Quick Answer: How to Take the Ferry to Bahamas
The ferry to Bahamas departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida (Port Everglades) with two routes: Bimini (2 hours) and Freeport, Grand Bahama (3 hours). Balearia Caribbean is the only operator serving both routes with modern high-speed catamarans.
- Departure Point: Port Everglades Terminal 21, Fort Lauderdale (30 min from Miami)
- Route 1: Fort Lauderdale → Bimini (2 hours, from $99 one-way)
- Route 2: Fort Lauderdale → Freeport (3 hours, from $119 one-way)
- Schedule: 3-7 departures weekly (daily in summer)
- Operator: Balearia Caribbean (only ferry operator)
- Requirements: Valid passport book (passport cards NOT accepted)
Ferry to Bahamas from Florida: Your Complete Guide
The fastest and most affordable way to reach the Bahamas from the United States
Taking the ferry to Bahamas from Florida is the most convenient way to experience the islands without flying. Departing from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades, you can reach Bimini in just 2 hours or Freeport (Grand Bahama) in 3 hours aboard Balearia Caribbean's modern high-speed catamarans.
Unlike flying, the Bahamas ferry offers a relaxed travel experience with no baggage fees, scenic ocean views, onboard amenities, and the ability to bring coolers and extra luggage. For day-trippers, the ferry schedule allows 6-9 hours on the islands – enough time to enjoy pristine beaches, snorkeling, and authentic Bahamian cuisine before returning to Florida the same day.
As experts who have made 50+ Bahamas ferry crossings since 2017, we've compiled everything you need to know: current schedules, real prices (no hidden fees), booking tips, and insider advice to make your journey smooth. Whether you're planning a day trip to Bimini or an extended stay in Freeport, this guide covers all ferry options to the Bahamas.
All Ferry Routes to Bahamas (2025)
Compare both routes from Florida to the Bahamas
| Route | Duration | Frequency | One-Way Price | Round-Trip Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Lauderdale → Bimini View Details |
2 hours | 3-7x weekly | From $99 | From $198 |
| Fort Lauderdale → Freeport View Details |
3 hours | 2x weekly | From $119 | From $238 |
Bahamas Ferry Schedule 2025
| Season | Bimini Ferry Days | Freeport Ferry Days | Departure Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year-Round | Wednesday, Friday, Sunday | Thursday, Saturday | 9:00 AM from Fort Lauderdale |
| Peak Summer (Jun 22 - Sep 2) |
Daily Service | 3x weekly | 9:00 AM from Fort Lauderdale |
Important: There is NO direct ferry from Miami. All ferries depart from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale (30-45 minutes north of Miami via I-95). See terminal guide.
Additional Fees: Prices shown exclude approximately $70 in taxes and port fees per person. Premium seating adds $30 each way. Children under 12 receive 50% discount.
How to Book Ferry Tickets to Bahamas
Step-by-step booking guide and money-saving tips
Online Booking (Recommended)
Book directly through Balearia Caribbean's website or authorized partners. Online booking offers the best prices, instant confirmation, and mobile tickets. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for best availability.
Phone Reservations
Call Balearia at 1-866-699-6988 for assistance. Phone agents can help with group bookings, special requests, and schedule changes. Available Monday-Friday 9 AM - 6 PM EST.
Terminal Purchase
Tickets available at Port Everglades Terminal 21, but expect higher prices and limited availability. Arrive by 7:00 AM for same-day tickets. Not recommended during peak season.
Money-Saving Tips for Bahamas Ferry Tickets
- Wednesday Departures: Save up to $80 by traveling mid-week (Bimini only)
- Advance Booking: Book 21+ days ahead for early bird discounts
- Balearia Club: Free membership saves 10% on all bookings
- Promo Codes: Current codes: "CYBER35" (35% off), "ENJOY20" (20% off)
- Group Rates: Groups of 10+ receive automatic discounts
- Package Deals: Ferry + hotel bundles often save 20-30%
- Day Trips: Same-day return tickets are cheaper than staying overnight
What to Expect on the Ferry to Bahamas
Complete guide to your Bahamas ferry experience
The Vessel: Balearia Caribbean Fast Ferry
All ferries to the Bahamas are operated by Balearia Caribbean using modern high-speed catamarans. The Jaume II and similar vessels carry up to 600 passengers at cruising speeds of 32 knots. The twin-hull design provides stability and comfort, significantly reducing seasickness compared to traditional ferries.
Onboard Amenities
- Seating Options: Economy seats (included), Premium seats with priority boarding ($30 extra)
- Climate Control: Full air conditioning throughout interior spaces
- Café Bar: Snacks, beverages, light meals (bring your own food to save money)
- Outdoor Decks: Perfect for dolphin watching and photography
- Restrooms: Multiple facilities on each deck
- WiFi: Available but limited - download entertainment beforehand
- Entertainment: TVs showing movies, bring headphones
The Bahamas Ferry Journey
Your Bahamas ferry adventure begins at Port Everglades Terminal 21, where you'll check in at least 90 minutes before departure. The boarding process is straightforward but strict – doors close one hour before sailing with no exceptions. Once aboard, you'll feel the powerful engines engage as the catamaran glides out of the port, passing massive cruise ships and Fort Lauderdale's impressive skyline.
The crossing is a highlight itself. As you traverse the Gulf Stream, the water transforms from coastal green to deep sapphire blue. Dolphins frequently race alongside the ferry, and flying fish skip across the waves. The outdoor deck offers spectacular photo opportunities. For the Bimini route, you'll see the island's palm-fringed shores after about 90 minutes. For Freeport, Grand Bahama's coastline appears after approximately 2.5 hours.
Port Everglades Terminal 21 Guide
Everything you need to know about the departure terminal
Location & Directions
Address: 2021 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
GPS Tip: Search "Port Everglades Terminal 21" not just "Port Everglades"
From I-95: Exit 25 (Griffin Road), follow signs to Port Everglades
Parking Options
Terminal Parking: $20/day, closest to check-in
Overflow Lot: $15/day, free shuttle service
Valet Service: $30/day, worth it for convenience
Ride Share: Uber/Lyft drop-off directly at terminal
Check-in Process
Opens: 6:15 AM for 9:00 AM departure
Recommended Arrival: 7:00-7:30 AM
Check-in Closes: 8:00 AM SHARP
Documents Needed: Passport, booking confirmation
Essential Tips for Bimini Ferry Travel
Insider advice for a smooth journey
🕐 Timing is Everything
Arrive at Terminal 21 by 7:00 AM. The terminal location is confusing and parking fills quickly. Give yourself buffer time – missing the ferry means no refund and rebooking at full price.
💊 Prevent Seasickness
Take Dramamine or ginger tablets 1 hour before boarding. Sit in the middle deck where motion is minimal. Focus on the horizon if you feel queasy. The catamaran is stable, but Gulf Stream can be choppy.
📱 Phone Settings Critical
Enable airplane mode immediately after leaving port! Bahamas roaming charges are $10/MB. Use ferry WiFi for WhatsApp. Buy a BTC SIM card at Bimini dock ($30) if staying overnight.
🎒 Smart Packing
Bring snacks and water – onboard prices are steep ($12 sandwiches). Small coolers allowed. Pack sunscreen (it's $30 in Bimini), cash for tips, and download entertainment as WiFi is spotty.
🏖️ Beach Strategy
Radio Beach for families (calm, shallow), Blister Beach for parties, Spook Hill for Instagram. Rent a golf cart with others to split costs ($80/day ÷ 4 = $20 each). Everything's walkable but hot!
💰 Hidden Costs
Budget extra for: taxes/fees ($70), premium seats ($60 RT), parking ($20/day), food ($30-50), golf cart ($80), tips ($20). A "cheap" $235 ticket realistically costs $400+ per person.
Frequently Asked Questions: Ferry to Bahamas
Quick answers to common questions about Bahamas ferry travel
No, there is no direct ferry from Miami to the Bahamas. All Bahamas ferries depart from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, which is approximately 30-45 minutes north of Miami via I-95. While often called the "Miami to Bahamas ferry," the actual departure point is Fort Lauderdale. Uber/Lyft from Miami to the terminal costs approximately $35-50.
The ferry to Bimini takes 2 hours from Fort Lauderdale. The ferry to Freeport (Grand Bahama) takes 3 hours. Both routes use high-speed catamarans traveling at approximately 32 knots. Departure is at 9:00 AM from Port Everglades Terminal 21.
