From Fort Lauderdale: Day Trip to Bimini

Discover the Charm of Bimini on a Day Trip from Fort Lauderdale

This day trip to Bimini offers a seamless escape from Florida’s mainland, taking travelers on a 2-hour high-speed ferry to the Bahamas. The tour, operated by Gray Line Miami, features around 6 hours of free time in Bimini, allowing for plenty of exploration and relaxation. With a full bar, duty-free shop, and optional $30 Day Pass to Resort World Bimini, it blends comfort, convenience, and fun in a single day.

While the journey is well-organized and the views stunning, it’s important to keep in mind that the tour operates on selected dates and can experience delays due to weather or customs procedures. Still, this trip suits those eager for a quick Bahamas getaway, especially if they appreciate flexible free time and easy transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Fast 2-hour ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini on a modern vessel
• Approximately 6 hours in Bimini for activities, shopping, or relaxing on the beach
• Optional Day Pass for $30 grants access to Resort World Bimini facilities
• Free beach chairs and umbrellas provided at the beach
• Departure from Port Everglades with two pickup options
• Full bar and duty-free shop onboard for a relaxed trip

Comfortable and Quick Ferry Ride to the Bahamas

The tour begins at Port Everglades Terminal 21, with two pickup options available. From there, travelers board a high-speed vessel that accommodates up to 600 passengers, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. The ferry covers the 2-hour journey to Bimini Islands, offering scenic views and a chance to unwind with snacks and drinks available onboard.

This vessel’s modern design and ample capacity make the crossing pleasant, even for those prone to seasickness. Passengers can enjoy a full bar and browse a duty-free gift shop, adding to the relaxed atmosphere on the way to paradise.

Six Hours of Free Time to Explore Bimini Island

Once in Bimini, travelers have approximately 6 hours at leisure to explore the island’s diverse attractions. The free time usually runs from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving ample opportunity to wander, shop, or relax. Many visitors take advantage of this time to visit the beach, with chairs and umbrellas provided for free.

Activities available during this period include swimming with dolphins, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun. For those seeking more comfort, a $30 Day Pass can be purchased onboard to access Resort World Bimini facilities, including pools and lounges, making the day more luxurious.

Exploring Bimini’s Local Shops and Restaurants

During the free time, visitors often visit the Straw Market for local crafts and souvenirs, or dine at nearby restaurants serving authentic Bahamian cuisine. Several reviews highlight the high quality of food and drinks available on the island, describing the experience as enjoyable and tasty.

It’s worth noting that some shops may not all be open during the visit, so it’s wise to plan accordingly. The beach is a major highlight, with complimentary chairs and umbrellas making it easy to relax and enjoy the pristine surroundings.

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Renting a Golf Cart to Discover the Island

A popular way to maximize the free time is by renting a golf cart, suggested by visitors to explore the island at their own pace. This allows access to more remote areas, such as the end of the island, where you can find a shipwreck and encounter rays and hermit crabs. Exploring by golf cart adds a fun, flexible touch to the day, and many find it enhances the overall experience.

Guides or local rental shops typically facilitate this, and the ease of transportation means you can visit multiple spots within the limited timeframe.

Water Activities and Beach Relaxation

Bimini is known for its beautiful, clear waters, perfect for swimming and water-based activities. Many travelers describe their beach day as “great” or “amazing,” with the water often described as blue and transparent. The availability of free chairs and umbrellas encourages lounging, while the shallow waters make for safe swimming.

For those interested in snorkeling or dolphin encounters, several options are available on the island, although specific tours are not included in this day trip package. The relaxed pace and natural beauty make Bimini an ideal spot to unwind.

Logistics: Meeting Points and Transfer Details

The tour starts at Port Everglades Terminal 21, with the meeting point’s coordinates at 26.0869083404541, -80.11573028564453. Depending on the booking, the pickup location may vary, so travelers should confirm their specific arrangements.

The return trip mimics the outbound journey, departing from Bimini at 2 hours after the free time ends and arriving back in Fort Lauderdale at the same terminal. The group size tends to be large, but the vessel’s capacity ensures a comfortable ride with space for everyone.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is wheelchair accessible for foldable wheelchairs, making it more inclusive. Travelers should bring a passport, towel, comfortable clothes, and public transport tickets if needed for onward travel.

It’s advised to arrive prepared for sun exposure, with sunscreen and an umbrella if desired. The tour warns that delays can occur due to weather, Coast Guard, or Immigration checks, so travelers should plan accordingly to avoid missing the return ferry.

The Reality of the Tour Experience

While the trip’s overall feedback is positive—many praising the friendly staff, stunning scenery, and delicious food—some reviews mention shop closures or waiting times at customs. A few travelers suggest arranging shuttle transport to and from Port Everglades to save time and money. Others highlight the importance of proper documentation to avoid delays at immigration.

The onboard service, particularly the friendly crew and smooth transportation, receives consistent praise, making the journey comfortable and enjoyable despite occasional logistical hiccups.

Bimini’s Unique Appeal and Considerations

Most visitors agree that Bimini’s beauty and laid-back atmosphere shine through during this day trip. The beaches, local markets, and water activities create a well-rounded experience. However, the limited free time means travelers should plan their activities in advance if possible.

Those seeking more in-depth exploration or night stays will need to consider extending their visit beyond this day trip. Still, for a convenient and scenic escape from Fort Lauderdale, this tour offers good value with a balance of relaxation and adventure.

Bimini Day Trip: An Honest Summary

This 18-hour adventure from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini is ideal for travelers wanting a quick, scenic escape with leisurely free time and easy access to the Bahamas. The ferry ride is comfortable, offering onboard amenities like a full bar and a gift shop, while the 6 hours in Bimini allow for exploration, shopping, or beach lounging.

The optional Day Pass enhances the experience by providing access to Resort World Bimini, and free beach chairs and umbrellas make relaxing effortless. The trip provides a good mix of natural beauty, local culture, and water-based activities.

While some reviews mention shops closing early or waiting at customs, these minor inconveniences do not overshadow the overall positive experience. This tour suits those who value flexible free time and comfortable transportation and are ready for a day of sun, sea, and discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry ride to Bimini?
The ferry ride lasts approximately 2 hours each way, providing a swift journey on a modern, comfortable vessel.

What is included in the free time in Bimini?
Visitors have around 6 hours of leisure time to explore the island, with free chairs and umbrellas available at the beach, shopping at local markets, dining at restaurants, or enjoying water activities.

Can I purchase access to Resort World Bimini?
Yes, for $30, travelers can buy a Day Pass onboard to enjoy Resort World Bimini facilities, including pools and lounges.

What do I need to bring for this trip?
Travelers should bring a passport, towel, comfortable clothing, and public transport tickets if needed. Sunscreen and an umbrella are recommended for protection from the sun.

Is this tour accessible for travelers with mobility challenges?
The tour is wheelchair accessible for foldable wheelchairs, but larger or non-foldable mobility devices may not be suitable.

What are the main drawbacks of this trip?
Possible delays at customs, shops not open during the visit, and limited time for exploring can be minor inconveniences. Planning ahead and confirming details can help mitigate these issues.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby