Bimini ferry AUGUST 30 CANCELLED ►

Ferry to Bahamas

  • Ferry to Bahamas

Florida Bahamas ferry

  • Florida Bahamas ferry

from Florida to Freeport and Bimini

ferry to Bahamas 2022

ferry to Bahamas 2022

From $98 per person + taxes.

ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas

ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas

The caribbean fast ferry from florida.

Balearia Caribbean Bahamas ferry

Balearia Caribbean Bahamas ferry

The express ferry service to bimini and grand bahama.

fast ferry to Bahamas

direct fast ferry to Bahamas

¡ only 2 hours to bimini and 3 hours to grand bahama.

Balearia Caribbean opperates the Florida Bahamas ferry routes connecting Miami and Florida with the Bahamas islands.

Fort Lauderdale, in Florida, is from where Balearia opperates its rides to Gran Bahama (Freeport) and to Bimini.

Florida Bahamas ferry: schedules and prices

¿How long is Florida Bahamas ferry ride? The ferry sailings from Florida to the Bahamas takes between 3 hours (Florida - Bimni route) to 4 hours (Florida - Gran Bahama route).

Each week there will be 1 frequency to and from Grand Bahama and three frequencies (also roundtrip) to connect Bimini with Florida.

If the health situation caused by Covid 19 improves, more frequencies and schedules will be placed on the two routes from Florida.

Search our timetable and prices search engine for the dates of the route you want to take.

Ferry to Bahamas

  • Bimini ferry:
  • Ft Lauderdale to Bimini
  • ferry to Bimini
  • Miami to Bimini ferry
  • to Bahamas:
  • Ft Lauderdale to Bahamas

ferry to Bahamas

  • Boat from Miami to Bahamas
  • Most searched routes:
  • Miami Bahamas ferry
  • ferry and Hotel packages
  • Schedule and prices

Florida Bahamas ferry news

Leap year 29% off to bahamas.

catamaran from florida to bahamas

February 29th, 2024

Book today with this offer from Balearia Caribbean and travel on the Bimini ferry with a 29 percent discount on the price of your ferry tickets. You must book today, February 29, 2024, to travel to Bimini or Freeport until May 31.

This offer is only valid for booking on February 29, 2024. You can travel until May 31 on any of its routes. It is mandatory that the trip be round trip. But it is not valid for daytrips .

Enter the Promo Code LEAPYEAR when making the reservation and enjoy this discount. You have only 24 hours to make your reservation, while there are seats available. Balearia Caribbean has limited places for this Leap Year offer.

Offer Conditions of "29 off to Bahamas for Leap Year" with Balearia Caribbean ferry.

With the promo code LEAPYEAR you will get a 29% discount on the price of your ferry tickets to Bimini or Freeport.

You have to book today, February 29th, 2024 or until the end of offer seats.

It's mandatory to book return tickets. Offer not valid for daytrips.

If you book this offer and want to make changes, you will be subject to a penalty fee and to pay if there is a difference in the price of your rate.

Cancellations and annulments are not allowed for this offer.

Book as soon as possible as the places in this offer are very few and they will run out quickly.

Another option is to discover the Bahamas islands with a stay in Bimini. Check the Bimini hotel and ferry vacation packages (staying at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini) or the package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

29 off to Bimini or Freeport Leap Year

Ferry to Bahamas Thank You message

ferrytobahamas.com Thank you message to our Team, Balearia Caribbean and Customers. Thank You all!

23rd of November, 2023

ferrytobahamas.com Thank You message

Updated on the 23rd of November, 2023

Hey everyone,

Today is Thanksgiving in the U.S. and it’s always a good time to reflect and express gratitude.

From Ferry to Bahamas we want to thank you all.

THANK YOU to our whole TEAM that works hard to keep all the information updated about the schedules and prices to travel by ferry to Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama) from Fort Lauderdale (Florida).

Without your work, these amazing results would be impossible.

THANK YOU to our trusted provider, BALEARIA CARIBBEAN ferry , for the support that all their departments (Customer Service, Commercial, Billing, Crew on board the fast ferry Jaume II, Ground staff and Management) give us. You make our work easier and the relationships with our mutual customers smoother.

THANK YOU to all of you for the community that we are creating.

And, of course, THANK YOU to our more than 5,000 CUSTOMERS in these barely 2 years of journey.

Your desire to discover the wonders of the Bahamas islands has inspired us to create and develop this project.

THANKS to your support we have been able to offer you all the updated information about the schedules, prices and Bahamas (Freeport and Bimini) vacations deals of the Balearia Caribbean, the information of the hotels in Bahamas where you can stay (both in Bimini and Grand Bahama), what you can see and do in the Bahamas or how to book the best ferry and hotel packages in Bimini or Freeport.

Our mission is that you can continue to discover the natural and spiritual beauty that the Bahamas islands radiate and we remind you that during these days the Balearia Caribbean Black Friday , Cyber Monday and the discounts on Bahamas ferry and hotel of Balearia Caribbean are still available.

We hope to continue helping customers like you to dream of the Bahamas as we do every day and, why not, to see each other someday on one of their magnificent islands.

Until then, THANK YOU

Balearia Caribbean Black Friday

Balearia Caribbean Black Friday 2023, ferry tickets with -35% Off

21st of November, 2023

Balearia Caribbean Black Friday 2023. -35% Off!

Updated on the 21st of November, 2023

Enjoy the Balearia Caribbean's Black Friday Week and you will have a discount of 35% Off for your next ferry tickets to the Bahamas (Bimini and Freeport). Take advantage of this incredible offer and get your cheapest boat tickets from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas now! . Don't let escape the 35% Off Pre-Black Friday Discount Now! 🚀 .

This offer is valid for travel during the entire 2024 calendar except for some special days that you have below. Enter the Promo Code BLACK35 when booking and enjoy this discount. The deadline to make your reservation is from November 21 to 26, while there are still places available. Balearia Caribbean has limited places for this Black Friday offer.

TAKE NOTE: Exclusive Pre-Black Friday Access : If you are a member of Balearia Caribbean (or are a new member), for three days starting November 21st, you will have early access to all the places on offer that Balearia Caribbean is going to put on sale this week. In addition, and just by becoming a member of Balearia Caribbean, you will receive an even more surprising discount. Enter the Rewards section of Balearia Caribbean and buy the cheapest tickets to the Bahamas now.

Balearia Caribbean Black Friday 2023, ferry tickets with -35% Off with Balearia Caribbean

Offer Conditions of "35 off to Bahamas on Black Friday 2023" with Balearia Caribbean ferry.

With the promo code BLACK35 you will get a 35% discount on the price of your ferry tickets to Grand Bahama and Bimini.

Offer valid for travel on 2024 open calendar except deadlines.

Offer NOT valid to travel: between 17th and 30th November 2023. Between 20th December 2023 and 2nd January 2024. Between 1st and 31st March 2024. Between 20th and 30th November 2024 and between 17th and 31st December 2024.

This offer is ONLY valid for ferry tickets. NOT valida for ferry and hotel packages. Limited places.

You can book until November 27th, 2023 or until the end of offer seats.

If you want to book one of the Bimini ferry and hotel packages that Balearia Caribbean offers, whether in Bimini or in Freeport, check out our Bimini hotel and ferry vacation packages (staying at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini) or the package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

Hilton Bimini packages with ferry from $250

Hilton Bimini packages with ferry

November 21, 2023

Celebrate Spring Break this coming February at Hilton at Resorts World Bimini with the special offers from Balearia Caribbean. Enjoy the whitest waters of the Caribbean, from February 24 to 1st of March from $250 per person, per night, incluiding the ferry tickets too. The best getaway for a 5 nights stay and Bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Bahamas, the perfect place to conect with sun and water.

If you have heard of a paradise called Bimini (in the Bahamas) and a wonderful Hilton hotel (World Resorts Bimini) that is at least on the beachfront, with a Casino and a very cool beach club, this website will help you book the perfect weekend.

You can enjoy 5 hotel nights at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini plus roundtrip ferry to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale starting from $250 per person per night .

Bimini is only 2 hours by direct fast ferry from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Balearia Caribbean is the company that makes the crossing. The Jaume II ship is a modern and fast ferry, which has different categories of confortable seats: tourist and economy premium. It also has a cafeteria, snack bar, outdoor terrac and duty free

The Hilton at World Resorts Bimini hotel is ideal for spending a romantic weekend, enjoying the beautiful sunsets over the island in the rooftop pool, having a cocktail at its bar, and enjoying the crystal clear waters that surround North Bimini. Lovers of water sports or fishing also have excellent entertainment options to discover Bimini.

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Hilton Bimini packages with ferry" conditions:

This promotion applies only to Bimini Island. NOT for Grand Bahama or Freeport Resorts.

The price is per person per night, based in double occupancy.

This offer is subjected to change or to cancel at Balearia Caribbean's discretion.

This promotion is non-refundable.

The Balearia Caribbean or Hilton at Resorts Wolrd Bimini hotel flexible policy does not apply to ferry and hotel packages. If you want to make any changes, you must do so more than 72 hours before the ferry departure time.

You can also make just one reservation for the Hilton at Words Resorts Bimini hotel, by clicking on the following link that we show you: Hilton at Resorts World Bimini Bahamas

If you prefer to book separately the ferry and on the other hand the hotel or your vacation package you can do it on our website, at your leisure. ferrytobahamas.com . The Balearia Caribbean system will send you, directly to the email you provide us, the confirmation of the reservation..

Book your package with Balearia Caribbean's ferry and the Hilton Bimini Hotel as soon as possible and enjoy a few days in paradise. You deserve it!

Hilton Bimini packages with ferry

Bimini ferry August 30th Cancelled

Bimini ferry on August 30th cancelled by Balearia Caribbean due to bad weather conditions

September 1st, 2023

BBimini ferry on August 30th cancelled by Balearia Caribbean due to bad weather conditions

Updated on the 1st September, 2023

All Balearia ferry services from Fort Lauderdale (the Bimini ferry and the Freeport ferry) have already been restored and are operating normally.

And the following is the Old New about the cancellation of Bimini ferry of Balearia Caribbean due to Idalia Hurracane on August 30th.

Bimini ferry of tomorrow, August 30 th, has been cancelled by Balearia Caribbean due to bad weather conditions. The Freeport service is confirmed and it will be direct, the sailing times will remain as they are.

Due to bad weather conditions, Balearia Caribbean, the ferry company that connects Florida with the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale, has suspended the departure of its ship, Jaime II, tomorrow, Wednesday, August 30, 2023.

If you have a ferry reservation for this day, August 30, to go to Bimini, contact Balearia ferry to reschedule your trip or to get a refund of your total reservation.

You can contact Balearia Caribbean directly by sending an email to [email protected] or by phone (+ 1 866.699.6988). The Balearia Caribbean staff will be happy to help you, give you the information you need and answer all your questions.

You can also find all the updated information on the Balearia website and on our website, ferry to Bahamas .

Bimini ferry August 30 cancelled

Balearia Caribbean promo code FALL4U

25% off with Balearia Caribbean ferry, one-day trips and ferry and hotel packages to Bimini or Freeport (Grand Bahama) with FALL4U promo code

August 23rd, 2023

Updated on the 23rd of August, 2023

New offer from Balearia Caribbean to travel this coming fall to Bimini and Freeport. Get a 25% off on your ferry tickets from Fort Lauderdale.

Attentive! If you are thinking of buying ferry tickets with Balearia Caribbean, here is a good offer that you cannot miss. Just use the promo code FALL4U and bam! you will get a fantastic 25% discount. This discount is not only valid for Balearia ferry trips, but also for the purchase of the ferry and hotel in Bimini vacation packages. Why is this Balearia offer a good offer? Don't let this offer from Balearia Caribbean slip through your fingers: before you is the perfect opportunity to explore Bimini Island or Freeport (Grand Bahama). And hey, don't forget, you can take a quick day trip or stay in a hotel overnight and still take advantage of this amazing promo code. So what are you waiting for to book it?"

if you want to do it (we are talking about the day trip to Bimini or Freeport (Bahamas) or you prefer to book a ferry and hotel package) run and calculate in our ferry search engine the price of your ferry tickets with Balearia Caribbean. Then perform the same calculation again but, in the "Promotional Code" section of the search engine, write the promo code FALL4U. If you meet all the conditions of the offer (which you have here above) a 25% discount will be automatically applied to the price of your ferry tickets (or to your Bimini vacation package).

Remember that if your stay in Bimini or Freeport lasts a few days, you must add more luggage to the basic rate of your trip, since it only accepts the limited number of pounds. Depending on the days you want to stay in the Bahamas, you will have to carry more or less luggage. So plan your vacation days well and prepare your luggage ahead of time. You can always add extra luggage to your reservation. Although it may be cheaper, you do it in advance than the Balearia Ferry Terminal at boarding time.

Do you want to know more about Balearia Caribbean ferry ? Also known as Balearia Bahamas express the Balearia is the only ferry company that departures from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini and Freeport (in Grand Bahama island) on the Bahamas. Get all the info you need in this website ( Balearia ferry schedule or photos, as example).

Balearia Caribbean promo code fall4u

Bahamas vacation 15 Off

Bahamas vacation 15 off with Balearia Caribbean on ferry and hotel Summer Sale

June 20th, 2023

Updated on the 20th of June, 2023

Enjoy your Bahamas vacation with a 15 percent discount using the "SUMMERSALE" Balearia Caribbean's code. In this way, you will have in the same package the ferry tickets to travel from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini or Freeport (Grand Bahama island) and your hotel stay.

Balearia Caribbean has the promo code SUMMERSALE available for you to have a 15 percent discount on the price of your ferry and hotel package for your vacation in the Bahamas this summer. What does this Bahamas vacation package consist of? In the price of the package you have the ferry tickets, round trip, from Fort Lauderdale (Fll) to Bimini or Freeport (Grand Bahama). If you want to visit Bimini you will stay at the Hilton Hotel and if you prefer the all-inclusive package of the offer you will stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach Hotel on Grand Bahama Island.

What is the difference between the "Bimini vacation package" and the "All inclusive vacation package" offered by Balearia Caribbean? The first one will take you to the island of Bimini (2 hours by ferry from Fort Lauderdale) and the stay at the Bimini Hilton hotel. This vacation package ONLY package includes the hotel stay (no breakfast, meals, dinner or any drink).

In the Bahamas vacation packages that included All Inclusive, Balearia Caribbean will take you from its base in Florida to the island of Grand Bahama, to the port of Freeport (about 3 hours from Fort Lauderdale). In this package, you will stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach resort in All Inclusive (food and drinks) during your entire stay.

If you want to know more info about Balearia Caribbean, the Balearia ferry to Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama), check one of these pages where you will find all the information you are looking for: Balearia Caribbean ferry offices , Balearia ferry schedule and Balearia ferry to Bimini info.

Bahamas vacation 15 off

Bahamas ferry 15 Off

Bahams ferry 15 off, the Balearia Caribbean Summer Sale to Freeport (Grand Bahama) and Bimini

June 14th, 2023

Updated on the 14th of April, 2023

Paradise awaits you. Summer to the Bahamas with a 15 percent discount with the Balearia Caribbean offer on the ferry tickets that depart from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport (Grand Bahama) and Bimini.

To get this discount you have to add the code SUMMERSALE in the Promotional Code box and your discount will be updated directly on the price of your ferry tickets (if you meet the conditions of the offer of course). If you have been waiting for a long time to get to know the Bahamas with this offer from Balearia Caribbean, you have no excuse to discover Freeport (Grand Bahama) or the beautiful island of Bimini.

Take note that, in order to travel to the Bahamas, it is necessary to comply with the regulations of the Bahamas in possession of the mandatory travel documentation (passport or residence card, depending on your nationality). It is also mandatory to have a valid driver's license if you plan to rent a golf cart. And if you want to rent a boat or yacht to sail the waters of the Bahamas on your own, you must also have your corresponding navigation and fishing licenses in order.

If you want to stay at the best hotel on Bimini Island, click on "Bimini ferry and hotel" page. Balearia Caribbean usually has special offers for your vacations called "Bimini Vacation packages" where you can buy, at a special price, both your accommodation at the Hilton hotel and the Balearia Caribbean ferry tickets..

If you visit this website regularly you will get all the updated information about Balearia Caribbean : schedule, reviews, office phone numbers, port adresses, customer service number, promo codes, ... and all the info you need to travel with Balearia.

Bahamas ferry 15 off

Memorial Day 2023 15 Off to Bahamas

15 Off to Bahamas on Memorial Day 2023 with Balearia Caribbean ferry to Grand Bahama (on May 27th) and on the Bimini ferry on May 28th

May 21st, 2023

15 Off to Bahamas Memorial Day 2023

Updated on the 21st of May, 2023

Take advantage of the Balearia Caribbean offer to travel on Memorial Day 2023 and enjoy a 15 percent discount on the price of your ferry tickets. Book before May 28th, 2023 for travel in this weekend. (Saturday to Grand Bahama and on Sunday to Bimini island).

This offer is valid for travel on Memorial Day weekend. To travel on May 27, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Freeport in Grand Bahama and on May 28 to travel on the Bimini express ferry that makes the Fort Lauderdale - Bimini route.

Enter the Promo Code MEMORIAL15 when making the reservation and enjoy this discount. You have until May 28 to make your reservation, while there are seats available. Balearia Caribbean has limited places for this Memorial Day offer.

15% Off on ferry tickets with Balearia Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama and Bimini on Memorial Day 2023

Offer Conditions of "15 off to Bahamas on Memorial Day 2023" with Balearia Caribbean ferry.

With the promo code MEMORAIL15 you will get a 15% discount on the price of your ferry tickets to Grand Bahama and Bimini.

Offer valid for travel on Memorial Day weekend 2023.

Offer valid to travel on May 27 from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport (Grand Bahama) in a One Day Trip. Round trip on the same day.

Offer valid to travel on May 28 from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini in a One Day Trip. Round trip on the same day.

You can book until May 28th, 2023 or until the end of offer seats.

If you prefer to spend the entire Memorial Day weekend staying in Bimini check out our Bimini hotel and ferry vacation packages (staying at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini) or the package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

15 off to Bahamas Memorial Day 2023

Balearia Caribbean ferry Offices

Balearia Caribbean ferry offices: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Freeport and Bimini Bahamas, number, adress and schedule info

March 28th, 2023

Balearia Caribbean ferry offices

Updated on the March 28th, 2023

Balearia Caribbean has offices in Fort Lauderdale (Fll, United States) and in the Bahamas on the island of Bimini and in Freeport, in Grand Bahama island. From these offices and ports the Balearia boat departs, they are the boarding point and you can buy ferry tickets directly too.

The Fort Lauderdale offices, in Port Everglades, are where passengers embark to Bimini and Grand Bahama (Bahamas). As a general rule, boarding takes place at Terminal 21, although it is always good to make sure that there has not been a last minute change in the departure terminal. Balearia is working on being granted its own terminal in the port of Port Everglades..

In Bimini, the Balearia office is located in a yellow house in Fisher Village, less than a 5-minute walk from the Hilton Hotel. The boarding pier is also a 5-minute walk away. From the office there is a free transfer that leaves you at the ferry door before boarding.

Here you have a lot of information about the Balearia Caribbean offices in each of the ports. We will update and expand this information as we can. Thanks for your understanding..

Balearia Caribbean

NOTE: Balearia ferry schedules are subjected to modifications due to operational issues or the state of the sea without prior notice.

If you want to know the schedules, departure dates and real-time price of the Balearia Caribbean ferry to go to Bimini, click on the following link: ferry to Bimini schedule or if you prefer to visit Grand Bahama click in the following link ferry to Bahamas schedule to know all the schedules, time and prices.

If what you want to know the schedules and prices of the Balearia Caribbean ferry to travel from Bimini to Fort Lauderdale or from Freeport (Grand Bahama) to Florida US, click on the following links: Bimini to Fort Lauderdale ferry schedule and ferry from Freeport schedule .

You can find all the information about Balearia Caribbean offices, their contact number, address and information about schedules and routes on the Balearia Caribbean website and on our website.

Balearia Caribbean Changes, Cancellations & Refunds

Balearia Caribbean Changes, Cancellations & Refunds

March 23, 2023

Balearia Caribbean's ferry ticket are not transferable. The name of the passenger cannot be modified in any case.

Those reservations whose cancellation is requested seven days before the ferry departure date, are entitled to a full refund.

If the reservation cancellation request is made between 7 and 4 days before the ferry departure date, the cancellation penalty will be 50%.

Those reservation cancellations requested three days or less before the ferry departure date will not be refunded.

Date changes : Date changes are allowed if they are requested at least 24 hours before the ferry departure date. A fare difference and a US$75 penalty will be applied for each change.

Special Offers and One day Trips: No refund will be applied for cancellations of special offers and one-day trips.

Any passenger who does not board the ferry for any reason, beyond the control of Balearia Caribbean, will not be entitled to a refund or date change under any circumstances.

Balearia Caribbean does not assume any responsibility other than the refund of the ticket, in case it has to refund it, if the ferry trip for which the ticket has been issued does not make the stipulated trip due to operational difficulties, weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances or forces beyond Balearia Caribbean's control.

Baleària Caribbean is not responsible for any denied boarding due to failure to present the appropriate travel documentation. Always remember to carry all the documentation in order to be able to enter and exit correctly both in the United States and in the Bahamas depending on the nationality of your passport.

You can check the Balearia Caribbean ferry ticket contract at the following link: https://www.baleariacaribbean.com/en/ticket-contract

Bahamas Spring Break packages

Bahamas Spring Break packages: ferry and hotel vacation deals with Balearia Caribbean ferry

March 21st, 2023

Updated on the March 21st, 2023

Are you looking for one of Balearia Caribbean's Hilton Bimini packages with ferry for this Spring Break? Take advantage of your Spring Day vacation and relax 2 nights in Bimini at an incredible price. This is probably one of the best Bimini vacation packages you will find.

This package consists of a 2 night hotel stay at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini with the tickets from the ferry to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale . Price starting from $567 per person per night .

The Balaria ferry makes the connection in only 2 hours, departing Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US) at 9 am and arriving Bimini port at 11 am.

The Bimini package includes only the stay at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini hotel. Meals, drinks and casino expenses, among other expenses, go separately. Resort taxes and Bimini fees are also payable at the hotel.

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Bahamas Spring Break packages: ferry and hotel packages with Balearia Caribbean ferry" conditions:

This offer is only for travel to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale. NOT valid for Freeport and Grand Bahama.

The starting price is per person per night, based in double occupancy in double room.

Subject to change or to cancel at Balearia Caribbean's discretion.

This deals is non-refundable.

Another option that you have is to enjoy in Freeport (Grand Bahama) the All Inclusive hotel Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach Resort.

Enjoy the best All Inclusive in the Bahamas with this package that includes hotel and ferry tickets from $299 per person.

You will be able to do the excursion of the swimming pigs, bathe in the transparent waters of the Caribbean, dance all day and savor the delicious Bahamian food.

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Bahamas Spring Break packages: ferry and All Inclusive hotel packages with Balearia Caribbean ferry" conditions:

The price of this package starts from $299 per person based in double room occupancy.

Also includes ferry tickets from Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US) to Freeport (Grand Bahama, Bahamas), round trip, on Economy seats.

Depending on the ferry avilable dates, you can enjoy 2 nights, 3 nights, and 4 nights packages. You have to check the availability and traveling dates on the searching engine to choose them.

This package offer is valid for travel anytime during 2023.

Remember to ckeck ferry and Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach availability to travel.

Depending on the travel dates you choose, ferry rates and the price of the vacation package may vary. Only during sailing dates this promotion is apllicable.

Take note that taxes (like resort tax, Bimini tax) are not included in this price).

Bahamas Spring Break packages: ferry and hotel vacation deals with Balearia Caribbean ferry

Grand Bahamas Spring Break

15% discount on the One Day Trip from Balearia Caribbean to Grand Bahama island.

March 17th, 2023

Updated on the 17th of March, 2023

Get the latest Balearia Caribbean offer to enjoy Spring Break. It is a 15% discount on the One Day Trip tickets from Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama island, only on Saturdays until April 30. Use the code SPRINGDAY15 in the "Promotional code" section of the schedules and prices search engine and, automatically, the price of the ferry to Grand Bahama will have the discount included. Remember to read the conditions of the offer well to be able to comply with them all.

Celebrate Spring Break traveling to Grand Bahama by ferry with Balearia Caribbean and enjoy a full day on its fine sandy beaches, soaking up the Caribbean sun, taking selfies with the pink swimming pigs or simply resting from the speed of life in Miami.

Below we show you all the information you need to know about this offer, One Day Trip to Grand Bahama on Spring Break, with the Balearia Caribbean discount.

General Conditions of the "Spring Break" offer for the route Fort Lauderdale - Freeport, Grand Bahama - Fort Lauderdale on Balearia Caribbean ferry.

Travel on Suntardays until April, 30th 2023, to Freeport (Grand Bahama, Bahamas) and get a 15% off.

Book your One Day Trip to Grand Bahama going and back on the same day.

The reservation must be made before April 30th 2023.

The travel date of this offer is the Saturdays before the April, 30th 2023.

This offer is valid for the Florida Bahamas ferry route between Fort Lauderdale to Freeport, in Grand Bahama island.

Changes allowed subject to a fee and rate updates. No cancellations allowed.

If you want to get the deal it's reto book in advance to take this deal it is advisable to book in advance as the seats with this discount are very few.

This offer is for a One Day Trip to the Bahamas. Perhaps you are more interested in spending 2 or 3 nights in the Bahamas. If you click on the following link, Bimini hotels , you will see Bimini ferry and hotel packages in the Hilton . The Hilton is the best Bimini Bahmas hotels in the resorts category. It has a private beach club where you can enjoy the sand, a pool roof, a private yacht marina and a casino.

Would you like to know Bimini island? Well, book your Day Trip to Bahamas now on Saturdays to Freeport and on Wednesdays to Bimini and enjoy up to a 15% discount with the Balearia Caribbean ferry deal for this coming Spring Break.

15% discount on the One Day Trip from Balearia Caribbean to Grand Bahama island.

Bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale from $155

Bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale from $155 + taxes, return, the Balearia Caribbean ferry's most wanted deal

March 14th, 2023

Bimini ferry schedule 2023 updated

Updated on the 14th of March, 2023

Many of you ask us how much is the bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale with Balearia Caribbean ferry company. Depending on the date you want to travel, the price of the Bimini ferry is different, and it is also different if you do the day trip - this is a round trip on the same day - or if you want to make a round trip and stay a few days in Bimini island.

If you want to do the Balearia Caribbean day trip you can buy it from $155 + taxes per person. This price is for 1 adult, children (from 1 to 12 years old) pay half. But if the round trip is on different days the price is higher. Also, if you book in advance the price is cheaper than if you wait until the last day to book. Here your have some examples of bookings from our clients and the prices of the Bimini ferry from Balearia Caribbean.

Our customers' bookings examples to Bimini

catamaran from florida to bahamas

The conditions of this offer / deal as follows:

$155 + taxes, price valid from for the day trip with Balearia Caribbean to Bimini (the Bimini day trip).

This deal is valid to travel anytime during 2023 schedule

It's valid only for ferry bookings. Not valid for Bimini ferry and hotel packages , only hotel bookings or any kind or Bimini vacation packages.

Limited seats available. Please, book in advance as soon as you can.

No cancellations allowed. This deal doesn't allow cancellations. Please, be sure about all of details of your booking at the time you do it.

Changes subject to a fee or penalty and rate updates.

You already have the information to be able to travel on the Bimini ferry, round trip on the same day - the Bimini day trip - and thus be able to experience, at least for a few hours, the wonders that are told about Bimini and the Bahamas.

But if you prefer to spend more days on the island, rest at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini hotel, you can see the offers that are in the Bimini vacation packages that Balearia Caribbean has prepared. Check them out!

Bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale from $155 + taxes

fast ferry to Bahamas

Fast ferry to Bahamas, schedule and prices

February 23th, 2023

Updated on the 23th of February, 2023

Many people do not travel to the Bahamas by ferry because they think that the "fast ferry to the Bahamas" takes 4 hours to make the crossing between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini, and that is not the case. In fact, it only takes 2 hours! to travel the 55 miles between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini by ferry. The shipping company Balearia Caribbean is the company that makes these trips.

The Bahamas fast ferry company, Balearia Caribbean , based in Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US), makes 3 to 4 weekly trips to Bimini and 2 to 3 departures to Freeport (Grand Bahama) on it's ship, Jaime II, a comfortable fast speed ferry.

Most of you may know these crossings as the Bimini fast ferry or the fast ferry to Bahamas to Fort Lauderdale that for many years left from the port of Miami (operated by FRS Caribbean) and is now operated by Balearia Caribbean from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale.

The fast ferry to Bahamas schedule for 2023 is:

fast ferry to Bahamas schedule 2023

Touch on the schedule you prefer to check the availability and price on this moment.

from February 03rd to December 31st, 2023

From bimini, to freeport (grand bahama), from freeport (grand bahama), from january 04th to december 30th, 2023.

Schedules subject to modifications by the shipping company due to operational issues or the state of the sea without prior notice.

The following ferry routes between: Fort Lauderdale and Bimini , Fort Lauderdale and Freeport (Grand Bahama) and the connection between Bimini - Freeport (Grand Bahama) are the routes planned to date by Balearia Caribbean in which they provide passenger transport service at least for all of 2023. In the event that Balearia Caribbean increases the number of frequencies to the Bahamas, adds one more ship to these routes or launches new routes in different Caribbean countries (Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic,...) we will keep you informed of all this, when it is made public by Balearia Caribbean.

If what you want is to obtain information about schedules and prices of ferries to the Bahamas and the option of being able to stay in Bimini at the Hilton hotel, you only have to click on the following link: Hilton Bimini packages with ferry . If you prefer to book an All Inclusive in the Bahamas, we recommend traveling to Freeport (Grand Bahama) and staying at the Viva Wyndham hotel. Here you can see the prices and book the package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

Fast ferry to Bahamas, schedule and prices

Bahamas fast ferry schedule 2023

Bahamas fast ferry schedule 2023

February 06th, 2023

Bahamas fast ferry schedule 2023 updated

Updated on the 6th of February, 2023

A fast ferry takes 4 hours? No! The Balearia Caribbean fast ferry to Bahamas that departs from Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US) takes only 2 hours of direct sailing to Bimini island and just 3 hours to Freeport in Gran Bahama, both in the Bahamas. That is the reason a lot of people call Balearia ferry the fast boat to Bimini. Now the schedule for 2023 is public and here you can get the info and make the reservations for your next vacations in the Bahamas.

The Bahamas fast ferry is named the ferry service that provides the Balearia ferry company between the port of Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades) to Bimini island and to Freeport in Gran Bahamas. It's fast beacause the ride is only 2 hours or 3 hours if you go to Freeport. There is no other company that make these rides.At least 6 o 16 times a week to both islands.

Known as Bimini fast ferry , or Bahama express, or the fast ferry to Bimini, the vessel Jaume II is the ship tha makes the connection Fort Lauderdale-Bimini. The Balearia fast ferry It usually has more or less fixed dates and times for its departures and they only tend to vary if the weather or sea conditions so advise. So that nothing catches you off guard, write your personal information correctly (email and telephone as well) when making the reservation with Balearia Caribbean so that, in case they have to notify you of any changes, you can receive it immediately.

Balearia ferry has this schedule in 2023 for the Bahamas fast ferry:

This calendar of dates and times are for the routes between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini , Fort Lauderdale and Freeport (Grand Bahama) and the connection between Bimini - Freeport (Grand Bahama) . If in the future more ferry routes are added in the Bahamas, the United States or in other Caribbean countries (Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, for example) we will update them in our search engine and we will publish it in our news for your information, as soon as possible. as Balearia Caribbean communicate it to us.

Also take advantage of the info and engine that this website offers you to complete your vacation in the Bahamas. Book your vacation package with a hotel in Bimini (Hilton at World Resorts Bimini) or an package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

Balearia ferry schedule 2023

Balearia ferry schedule 2023

Balearia ferry schedule updated

Updated on the 14th of February, 2024

Here you have a direct link to the updated Balearia Caribbean ferry schedule for this year. Enjoy the Bahamas!

And here you have all the info about the schedule in 2023 for you to compare with this year.

Once the year 2023 has begun, and after the stop of the Jaume II ferry for its mandatory inspections, all the schedules of the ferry services that connect Fort Lauderdale with Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama) in the Bahamas are already underway. Here we show you the scheduled schedule, as of today, for Balearia ferry to travel between Florida and Bahamas, in both directions. You can also check the dates and times that the Balearia Caribbean ferry makes the direct route between Bimini and Freeport as a layover between Fort Lauderdale and Grand Bahama.

The ferrie usually leave quite early from Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) and in just 2 hours it reaches Bimini and in 3 hours it reaches Freeport. Every week there are usually between 2 and 4 departures from Florida to each of the islands, being in summer, spring break and Christmas when there are more departures.

In case there is any change in the schedules and/or dates scheduled for the departures of the ship, Balearia Caribbean will contact you directly through the communication channels that you have provided at the time of making the reservation (email, sms, telephone) so it is very important that you make sure that you enter your information correctly when you make your ferry reservation to the Bahamas .

Balearia ferry has planned these schedules in 2023 to connect Fort Lauderdale, Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama):

from Bimini to Freeport (Grand Bahama)

From freeport (grand bahama) to bimini.

These scheduled departure times and dates to travel to the Bahamas by boat from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) or on the Bimini Bahamas ferry are operated by Balearia Caribbean, the only shipping company that makes ferry trips from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas ferry , (not Miami) to the islands further north than the Bahamas, as Bimini island, on the also known as Bimini Bahamas ferry .

You can also enjoy the different packages that add a stay at a hotel or resort in Bimini or Freeport to your ferry tickets. By booking a ferry and hotel package in Bahamas you get a cheap way to save on your vacation in the Bahamas. If you want to stay in Bimini you can stay at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini in North Bimini hotel. Its beach club and its marina are the ideal place to enjoy the sea. If you prefer an All Inclusive package in the Bahamas, book your ferry tickets and stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive hotel in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island. The best way to enjoy an All Inclusive while saving money.

Balearia Caribbean Rookie 2022

Balearia Caribbean Rookie 2022: I Love Ferry has received this award from Balearia ferry at the Fitur 2023 fair

January 30, 2023

Updated on the 30th of January, 2023

Balearia ferry company has awarded I Love Ferry the Balearia Caribbean Rookie 2022 award for having been one of the leading European agencies in its sales on the routes between Fort Lauderdale and the Bahamas (Bimini and Freeport in Grand Bahama).

During the celebration of the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) that took place in Madrid from January 17th to 22th, 2023, the shipping company based in Denia (Alicante), Balearia ferry awarded a group of travel agencies for their trajectory and results during the past year 2022.

I Love Ferry, the company of which we are a part, was awarded by Balearia as the European agency with the greatest increase in sales on the routes in the United States and the Bahamas in the first two years that I Love Ferry has been selling these routes between Fort Lauderdale and the islands of Bimini and Grand Bahama.

Our Marketing Director collected the Balearia Caribbean Rookie 2022 award from the Sales Director of Balearia in Spain and our Denia salesperson during the award ceremony for travel agencies.

This type of event and many others, such as those that took place during the International Tourism Fair, are among the events celebrating the 25th anniversary of the foundation in 1998 of the Balearia ferry shipping company. Throughout this year 2023 Balearia will carry out various events to commemorate its anniversary.

We are extremely grateful for the recognition received by Balearia Caribbean and Balearia ferry and we will continue working very hard to, on future occasions, be eligible for another award.

About I Love Ferry.us : I Love Ferry is a search engine for ferries in the United States and the Bahamas where you can access information on schedules and prices of the routes of the Balearia Caribbean shipping company between the ports of Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US) and the islands of Bimini and Grand Bahama (Freeport) in the Bahamas. In addition to having access to the latest news and offers from Balearia Caribbean, buy your ferry tickets (both one-way and return) you can also book ferry and hotel packages in Bimini (at the Hilton hotel) and ferry and hotel in Freeport.

Balearia Caribbean Cyber Monday offer

Balearia Caribbean cyber Monday offer, get a 40% discount on your Bimini ferry or your Bahamas vacations

Novermber 28th, 2022

Balearia Caribbean cyber Monday offer, get a 40% discount on your Bimini ferry or your Bahamas vacations

Updated on the November 28th, 2022

Only today, Cyber ​​Monday, you can get a 40 percent discount when buying your Bimini ferry tickets or on your vacation to the Bahamas. Run, time is running out!

Use the code CYBERSALE22 when making the reservation in our ferry ticket search engine and our system will automatically apply the discount to the final price of your trip.

This price discount is valid for the following routes operated by Balearia Caribbean: Fort Lauderdale - Bimini , Fort Lauderdale - Freeport (Grand Bahama) , Bimini - Fort Lauderdale , Freeport (Grand Bahama) - Fort Lauderdale , Bimini - Freeport (Grand Bahama) and Freeport (Grand Bahama) - Bimini .

This offer is valid ONLY for ferry bookings. NOT valid for Bimini ferry and hotel bookings, Bimini world resorts packages or Hilton Bimini packages with ferry .

As always, places are limited. Make your reservation today and get this amazing offer for your future vacations.

Make your reservation now in our search engine and enjoy this incredible discount for travel to Bahamas with Balearia Caribbean bahamas express compnay.

Balearia Caribbean Cyber Monday offer.

Balearia Caribbean ferry Schedule Change - Ian Hurricane

Balearia Caribbean ferry schedule change, Ian Hurricane

September 27, 2022

Balearia Caribbean ferry Schedule change - Ian Hurricane

Updated on the 27th of September, 2022

Today, September 27th, Hurricane Ian will reach the coast of Florida, will arrive in Tampa late on Wednesday, September 28th and will cross the entire state, with winds of more than 30 miles per hour as a tropical storm.

This Wednesday, September 28th, is when the strongest winds are expected in the Fort Lauderdale area (Florida, US) and even in Bimini and Freeport in the Bahamas.

Hurricane Ian, who is currently a category 3 hurricane, is moving from western Cuba and will cross the Florida Keys in the next few hours towards the north of the state.

Due to weather conditions Balearia Caribbean ferry company has changed its sailing hours from Freeport (Grand Bahamas, Bahamas) to Fort Lauderdale (Florida), today, Tuesday September, 27th 2022. The new departure schedule is earlier than normal one.

Balearia Caribbean's vessel will depart from Freeport (Grand Bahama) at 2:00 PM arriving to Fort Lauderdale (Florida) at 5:00PM .

Daytrips from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport (Grand Bahama) have been canceled. If you have a confirmed booking with us please contact us to re schedule your booking or cancel to obtain a refund.

Schedules are subject to modifications by Balearia Caribbean due to operational issues or the state of the sea.

In the event that Balearia Caribbean makes new changes to the schedules of its ferries we will notify you on our website as soon as possible.

Balearia Caribbean ferry schedule change - Ian Hurricane

Balearia Caribbean ferry Schedule Change - Hurricane Fiona

Balearia Caribbean ferry schedule change, hurricane Fiona nears Bahamas

Balearia Caribbean ferry Schedule change - Hurricane Fiona

Hurricane Fiona becomes the strongest atlantic storm in 2022 and now is near Bahamas islands. Fiona winds remain at 130 miles per hour (more than 200 kilometres per hour) according to a US National Hurricane Center.

Balearia Caribbean ferry schedule change - Hurricane Fiona

Bimini ferry and hotel package from $275

Bimini ferry and hotel package

July 29, 2022

Updated on the 29th of July, 2022

Looking for the best Bimini ferry and hotel package? If you want to enjoy a fantastic hotel, like the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini hotel, here you will find an offer that will leave you speechless. This package includes round trip ferry tickets from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini in tourist seats and two hotel nights, in a double room, room only, at the Bimini Hilton.

The offer consist in 2 hotel nights at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini plus roundtrip ferry to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale starting from $275 per person per night .

The Bimini Islands are the closest Bahamian island to Florida (just 50 miles away). It consists of several islands, being the North Island where the ferry arrival dock and the Hilton Hotel are located.Bimini is a group of islands known for its transparent waters, its sea full of marine species - which you can see while snorkeling and even fishing - white sand, and delicious local food.

Bimini is the perfect place to spend a romantic weekend. The Hilton hotel has rooms with king size beds, junior suites, and a rooftop pool from where you can watch the sun go down.What are you waiting for to book your bimini ferry and hotel package now and share it with the person you most want?

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Bimini ferry and hotel package" conditions:

This promotion applies only to Hilton at Resorts Words Bimini. NOT for any other hotel in Bimini, Grand Bahama or Freeport Resorts.

The price of the offer is per person per night, based in double occupancy.

This offer is non-refundable.

If you prefer to book directly the Hilton hotel you can do it throught this link: Hilton at Resorts World Bimini Bahamas

Want to book ferry tickets with Balearia Caribbean not in a package? In our website, ferrytobahamas.com , you can do by yourself. Make your booking and get your booking confirmation at your email adress.

Anyway you prefer to do it, don't waste time and book right now your next holidays in Bimini island and enjoy this incredible ferry and hotel package opportunity.

Bimini ferry and hotel package

Bimini and Grand Bahama ferry Travel Requeriments and covid restrictions

Bimini and Grand Bahama Bahamas ferry travel requeriments

June 17th, 2022

Bimini and Grand Bahama ferry Travel Requirements and covid restrictions

New requirements effective on June 19th, 2022 .

June 17th, 2022: ALL passengers will NO LONGER need a Bahamas Health Visa starting on June 19th, 2022

Every passenger that is fully vaccinated WILL NO LONGER NEED A TEST .

All unvaccinated travelers ages 2 and older will be required to obtain either a negative RT-PCR test or a Rapid Antigen test— taken no more than three days (72 hours) prior to travel and present the negative test results at check-in before travel to The Bahamas.

Passengers will be required to bring Covid test result, proof of vaccinations (original card) on travel day. This is a mandatory request by The Bahamas government. The embarkation may be denied due to failure of facilitating the proper travel documents.

Children under the age of 2 are exempt from testing requirements.

* Currently, no Covid test or vaccination is required to enter Florida when traveling by ferry.

May 31, 2022: LATEST UPDATE from the Bahamian authorities regarding passengers traveling to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale (both Bimini and Grand Bahama) on the day trip. Although those passengers who come to the Bahamas for one day trip do not need to present the Health Visa upon arrival at the port of the Bahamas, it is mandatory that they present a negative result of a rapid antigen test upon arrival.

All other passengers who spend at least one night in the Bahamas must present the Health Visa upon arrival in the country.

As of now, May 2022, the health visa that was requested by the Bahamian authorities from Balearia Caribbean passengers on a one day trip to the Bahamas (both Bimini and Grand Bahama) will no longer be mandatory however they are requiring a Negative RAPID Test.

With this new initiative of the permanent secretary of the Bahamas government, it is intended to increase the number of visitors and travelers of the one day trip, in both directions, both for those who want to travel to the Bahamas (Bimini and Grand Bahama), and for those Bahamians who want to travel to the United States.

As of this communication received from Balearia Caribbean on May 23th, the shipping company will apply this new regulation from now on to all passengers traveling on routes between Fort Lauderdale - Bimini and Fort Lauderdale - Grand Bahama , in both directions.

NOTICE that Balearia Caribbean continues to apply all Health Visa requirements to those passengers who spend at least one night in the Bahamas or Florida.

Covid travel requirements to enter Bimini and Grand Bahama, and the rest of Bahamas islands, depending on your vaccination status. Travel requirements update. Travel requirements to enter the Bahamas.

These conditions and obligations may change depending on the health situation in the Bahamas or the United States. Please visit the websites of the Ministry of Health of the USA, Bahamas or Balearia Caribbean where you will find all the updated information.

Requirements to travel to Bimini and Grand Bahama for VACCINATED passengers:

- All passengers of the ferry who are FULLY VACCINATED must present a negative rapid antigen test or negative PCR test no more than 72 hours prior to boarding date.

- All travelers who want to enter the Bahamas, including children and infants regardless of their age at the time of travel, must fill out a Bahamas HEALTH TRAVEL VISA on the website travel.gov.bs. Citizens or residents of the Bahamas are exempt from presenting this travel visa.

- Passengers who want to travel to Bimini or Grand Bahama islands must present at the time of boarding: the negative result of the Covid test, proof of vaccination (original card) and the health visa for travel approved on the day of travel. As it is a mandatory request from the government of the Bahamas, boarding the ferry in Fort Lauderdale may be denied for not providing the requested travel documents.

Requirements to travel to Bimini and Grand Bahama for UNVACCINATED passengers:

- All unvaccinated passengers who want to visit Bimini or Grand Bahama (Bahamas) will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before the date of boarding the ferry.

- All travelers who want to enter the Bahamas, including children and infants regardless of their age at the time of travel, must fill out a Bahamas HEALTH TRAVEL VISA on the website travel.gov.bs. Citizens or residents of the Bahamas are exempt from presenting this travel visa

- Passengers who want to travel to Bimini or Grand Bahama islands must present at the time of boarding: the negative result of the Covid PCR test and the health visa for travel approved on the day of travel. As it is a mandatory request from the government of the Bahamas, boarding the ferry in Fort Lauderdale may be denied for not providing the requested travel documents.

Travel with CHILDREN and BABIES to Grand Bahama and Bimini by ferry

- To travel with children between 2 and 11 years old, a negative rapid antigen test or a negative PCR test must be obtained no more than 72 hours before the date of embarkation on the ferry.

- Testing requirements to enter the Bahamas are waived for children under 2 years of age.

- Children and babies (no matter how old they are at the time of travel) must present their own health visa. Children and infants who are citizens or residents of the Bahamas are exempt from this rule.

CURRENTLY, no Covid test or vaccination is required to enter Florida when traveling by ferry.

Measures adopted by Balearia Caribbean for the prevention of Covid in the Embarkation and Disembarkation Terminals, in all its ships and among its crew.

All passengers, (vaccinated, unvaccinated, children and infants) are required to wear a mask/face covering at all times while at the ferry terminals and while sailing their ship.

For the safety and hygiene of ferry passengers, Balearia Caribbean has placed additional disinfectant dispensers in its terminals and in its lounges on board the ship. Baelaria Caribbean has also placed methacrylate partitions and information signs in all areas of the ship, common and private, to ensure that the safety distance between all passengers and crew members is maintained.

For full details of these travel requirements, please visit Bahamas.com/travelupdates or ask Balearia Caribbean.

Bimini and Grand Bahama Bahamas ferry travel requeriments and covid restrictions

Bahamas ferry Fathers day 2022

Fathers day 2022 from $135 plus taxes to Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale with Balearia Caribbean ferry

May 18, 2022

Updated on the 18th of May, 2022

This year 2022 Fathers day is celebrated on June 19th. As always, it is the third Sunday of the month of June. This year 2022 marks the 50th anniversary since President Nixon proclaimed Fathers Day as a holiday throughout the United States. Although there have been more than a hundred years trying to make Fathers Day a holiday on the calendar..

At first, it was even said that establishing the Fathers Day holiday was the idea of ​​men's clothing retailers who, in order to sell clothes, wanted Fathers Day to be celebrated just like Mothers Day. Although there may be a sales intention beyond celebrating Fathers Day, what was intended, initially, was also to give value to the efforts and sacrifices that fathers make for their children, giving this day the importance it deserves.

For those who are looking for gifts and ideas to Fathers Day, we will tell you that an idea that everyone likes is to go on a trip. And what better place than the Bahamas to enjoy a weekend with your partner or family under the umbrella, with your feet in the warm waters of the Caribbean of the Bahamas islands. Look at this special deal that can take your father to Bimini (Bahamas islands) on the Balearia Caribbean ferry. It is also valid to take to the father of your children and is be able to travel with the whole family together.

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Bahamas ferry Fathers day 2022 from $135 plus taxes" conditions:

This promotion applies only to Bimini Island. NOT for Grand Bahama.

Price per person per night, based in double occupancy.

Subject to change or to cancel at Balearia Caribbean's ferry company discretion.

The Balearia Caribbean ferry company or Hilton at Resorts Wolrd Bimini hotel flexible policy does not apply to ferry and hotel packages. If you want to make any changes, you must do so more than 72 hours before the ferry departure time.

If you want to make a reservation for the Balearia Caribbean ferry and at the Hilton hotel, click on the following link: Hilton at Resorts World Bimini Bahamas package

And if you prefer do the package by your self you can book your ferry tickets to Bahamas directly here ferrytobahamas.com . The boarding cards will be send to your email address or mobile.

Book your ferry and hotel package in Bimini now and enjoy a well-deserved getaway to the Bahamas on Mothers Day 2022.

Fathers day 2022

Memorial day 2022 weekend and getaway to Bahamas

Memorial day 2022,

May 11, 2022

Memorial day 2022 holiday in Grand Bahama, Bahamas. Enojoy deals, celebrate Veterans Day

Updated on the 11th of May, 2022

Memorial Day 2022 is very close and surely you want to celebrate it this year in a more special way than ever. Have you thought about celebrating this Veterans Day in Grand Bahama (Bahamas islands) by enjoying one of the holiday weekend deals of ferry and hotel package?

Enjoy traveling by ferry from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Freeport on Grand Bahama with Balearia Caribbean the fast ferry express service between Florida and the Bahamas. The ferry ride is only 2:30 hours as you will travel on the super fast ferry, Jaume II, of Balearia Caribbean, a modern ship that can reach to 32 knots of speed and where more than 600 passengers can travel.

The Viva Wyndham Fortuna Resort is an incredible All Inclusive hotel where you can enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Bahamas, go on jet ski excursions and sailing sports and, of course, enjoy a Caribbean meal and a refreshing drink.

If you want to have an unforgettable holiday on Memorial Day, prepare your suitcase, wear shorts and light shirts, don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen and a lot of desire to have fun. Grand Bahama Island offers you crystal clear waters, white, soft and fine sand, and beachfront resorts where you are going to live an incredible weekend, where relaxation and fun reign equally.

If you are a beach lover, the Bahamas is your ideal place to enjoy the Memorial Day 2022 deals. Book a room with a sea view and wake up every morning seeing the Caribbean sea. The sun will enter through your window and will say good morning to you. Try its tasty food, relax with a cocktail in front of the sea and let the sound of the waves transport you to the ocean.

For lovers of fishing, water sports and marine fauna, Grand Bahama is a very special place to go fishing on a tour, rent a jet ski or snorkel among colorful fish, corals and plants. Swim with dolphins or look for your Blue Marlin fish in the Caribbean Sea. Try the tasty conch salad where you will discover all the flavor of the Bahamian Caribbean.

About Memorial Day

Memorial day (also known as Veterans day or Decoration day) is an American holiday, celebrated every year on the last Monday of May. This day is a holiday to honor the men and women who belonged to the United States of America Army and gave their lives for their country.

When is Memorial Day 2022? Memorial Day 2022 will take place next Monday, May 30.

A little bit of history about Memorial Day. After the Civil War between the Confederates and Unionists in the mid-19th century, Decoration Day began to be celebrated in honor of those who had fallen during the war years. In 1971 this date became an official federal holiday and during this day tribute is paid to all those members of the army who have lost their lives.

Nowadays,on Memorial Day it is very common to see families and members of the military visiting cemeteries or memorials, as well as participating in parades throughout the country.

For Americans, it's the unofficial start of summer.

If you want to celebrate Memorial Day in a special way with your loved ones, make a getaway to Grand Bahama, in the Bahamas islands, in All Inclusive.