Bahamas ferry prices start from $99 one-way to Bimini and $119 one-way to Freeport. Round-trip tickets cost $198-$350 for Bimini and $238-$400 for Freeport, depending on season and availability. Note: Prices exclude approximately $70 in taxes and port fees per person.
Yes, a valid passport book is required – passport cards are NOT accepted. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from travel date. All passengers including children and infants need their own passports. U.S. citizens don't need a visa for stays under 90 days.
Yes! The Bahamas ferry is perfect for day trips. Departing Fort Lauderdale at 9:00 AM and arriving in Bimini at 11:00 AM, you get 6-9 hours on the island before the return ferry (departure varies by season from 6-8 PM). Day trips to Freeport give you 5-7 hours. Same-day round-trip tickets start from $155.
No, the Bahamas ferry is passenger-only – no vehicles, cars, or motorcycles can be transported. You don't need a car in Bimini or Freeport! Most visitors rent golf carts ($80-100/day) or bicycles ($25/day) at the dock. The islands are easily navigable without a car.
The Bimini ferry operates Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday year-round, with daily service during peak summer (June-September). The Freeport ferry runs approximately 2 times per week (Thursday and Saturday). All departures are at 9:00 AM from Fort Lauderdale. View complete schedule.
Balearia Caribbean will notify you 24 hours before departure if cancelled due to weather. You can reschedule for free or receive a full refund. Cancellations happen 5-10 times annually, usually during hurricane season (June-November) or winter storms. Consider travel insurance for weather-related disruptions.
Recent Bahamas Ferry Reviews
What passengers are saying about the ferry to Bahamas in 2025
"Absolutely seamless experience! The 2-hour journey flew by. We saw dolphins, the crew was professional, and Bimini exceeded expectations. Pro tip from a local: Wednesday tickets saved us $150 for our family of four!"
"Great service but arrive EARLY! Almost missed the ferry because Terminal 21 is hard to find. The catamaran is comfortable, stable ride. Bimini is paradise. Only complaint: overpriced onboard food."
"Third time taking the Bimini ferry and it gets better! Kids love the adventure. Radio Beach is perfect for families. Golf cart rental split with another family made exploring affordable. Already planning our next trip!"
Bimini Ferry vs. Other Transportation Options
Why the ferry is the preferred choice
Ferry vs. Flying to Bimini
Ferry Advantages: Lower cost ($235 vs $400+ flights), no baggage fees, relaxed check-in process, scenic journey, can bring coolers/food, easier with kids, no altitude issues.
Flight Advantages: Faster travel time (30 minutes vs 2 hours), multiple daily departures, less weather-dependent, no seasickness risk.
Verdict: Ferry wins for budget travelers, families, and those who enjoy the journey. Flying suits business travelers or those with limited time.
Ferry vs. Private Boat
Ferry Advantages: No navigation required, predictable schedule, much cheaper ($235 vs $800+ fuel), no boat maintenance, customs handled for you, can relax during crossing.
Private Boat Advantages: Flexible schedule, can explore other islands, fishing opportunities, privacy, bring more gear.
Verdict: Unless you own a suitable boat and have experience, the ferry is safer, cheaper, and more reliable.
Ready to Book Your Ferry to Bahamas?
Compare routes, check availability, and secure the best prices
Bahamas Ferry Travel Resources
Everything you need to plan your ferry trip to the Bahamas
Bimini Ferry Guide
Complete guide to the Bimini ferry: 2-hour crossing from Fort Lauderdale, schedules, prices from $99, and insider tips.
Freeport Ferry Guide
Everything about the Freeport ferry: 3-hour journey to Grand Bahama, current prices, schedule, and what to expect.
Terminal & Departure Guide
How to get to Port Everglades from Miami, parking options, check-in process, and what to bring on the ferry.
Current Deals & Promo Codes
Latest Bahamas ferry discounts, promo codes, and package deals. Save up to 35% on your ferry tickets.
Complete Ferry Schedules
Full 2025 schedules for all Bahamas ferry routes including seasonal variations and holiday service.
Ferry vs. Flying
Compare ferry and flight options to the Bahamas: cost, time, convenience, and which is right for you.