From Fort Lauderdale: Day Trip to Bimini

Escape the everyday hustle and embark on an enchanting day trip to the Bimini Islands from Fort Lauderdale. This idyllic Bahamian paradise beckons with its vibrant culture, pristine beaches, and thrilling water activities. Hop aboard a high-speed ferry and indulge in the journey’s amenities before enjoying the quaint town of Alice Town. Savor local seafood delicacies, explore the island’s natural wonders, and create unforgettable memories. With a valid passport and re-entry authorization, this convenient excursion offers a glimpse into the Bahamas’ alluring charm. Prepare to be captivated by the wonders that await as you embark on this unforgettable day trip.

Key Points

• Roundtrip high-speed ferry service from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades Terminal 21 to the Bimini Islands, with a journey time of approximately 2 hours each way.

• Enjoy 6 hours of free time to explore the quaint town of Alice Town, sample local seafood dishes, and participate in water activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

• Opt for a $40 day pass to access the facilities and amenities of the Hilton Resort World Bimini during your free time on the islands.

• Ensure you have a valid passport and re-entry authorization, as well as be prepared for potential delays due to weather, border control, or immigration procedures.

• The trip is accessible to travelers with foldable wheelchairs, but infants under 6 months are not permitted on the journey.

Trip Details

The day trip from Fort Lauderdale to the Bimini Islands offers a convenient and immersive experience for travelers, lasting approximately 16 to 18 hours.

Priced from $229 per person, the trip departs from the Port Everglades Terminal 21 in Fort Lauderdale and includes a 2-hour high-speed ferry ride to the Bimini Islands.

Travelers will then have 6 hours of free time to explore the local cuisine, water activities, and the optional $40 Day Pass to the Hilton Resort World Bimini.

The return ferry ride to Fort Lauderdale takes another 2 hours.

This day trip provides an excellent opportunity to experience the Bahamas without an extended stay.

Itinerary Overview

A detailed itinerary maps out the day trip, offering travelers a seamless and immersive Bahamian experience.

The journey begins with a departure from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades Terminal 21, where passengers board a high-speed 600-passenger ferry.

The 2-hour ferry ride transports them to the picturesque Bimini Islands.

Once there, visitors enjoy 6 hours of free time to explore the local culture, indulge in Bahamian cuisine, and partake in various water activities.

At the end of the day, the ferry returns passengers to Fort Lauderdale, completing the roundtrip journey.

The itinerary is designed to maximize the time spent in Bimini, allowing travelers to enjoy the island’s unique charm and natural beauty.

Inclusions and Amenities

The roundtrip ferry tickets provide travelers with either economy or business class seating options, catering to varied preferences and budgets.

On board, passengers can enjoy a full bar and browse the duty-free gift shop, making the most of the journey.

For those looking to experience the luxuries of the Bahamas, an optional $40 day pass to the Hilton Resort World Bimini is available. This pass grants access to the resort’s amenities, including its pools, beaches, and dining options.

With hotel pickup and drop-off included, travelers can sit back, relax, and let the transportation arrangements be taken care of.

The high-speed 600-passenger ferry ensures a comfortable and efficient journey to and from the idyllic Bimini Islands.

Travel Requirements

Valid passport and re-entry authorization are required for travelers embarking on this day trip to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale. Passengers must ensure they possess the necessary documentation to enter and return from the Bahamas, as delays can occur at immigration checkpoints.

Foldable wheelchairs are permitted on the ferry, accommodating travelers with mobility challenges. However, infants under 6 months aren’t allowed on the trip.

Delays due to weather, Bahamian Coast Guard, or Immigration are possible, so travelers should plan accordingly.

The high-speed 600-passenger ferry provides a comfortable and efficient mode of transportation, with a full bar and duty-free gift shop onboard to enhance the experience.

Accessibility Information

Foldable wheelchairs are permitted on the high-speed 600-passenger ferry, accommodating travelers with mobility challenges. However, infants under 6 months aren’t allowed on the trip due to safety concerns.

