From Miami: Roundtrip Bimini Ferry with Hotel Transfers

Travelers looking for a quick escape to the Bahamas often consider this tour—a convenient, all-in-one day trip from Miami to the tropical paradise of Bimini. Offered by Admiral Tours Miami, this experience promises a fast, hassle-free journey with hotel pickups, a speedy ferry ride, and plenty of time to soak up the sun. While it’s a popular choice, as with any tour, knowing what to expect helps you decide if it’s right for your adventure.

What we appreciate about this trip are the comfort of hotel transfers and the relatively short duration—just 15 hours from start to finish. It’s a great way to get a taste of the Bahamas without committing to a longer stay. On the downside, some reviews highlight that the island itself might not be as expansive or bustling as one might hope, especially if expectations aren’t managed. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a quick, straightforward getaway with flexible free time.

Key Points

• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off simplify the journey, especially if you’re based in Miami Beach or Downtown Miami.
• Speedy 2-hour ferry ride gets you to Bimini quickly, maximizing your island time.
• Six hours of free time allows for beach lounging, water sports, or exploring on a golf cart.
• Optional water activities like snorkeling and jet skiing can add extra fun but cost extra.
• Clear, straightforward itinerary with minimal fuss—ideal for travelers who prefer efficiency.
• Price point of $289 per person offers decent value compared to the cost of flying or longer tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Tour Works: The Details

Easy, Stress-Free Pickup

The tour kicks off early in the morning, between 6:00 and 7:00 AM, with pickup from Miami Beach hotels along Collins Avenue or at the Holiday Inn on Biscayne Boulevard. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the morning ride comfortable, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. The convenience of hotel transfers cannot be overstated—no needing to hunt down meeting points or navigate public transportation. Just be sure to arrive punctually in the hotel lobby.

The Ferry Ride: 2 Hours of Speed and Scenic Views

Once aboard the high-speed ferry, you’ll enjoy a smooth, two-hour cruise across the Florida Straits. The ride is quick, but the views are quite enjoyable—crisp blue waters, perhaps a few seabirds, and a sense of crossing into the Caribbean. Onboard, you might find the staff friendly and helpful, with some options to purchase water sports passes for added adventure. Expect the boat to be well-maintained, with decent seating and amenities, though food and drinks are not included.

Arrival at Bimini: A Small but Vibrant Island

Bimini is the closest point of the Bahamas to the US, making it ideal for this day trip. It’s a small island, roughly 7 miles long, with a handful of resorts, beaches, and local shops. Many travelers are pleased with the island’s natural beauty—the white sand beaches and turquoise waters are exactly as you’d imagine in the Bahamas.

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Free Time: Six Hours to Explore, Relax, or Play

The highlight of this trip is the six hours of free time. During this window, you can choose to lounge on the beach, swim, or participate in water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, or snorkel excursions (some of which are optional and paid separately). For those wanting a bit more independence, renting a golf cart to explore the island is a popular choice, with reviews mentioning costs around $80 for a rental.

Several travelers have expressed satisfaction with the flexibility this free time provides. One reviewer noted, “The island is beautiful, but the shops should be open for travelers,” hinting at some limitations in local amenities. Others, like a guest from the U.S., enjoyed renting a golf cart and exploring at their own pace.

Lunch and Local Flavors

While the tour includes the transport and free time, food and drinks are not included. Many travelers find it worthwhile to bring snacks, water, or a small picnic. There are some local restaurants and bars, but don’t expect an extensive dining experience. If you’re craving the quintessential Bahamas experience, it might be worth planning ahead.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

In the late afternoon, the ferry departs Bimini back to Florida. Once ashore, a designated driver returns you to your original pickup point. The entire trip lasts around 15 hours, balancing travel time with island enjoyment.

What the Reviews Say: A Balanced Perspective

The tour boasts an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on 320 reviews, indicating generally positive experiences but some concerns worth noting. Many travelers love the ease of transportation, describing it as “stress-free” and “convenient,” especially with hotel pickups and efficient ferry service.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One traveler from the Czech Republic expressed disappointment: “The fact that for 7000 CZK you will basically just get to the island and back is really too much. There was no guide, and the photos and reality were really two totally different things.” This points to high expectations for what the trip offers and the importance of managing those expectations.

On the bright side, several reviews mention stunning views and good value. A traveler from the U.S. said, “The island is beautiful, and renting a golf cart for $80 was worth it,” emphasizing the flexibility and affordability of exploring around.

Authentic Experiences on the Island

Some reviewers appreciate the authenticity of Bimini’s simple charm, noting that the island’s limited amenities can be a plus if you’re seeking a laid-back vibe. The natural beauty shines through regardless, even if the shopping or entertainment options are limited.

Water Sports and Activities

While the tour offers water sports options, these are paid extras, and some travelers feel they are worth splurging on. The availability of activities like snorkeling and jet skiing adds a layer of adventure, but be prepared for additional costs.

Analyzing the Value

At $289 per person, this trip is priced to appeal to those who want a quick getaway without the hassle of flying or multi-day planning. The hotel transfers, ferry ride, and six hours on the island make it a practical way to experience the Bahamas, especially for first-timers or those short on time.

Compared to the alternative of booking separate transportation and activities, this package offers clarity and simplicity. However, travelers should consider the limited free time and the fact that some amenities are not included, which may impact overall satisfaction.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is ideal for travelers who:

• Want a cost-effective way to visit the Bahamas without overnight stays
• Appreciate organized transportation and logistics that remove stress
• Are comfortable with a fast-paced schedule and limited free time
• Are seeking a relaxing beach day with optional water sports
• Don’t mind minimal guidance or structured activities on the island

It’s less suited for those looking for a full-fledged Bahamas experience with extensive sightseeing, guided tours, or culture. Also, pregnant women or travelers with mobility issues should consider weather conditions and the availability of wheelchair accessibility.

The Sum Up

This Miami-to-Bimini ferry tour offers a simple, straightforward escape to the Bahamas with the convenience of hotel transfers and a quick, two-hour ferry ride. It provides travelers with a good chunk of beach time—around six hours—to relax, swim, or indulge in water sports, making it excellent for those seeking a tropical day trip without a lot of fuss.

While the island’s offerings are modest—no large resorts or guided sightseeing—many find the natural beauty, ease of logistics, and affordability make it a worthwhile outing. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors, short-term travelers, or anyone eager for an authentic but relaxed Bahamian experience.

For a balanced, cost-conscious, and scenic day away from Miami, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to bring your passport, some cash for extras, and a sense of adventure.

FAQs

Do I need a passport for this trip? Yes, you must have a valid passport to go through US Customs and Immigration for both entry and re-entry.

What time should I be ready for pickup? Pickup is scheduled between 6:00 and 7:00 AM. Be sure to wait in your hotel lobby 10 minutes prior to your designated time.

How long is the ferry ride? The ferry ride lasts approximately 2 hours each way, providing a quick yet scenic crossing.

Are food and drinks included? No, food and drinks are not included. It’s advisable to bring snacks and water for your day on the island.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but only foldable wheelchairs are suitable.

Can I participate in water sports? Yes, water sports passes are available for purchase, including activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, and parasailing.

What if I want to explore the island more? You can rent a golf cart for around $80, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Is there a guide on the island? No guided tours are included, so you’ll be free to roam, relax, or partake in activities as you wish.

This ferry trip from Miami to Bimini balances convenience, natural beauty, and flexibility. It’s a solid choice for those who want to dip their toes into the Bahamas’ waters without a long or complicated journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: