pass that may include access to swimming pools, a private beach and Wi-Fi with qualifying day-trip fares.
However, promotional benefits can change or end without notice. Do not assume a resort pass is included unless it appears clearly on your booking confirmation.
Check:
- Whether the pass is included on your date
- Which pools or beach areas are accessible
- Whether towels are provided
- Whether food and drinks cost extra
- How transportation to and from the resort works
- When you must leave to return to the ferry terminal
Do You Need a Passport for a Bimini Day Trip?
Yes. Every passenger needs an acceptable passport for international travel.
The ferry operator states that a valid passport is required for all travelers.
U.S. citizens generally do not need a visa for a short tourist visit, but they must meet current Bahamian entry requirements and be eligible to reenter the United States.
U.S. permanent residents who are not citizens may need both:
- A passport issued by their country of citizenship
- Their original valid Permanent Resident Card
Requirements vary according to citizenship, residency status and passport country. Some travelers may also require a Bahamian visa.
Check the Government of The Bahamas immigration rules and the ferry operator’s travel-document requirements before buying a nonrefundable ticket.
Can Indian Citizens Take the Bimini Ferry?
Indian passport holders must check the applicable Bahamian visa rules before booking.
The Bahamas currently provides certain visa exemptions for Indian nationals who hold valid visas or permanent-residence documents issued by the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom or a Schengen member country.
The exact conditions and permitted stay depend on the document held.
Having permission to enter the United States does not automatically guarantee admission to The Bahamas. Confirm your eligibility directly with Bahamian immigration and make sure you can reenter the United States after the trip.
What Is Included With the Ferry Ticket?
A standard ticket generally includes:
- Round-trip ferry transportation when booked as a day trip
- An assigned standard seat
- Air-conditioned indoor seating
- A basic luggage allowance
- Access to onboard food and beverage service for additional payment
- Duty-free shopping
- Same-day return on the booked sailing
Optional upgrades, premium seats, extra luggage, transportation on Bimini and excursions may cost extra.
Read the fare conditions carefully. Some promotional fares do not allow cancellations, and changes may require a fee plus any difference in fare.
What to Do During One Day in Bimini
You will not have time to see everything, so choose one main experience and leave a generous buffer for returning to the ferry.
Relax on Radio Beach
Radio Beach is one of the best-known beaches in Bimini. It offers pale sand, clear water and a relaxed island atmosphere.
It is a good option for travelers who want a simple beach day without a complicated itinerary.
Explore Alice Town
Alice Town is the main settlement on North Bimini. Visitors can explore local restaurants, small shops and colorful island streets.
It is compact, but the heat can make walking feel more tiring than expected.
Try a fresh conch salad
Conch is closely associated with Bahamian cuisine. A freshly prepared conch salad makes an easy local lunch during a short visit.
Leave enough time for preparation and service before returning to the port.
Rent a golf cart
Golf carts are a popular way to explore North Bimini.
They provide more freedom than relying on individual taxi rides, especially for couples or small groups. Prices vary, and availability can be limited when the ferry is busy.
Inspect the cart, photograph any existing damage and confirm the return time and fuel policy before leaving.
Visit Resorts World Bimini
The resort offers pools, beach access, restaurants, a marina and a casino.
Access depends on your reservation or day-pass conditions. Food, drinks, rentals and some amenities may not be included.
Book a water activity
Possible activities include:
- Snorkeling
- Boat tours
- Fishing trips
- Shipwreck excursions
- Stingray experiences
- Sandbar visits
An organized excursion can be memorable, but it also creates more timing risk. Book through a reputable operator and make sure the tour returns well before ferry check-in.
A Practical One-Day Bimini Itinerary
6:15–6:45 a.m.: Arrive at Port Everglades
Park, locate the correct terminal and complete check-in.
Around 9:00 a.m.: Depart Fort Lauderdale
Settle into your seat and expect approximately two hours on the water.
Late morning: Arrive in Bimini
Complete immigration and determine how much usable time remains.
11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.: Explore or go directly to the beach
Choose between Alice Town, Radio Beach or your included resort area.
1:00–2:00 p.m.: Lunch
Try a local restaurant or eat at the resort.