Memorial day 2022 weekend, a getaway to Grand Bahama in the Bahamas islands

Balearia Caribbean ferry price increase from April 1st 2022

Balearia Caribbean ferry has to raise the price of ferries to the Bahamas from April 1st, 2022

March 30th, 2022

Balearia Caribbean ferry has to raise the price of ferries to the Bahamas from April 1, 2022

Today, March 30th, in a written statement, the shipping company that makes the connections from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to the Bimini and Grand Bahama islands (in the Bahamas) by ferry, Balearia Caribbean, has informed us that:

"Due to the actual situation with operational cost increases affecting our business model mainly coming from the oil and gas prices, we, Balearia Caribbean, are being forced to increase the Operational Fees and Taxes with an addition of fuel surcharge in passengers and cargo."

Starting April 1st 2022:

$10 Fuel Surcharge per passenger

$20 Fuel Surcharge per cargo piece

This price increase will be applied to the prices of all the routes operated by Balearia Caribbean: Fort Lauderdale - Bimini, Fort Lauderdale - Freeport (Grand Bahama), Bimini - Fort Lauderdale, Freeport (Grand Bahama) - Fort Lauderdale, Bimini - Freeport (Grand Bahama) and Freeport (Grand Bahama) - Bimini.

"Prices will be reflected on the on the overall Taxes & Fees costs for each pax reservation. Keep in mind that any date changes in the reservation will update the rate and the difference will have to be covered by the customer."

Which means that, as of April 1st, 2022, it will be more expensive to go on vacation to the Bahamas traveling by ferry. If you were thinking of going to the Bahamas at Easter, or to celebrate Memorial Day and you still don't have your reservation, you still have time to book and save money. Remember that whenever you make your reservations in advance, you save money that you can later spend in the Bahamas.

Make your reservation now in our search engine and only worry about what bikini you are going to wear in the Bahamas.

Balearia Caribbean ferry price increase from April 1st 2022.

Day trip to Bahamas from Miami (Fort Lauderdale)

Day trip to Bahamas from Miami (Fort Lauderdale)

May 26, 2023

Day trips to Bahamas from Miami (Fort Lauderdale)

Updated on the 26th of May, 2023

Day trip to Bahamas . Although a day trip to the Bahamas may seem like a short trip, it is actually a trip to paradise. Miami, and the southern coast of Florida, are only 60 miles from the Bahama Islands (58,8 miles to Bimini and 96,7 miles to Freeport, in Grand Bahama island). Bustling Miami, teeming with people, traffic jams and high-rise business buildings, is just a stone's throw away from the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean and the tranquility of the Bahamas.

The Bahamas are a group of more than 700 islands, very famous for their warm climate throughout the year, their cuisine based on fish and shellfish and their beautiful beaches, almost virgin, that will take your breath away. The perfect place to make a day trip from Miami.

Those who do not know these islands can visit them on a day trip to the Bahamas, by ferry or by plane, and find out if their next trip will be a 2, 3 or 4 day trip to the Bahamas or not.If you are on vacation in Miami (or in the south of the Florida) you can also take advantage of a one-day getaway to the Bahamas. More fun for little money.

Day trip to Bahamas from Miami Lately everyone in Miami wants to go to the Bahamas: some want to take a day trip and get to know Bimini, others - the younger ones - want to celebrate Spring Break on the beaches of Grand Bahama with All Inclusive and couples prefer to relax on the white sand beaches and crystal clear water to celebrate Memorial Day, for example.

Just 2 hours by ferry from Fort Lauderdale (30-45 minute drive from Miami) Bimini is the closest Bahamian island to Florida. To get to Grand Bahama from Miami - Fort Lauderdale it takes 3 hours by ferry. Balearia Caribbean is the shipping company that makes this connection. Because the distance between Miami - Florida and these islands of the Bahamas is so short, it is easy to make a 2, 3, 4 and 5 day trip to the Bahamas and stay in some of the hotels on the islands ( Hilton World Resorts Bimini in Bimini island and Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive hotel , Grand Lucayan Bahamas hotel , Flamingo Bay Hotel & Marina , Grand Lucayan Light House Pointe , Island Seas Resort , Taino Beach Resort hotel , Pelican Bay Resort hotel , Castaways Resort hotel and Bell Channel Inn hotel in Grand Bahama island), some of them even with All Inclusive packages.

We recommend this one day trip to Bimini (Bahamas) or to Grand Bahama island, to all those who live in one of the following cities, or in their vicinity: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Hialeah, Port St. Luice, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Miramar, Coral Springs, West Palm Beach (all Palm Beach, North and South, Royal and Palm Beach Gardens), Pompano Beach, Miami Gardens, Davie, Boca Raton and Sunrise.

Most of the time, the best way for those living near Miami to travel to the Bahams is by ferry or plane. If your vacation destination is Bimini or Grand Bahama, it is better to go by ferry from Fort Lauderdale. It will take between 2 to 3 hours by ferry. From here you can access to our search engine for ferry to Bahamas .

If you prefer to travel to other islands of the Bahamas, such as Nassau or Exuma, it is better to travel by plane. You can find cheap hotels and flights to the Bahamas from Miami at this link: Hotels in Bahamas .

2 day trip to Bahamas

Day trip to Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is the city where the shipping company Balearia Caribbean has its headquarters and from where the ship Jaume II departs every day for the Bahamas (sometimes to Bimini and other times to Grand Bahama - Freeport).

Remember that if you are going to board the Bimini ferry you have to be at the passenger terminal 3 hours before the scheduled boarding date. Boarding closes one hour before the ferry departure time. After this time Balearia Caribbean will not let you access the ship. We advise you to be in Port Everglade in plenty of time to board the ferry to the Bahamas.

For those of you who live in Fort Lauderdale, or near Fort Lauderdale, an hour's drive from Fort Lauderdale for example, it is very interesting to do this one day trip to the Bahamas, whether it is to Bimini or Freeport (Grand Bahama).

Getting to Fort Lauderdale from many Florida cities will take no more than an hour by car. Miami, Hialeah, Port St. Lucie and West Palm Beach are some big cities that are within a 1-hour drive from Fort Lauderdale. Other cities, such as Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Miramar or Coral Springs, are located more or less 30 minutes by car from Fort Lauderdale and, therefore, it is very easy to get to the ferry terminal to the Bahamas with your car and enjoy your one day trip to Bahamas.

3 day trip to Bahamas

Bimini day trip . Bimini is the closest Bahamian island off the coast of Florida (USA) and the fastest way to get to the island is by ferry from Fort Lauderdale (30-45 minute drive from Miami). From Fort Lauderdale there are between 2 to 4 departures a week (depending on the month of the year), and the shipping company that does it is Balearia Caribbean. The trip between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini takes two hours and departs from the Port Everglades docks in Fort Lauderdale.

The ferry arrives at the pier in Alice Town (North Bimini) from where you can rent a golf car to explore this small island and go to one of its beautiful beaches, one of its famous beach clubs, where you can spend the day, or at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini Hotel and Casino where you can also spend the day paying an extra admission.

During the ferry ride you can enjoy an outdoor deck and a cafeteria where you can order hamburgers, soft drinks or hot drinks. Once in Bimini we advise you to enjoy a refreshing seafood salad or grilled fish on the seafront. The lobster salad is also one of those dishes that you should not miss. Bury your feet in the white sand as your senses marvel at the culinary spectacle. Luxury turned into food.

Of course you should not forget a refreshing cocktail where you will notice the Caribbean character of its people. Ask for it with a little spice. Tabasco, lime and salt will give life to your drink.

If you like sea sports you can snorkel, swim with dolphins, kayak and paddle surf. Other sports, such as diving, feeding sharks or jet skiing, are recommended for longer stays in Bimini, from 2 to 5 day trips.

Discover the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini and prepare your next 3 or 4 day trip to the Bahamas. This hotel has panoramic views of the sea and the marina, more than ten restaurants, a casino and a roof pool that will make Instagrammers fall in love.

On a day trip to Bimini you will be between 5 and 6 hours on the island, so we recommend that you simply enjoy one of its beaches, try the local food and plan your next getaway to Bimini to spend your next vacation on the island with one of the ferry plus hotel packages.

4 day trip to Bahamas

5 day trip to Bahamas

ferry or crusie day trip

If you are thinking about which is better, whether to do a ferry one day trip or a cruise one day trip to the Bahamas, we are going to present you the advantages and disadvantages of each of them, in our opinion.

ferry one day trip to bahamas, Pros: It only takes 2 hours from leaving Fort Lauderdale to arriving in Bimini - 3 hours if you do your one day trip to Grand Bahama. Traveling by ferry to the Bahamas makes the most of your time in Bimini (6 hours) or in Grand Bahama (5 hours).

Bahamas Cruise Day Trip, Pros: Cruise ships usually have pools, bars, entertainment. As soon as you leave Miami for the Bahamas, your vacation begins. As a rule, the ferry does not have a swimming pool and has a small cafeteria.

Bahamas Cruise Day Trip: Pros: On cruises you have the option to purchase All Inclusive beverage packages. From the moment you get on the cruise you are entitled to your drinks.

You can take a day trip to the Bahamas by ferry almost every day. Some days to Bimini and other days to Grand Bahama. One day (really one night) cruises have fewer departures and less flexibility in dates. In addition, with the ferry you can travel on a one day trip to the Bahamas all year round, while cruise ships usually do these mini cruises (1 or 2 nights) normally in low season.

As you can see, doing a one day trip to Bimini (or Bahamas) by ferry or on a cruise is very different. In addition to the price, there are other factors that you must take into account when choosing your next vacation in the Bahamas. But most importantly, never give up on the Bahamas vacations, whether you're vacationing at a resort in Bimini (Hilton for example) or cruising in Nassau or Exuma.

Book your one day trip to the Bahamas as soon as possible and get the best prices and offers.

Balearia Caribbean ferry Bimini Bahamas schedule

Balearia Caribbean ferry Bimini Bahamas schedule

March 24, 2022

Balearia Caribbean ferry Bimini Bahamas schedule updated

Updated on the 24th of March, 2022

All the schedules for this year of the shipping company Balearia Caribbean with final destination by ferry to Bimini , in the Bahamas, from Fort Lauderdale (Florida), are already published on our website ferrytobahamas.com . Thanks to our boat search engine, schedules and prices, you will be able to find all the updated information in real time, to travel to and from Bimini (Bahamas) to the port of Fort Lauderdale, in Florida, US.

Remember that there are still some rules and regulations that must be followed regarding the restrictions imposed by Covid-19. Both to enter the Bahamas and when returning to the United States, you must comply with regulations (vaccination, PCR and documentation) that we encourage you to know so that you can make your trip to the Bahamas without setbacks.

The schedules that we show on these pages are subject to possible changes by Balearia Caribbean, either for reasons of the state of the sea, for weather reasons, or for operational reasons. In case of modification of the departure time of your ferry, Balearia Caribbean will contact you through the means of contact that you have added when making the reservation (SMS to the telephone and/or email). We remind you to be at the Balearia Caribbean terminal at least 2 hours before the ship's departure time to avoid problems.

These are the next schedules planned by Balearia Caribbean to and from Bimini Bahamas:

from January 02nd to December 30th, 2022

Schedules subject to modifications by Balearia Caribbean due to operational issues or the state of the sea without prior notice.

If you also want to see the ferry schedules to Grand Bahama island, another paradisiacal island of the Bahamas, visit the following page: Freeport Grand Bahama ferry schedules .

Here you will also find all the answers to the questions you may have about making your trip on the Bimini Express ferry and on the Bahamas: How long does the Bimini ferry take? How much is the Bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale? Is it possible to do a one day trip to Bimini? How to travel from Freeport - Grand Bahama - to Florida by ferry?. We will also inform you of all the offers published by Balearia Caribbean, its discount codes, ferry + hotel packages to Bahamas offers, All Inclusive offers, schedules and prices for fast ferry only and everything about documentation, luggage, children and fun on board the ship. of Balearic Caribbean.

Balearia Caribbean ferry Freeport Bahamas schedule

Balearia Caribbean ferry Freeport Bahamas schedule

Balearia Caribbean ferry Freeport Bahamas schedule updated

The Balearia Caribbean schedules for traveling by ferry from Freeport (Grand Bahama) to Fort Lauderdale (Florida, USA) and ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport (Grand Bahama island) in 2022 are now published. In our ferry search engine you will be able to find information about the schedules and prices of each route and you will be able to buy your ferry tickets to and from the Bahamas.

Even today, it is necessary to keep in mind the mobility restrictions that must be met in order to board the ferry to the Bahamas, and back to the United States. Please, contemplate the vaccination documentation and personal documentation that you must present, both in Fort Lauderdale and in Freeport, to travel without problems.

The schedules and prices that, right now, are published on this Balearia Caribbean website, and in ours Bahamas ferry web, are subject to possible changes due to weather or Balearia Caribbean operational causes. Stay tuned to your email, telephone and Balearia Caribbean social networks. If there is any change, Balearia Caribbean will try to contact you through the information you provided when making the booking. Thank you for your collaboration. These schedules for the line may vary. We encourage you to stay tuned on this website for possible changes and modifications that Balearia Caribbean may make.

These are the next schedules planned by Balearia Caribbean to and from Freeport Bahamas:

from January 04th to December 31th, 2022

From january 28th to december 30th, 2022.

If you also want to see the ferry schedules to Bimini island, another paradisiacal island of the Bahamas, visit the following page: Bimini ferry schedules .

If your are looking for the most important information about Balearia Caribbean ferry services, you are in the correct website. We explain how to get to the Balearia Caribbean ports in Fort Lauderdale (Florida - USA), Freeport (Grand Bahama) and Bimini in the Bahamas, how to book ferry tickets with Balearia Caribbean, the rules for children, babies and the time in advance (3 hours before) with which you must present yourself at the Balearia Caribbean ports to board and we solve all your doubts about Balearia Caribbean so that your trip to the Bahamas will be an incredible experience.

Children policy on Bahamas Bimini ferry

Children policy on the Bahamas Bimini ferry

March 15, 2022

Children policy on the Bahamas and Bimini ferry

Updated on the 15th of March, 2022

Minors, children and babies have a special space on the Balearia Caribbean ship that travels to the Bahamas. A trip to the Bahamas by ferry, whether it's a day trip to Bimini or a family vacation on Grand Bahama island, is without a doubt the ultimate family vacation. But if you are traveling with children (for the best family vacations) you must take into account Balearia Caribbean's policy for traveling with children, minors, babies and pregnant women.

CHILDREN, INFANT & MINORS TRAVEL CATEGORIES

Children 2 years old and under travels FREE with an accompanying adult. (They pay only taxes), Economy or Premium class, any season, one way or round trip. Babies must travel in the lap of an adult and they have no seat asigned.

Children from 3 to 12 years old travel by ferry with a 50% discount on the price of the adult fare, taxes not included.

Children 13 years and older pay the regular Adult rate (paying the same taxes as adults).

Infants (from 0 to 6 months) may travel on board Balearia Caribbean ferry to Bahamas.

PLEASE NOTE: In the event of heavy seas, strong winds or inclement weather, Balearia Caribbean may deny boarding of the baby at the discretion of the Company for reasons of safety of the baby.

MINORS (under 18 years of age) traveling with an accompanying adult, who is not the parent or legal guardian of the minor, a notarized parent/guardian letter of consent is required at the time of travel (signed by both parents) with a copy of a photo ID.

MINORS traveling with ONLY ONE of their parents ALSO require a notarized consent letter from the other parent not traveling, if this parent does not have the Consent Letter available, they must sign a Release Form, which is available at check in.

If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (deceased, sole custody, etc.) any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., would be useful.

NOTES: While the Authorities may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and the traveler does not have it, may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.

Adults traveling with children should also be aware that, while the U.S. does not ask sometimes for this documentation, other countries (as Bahamas) may have a requirement and failure to produce notarized permission letters and/or birth certificates could result in travelers being refused entry.

Balearia Caribbean LTD, ferrytobahamas.com and its ownwer, are not responsible for any person(s) denied boarding due to failure to produce the consent letter. To request the Consent Letter Form for minors , please email: [email protected]

Birth certificates are not accepted as a valid document to travel from April 23, 2018.

PREGNANCY WOMEN POLICY on board.

Any passenger who is 31 weeks or more pregnant on the date of their ferry journey will not be allowed to sail. Before the departure of the ship, pregnant women from 24 to 30 weeks must present, before boarding, a letter from their doctor certifying the gestation period in which they are and that the future mother is fit to navigate on ferry.

If you are traveling as a family on vacation, with minors, children and babies, and you have questions about the documentation you have to present to travel and enter the United States and/or the Bahamas, do not hesitate and ask us. We will be happy to help you solve your doubts.

Children policy on the Bahamas Bimini ferry

FRS Caribbean to Bimini ferry

FRS Caribbean to Bimini

March 08, 2022

Updated on the 08th of March, 2022

We are sorry but the ferry company FRS Caribbean is now no longer available here at ferrytobahamas.com . Instead, please look at our ferry routes that run from Fort Lauderdale ferry , or ferries that are offered by Baléaria Caribbean.

There are already many clients who are asking us about the shipping company FRS Caribbean and its ferries to Bimini and Freeport in Grand Bahama from Miami. You ask us about the schedules of FRS Caribbean, its prices and offers for this upcoming summer 2022. The truth is that the shipping company FRS Caribbean has not operated on the ferry routes to Bimini and on the ferry route to Freeport for a few years now. These routes are now carried out by the shipping company Balearia Caribbean from the port of Fort Lauderdale (Florida), to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale and to Freeport (Grand Bahama island) from Fort Lauderdale.