The ferry is equipped to handle foldable wheelchairs, ensuring a seamless transportation experience.

Delays due to weather, Bahamian Coast Guard, or Immigration are possible, and travelers should be prepared for variable conditions.

The day trip to Bimini is wheelchair accessible, with the following details:

• The free time in Bimini allows for exploring the island, enjoying local cuisine, and participating in water activities, all of which may be accessible depending on individual needs.
• Travelers are advised to communicate any special requirements when booking the trip to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience.

Potential Delays

Travelers should brace themselves for potential delays that may crop up during the day trip to Bimini, as a range of factors could disrupt the smooth sailing of the journey.

Inclement weather, such as high winds or choppy seas, could force the ferry to postpone or cancel the crossing. Plus, delays at the Bahamian border control or immigration checkpoints may occur, as the ferry company has no control over these government processes.

Even mechanical issues with the ferry itself could lead to unexpected delays. While the tour operator strives to maintain the advertised itinerary, travelers should remain flexible and prepared for the possibility of delays, which are simply part of the island-hopping experience.

Bimini Experiences

During their free time in Bimini, visitors can enjoy the island’s vibrant culture, sampling local cuisine, partaking in water activities, and exploring the picturesque streets and beaches.

The island’s famous seafood dishes, like cracked conch and grouper sandwiches, offer a delectable taste of Bahamian flavors.

For the adventurous, popular water activities include:

• Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters to spot schools of tropical fish
• Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding along the mangrove-lined coastline
• Deep-sea fishing for prized catches like marlin and tuna
• Relaxing on the white sand beaches and soaking up the island’s laidback atmosphere

The quaint town of Alice Town provides the perfect setting to wander, with its colorful homes, local boutiques, and friendly locals eager to share their island’s rich history and traditions.

Getting to the Port

Getting to the port for the Bimini day trip departs from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades Terminal 21, which is conveniently located just minutes away from the city’s main attractions and hotels.

Passengers can enjoy hassle-free transportation, as the tour operator provides hotel pickup and drop-off service. Ample parking is available at the port for those driving themselves.

The high-speed 600-passenger ferry departs promptly, so it’s important for travelers to arrive at the terminal on time. Once at the port, passengers can check in, get their boarding passes, and board the vessel for the 2-hour journey to the Bimini Islands.

The efficient and streamlined boarding process ensures a smooth start to the day trip adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Ferry?

Passengers can bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on the ferry, but the ferry also offers a full bar and duty-free gift shop for onboard purchases. Alcoholic beverages purchased off the ferry are not permitted.

Is There an Option to Stay Overnight in Bimini?

The day trip to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale doesn’t include an overnight stay option. Passengers have 6 hours of free time in Bimini before returning to Fort Lauderdale. Overnight accommodations in Bimini would require booking a separate multi-day trip.

What Is the Best Way to Exchange Currency for the Trip?

The best way to exchange currency for the trip is to use an ATM in Bimini, which will provide the most favorable exchange rate. It’s also possible to exchange cash or travelers checks at the ferry terminal or hotels in Bimini.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges I Should Be Aware Of?

Travelers should be aware of possible additional fees, such as a per-person Bahamian customs and immigration fee, as well as any optional activity charges like the Hilton Resort World Bimini day pass. These fees are not included in the base trip price.

Are Pets Allowed on the Ferry to Bimini?

Pets are not allowed on the ferry to Bimini. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing any pets, including service animals, on the high-speed ferry. Passengers must make alternative arrangements for their pets during the day trip to the Bahamas.

Recap

The day trip to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale provides a convenient and immersive way to experience the Bahamas’ vibrant culture and natural beauty.

Travelers can enjoy a high-speed ferry ride, explore the quaint town of Alice Town, indulge in local seafood, and participate in water activities.

With a valid passport and re-entry authorization, this day trip is an accessible and enriching option for those seeking to discover the Bimini Islands.