2:00–4:00 p.m.: Beach or one planned activity
Avoid traveling too far from the return point late in the afternoon.
Late afternoon: Return to the ferry terminal
Follow the time shown on your boarding documents. Check-in normally begins two hours before departure, and doors may close one hour before sailing.
Evening: Return to Fort Lauderdale
After arriving, allow additional time for disembarkation and U.S. Customs.
What Should You Pack?
Bring:
- Valid passport
- Ferry confirmation and boarding documents
- Credit card and some cash
- Swimsuit
- Lightweight change of clothes
- Reef-conscious sunscreen
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Small towel if not provided
- Reusable water bottle
- Motion-sickness medication
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Portable charger
- Any essential medication
Do not place your passport or boarding documents somewhere they can become wet.
Will You Get Seasick?
The fast ferry crosses open water, and conditions can become rough.
Even people who normally feel comfortable on boats may experience motion sickness.
If you are prone to seasickness:
- Speak with a medical professional about suitable medication
- Take approved medication early enough to work
- Eat a light meal
- Avoid excessive alcohol
- Sit where vessel movement feels less intense
- Look toward the horizon
- Keep water nearby
Weather-related schedule changes and cancellations are possible.
Is a Bimini Day Trip Worth It?
A Bimini day trip is worth considering if you:
- Live in or are already visiting South Florida
- Want to visit another country without booking a hotel
- Enjoy beaches and clear water
- Do not mind a very early start
- Are comfortable with ferry travel
- Can spend at least $350 per person
It may not be ideal if you:
- Become seasick easily
- Want a quiet, unhurried vacation
- Are traveling with very young children
- Have an evening flight or important appointment
- Want to explore several parts of Bimini
- Expect the entire trip to cost only the advertised ticket price
The day is exciting, but it can also feel rushed. An overnight stay is usually better for travelers who want a relaxed island experience.
Important Booking Tips
- Compare several travel dates because fares vary.
- Check the final price after taxes and fees.
- Confirm whether a resort pass is included.
- Read the cancellation and change policy.
- Verify passport and visa requirements before paying.
- Do not schedule a flight or cruise immediately after the return.
- Check the marine weather forecast.
- Arrive at Port Everglades early.
- Save offline copies of all travel documents.
- Return to the Bimini terminal earlier than you think necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much is a day trip to Bimini from Florida?
A. The ferry day-trip fare is commonly advertised from approximately $250 round trip. A realistic total budget is approximately $310–$450 per person before expensive excursions.
Q. How long is the ferry ride?
A. The sailing takes approximately two hours each way, although the entire trip requires additional time for check-in, immigration, security and customs.
Q. Where does the Bimini ferry leave from?
A. The regular ferry departs from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, usually Terminal 21. Confirm the terminal before traveling.
Q. Does the ferry leave from Miami?
A. Not directly. Travelers staying in Miami must travel to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale.
Q. Do I need a passport?
A. Yes. This is international travel, and the ferry operator requires a valid passport.
Q. How many hours do you get in Bimini?
A. The operator advertises up to approximately eight hours on the island. Actual usable time depends on the day’s schedule and border-processing times.
Q. Can I visit Bimini without staying overnight?
A. Yes. Same-day round-trip sailings are available on selected operating days.
Q. What is the cheapest way to spend the day?
A. Visit a public beach, walk where practical, eat at a casual local restaurant and avoid golf-cart rentals and paid excursions.
Final Verdict
A Bimini day trip from Florida offers a rare chance to leave the United States in the morning, enjoy a Bahamian beach and return the same evening.
The ferry ticket may start around $250, but most travelers should budget at least $350 per person for a realistic day. Those adding a golf cart, cocktails or an excursion may spend $450–$600 or more.
The trip works best when you arrive early, carry the correct documents, keep your island itinerary simple and return to the terminal with plenty of time.
With realistic expectations and careful planning, Bimini can be one of the most memorable international day trips available from South Florida.
Don’t Get Caught in the Cold: 12 Must-Have Looks for Jacksonville in November!
15 Essential Pieces for Your Destin November Packing List (Don’t Forget #9!)