If you want to know the schedules, prices and offers to travel on the Bahamas ferry of Balearia Caribbean, we present them below. You can find in our search engine offers to spend a one day trip in Bimini, round trips to Freeport (Grand Bahama), where we encourage you to book an All Inclusive hotel and enjoy the Bahamian blesse.

These are the schedules planned by Balearia Caribbean for the Bahamas ferry route in 2022:

Bahamas ferry 2022 schedule

from January 26th to December 30th, 2022

If you prefer to see the schedules by destinations, here you can see the Bimini ferry schedules and here the schedule of the ferry to Freeport (Grand Bahama) from Fort Lauderdale (Fll) .

About FRS Caribbean.

For you to know more about FRS Caribbean, we tell you that it began its journey on the Bimini ferry, connecting the port of Miami with the port of North Bimini in 2015, to later carry out the Miami Freeport (Grand Bahama) ferry route from 2017. In July 2017 FRS Caribbean announced the launch of its new service to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island. On that date, the super fast ferry "San Gwann" made the connection between Miami and Bimini Island. As of this date, it also began to carry out this route that took clients from Miami to Freeport in 3 hours.

The FRS Caribbean ferry San Gwann had a capacity for 427 passengers seated in seats. In addition, this FRS Caribbean ferry was equipped with: 2 bars on the passenger decks, where passengers can buy snacks and soft drinks during their trip, a tax free shop for souvenirs and gifts. In addition, FRS Caribbean also gave the option of buying excursions on board to enjoy the islands, both Bimini and Grand Bahama, (water activities, kayaking, rowing, jet skiing and snorkeling), among others. All of these services are now also available on Balearia Caribbean's Jaume II ferry on its routes to Bimini and Grand Bahama.

According to FRS Caribbean "Bimini and Grand Bahama islands offers a combination of historic appeal and modern attractions. Clients can enjoy a glamorous vacation at a luxury resort with charming small-town charm." FRS Caribbean began its operations between Miami and Freeport on Thursday, November 9, 2017, allowing passengers to enjoy a fast, easy and relaxing one day trip aboard the HSC "San Gwann" with day trip prices starting at just $69.98 plus taxes and fees.

FRS Caribbean had its headquarters in Port Miami, Terminal H, where passengers could park their car nearby during the day or night. With this new line, and the Bimini ferry line, FRS Caribbean continued to bet on the development of maritime connections between Florida and the Bahamas, although a couple of years later it left the Caribbean and suspended all its operations.

About FRS Group.

FRS Caribbean was part of the FRS Group. FRS Group is a leader in the short-sea transportation of people, vehicles and cargo: a global group of ferries and maritime transport. FRS Group currently operates 64 vessels and carried 7.9 million passengers and 2.1 million vehicles last year on domestic and international ferry lines. Headquartered in northern Germany, FRS includes 24 operating subsidiaries in Europe, North America, North Africa and the Middle East, with more than 1,500 employees. The FRS fleet includes RoPax ferries, passenger ferries, high-speed vehicle and passenger catamarans, crew transfer vessels for the offshore wind industry, hovercrafts, water taxis and solar electric powered ferries. In addition, FRS provides port management and operation services around the world.

FRS Caribbean to Bimini

Memorial day 2022 weekend and getaway in Bahamas

Memorial day 2022 weekend, a getaway to Grand Bahama in the Bahamas islands

February 25, 2022

Updated on the 25th of February, 2022

If you are thinking about "things to do on Memorial Day weekend 2022 near me" and you are one of the lucky ones who live in Florida, or near Fort Lauderdale, we encourage you to make a getaway to Grand Bahama, in the Bahama Islands.

In this getaway you can enjoy the ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama and stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive resort, an incredible All Inclusive resort where you can rest by the sea and enjoy the crystal clear waters of its beach.

You can leave Fort Lauderdale on May 28 and return from Grand Bahama on May 31 - one day after Memorial Day 2022 which this year is May 30, 2022.

4 days of vacationsin which you will discover the happiness of the Bahamas' bliss. Where very friendly people serve you, always with a smile on their face. Now is the time to dedicate some time to yourself and your loved ones and what better time than to take advantage of Memorial Day to treat yourself to these holidays.

Book your ferry tickets in our website ferry to bahamas where you have all information about schedules, offers and prices of Balearia Caribbean's ferries.

If you want to make your reservation at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Resort you can do so at this link: Viva Wyndham Fortuna Resort Bahamas

Stop thinking about things to do on Memorial Day 2022. This is a great idea to surprise your partner and escape to paradise together.

Plan this Memorial Day getaway in advance and discover the Bahamas Islands. Catch that fish you always dreamed of in its deep waters, invite your friends to a long weekend where you can enjoy the warmth of its beaches, its crystal clear waters and the friendliness of the locals.

If you book your fast ferry tickets to Grand Bahama on our website ferrytobahamas.com you will receive youre boarding cards for your next ferry to the Bahamas directly at your email.

You already have things to do on Memorial Day weekend 2022: book your trip to Grand Bahama, tell your partner about it, think about the things you are going to pack in your hand luggage, discover the Bahamas, immerse yourself in its transparent waters, rent a jet ski, a kayak, savor a local beer, a shell salad and everything you can think of ;)

Bahamas Spring Break 2022

Bahamas Spring Break 2022

February 23, 2022

Updated on the 23rd of February, 2022

The Bahamas islands (both Bimini and Grand Bahama) are possibly one of the best places to celebrate Spring Break 2022, for many reasons. The first reason is due to climate and good weather. Spring Break is usually during the months of March and April. In these months, in the Bahamas, temperatures are usually around 77 degrees Fahrenheit. This good temperature makes possible many outdoor activities and the practice of water sports. It also makes it possible for you to be outdoors at night and enjoy the islands or music concerts.

Another reason why the Bahamas is the perfect place for Spring Break is the islands themselves. We are talking about paradise. Fine white sand beaches. Crystal clear water, very clean. A natural environment full of life, ideal for snorkelling, diving and spotting marine animals, such as sharks or dolphins. In the Bahamas you can go on excursions on the sea, rent jet skis, a boat to discover desert islands or paddle surf, among many other activities. If you like sport fishing you have found paradise. In the Bahamas there is a great diversity of big fish and many companies that will help you make your biggest catch.

The All Inclusive resorts in the Bahamas are hotels that have everything you need to spend a good Spring Break vacation. Places to relax or have fun, a beach club by the sea, casinos, delicious food and drinks included in the price of your resort, a very friendly staff and all kinds of activities to do.

The best way to get to the Bahamas from Florida is by ferry from Fort Lauderdale. The ferry takes only 2 hours whether you are traveling to Bimini or Grand Bahama (Freeport). It is comfortable, safe and cheap. If you travel to Bimini, the ferry leaves you in North Bimini, very close to the Hilton Resort, one of the best resorts in the Bahamas. If you travel to Grand Bahama we recommend that you take a taxi to, for example, Viva All Inclusive resort. You can buy ferry tickets by clicking on this link: ferry to bahamas

If you want to make your reservation at the Hilton at Resorts Bimini Resort you can do so at this link: Hilton at Resorts Bimini Hotel Bahamas

Don't think twice and enjoy the upcoming Spring Break 2022 in the Bahamas, the perfect place to make this getaway that you've been waiting for so long.

What are you waiting for?

Book your ferry tickets to Bahamas on our website ferrytobahamas.com and you will receive in your email the boarding passes for your next ferry to the Bahamas.

Balearia Caribbean ferry services

Balearia Caribbean ferry services

January 31, 2022

Updated on the 31th of January, 2022

Balearia Caribbean is the only shipping company that makes direct fast ferry routes to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama). The journey time between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini is only 2 hours and between Fort Lauderdale and Freeport, Grand Bahama is 3 hours long.

With Balearia Caribbean you can go on vacation to the Bahamas for a few days and stay in one of its fantastic hotels, on the beachfront, with incredible views of its crystal clear waters or make the round trip on the same day (Same Day Return offers) ideal for a quick getaway and also a perfect option for those tourists on vacation in Florida who want to take advantage of the proximity to Bimini to discover the Bahamas.

While sailing aboard this fast ferry you will find a variety of services on board and different lounges that will make your trip very pleasant. In the cafeteria or bars on board you can taste snacks, soft drinks and coffee to quench your thirst. Music and movies for all ages (children and adults) are part of the entertainment you can enjoy while browsing. Travel by ferry with the whole familiy is fantastic.

On the exterior deck of the boat, and if the weather and waves allow it, you can enjoy the Atlantic Ocean while you sail, see how Miami and the Florida coast recede, and how a sea of ​​clean waters and white sand opens up before your eyes. In addition, once the ferry is in international waters, the ship's shop will open where you can buy souvenirs, perfumes, cigars and liquors tax exempt.

For those who want to have everything planned, we encourage you to go to the Excursions Stand where you will find a wide variety of activities to do after setting foot in Bimini or Freeport. Booking them is easy and the ship's staff will inform you of any questions.

Plan your next vacation in Bimini or Freeport now and don't miss out on the Caribbean closest to Miami.

Book on our website ferrytobahamas.com and you will receive in your email the boarding passes for your next ferry to the Bahamas.

Bahamas ferry 2022 schedule

January 28, 2022

Bahamas ferry 2022 schedule updated

Updated on the 28th of January, 2022

The schedules of the Balearia Caribbean ship that makes the routes by ferry to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale and to Freeport (Grand Bahama island) in 2022 are now public. In this website you can find all the information about the ship that makes the ride, its prices and the engine to book the ferry tickets to these two destinys of the Bahamas islands.

At this time (January 2022) there are still many restrictions and mandatory regulations that must be met in order to leave the United States and travel to the Bahamas.Please, take into account the documentation that you must fill out and provide. Stay informed on this website, and your trip will be safer and without mishaps.

The schedules and dates published at this time of the Bahamas ferry of Balearia Caribbean may be modified due to weather conditions or without notice of the operating price. Although, in case of changes in schedules or dates, the shipping company will try to contact you (by phone, email or sms), please keep yourself informed of possible changes. Thank you for your collaboration. These schedules for the line may vary. We encourage you to stay tuned on this website for possible changes and modifications that Balearia Caribbean may make.

If your are looking for the most important information about Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama) ferry services, you are in the correct website. All the info about how long does the ferry from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Bimini and Grand Bahama take, the distance from Miami to Bahamas or how much does the boat from Miami to Bahamas cost, click on the buttons of our search engine and you will obtain, with a few clicks, all the information on the available dates for each route, the departure and arrival times of each port and the prices (with taxes included) of each journey. With ferrytobahamas.com it is very easy to book Balearia Caribbean Miami to Bahamas ferry .

Bahamas travel Health Visa

Bahamas Travel Health Visa new requeriments: All travelers who want to travel to the Bahamas must present a PCR test or rapid antigen test, even those travelers who are fully vaccinated.

August 4, 2021

Bahamas Travel Health Visa new requeriments: All travelers who want to travel to the Bahamas must present a PCR test or rapid antigen test, even those travelers who are fully vaccinated

Bahamas will require negative PCR or rapid antigen test event vaccunated travelers from August 6th

Updated on the August 04th, 2021

The government of the Bahamas has modified the requirements for entry into the Bahamas islands and travel between certain islands in the Bahamas in order to provide a safe and healthy island experience for all travelers visiting the Bahamas to safely enjoy the islands.

This new regulation is aimed at all people who apply for a Health Visa to travel to the Bahamas or travel between islands within the Bahamas as of next Friday, August 6, 2021.

From this date to:

Entering the Bahamas from other countries:

All fully vaccinated travelers, as well as children ages 2 to 11, will need to obtain a negative COVID-19 test (either a rapid antigen test or a PCR test) taken no more than five (5) days prior to departure/arrival date to the Bahamas.

Unvaccinated travelers 12 years of age and older must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 5 days prior to arrival.

All children under the age of 2 are exempt from any testing requirements.

If you want to travel between islands within the Bahamas from the following islands:

Nassau and Paradise Island, Grand Bahama (Freeport), Bimini (Alice Town), Exuma, Abaco, and North and South Eleuthera, including Harbor Island.

Requeriments for Cruise Passengers.

Guests on cruises originating in and returning to the Bahamas must apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa and follow the new testing requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated persons.

Vaccinated people must provide a negative PCR test or rapid antigen test performed no more than five (5) days prior to arrival in the Bahamas islands.

Unvaccinated people must obtain a negative PCR test performed no more than five (5) days prior to the date of arrival in the Bahamas islands.

All travelers entering the Bahamas on cruises originating in the United States will be subject to the testing requirements required by the cruise line and approved by the Bahamian government.

Cruise lines may have different requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated passengers. Travelers should check with their cruise line for specific details related to their cruise.

The new testing protocols are for all travelers applying for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa from Friday, August 6th onwards. These protocols will not apply to anyone with imminent travel who has already applied for and obtained a Bahamas Travel Health Visa.

For full details, please visit Bahamas.com/travelupdates .

As of today, August 4th, 2021, less than 16% of the total population of the Bahamas has received the first dose of the vaccine.

Bahamas will require negative PCR or rapid antigen test to vaccinated tourists too.

Bahamas for vaccinated tourists

Bahamas will allow the arrival of vaccinated tourists from May 1st

April 26, 2021

Bahamas for vaccinated tourists from May 1st

Updated on the April 26th, 2021

With the idea of ​​seeking stimuli to reactivate tourism in the Bahamas islands from next May 1st, tourists vaccinated with the 2 doses will be able to travel to the Bahamas without having to present a negative COVID 19 test result.

The Bahamas islands will allow all those people who have received the full doses of immunization, at least two weeks before traveling, to the country to enter the country. Negative PCR with up to 5 days of validity is required for the rest of the travelers.

Prime Minister Hubert Minnis announced at a press conference that: "All that will be medically required to enter the country will be the proof of vaccination and that two weeks have passed since the final dose." This measure wants to activate tourism as soon as possible, on which the Caribbean archipelago largely depends.

The prime minister indicated that anyone who has not been fully vaccinated must provide a negative PCR test taken within five days prior to arrival in the Bahamas. "This measure will greatly enhance our economy and will also help reduce the number of infections. When tourists are fully vaccinated, since they will have received all the doses, they will be able to participate in events in a closed environment where the mask would not be necessary".

This measure has been announced when several cruise lines (Royal Caribbean, Crystal Cruises and Bahamas Paradise Cruise Lines) are going to start sailing in the Bahamas from June and July, this coming summer.

Warning in the United States. On the other hand, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) raised the warning level for the Bahamas this week to the highest level of health risk, the 4.

Fully vaccinated travelers may be at risk of contracting and spreading covid-19 variants, due to the current situation in the Bahamas, so all trips to the archipelago should be avoided," says the updated advice from the CDC. The United States recommends not traveling to 80% of the world's countries.

The Bahamas has reported 10,000 infections and 194 deaths since the beginning of the pandemic, with a population of around 400,000 people. There are currently just over 500 active cases in the nation. Not everyone has been in favor of this decision, although many sectors of the Bahamas, dependent on tourism, want to reactivate their economy as soon as possible.

As of today, April 26th, 2021, less than 4% of the total population of the Bahamas has received the first dose of the vaccine.

Bahamas will allow the arrival of vaccinated tourists

Ferry to Bahamas relaunched

Ferry to Bahamas relaunched on Febraury 2021 from Port Lauderdale (Florida) with Balearia company

February 02, 2021

Balearia Caribbean will relaunch its ferry service from Florida to the Bahamas on Febraury 2021, departing from Fort Lauderdale port. The South Florida-based company runs ferry services from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini first and from Port Everglades to Freeport (Grand Bahama island).

The company announced last week that the Government of the Bahamas has approved the launch of the fast ferry service between Miami (Fort Lauderdale) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) in the Bahamas. His first departure to Freeport is scheduled for February 11, 2021.

Balearia will be offering initially one sailing service a week, with ferry on Thurdays. At the end of Febraury, another ferry service will be implemented on Sundays. If there is an increase in demand for passenger transport, the shipping company is prepared to increase the number of weekly departures in March and April.

At the same time, Balearia will reopen the ferry route between Florida to Bimini island starting on February 10th, 2021. This route will have, at the moment, a frequency of 3 departures a week, in both directions. The Jaume II ferry will be the ship that does both routes.

Balearia will retake its operations with a host of new health and safety protocols, including mandatory face masks, electronic boarding passes, enforced social distancing and temperature checks prior to boarding, and only 40% occupancy of the total capacity of its ferry.

Other sanitary measures imposed by Balearia are: plexiglass dividers have been placed in the common areas and between all the seats, the ship and the ferry terminals are subjected to a deep and extensive cleaning process before, during and after each crossing.

The company’s ships also undergo “deep and extensive sanitation” before, during and after each sailing, the company said. Balearia says it has been certified by Bureau Veritas with the Global Safe Site Covid-19 certificate, one of the first shipping companies to receive the designation. It should be noted that all travelers to The Bahamas must fill out an electronic travel form and have proof of a negative COVID-19 test that is no more than seven days old, among other requirements.

All passengers boarding from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Grand Bahama or Bimini (Bahamas) will have to show a negative PCR test for COVID-19 performed at least 5 days before the trip. Each passenger must also apply for a travel health visa.

NOTE: We recommend that all passengers verify all the necessary travel requirements at the time of their trip, both in and out of the countries they are going to visit, always before starting with the preparations and purchases of their ferry tickets.

To keep up to date and have all the information, safety and travel protocols in the Bahamas, you can visit the websites http://travel.gov.bs (Bahamas) and https://travel.state.gov (United States). The reopening of the shipping routes between Grand Bahama and the United States is expected to increase the number of visitors to Grand Bahama island and help recover the jobs lost due to Covid-19 and mitigate the economic effects of the pandemic.

Ferry to Bahamas Covid 19

Latest news about how Covid 19 affects the operation of Balearia Caribbean ferry to Bahamas

April 29, 2021

The government of the Bahamas has announced that it will open its borders to the transport of passengers by ferrys of February 10, 2021 to Bimini island and on February 11, 2021 to Freeport Harbour (Gran Bahama island).

For that, Balearia Caribbean is preparing the safety and hygiene protocols (in its ships and passenger terminals) necessary to offer its customers safe transport, both for people and goods.

The ferry route to Freeport, Grand Bahama, will be opertate once a week (Thurdays) and, if possible, it will be two days a week in February. If passenger demand increases, and sanitary conditions allow it, the frequency on the ferry routes will be increased in March and April 2021.

When booking your trip to The Bahamas Islands, be sure to read, understand and follow these requirements, which are mandatory and required by the government of The Bahamas

As a GENERAL RULE, all travelers who want to visit the Bahamas should apply for a Bahamas Health Travel Visa. This visa can be obtained through the website travel.gov.bs . Also children and babies (regardless of their age) will need their own health visa (although they are not required to take the Covid test due to their age).

VACCINATED PASSENGERS

People who are fully vaccinated (2 doses or 1 dose depending on the vaccine) and who have waited as least the 14 days immunity period will be able to travel to The Bahamas without a negative COVID-19 test result.

Vaccinated passengers must provide, for their entry into the country, proof of vaccination (original card and copy of vaccination card) in addition to the approved Travel Health Visa printed on the day of travel. As we have discussed previously, this is a mandatory requirement of the Bahamian government. If you do not provide the required travel documents, boarding the ferry can be denied by the health authorities.

In case of traveling to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island on a Sunday, you must bring 2 printed copies of the Travel Health Visa and Covid vaccination card plus the original.

UNVACCINATED PASSENGERS

All unvaccinated passengers over 10 years of age must submit a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test performed no more than 5 days prior to their travel date. (This requirement is not mandatory for children under 10 years old).

At the time of boarding in Fort Lauderdale (Florida) and entering the country, passengers must present printed copies of the negative result of COVID 19 and of the Travel Health approved on the day of the trip. The health authorities of the Bahamas Islands are requesting these two printed reports, both the Travel Health Visa and the result of the COVID-19 RT-PCR test with a negative result. If the passenger does not provide these documents, the health authorities can deny the boarding or entry into the country.

BALEARIA CARIBBEAN'S COVID MEASURES

In order to maximize the safety and tranquility of the passengers on board, and due to the current situation, Balearia Caribbean has taken the following measures against Covid 19:

Before boarding, a member of the Balearia Caribbean staff takes the body temperature of all passengers who are going to make the trip. If the reading of this temperature is higher than 100º Fahrenheit or 37.7º Celsius, the passenger will be denied boarding on the ferry.

While in the ferry terminals and on board the boats throughout the navigation, the use of a mask or face cover is always mandatory for all passengers.

With the safety and hygiene of passengers in mind, Balearia Caribbean has installed additional disinfectant dispensers in all its terminals and on board the ship.

Plexiglass dividers and informational signs have also been placed in different areas throughout the vessel to promote safe distances between passengers and the crew members.

You can contact Balearia Caribbean directly by email ([email protected] or [email protected]) or by phone (866) 699-6988 to resolve any questions you may have.

How long is a Florida to Bahamas ride?

Florida bahamas ferry schedule.

This schedule MAY VARY because of Covid 19 Alarm. Check Information Advisory

Florida Grand Bahama ferry Florida Grand Bahama Balearia Caribbean Florida Grand Bahama Fort Lauderdale - Grand Bahama

From february 03rd to december 31st, 2024, florida bimini ferry florida bimini balearia caribbean florida bimini fort lauderdale - bimini.

Schedule subject to variation by the shipping company for operational reasons without prior notice.

Florida Bahamas ferry shipping companies

Balearia

Ships Florida Bahamas

Balearia - Jaume II

Super Fast Ferry

Balearia - Jaume III

High speed seacat catamaran in which the whole family will enjoy a pleasant journey.

Enjoy its modern facilities suitable for all members of the family.

Our customers last bookings

catamaran from florida to bahamas

People also ask

How much is the Florida Bahamas ferry?

ferry to Bahamas schedule

From january 02nd to december 31th, 2022, how long is the florida bahamas ferry ride.

2 hours and 30 minutes to do the Florida - Grand Bahama route.

How far is Bahamas from Florida?

And 51 miles is approximately the distance from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Bimini island, about 44 nautical miles.

Is there a Florida Bahamas ferry?

Yes, there are two ferry regular routes from Florida to Bahamas. Departing from Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, connets US with Grand Bahama and Bimini islands in the Bahamas.

Do you need a passport to embark in the Florida Bahamas ferry?

Yes. An international travel passport is required to be able to enter and exit the Bahamas. It is also mandatory to comply with the measures and requirements imposed by the Government of the Bahamas, as well as the measures adopted by the United States Health Department when entering the country.

GENERAL DOCUMENTATION AND VISA INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS:

In accordance with Customs, Border Protection (CBP) regulations, please be advised that all U.S. Citizen adults and minors must be in possession of a current, valid passport book or passport card as of, April 23, 2018.

*Note that Birth Certificates, Photo I. D, and naturalization documents ( Naturalization certificate) will no longer be accepted* Only PASSPORTS will be accepted for international travel. This applies to our day trip and overnight packages.

Ehanced driver's license is not a valid document to board the vessel.

US RESIDENTS SAME DAY TRAVEL:​

US Residents must travel with Valid ARC (Green card).

Bring the valid passport of country of citizenship at check in.

If ARC is expired must bring the original extension document with expired ARC card​.

US RESIDENTS OVERNIGHT:

Bring ARC (green card) and must have passport of the country you were born in.

IMPORTANT NOTE* Balearia Caribbean LTD and ferrytobahamas.com are not responsible for any denied boarding due to failure to produce the proper travel documentation*

You can find all up-to-date information on international travel regulations at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports.html in the travel section of the border protection home page.

Bahamas travel restrictions

In order to maintain the health and well-being of all tourists visiting or residing in the Bahamas, all Bahamians are making great diligent efforts to minimize the spread of COVID-19. The Government of the Bahamas has implemented the following entry and travel protocols to ensure that The Bahamas is a safe and clean destination.

Get the Bahamas Travel Health Visa in this link:

Pre departure & Arrival:

1.- Everyone travelling to The Bahamas must obtain a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR (swab) test taken no more than 5 days prior to the date of arrival. The day the test is taken is considered day zero. Test must return a negative result for entry into The Bahamas.

2.- Travellers must apply for their required Bahamas Travel Health Visa at travel.gov.bs. (Clicking on International Tab). Travellers will be required to opt-in to COVID-19 health insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay in The Bahamas. The cost of insurance is included in the Travel Health Visa application fee.

*A Bahamas citizen or resident planning to travel abroad for five (5) days or less must secure a test in the destination they visited before travelling back to The Bahamas. Any RT-PCR test taken in The Bahamas prior to travel will not be valid for re-entry.

During travel:

3.- Wear a face mask (airport terminals), comply with health monitoring procedures. Travellers who are staying in The Bahamas longer than four (4) nights and five (5) days will be required to take a rapid COVID-19 antigen test.

All persons travelling into and throughout The Bahamas will be required to complete a short Health Survey during their stay.

Once on Island:

4.- Wear a face mask and physical distance when in public places and abide by all protocols and restrictions as outlined in the most recent Emergency Powers Order.

All Rules and Regulations are being enforced:

- Travellers who do not complete a Bahamas Travel Health Visa or present COVID-19 RT-PCR Test with a negative result will be denied entry.

- Travellers who show symptoms of COVID-19 may be transferred to an area away from others for further testing and evaluation, and quarantine may be required by health personnel.

- A $250 fine or a penalty of one month imprisonment, or both, is to be enforced for visitors or residents found not wearing face masks in areas where it is required.

- For travellers staying longer than four nights and five days, failure to take a rapid antigen test on the fifth day will result in a $1,000 fine or one month imprisonment.

- Citizens and residents who fail to complete the daily Health Survey will be required to submit to a mandatory quarantine at a government identified facility.

- Travellers who fail to complete the daily Health Survey will be subject to deportation.

For more official information visit the following link

Bahamas vacation

The most popular destinations to enjoy a Bahamas vacation are:

Grand Bahama: Freeport, beautiful beaches and ideal waters for snorkelling. Ferry: rt tickets from $166 + tax. Grand Bahama hotel prices from $126.

Bimini: exclusivity, sharks, crystal clear waters, diving and sport fishing. Ferry: rt tickets from $198 + tax. Bimini hotel prices from $290.

Nassau: Bahamaian capital and place of large casino & all inclusive hotels. Nassau hotel prices from $260.

Pig Beach: famous beach where you can swim with pigs. Hotel prices from $258.

Eleuthera: Caves, clear water beaches and open water swimming. Hotel prices from $298.

Great Abaco: group of islands in the Bahamas known worldwide for coral reefs, ideal for diving and sailing in the Abaco Sea. Hotel prices from $298.

Andros island: Large island ideal for diving vacations with coral reefs

Long island: white sand beaches, caves and fishing sports.

Can I travel with my pets by ferry to Bahamas?

At the moment, only dogs are allowed to board on the Baleària Caribbean fast ferry. You can travel with your dog by ferry to Bahamas considering the following rules. Always remember that, when you make your reservation, you must also make the reservation for your pet and obtain the boarding card since, otherwise, they will not be able to travel. Your dog/s must travel in its own kennel or pet carrier or in the kennels supplied and equipped by Baleària Caribbean on the ship.

Dogs will be charged as an additional passenger. Please check the ferry Booking enging to confirm rates in any moment. Dogs under 6 months are not allowed to travel. While dogs are on the boat, they must be in their own pet carriers or restrained with a harness and leash, and never in the passenger seat. Owners will also be asked to ensure that their dog does not disturb other passengers.

During the crossing: The dog would need a kennel and a muzzle during the trip. Small dogs (less than 11 lbs.) During the voyage, they will be on the deck or in the place indicated by the crew. Large dogs (over 11 pounds) must travel in a kennel. The kennels are installed on the deck of the ferry, properly ventilated and located in a suitable place, protected from the rain and cold. Only "service dogs" can remain in the passenger area during the trip. While on board, outside of the kennel, all dogs must be restrained with a harness and a leash.

Pet owners must sign a liability waiver form that exempts Baleària Caribbean and ferrytobahamas.com from all liability that may arise from the injury or death of an animal during the trip. Baleària Caribbean reserves the right to deny the transport of an animal for reasons it deems appropriate, such as: illness of a pet or an animal that shows aggressive or violent behavior.

Dog documentation requiered to enter the Bahamas islands: always dogs must travel with the corresponding documents. Pets must have a valid document certifying that they have been vaccinated against rabies within no less than 1 month and no more than 10 months prior to import for the 1 year vaccine. For the 3-year vaccination, it must be within no less than 1 month and no more than 3 years before entering the Bahamas.

All dogs must have a Veterinary Health Certificate presented within 2 days of arrival in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to a licensed veterinarian for examination. An import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture, Commerce and Industry is required for all pets brought to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. You can get this permit in the following link http://www.bahamas.com/sites/default/files/pdfs/bahamas_application_to_import_domestic_animals_in_tiotb.pdf

To enter the United States all dogs must have an APHIS 7001 form completed by a registered veterinarian. This form can be obtained at the following link: https: //www.aphis.usda.gov/library/forms/pdf/APHIS7001.pdf

Price of traveling with a dog on the ferry to Bahamas. The cost to travel by ferry with a dog to the Bahamas is $ 100 for each leg of the trip.

Dog reservations must be made in advance and can be made by emailing the customer service department of Balearia Caribbean ([email protected].). At least 72 hours prior to the departure of the ferry to the Bahamas.

Baggage policy and ferry fares to Bahamas

Baggage policy and ferry fares to Bahamas with Balearia Caribbean. As a courtesy to all the passengers, each adult can bring only ONE carry-on item on board at no charge. The courtesy bag must weigh a maximum of 26.5 LBS or less, with maximum dimensions of 22 ”x18” x10 ”.

All passengers traveling with infants / children will be allowed one additional piece of luggage (26.5 LBS or less, with maximum dimensions of 22 ”x18” x10 ”) free of charge.

Rate: Bags that exceed 26.5 LBS or the excess of a courtesy bag will be subject to a charge of $ 25.00 (USD) per bag, one way.

Oversized bags or large items such as bicycles, kayaks, diving equipment, etc., will be subject to a charge of $ 50.00 (USD) per item, one way.

The best way to know the prices, schedules and offers of every date is to make a booking in our Balearia ferry engine .

Florida Bahamas ferry reviews

" A coffee or breakfast would be appreciated before boarding the ferry. The Fort Lauderdale terminal is not bad although I miss more offer while waiting for the ship to depart.

The bathrooms in the terminal are small. The ferry ride to Freeport was quick and comfortable"

Daniel

"The ferry was fine and seems well organized. We pay for premium seats because it has priority boarding and food and soft drinks included on board. Highly recommended. The trip is short, barely two hours, and we did not have time to cool down despite the fact that the air conditioning was very strong.

As soon as we got to Freeport, we went by bus to a beautiful beach. The people of the place are friendly and if you only go for a day it is better that you bring food and drink since there the prices are expensive and there is not much option.

A round trip on the same day is enough time."

Emily

" Enchanting with the trip. Very comfortable premium seats. The crew members are very friendly. My experience aboard the Balearia Caribbean ship is highly recommended. We leave from Port Everglades at the scheduled time.

The premium service has been good as it allows you to charge the phone on the seat. You can stretch your legs while resting. We will be back."

Orenes

" My experience traveling by ferry with Balearia Caribbean has not been the best. I bought the ferry tickets to travel to Bahamas on February 12 and my trip was one way. The boarding process is very slow and there is a lack of communication between the company and customers.

The Balearia Caribbean confirmation system gave my boyfriend Javier and I different terminals to board. While my boyfriend was told to go to terminal 21, I received a notice to show up at terminal 19. All this, as you can imagine, is very confusing and we lost a lot of time to find the correct terminal."

Lucia

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Yacht Charter in The Bahamas

Chartering a Boat, Yacht, or Catamaran from Miami to The Bahamas

catamaran from florida to bahamas

  • January 8, 2024
  • Info , Itineraries

catamaran from florida to bahamas

A Comprehensive Guide from Miami to the Bahamas by Boat

Introduction:

Embarking on a maritime adventure from the vibrant shores of Miami to the tropical paradise of the Bahamas is a dream for many seafaring enthusiasts. In this detailed guide, we’ll address key questions surrounding this nautical journey, exploring the different modes of transportation, considerations for boat size, costs, safety, and the essential documentation required for a seamless Miami to Bahamas vacation.

Table of Contents

How long does it take to reach the bahamas by boat from miami.

The journey from Miami to the Bahamas by boat is both exciting and picturesque. The travel time largely depends on the mode of transportation chosen, as well as the specific destination within the Bahamas. 

On average, it takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach Bimini, the closest Bahamian island to Miami, and up to 8 hours to Nassau, the capital.

Miami to bahamas distance by yacht, motor boat, catamaran

As said the distance from Miami to various islands in the Bahamas can vary, and travel times depend on factors such as the specific departure point in Miami and the destination within the Bahamas. 

Here’s a list of approximate distances from Miami to popular Bahamian islands:

  • Distance: Approximately 50 miles
  • Travel Time: 2-4 hours by boat, depending on the type of vessel and sea conditions.

Nassau (New Providence Island):

  • Distance: Approximately 185 miles
  • Travel Time: 4-8 hours by boat, depending on the type of vessel and sea conditions.

Freeport (Grand Bahama Island):

  • Distance: Approximately 70 miles to West End; 100 miles to Freeport
  • Travel Time: 3-6 hours by boat, depending on the specific destination, type of vessel, and sea conditions.

Abaco Islands (e.g., Marsh Harbour):

  • Distance: Approximately 175 miles
  • Travel Time: 6-10 hours by boat, depending on the type of vessel and sea conditions.

Andros Island (e.g., Andros Town):

  • Distance: Approximately 50-70 miles, depending on the specific destination on Andros.
  • Travel Time: 2-5 hours by boat, depending on the type of vessel and sea conditions.

Exuma Cays  (e.g., Georgetown):

  • Distance: Approximately 300 miles
  • Travel Time: 8-12 hours by boat, depending on the type of vessel and sea conditions.

Eleuthera (e.g., Governor’s Harbour):

  • Distance: Approximately 225 miles

Cat Island:

  • Distance: Approximately 325 miles
  • Travel Time: 10-14 hours by boat, depending on the type of vessel and sea conditions.

Long Island:

  • Distance: Approximately 350 miles
  • Travel Time: 12-16 hours by boat, depending on the type of vessel and sea conditions.

Please note that these distances are approximate and can vary based on the specific route taken, sea conditions, and the type of boat used for the journey. It’s essential to plan accordingly, considering factors such as fuel range, sea weather conditions , and the capabilities of the chosen vessel. 

Additionally, travel times may vary for different types of boats, including yachts, catamarans, sailboats, or ferry services.

catamaran from florida to bahamas

How Long Does It Take to Get from Miami to the Bahamas by Motor Yacht?

Yachts, with their higher speed capabilities, can shorten the travel time compared to other types of vessels. A well-equipped yacht can cover the distance between Miami and Nassau in about 4 to 6 hours , making it an ideal option for those seeking a swift and stylish journey. 

A motor yacht is the ideal boat to charter from Miami to The Bahamas if you’re looking for a short trip, for example for a 3/4 days charter vacation, particularly in terms of time, speed and comfort. In fact, motor yachts are faster then sailboats and catamarans, allowing you to reach The Bahamas from Miami in less time. Moreover, a yacht can take more direct routes, cutting down on travel time and reducing thee overall journey. 

Each type of vessel has its unique advantages, and the decision should align with your priorities for the journey. 

catamaran from florida to bahamas

How Long Does It Take to Get from Miami to the Bahamas by Catamaran or Sailboat?

Catamarans and sailboats offer a more leisurely pace, taking approximately 6 to 10 hours to reach Nassau . The relaxed journey allows passengers to savor the beauty of the open seas and enjoy the gentle rocking of the boat.

Chartering a catamaran or a sailboat for your private vacation from Miami to The Bahamas offers a unique sailing experience, connection with nature and a more relaxed pace. 

Relying on wind propulsion, catamarans and sailboats typically have lower operational costs, reducing the need for fuel to motor yachts and this can make the overall trip more effective. On the other hand, the trip could take more time. 

Our recommendation is to charter the catamaran or sailboat for a minimum of 5 to 7 days, evaluating a one-way trip. 

catamaran from florida to bahamas

What Is the Closest Caribbean Island to Miami?

Bimini, part of the Bahamas archipelago, is the closest Caribbean island to Miami. Located just 50 miles off the coast, Bimini is a popular destination for boaters seeking a quick getaway with a distinct Caribbean flair.

Type of Boat

How type of boat is needed to go from miami to the bahamas.

The size of the boat required for a Miami to Bahamas voyage depends on factors such as the number of passengers, desired amenities, and personal preferences. 

Generally, boats starting from 50 feet and over are suitable for this journey. Smaller vessels may be ideal for day trips or shorter stays, while larger yachts provide more comfort and luxury for extended vacations.

Yachts for charter in The Bahamas

Yachts to Bahamas: Here’s an initial selection of luxury yachts available for charter starting from Miami, Florida to The Bahamas. To review more options, contact our Charter Brokers . 

catamaran from florida to bahamas

MAMBO – 34m Custom Line

  • 8 Passengers
  • Add to Favorites

catamaran from florida to bahamas

MERCY – Sunseeker 121 Yacht

  • 12 Passengers

catamaran from florida to bahamas

7 Knots – 32.00 m (105′) Mangusta Overmarine

  • 9 Passengers

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Curfew II 104′ Mengi Yay

  • 10 Passengers

vida-boa-yacht-for-charter

Vida Boa 100′ Ferretti Custom Line Yacht

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Rio Horizon 90 Yacht

  • 11 Passengers

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Summerwind Lazzara 80 Yacht

  • 6 Passengers

catamaran from florida to bahamas

LOHANKA 40,00mt Hakvoort Yacht

emina-superyacht-for-charter

EMINA 41,96mt Benetti Yacht

Catamaran for rent in The Bahamas

Catamarans to Bahamas: We have access to all the catamarans available for rent in Florida and The Bahamas for exclusive charters. Get in touch with our Brokers to rent a catamaran in the Bahamas and get personalized assistance. 

catamaran from florida to bahamas

SISU – Leopard 45 for Bahamas and Virgin Islands

  • 4 Passengers

catamaran from florida to bahamas

HULYA – Lagoon 64′ Power Catamaran

catamaran from florida to bahamas

MIRA SOL – Lagoon 560 Sailing Catamaran, Nassau

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Omakase Horizon 68 Power Catamaran

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Lagoon 46 Catamaran

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Zuri 3 Bali 54 Catamaran

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Bali 4.6 Catamaran (2023) with 5+1 cabins in Nassau

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Lagoon 42 Catamaran (2019) in Nassau

charter-bali-catspace-owner-version-2021-built-nassau-bahamas

Bali Catspace Owner Version Catamaran

Costs and prices, how much does it cost to charter a yacht from florida to the bahamas.

The cost of chartering a yacht from Florida to the Bahamas varies based on the type of vessel, duration of the charter, and additional services provided. On average, charter prices can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more per day, with luxury yachts commanding higher rates.

On top of the charter rate there are the taxes and the expenses, as fuel, food, drinks and ports. Depending on the charter duration and/or the terms applied, the expenses could be included or covered by the APA. 

How to Calculate The Fuel Cost of a Motor Boat vacation to the Bahamas from Florida?

Calculating the fuel cost for a powerboat journey from Miami to various islands in the Bahamas involves considering factors such as the distance, fuel consumption rate (in gallons per hour), and the cost of fuel per gallon.

Here’s a general formula for estimating fuel costs:

Fuel Cost = ( Distance/Miles per Gallon) × Cost per Gallon of Fuel

Assumptions:

  • The fuel consumption rate is in miles per gallon (MPG).
  • The distance is in miles.
  • The cost of fuel is per gallon.

Let’s use average values for illustration purposes:

  • Distance: 50 miles (approx.)
  • Fuel Consumption Rate: 1.5 MPG (assumed)
  • Cost per Gallon of Fuel: $4.00 (assumed)

Fuel Cost = (50/1.5) × 4.00

  • Distance: 185 miles (approx.)
  • Fuel Consumption Rate: 1.2 MPG (assumed)

Fuel Cost = (185/1.2) × 4.00

  • Distance: 100 miles (approx.)
  • Fuel Consumption Rate: 1.4 MPG (assumed)

Fuel Cost = (100/1.4) × 4.00

These calculations provide estimated fuel costs for one leg of the journey. 

For a more accurate estimate, it’s crucial to consider the specific fuel consumption rate of the powerboat being used. Additionally, fuel prices may vary, so the assumed cost per gallon is a generalization.

Keep in mind that fuel costs are just one aspect of the overall expenses involved in a boat trip. Other factors, such as maintenance, docking fees, and provisions, should also be considered when planning the budget for a Miami to Bahamas powerboat journey.

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Is It Safe to Boat from Florida to the Bahamas?

Navigating from Florida to the Bahamas is generally considered safe, especially when following established routes and adhering to safety guidelines. However, it’s essential to monitor weather conditions, have proper safety equipment on board, and stay informed about any navigational challenges.

How Rough Are the Seas from Miami to Bahamas?

The seas between Miami and the Bahamas can vary in terms of roughness, depending on weather conditions. The route crosses the Gulf Stream, and while it is generally navigable, boaters should be prepared for occasional choppy seas, especially during adverse weather.

Do You Need a Passport to Take a Boat from Miami to the Bahamas?

Yes, a passport is mandatory for all travelers, including U.S. citizens, when crossing from Miami to the Bahamas by boat. It is essential to ensure that all passengers have valid passports before embarking on the journey, as entry into the Bahamas requires proper documentation.

Conclusion:

Embarking on a boat journey from Miami to the Bahamas is an exhilarating experience that opens the door to a world of azure waters, sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. Whether you choose the swiftness of a yacht, the serenity of a sailboat, or the stability of a catamaran, meticulous planning, adherence to safety guidelines, and proper documentation will ensure a memorable and seamless voyage across the aquamarine highway.

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Explore Nassau Bahamas: Top Activities and Must-Do’s​

the-best-actities-in-nassau-bahamas

Exuma vs Eleuthera: Navigating the Perfect Bahamian Paradise

catamaran from florida to bahamas

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catamaran from florida to bahamas

Charter Offer | 105ft | 7 KNOTS offers reduced rate for Feb & March

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catamaran from florida to bahamas

Miami Yacht Charters to the Islands of the Bahamas

A little-known fact to those interested in a luxury sailing yacht charter to the Bahamas is that from Miami…it is often easier and faster to cruise or sail than the Florida Keys! Only 70 miles off the South Florida coast, The Bahama Islands are the Caribbean Sea, an island paradise, only hours away by boat. The Bahamas are only minutes away by plane! The beautiful turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches of the Bahamas are ideal destinations for Bahama catamaran charters . In just three hours, your yacht can have you cruising and relaxing among the hundreds of coral islands. From vibrant towns to uninhabited islands, the Bahamas have something for everyone.  These are the same historic waters visited by Christopher Columbus.

Miami Boat Charters offers family vacations, romantic getaways, bachelor party packages, and a lot more according to your needs. The tranquil waters, cool trade winds, and ideal climate have given the Bahamas a worldwide reputation as one of the best boating and sailing destinations in the world. Although the mild temperature and warm waters make these islands boater-friendly throughout the year, the best time to hire a Miami yacht charter to the Bahamas is from December to May. With our private sailboat charter , you can explore and enjoy your freedom without any distractions.

The Bahamas includes 700 coral-based islands extending over 500 miles. Each island in the Bahamas is unique, each with its own set of attractions and qualities. When you book a Miami yacht charter with Miami Boat Charters you can choose your itinerary and island destinations. The Bahama Islands offer diving, snorkeling, and fishing in its vibrant blue-green waters. Uninhabited cays, secluded beaches, lively authentic island culture, casinos, and world-class resorts and yachting centers are just a sample of what this Caribbean boat charter destination offers. Escape to the different rhythm of this tropical island country, so close, and yet so far from Miami. It’s impossible to see all the islands, so yacht charter Miami to the Bahamas and let your Miami Boat Charter professional assist you in planning the perfect itinerary. The main cruising regions are:

The Bahamas includes 700 coral-based islands extending over 500 miles. Each island in the Bahamas is unique, each with its own set of attractions and qualities. When you book a luxury catamaran charter with Miami Boat Charters, you can choose your itinerary and island destinations.  

The Bahama Islands offer diving, snorkeling, and fishing in its brimming blue-green waters. Uninhabited cays, secluded beaches, lively authentic island culture, casinos, and world-class resorts and yachting centers are just a sample of what this Caribbean boat charter destination offers.

Our Luxury Sailing Yacht Charter Offers the Following Advantages:

  • Freedom to Explore: You can customize the itinerary to include the best places in the Bahamas. Whether you want a budget-friendly stay or a thrilling expedition, we will design a package as per your needs.
  • Professional Crew to Enjoy Water Sports: On our private sailboat charter , you can plan fun activities, such as snorkeling, sea kayaking, sea diving, and much more. We have a professional crew to help you perform them safely and efficiently.
  • Enjoy Local Dishes Prepared by a Personal Chef: We also offer local food catering from a personal chef. Our Bahama catamaran charters let you revel in pure Caribbean essence for the best experience.

Escape to the different rhythm of this tropical island country, so close and yet so far from Miami. Let our professionals assist you in planning the perfect itinerary and crafting a memorable experience.

  • Bimini – the nearest island to the United States, just 50 miles from Miami.
  • Grand Bahamas Island – home of Freeport, the second largest city in the country, Freeport.
  • New Province – home to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas and the largest city.
  • The Abacos -Island group features small towns and villages renowned for clear turquoise waters, coral reefs, and silky beaches.
  • Exumas – Island group over 100 miles in length, great beaches, diving, and sailing.
  • Eleuthera & Harbor Island – known for its pink and white sand beaches, colonial villages and pineapple fields, luxury marinas, and yachting.

Find the Perfect Party Boat Rental Below and Request a Free Quote Today..!! Request a quote

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catamaran from florida to bahamas

Sailing Charters

A comfortable catamaran for a sailing adventure through the bright turquoise ocean of the bahamas islands. captain dave calvert has cruised these waters for more than 4 decades and will chart a trip that suits your interests. we are based in port howe, cat island and our trips start either here or in the exumas (nassau is too far)..

Calvert Catamaran Charters

Calvert Catamaran Charters

catamaran from florida to bahamas

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Should You Charter a Yacht From Florida to The Bahamas?

The answer is YES & NO; depending on time, budget, and Bahamas destination. These variables change with each yacht charter. So the real question is: How do you maximize your time while getting the most out of your budget?

These breathtaking islands are only a short distance from Florida, making them the ideal cruising destination for your next vacation or holiday. We can help you to plan and execute your perfect yachting vacation , avoiding some common pitfalls that many of our charter clients have fallen victim to.

In this article, we will discuss the best way to get to popular Bahama destinations when planning a yacht charter Bahamas vacation to ensure your vacation is nothing but smooth sailing.

Bimini, Bahamas

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Yacht Charters from Fort Lauderdale or Miami To Bimini, Does it Make Sense?

The short answer is yes, you should leave Florida to Bimini. It rarely makes sense to meet your yacht in Bimini.

Bimini is an excellent choice for a charter destination leaving from South Florida especially Miami, it’s only 50 nautical miles away and easy to get to with straight shot across the Gulf Stream. The best time to cross the Gulf Stream is in the summer months when the water is calmer. It’s also stunningly beautiful.

If you’re chartering a motor yacht, it is possible to go from Miami to Bimini in under 3 hours, making a day trip a possibility. However, a day trip can be very cost inefficient, especially considering most of your day will be cruising across the gulf stream and not enjoying the beautiful Bahamian waters.

Find out more about luxury Miami yacht rentals so you can get a head start on your trip! CharterLux has plenty of yachts to choose from and can help you throughout the entire process.

We recommend a 3-day charter to get the most out of your trip.

Note: We do not recommend day trips on holidays when customs can be backed up.

Yacht Charters Abaco & Exuma Bahamas

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Yacht Charter from Fort Lauderdale or Miami To Nassau

The answer is no, you shouldn’t charter a yacht from South Florida to the Bahamas (except Bimini), but the answer isn’t short.

If you’re looking to charter a yacht in the Bahamas for 7-10 days you most likely would be visiting the islands of the Abacos and Exumas. Most charter yachts depart from the capital of the Bahamas (Nassau) mainly for the reasons below.

Things to Consider When Chartering a Yacht From Florida to Bahamas:

Financial considerations.

Sales Tax – Sales tax in the Bahamas is 4% versus 7% in South Florida [Palm Beach County (West Palm Beach), Broward County (Fort Lauderdale) and Dade County (Miami)].

Price of Fuel – Fuel prices are around half the price in Florida than in the Bahamas.

Amount of Fuel – The amount of fuel the yacht will consume to get to the Bahamas & back to Florida could supersede the repositioning fee it will cost you to relocate the yacht.

Time – Miami to Nassau is 160nm, which means it would take one full day to arrive in Nassau, costing you a significant amount of money in fuel and wasted time cruising to your destination. The amount of time (money) it will take cruising to the Bahamas and back to Florida will most likely supersede the repositioning fee charged by the yacht owner and can take two days out of your Bahamas yacht charter.

Cost Savings Example:

  • 100ft+ yacht that charters for $50,000 a week ($7,142 a day)
  • Cruises 16knts @ 120gph fuel burn
  • 10hrs (each way) x 2 = 20hrs
  • 20hrs x120gph = 2,400gal
  • 2,400gal x $3.50gal (est.) = $8,400
  • Lose two days of time traveling open ocean that could be spent in the Abacos or Exumas – $7,142 a day x 2 =$14,284
  • $5,000 Repo fee (est.)
  • $8,400 fuel + $14,284 in charter time – $5,000 repo fee = $17,684 in savings!

Legal Considerations

Liability – Most yachts will have to charter off of a Demise/Bareboat charter agreement if departing from U.S. waters. Departing from Bahamian waters you can charter off of a Time Charter Agreement, limiting your liability as a charterer.

Vessel Status – Foreign flagged vessels that have not paid their U.S. duties by law cannot charter from U.S. waters.

Accessibility

Mother Nature– Weather can affect the amount of time it takes cruising to your destination. It’s never fun to sail through rough weather. Once you are in the Bahamas your captain should be able to alter your itinerary to best avoid rough seas.

International Airport– Nassau has an international airport which has direct flights from Fort Lauderdale and many more cites.

Ready to Experience the Yacht Charter Destination of Your Dreams?

Chartering a yacht from Florida to the Bahamas is a great idea, but make sure you follow our insider tips and tricks because we’ve been doing this for a very long time.

Heading out on the water without this knowledge can really set you back, both from a time and financial standpoint. If you want to make every hour of your vacation to the Bahamas count, and have the time of your life, you’ll want to keep our considerations in mind.

CharterLux brings you the friendliest service, the largest selection of yachts to choose from, and the knowledge and expertise of a locally owned and operated company that has been serving Florida and the Bahamas for years. Let us help you plan the vacation of your dreams and find that yacht charter from Florida to the Bahamas!

The Catamaran Company

Receive the rate sheets for bareboat charter companies operating in this destination.

Fill in the quick form and rate sheets by company will be delivered instantly into your inbox. Rate Sheets do not reflect current promotions or discounts. We can send you detailed proposals and charter advice upon your request with discounts.

With 29 islands, 661 cays and nearly 2,400 islets, The Bahamas is a true sailor's paradise steeped in both history and lore.

sailing vacation

The island group lies at 25 degrees 5 minutes north latitude and 77 degrees 21 minutes west longitude. This is where Italian explorer Christopher Columbus first made landfall in the New World on October 12, 1492, where pirates built a haven in the 1600s, and where many British loyalists made new homes following the American Revolution.

