Miami/Ft Lauderdale: Bimini or Grand Bahama Day Trip

Thinking about adding a splash of tropical magic to your Florida vacation? This day trip from Fort Lauderdale offers a quick escape to the Bahamas, giving travelers a taste of island life without the need for overnight planning. Whether you’re dreaming of lounging on white sand beaches, snapping photos of shimmering turquoise waters, or just craving a change of scenery, this ferry trip provides a practical and enjoyable way to do it.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the convenience — a direct, roundtrip ferry ride from Florida that takes roughly two hours one-way, freeing you from the hassles of flights or long stays. Second, the flexibility — you get several hours on the island to explore, relax, or meet local wildlife like the famous swimming pigs in Grand Bahama.

However, a potential consideration is that this is a one-day excursion, so you’ll need to be comfortable with a tight schedule and limited time on the island. If you want a laid-back, casual taste of the Bahamas without investing in a full vacation, this tour is a solid choice. This trip is perfect for cruise passengers, solo travelers, couples, or families eager for a quick escape and some sun.

Key Points

• Approximately 50 miles from Florida — quick ferry ride for easy access.
• Two options: Grand Bahama with Crystal Beach and swimming pigs, or Bimini with tranquil beaches and more relaxed vibes.
• Travel time: About 2 hours each way, with around 4 hours on Grand Bahama and 5.5 hours on Bimini.
• Comfort: Air-conditioned, fast ferry with restrooms, snacks, and guaranteed seats.
• Cost: $259 per person, a fair price for a full day of island fun, considering the convenience.
• Traveler tips: Bring your passport, plan for your own activities, and be prepared for US Customs on return.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins early in the morning at Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale. Check-in closes sharply at 7:30 AM, so arriving early is essential to avoid missing the departure. Once onboard, you’ll settle into a well-equipped ferry boasting air conditioning, restrooms, and a snack bar — a small but appreciated touch that keeps the mood comfortable, especially for those prone to seasickness or impatient kids.

The ferry ride itself is more than just transportation — it’s part of the fun. You’ll enjoy views of crystal-clear waters shimmering in the sun that really highlight the beauty of the Bahamas from the get-go. Several reviews mention that the ride is relaxing, with some travelers noting the opportunity to lounge on the deck and enjoy the sea breeze.

Arrival in the Islands

Depending on your choice, your arrival times are around 11 AM for Bimini and noon for Grand Bahama. From there, the day is yours. The islands are renowned for their stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you decide to lounge on the sands, take a dip in the warm waters, or explore local shops and cafes, you’ll find plenty to do.

Grand Bahama Island: Crystal Beach & Swimming Pigs

If you opt for the Grand Bahama route, you’ll get about 4 hours of leisure time to explore. One of the highlights is Crystal Beach, famous for its soft white sands and inviting waters. Some travelers also take the opportunity to visit the well-known swimming pigs, which has become a quirky, popular experience (though note that visits to this attraction typically need to be arranged separately and are not included).

Reviewers appreciate the chance to relax on the sandy beaches and describe the scenery as breathtaking. One traveler from France mentioned the “incredible views” and how even just a few hours at the beach can be deeply refreshing.

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Bimini Island: Laid-back Vibes & Beaches

Alternatively, Bimini offers a more tranquil experience with approximately 5.5 hours of leisure time. Known as the gateway to the Bahamas, it’s a place to unwind in a less commercialized setting. The beaches tend to be pristine, and the overall vibe is “laid-back,” perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Activities and Exploration

While activities are not included in the price—meaning you’ll need to organize your own —the ferry crew provides info on water activities available on the islands. Some travelers may choose to rent a scooter, snorkel, or simply enjoy lounging on the beach. You might find that the greatest joy is just soaking up the sun and listening to the gentle waves.

Returning to Florida

As the day winds down, you’ll board the ferry for the return trip, leaving the islands around 6 PM for Bimini or 5 PM for Grand Bahama. The return journey promises more views of the water before arriving back in Fort Lauderdale around 8 PM — a full 16 hours from start to finish.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At $259 per person, this tour offers good value if you consider the convenience, transportation, and a full day of island exposure. While food and activities are not included, the ferry ride itself is comfortable, and the flexibility on the island allows you to tailor your experience. Some reviews, like the one from Poland, emphasize the “words can’t describe what the eyes saw,” underscoring how impactful even a few hours in the Bahamas can be.

That said, travelers should be aware that extra costs for activities or food are on you, so budget accordingly. For many, the real value lies in simply being on the water and enjoying the scenery, which is included.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring your passport and any other required travel documents for customs.
• Arrive early — check-in closes at 7:30 AM.
• Consider packing snacks for the ferry ride, although a snack bar is available.
• Be prepared for weather changes — bring sunscreen and a hat.
• Book activities in advance if you plan to do specific things like swimming with pigs or renting gear.
• This trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women or infants under 6 months.
• Keep your travel plans flexible with the reserve now, pay later option.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This day trip is ideal for those in Florida looking for a quick, hassle-free escape to the Bahamas. It suits families, couples, solo travelers, or anyone craving a relaxing beach day without the expense or effort of an overnight stay. If you love stunning water views, soft beaches, and a laid-back island vibe, this tour is a fantastic way to tick those boxes.

It’s also perfect if you want a taste of the Bahamas — enough time to enjoy the scenery and maybe snap some photos — but not so long that it disrupts your schedule. It’s a practical, enjoyable, and reasonably priced way to add a tropical splash to your Florida trip.

Final Thoughts

This ferry-based day trip offers a straightforward and authentic way to experience the Bahamas’ famed beaches and relaxed atmosphere. While it’s not a comprehensive tour with planned activities or guided excursions, the freedom to explore on your own makes it appealing. The views are often described as breathtaking, and the comfort of the ferry enhances the overall experience.

For travelers who appreciate simplicity and natural beauty, this trip provides a memorable snapshot of island life, perfect for a one-day adventure. Just remember to plan ahead, bring your passport, and set your expectations for a relaxed, scenic, and refreshing day in the Bahamas.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride from Florida to the Bahamas?
The ferry ride is about 2 hours each way, making for a total travel time of roughly 4 hours roundtrip.

What are the departure and return times?
Ferry departure from Florida is approximately 9 AM, arriving in the Bahamas around 11 AM for Bimini or noon for Grand Bahama. The return trips are around 5 PM or 6 PM, arriving back in Florida around 8 PM.

Is a passport required?
Yes. You need a valid passport or passport card to travel to the Bahamas and re-enter the US, as you will go through US Customs and Immigration.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the roundtrip ferry ride from Fort Lauderdale. Activities on the islands, food, and transportation are not included.

Can I book activities on the island?
Yes, activities and day passes (like beach access) can be purchased on the ferry, but they are not part of the tour package.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnant women are advised not to participate, and infants under 6 months are not permitted.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can reserve online with a flexible option to pay later, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure.

What should I bring?
Essentially, bring your passport, sunscreen, hat, and any personal items you might need for a day of beach lounging or exploring.

Are there restroom facilities on the ferry?
Yes, the ferry is equipped with restrooms for your comfort during the ride.

Is there Wi-Fi on the ferry?
The provided information doesn’t specify Wi-Fi availability, so it’s best to assume it’s not included, and plan accordingly for offline entertainment.

To sum it up, this Bahamas day trip from Fort Lauderdale offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, scenic beauty, and flexibility. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to add a tropical touch to their Florida adventure, especially if you’re eager to enjoy the beaches, soak up some sun, and experience the relaxed island vibe—all in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: