From Miami: Bimini or Grand Bahama Day Trip by Ferry

Discover the Convenience of a Day Trip to the Bahamas from Miami

This 15-hour tour offers an easy and exciting way to visit the Bahamas without overnight stays. Departing from Port Everglades or the 2021 Eller Dr pickup point, the journey begins early in the morning with a comfortable, air-conditioned ferry that takes approximately 2 hours to reach the islands. The tour is designed for those wanting a taste of the Bahamas, featuring round-trip transportation that makes the logistics straightforward.

You have the option to visit Bimini or Grand Bahama Island, depending on your travel date. This flexibility allows you to choose a more tranquil beach experience on Bimini or explore Grand Bahama’s attractions, like Crystal Beach and the famous swimming pigs. The tour also offers free time on the islands, so you can relax, explore, or try optional activities at your own pace.

While the day is packed with potential, keep in mind that the ferry schedule may vary seasonally, with departure times around 9 AM from Florida** and return around 8 PM. The tour suits families, couples, and solo travelers, but travelers should be prepared for a full day of activity and travel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Quick ferry ride of approximately 2 hours from Florida to the Bahamas
• Visit either Bimini or Grand Bahama Island, depending on your date and preference
• Flexible free time for relaxing on beaches, sightseeing, or optional activities
• Round-trip transportation makes it easy to enjoy a tropical getaway in a single day
• Activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, or swimming with sting rays available for purchase on the islands
• Ideal for those seeking a full-day adventure without overnight travel

Easy Departure from Florida to the Bahamas

The tour departs from Port Everglades or 2021 Eller Dr, with check-in closing promptly at 7:30 AM. The ferry leaves around 9 AM, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the journey. The cruise itself lasts about 2 hours, providing a comfortable ride with amenities such as restrooms and a snack bar.

The ferry’s schedule is designed to maximize your time on the islands, with arrivals around 11 AM in Bimini and around 12 noon in Grand Bahama. The return trips are scheduled for 6 PM from Bimini and 5 PM from Grand Bahama, with arrivals back in Florida around 8 PM. These times allow for a full, unhurried afternoon on the islands.

The tour’s punctuality and organized logistics make it an attractive choice for travelers who value efficiency and convenience. However, weather conditions or delays caused by authorities are outside the tour provider’s control, so some flexibility may be needed.

Choosing Between Bimini and Grand Bahama Island

The Bimini option involves a shorter 2-hour ferry ride and offers about 5.5 hours on the island. Bimini is known as the gateway to the Bahamas, featuring a laid-back atmosphere and pristine beaches perfect for sunbathing or swimming. Visitors can enjoy optional activities such as renting a golf cart or snorkeling, with beach day passes available for purchase on the ferry.

Grand Bahama Island requires a scenic three-hour ferry ride and provides approximately 4 hours to explore. Notable highlights include Crystal Beach and the opportunity to swim with the swimming pigs. This island offers a deeper dive into local culture and natural beauty, making it suitable for those wanting a fuller day of sightseeing and activity.

Both options provide plenty of free time to relax or explore independently, though the longer ferry trip to Grand Bahama might be less ideal for travelers sensitive to seasickness.

The Wide Range of Optional Activities on the Islands

Once on the islands, the tour offers diverse activities to enhance your experience. You can rent jet skis or join snorkeling tours to discover the vibrant marine life. For a more unique encounter, some travelers opt to swim with sting rays, an activity that adds a memorable touch to your day.

Golf cart rentals are a popular way to explore the islands at your own pace, offering a sense of freedom and adventure. These optional activities are available for purchase on the ferry, giving you flexibility to customize your trip based on your interests and energy levels.

While the tour includes ample free time, the activities themselves are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly for these additions.

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Onboard Comfort and Practical Essentials

The ferry ride itself is a key part of the experience, with restrooms and a snack bar on board to keep travelers comfortable throughout the journey. Due to the full-day nature of the trip, it’s advised to bring essentials such as passport and visa if required, as travelers go through US Customs and Immigration.

Travelers should arrive at the check-in point by 7:30 AM for a smooth departure, and be aware that infants under 6 months are not permitted. It’s also wise to prepare for possible weather delays and to check the ferry schedule seasonally, as departure times may vary.

This tour is suitable for those comfortable with a full day of travel and activity and who are eager to experience the Bahamas in just a single day.

Cultural and Natural Highlights on the Islands

While the main focus is on beaches and water activities, visitors also get a glimpse of local Bahamian culture. Bimini is known as a tranquil gateway to the Bahamas, where you can enjoy scenic views and local ambiance. Grand Bahama offers opportunities to see famous attractions like Crystal Beach and participate in swimming pig excursions.

The islands’ natural beauty, combined with vibrant marine life, makes this day trip appealing for nature lovers and those wanting a quick escape into tropical scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This day trip from Miami stands out for its convenience and flexibility. The round-trip ferry simplifies logistics, eliminating the need for overnight bookings or complicated transfers. The option to choose between two islands based on your preferences ensures a personalized experience.

The inclusion of free time and optional activities enhances the trip, allowing for spontaneity. The positive reviews highlight knowledgeable staff and stunning views, making this a reliable choice for travelers eager to see the Bahamas without a multi-day commitment.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals especially to families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a full-day adventure with minimal planning. It’s ideal for those who want to relax on beaches, explore local culture, or try water sports, all within a manageable schedule. Travelers should be comfortable with sea travel and prepared for a long day of activity.

While the trip offers stunning scenery and flexible options, it may be less suitable for pregnant women or babies under 1 year due to physical demands and safety considerations.

The Sum Up: A Practical and Enjoyable Bahamas Day Trip

The From Miami: Bimini or Grand Bahama Day Trip by Ferry offers an efficient way to experience the Bahamas’ beaches and laid-back atmosphere. With round-trip transportation and free time on island, it provides a balanced mix of relaxation and activities. The flexibility to choose between Bimini and Grand Bahama caters to different preferences, whether you seek tranquility or a more active exploration.

While weather can impact schedules, the tour’s structured timing and onboard amenities help ensure a smooth experience. This trip suits those who want a convenient, single-day escape to the Bahamas, with enough options to make it memorable.

Overall, it’s a reliable choice for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike who appreciate organized logistics, beautiful scenery, and the chance to enjoy the Bahamas in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for this trip?
Citizens of the USA, EU, UK, and Switzerland do not require a visa. Others should check the Bahamian immigration website before booking.

What is included in the tour price?
The round-trip ferry and free time on the islands are included. Optional activities like jet skiing or snorkeling are paid separately on the ferry.

What is the departure time for the ferry?
The ferry departs around 9 AM from Florida, with check-in closing at 7:30 AM.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride lasts approximately 2 hours each way.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The pickup locations are Port Everglades or the 2021 Eller Dr location.

Can I stay longer on the islands?
No, the schedule is fixed with return ferry departures around 5-6 PM.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children over 6 months are not permitted; the tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day of travel.

What should I bring?
Travelers need passport and possibly a visa if required, plus essentials like sunscreen and water.

Are there any physical requirements?
While not explicitly detailed, the tour involves beach and water activities, so some mobility and comfort with outdoor conditions are recommended.

What happens if there is bad weather?
The activity provider is not responsible for delays caused by weather or safety authorities. It’s best to check weather forecasts before departure.

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