Dream Yacht Charter's Bahamian base is located on Great Abaco Island at Marsh Harbor, and serves as our gateway to the stellar sailing grounds the islands offer.

The Abacos chain is formed in a boomerang shape and stretches nearly 130 miles from Walkers Cay in the north, to Hole-in-the-Wall in the south. The islands lie roughly 175 miles east of Palm Beach, Florida, and 106 miles north of Nassau. The outer cays and islands create naturally protected waters commonly referred to as the Sea of Abaco. Abaco is the second largest island in the Bahamas, and generally cooler than the other islands. Summer temperatures average 26.5°C/80°F to 29.4°C/85°F. During winter, the temperature rarely dips below 10°C/50°F.

bahamas vacation

More than 200 species of birds, including the Green Bahamian Parrot, are found in the islands, along with lush vegetation such as Pines, Madeira, and Coppish, as well as astonishing ferns, vines and varieties of wildflowers like Oleander and Stalked Orchids.

The five inhabited cays of major importance are Walkers Cay, Green Turtle Cay, Great Guanna, Man-O-War and Elbow Cay.

Green Turtle Bay has an uneven coastline with deep bays, sounds and delightful beaches at Gillam Bay and Coco Bay. The island is three miles long and half as wide. The community is diverse, and captures the quaint and harmonious atmosphere found throughout the islands.

charter vacation

Hope Town is known for its boat building and was founded by British loyalists in 1785. It boasts many fine examples of British colonial architecture, such as Toad Hall, which was built in 1880 and restored in the mid-1970s, and Butterfly House. The British Imperial Lighthouse Service sought to build one of its signature "candy stripe" lighthouses here to mark the Elbow Cay Reef in the 1860s. Local residents opposed the lighthouse, however, because they viewed it as a direct threat to their salvage trade. The lighthouse was built despite this opposition, and began operation in 1863. Now, it remains one of only two manned beacons, and local residents have undertaken vigorous efforts to keep it so, going to extraordinary lengths to secure spare parts for the light apparatus, most of which are no longer made.

sailing vacation

A tribe of Arawaks, the peaceful Lucayans, first inhabited the Bahamas, arriving there in the early 9th century to escape the warlike Caribs. Columbus, searching for a shorter trade route to India, first made landfall in the Bahamas on an island he called San Salvador in honor of his patrons, the king and queen of Spain. In the mid-1660s, Pirates such as Henry Jennings and "Blackbeard," or Edward Teach made the town of New Providence a sanctuary when they weren't plundering ships on the high seas. Britain finally took firm control in 1718 and created a new motto for the Bahamas: Expulsis Piratis – Restituta commercia, Latin for Pirates Expelled – commerce Restored.

When Loyalist refugees began arriving after the American Revolution, they infused the Bahamas with both wealth and an entrepreneurial spirit that thrives to this day. During the American Civil War, the islands served as a safe harbor for blockade-runners and privateers exchanging Southern cotton for weapons and supplies. And during Prohibition, Americans flocked to Nassau where they could drink legally and gamble at casinos. More than 300 years of British rule ended in July 1973 when the Bahamas officially became a new nation, the Independent commonwealth of the Bahamas.

Destinations

Break away from the mundane into a pleasure-seeking adventure on the open water.

Comes with an offshore fishing boat and zodiac tender to enjoy nearby secluded islands..

Island Vibes TV

What People Say

Rent the luxury yacht of your dreams.

Enjoy your vacation and let us handle the cooking. Chef and other services available.

The ultimate vacation is closer than you think. Charter a professionally crewed, luxury yacht to the Bahamas or other Caribbean locations. We have created amazing tours for you to enjoy an extraordinary experience.

SEE THE YACHT

LINDA PINDA

Simply the BEST and so beautiful!!

SAMUEL JACOB

7 Day Bahamas

This is the only way I'll visit again. First class service.

WOW!! We wanted to do something unique and on the water. Island Vibes boat was the perfect wedding venue. Plenty of space and all the staff were amazing.

Sabrina Woolen

A group of us wanted to rent a yacht for a 7days to explore Miami and Bahamas. We looked for a week and came across the Island Vibes. After a quick phone call we had booked and had the time of our lives.

Alex Katunich

My family and friends wanted to do our bachelorette party in the Bahamas and boy did we. Everything from the booking to the captain was just perfect. They knew all the best spots and where to go.  5 Stars!

Tracy Staley

Our yacht is equipped with jet skis, paddle boards, and snorkeling gear.

Thinking of going fishing she comes loaded with tackle and fishing gear., charter a professionally crewed, luxury yacht to the bahamas or other caribbean locations..

At Island Vibes Yacht, we specialize in arranging extraordinary crewed yacht charters to South Florida, The Florida Keys, The Caribbean, and The Bahamas from our home port in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Our goal has always been to provide quality service and outstanding customer support. You can count on us for a fast turnaround on proposals and quotations. Our knowledgeable staff are standing by to discuss your preferred, custom itinerary and to answer any questions you may have.

USEFUL LINKS

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1320 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE, Suite 400

Fort Walton Beach, FL.  32548

Island Vibes Yacht Rentals of Ft. Lauderdale, FL - 2019   |    Designed by //shift project group//

Catamaran Charter Bahamas

Enjoy a Bahamas catamaran charter with Borrow a Boat! The Bahama Islands off the southern tip of Florida are a sailor's paradise with beautiful beaches, great diving and snorkeling opportunities and a lifestyle that can either be full throttle or redefines 'chill'.

Fountaine Pajot MY 37 - 3 cab. - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas Abaco Islands Marsh Harbour Marsh Harbour 2

Fountaine Pajot MY 37 - 3 cab.

  • Build year : 2018
  • Length : 37 ft
  • Boat type : Power Catamaran

the space between - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Florida & Bahamas 2

the space between

  • Build year : 2011
  • Length : 46 ft
  • Boat type : Catamaran

KITTIWAKE - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas 2

  • Build year : 2020
  • Length : 48 ft

PENNY JO - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas 2

  • Build year : 2021
  • Length : 45 ft

SEMPER FIDELIS  - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas & Caribbean 2

SEMPER FIDELIS

  • Build year : 2022
  • Length : 67 ft

FLOR DE LUNA - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Caribbean 2

FLOR DE LUNA

  • Build year : 2023
  • Length : 53 ft

Leopard 53 PC - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas Abaco Islands Marsh Harbour Marsh Harbour 2

Leopard 53 PC

Can't find what you're looking for.

Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 - 4 + 2 cab. - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas Abaco Islands Marsh Harbour Marsh Harbour 2

Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 - 4 + 2 cab.

  • Build year : 2019
  • Guests : 12
  • Berths : 12
  • Length : 42 ft
  • Mainsail : Full battened
  • Genoa type : Furling

NO INHERITANCE - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Caribbean 2

NO INHERITANCE

  • Guests : 10
  • Berths : 10
  • Length : 54 ft

Lagoon 40 - 4 + 2 cab - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas New Providence Nassau Palm Cay One Marina 2

Lagoon 40 - 4 + 2 cab

  • Length : 40 ft

Lagoon 42 - 4 + 2 cab. - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas Abaco Islands Marsh Harbour Conch Inn Marina 2

Lagoon 42 - 4 + 2 cab.

Bali 4.2 - 4 + 1 cab. - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas New Providence Nassau Palm Cay One Marina 2

Bali 4.2 - 4 + 1 cab.

Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 - 4 + 2 cab. - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas New Providence Nassau Palm Cay One Marina 2

Lagoon 46 - 4 + 2 cab.

  • Genoa type : Self tacking

Lady Marigot - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Caribbean 2

Lady Marigot

  • Build year : 2004
  • Length : 58 ft

OMAKASE - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas & Caribbean 2

  • Length : 68 ft

Lagoon 450 F - 4 + 2 cab. - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas Abaco Islands Marsh Harbour Conch Inn Marina 2

Lagoon 450 F - 4 + 2 cab.

Bali 4.4 - Catamaran Charter Bahamas & Boat hire in Bahamas Abaco Islands Marsh Harbour 2

  • Length : 44 ft

At Borrow A Boat we're on a mission to make boating more accessible and to make it easier for you to get on the water. We believe boating should be available to everyone, and we can help the boating industry, boat owners, marinas, and everyone who wants to go boating by providing a 21st-century boating marketplace. Borrow A Boat is the best place to find and rent boats of all sorts, from a canal and riverboats across Europe to a sailing boat , motor yacht , catamarans across North America, the Mediterranean and Caribbean and further afield, along with some of the world's most impressive superyacht s and luxury yacht charters .

A smaller alternative than a superyacht charter, catamarans are the fastest growing type of charter yacht at the moment and once you've sailed on one it's easy to see why. In terms of your ideal catamaran charter think of locations like Thailand, the Ionian Islands, BVI (British Virgin Islands), Croatian Adriatic, Ibiza, French riviera and Mallorca for your sailing adventure.

Types of Catamarans Available For Rent Or Charter In The Bahamas:

When searching a geographical area on Borrow A Boat you can filter by the below boat types. There is also the option to further filter your searches by price, the number of guests, cabins or bathrooms, what year the catamaran yacht was launched, the boat length and the boat manufacturer.

Types of Catamarans Available:

Sailing Catamarans : Luxury catamarans are stable and spacious, with quick sailing performance, and and have been gaining in popularity in recent years. Better for larger groups, they have lots of room for water toys, and are big enough for a little privacy. A catamaran charter is easy and comfortable for novices not used to heeling and are loved by families due to their extra space when compared to a monohull sailing yacht. Typically far more luxurious than a sailboat the larger catamarans have en suite toilets and showers in the cabin as well as ample entertaining space in the saloon and on deck.

Power Catamaran : These motor boats are relatively new but have also been gaining in popularity as the two hulls keep the boat more stable when compared to a monohull. The wider beam also means more deck space and as they don't have sails or a mast, they have a lot more space on deck than a sailing catamaran rental or monohull. For a luxury catamaran charter, consider taking a crewed catamaran charter sailing vacation with an experienced captain.

Catamaran Sailing Areas In the Bahamas

Bahamas catamaran charters are all about island hopping. Flying into the country from one of several Florida airports, you can cruise the islands and cays. There are two broad areas in which to enjoy your Bahamas yacht charter:

Abaco Islands: West of Grand Bahama, with Great Abaco as your main base, you can cruise the 175 islands and enjoy the crystal clear seas. Green Turtle Cay, Tahiti Beach and Elbow Cay are up there among the best scuba divinglocations in the country. With a variety of fun resorts such as Treasure Cay and not a few uninhabited cays where you can chill out to your heart's content, this is a varied and fun destination for your Bahamas yacht charter.

The Exuma Islands: From Norman's Cay in the north down to Conception Cay in the SE, the Exuma Islands are a chain of more than 100 cays and reefs. Sail to Big Major Cay and be greeted with hungry swimming pigs after some carrots from their guests! At the southern end on Long Island you'll find one of the best coral reef blue holes in the Caribbean - a scuba diving and snorkeling paradise.

Sailing between the Abaco Cays and Exuma Islands you should stop at Eleuthera with its world famous pink beach. Just to the west of Nassau it is one of those spots that will stay with you for many years to come. For those looking for something a little structured, Paradise Island on Nassau is a major vacation resort that will give adults and children alike plenty to do.

Whether looking for an uninhabited island to forget the world or to engage in some serious snorkeling with your family, these cays and islands afford a fantastic catamaran sailing vacation destination.

Crewed Catamaran Charter or Bareboat:

When it comes to a Bahamas catamaran charter you typically have two choices - bareboat charter or crewed yachtcharter.

When using Borrow A Boat you can filter all catamaran searches to be with or without captain depending on what charter yachts you are looking for and below we cover some of the main points to consider for your catamaran rent.

Crewed catamaran Charter: You can do a crewed or captained boat charter in Sardinia. This form of luxury yachtcharter gives you the advantage of being able to get afloat without having to invest in getting sailing qualifications beforehand. For a captained luxury charter yacht you will pay a fixed fee for the crew and captain as well as their food and a tip at the end.

When you get to a luxury yacht charter with crew these prices will increase and costs also depend on where you plan to sail to along with the size and type of yacht rental on your sailing vacation.

In some cases, captains will also be the boat owner (typically day charter) which means they will know all the best - secluded beaches to show you the best that the area has to offer with their local knowledge.

For day trips you will often be able to use a captain as well and prices will vary depending on the type of charter yacht.

Bareboat Catamaran Charter: For skilled sailors, a bareboat charter is cheaper and gives more privacy for you and your charter guests. Many sailors prefer to be helming the luxury charter yacht while choosing their own course on their sailing trip, and provided you have the knowledge and relevant qualifications you can captain these boats yourself.

Do You Need A Licence To Charter A Catamaran In the Bahamas

If you are on a crewed Bahamas catamaran charter you do not need a license to sail - you can just turn up at the marina and go.

You do need a license if you are on a bareboat yacht charter and in some countries a day captain or ICC may not be enough for boats over 45 feet in length, you will need to check with the charter agent but here are some examples of typical sailing qualifications that will allow you to charter in most countries:

International Certificate of Competence: This is issued on request by your European sailing authority and you should automatically qualify with certain national sailing qualifications.

RYA Qualifications: If you have the following qualifications you will typically be able to take a bareboat charter out of the Bahamas (but it is worth checking as per above), these include Day Skipper , Coastal Skipper ( *sail or motor endorsement) or Yachtmaster.

American Sailing Association (ASA): The ASA 104 Bareboat certificate is commonly accepted but also check as per above

US Sailing: The International Proficiency Certificate is widely accepted and The Bareboat Cruising Certificate is also accepted in many cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i consider when renting a catamaran .

The main points to consider are what is your budget, have you got the necessary sailing experience and qualifications to manage the boat if it's not going to have a captain, whom you are taking sailing, where exactly you wish to go and what will the weather be like on the proposed dates of your trip.

Do you have to pay a deposit when renting a Catamaran in the Bahamas?

You will typically pay 50% up front on reservation the catamaran rent and the balance on arrival. You will either pay a security deposit with your credit card on departure or can get insurance covering damage in advance. In some cases (such as the recent Covid situation) charter companies may be more flexible but this depends on the individual charter companies themselves.

What happens if my Catamaran breaks down?

If you are at sea and in danger, call MAYDAY on VHF Ch16 or ring the coast guard on your phone if you have reception. If you have a mechanical fault and can make it to or are on a mooring you will be able to phone a help line number given by the boat charter company and they can typically send someone from the charter base

What should I think of before I rent a Catamaran in the Bahamas?

You should consider do you have the experience to handle the catamaran before you book and where do you want to go along with what the weather will be like.

What Qualifications Do I need to rent a Catamaran ?

If you want to sail without a captain then you will need relevant qualifications like RYA Day Skipper/International Certificate of Competence (ICC)/ASA 104 Bareboat certificate or the US Sailing Certificate. If you choose to have a captain on board your catamaran you won't require licences.

The main points to consider are what is your budget, have you got the necessary sailing experience and qualifications to manage the boat if it's not going to have a skipper, whom you are taking sailing, where exactly you wish to go and what will the weather be like on the proposed dates of your trip.

You will typically pay 50% up front on reserving the catamaran hire and the balance on arrival. You will either pay a security deposit with your credit card on departure or can get insurance covering damage in advance. In some cases (such as the recent Covid situation) charter companies may be more flexible but this depends on the individual charter companies themselves.

You should consider do you have the experience to handle the catamaran before you book and where do you want to go along with what the weather will be like. Bring warm weather and cool weather clothing if it looks like the weather can be cool as well as warm and remember at sea it can be cool in the evenings.

If you want to sail without a skipper then you will need relevant qualifications like RYA Day Skipper/International Certificate of Competence (ICC)/ASA 104 Bareboat certificate or the US Sailing Certificate. If you choose to have a skipper on board your catamaran you won't require licences.

We are confident that our prices are the most competitive and transparent in the market.

We won't charge any booking fees when you make a booking with us.

We have the highest number of verified and vetted boats available on the market.

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Yacht Charters

  • Florida Bahamas Catamaran Charter – Sail Surprise

Catamaran Surprise

Sail Surprise, a Chris White Design Atlantic 48, is a Florida and Bahamas catamaran charter. Throughout the year, she cruises in the Abacos and the Exumas Islands on a year-round basis. Owned and operated by Captain Corky and Sue Clark, adventurer travel company owners.

“ Their joy is working together and treating their guests to high-performance sailing, relaxation and escape on the water, fabulous food, and storied locations, the Clarks invite you to step away from life ashore and indulge your imagination. Join us and bring your wanderlust and sense of adventure.”

Sail Surprise is ideal, in my opinion, for either a couple or a family with 1 or 2 children. Each hull has an aft double cabin, a head and shower, and a single cabin forward. The aft doubles are comfortable with approximately 6ft 6” of bed length and a small sitting area. The hull’s headroom is excellent as I am 6ft 3 1/2” tall. The coach roof slopes downward and would require some bending if you are tall. However, this would be for a brief time as the headroom is generous in other parts of the boat.

This Florida and Bahamas catamaran charter look fast, and Captain Corky assures me that it is, plus my research on Chris White Designs confirms it. You can enjoy the performance, stability, easy water access from the stern, the trampoline forward, and lots of flat decks for enjoying the warm Bahamas and South Florida weather.

Here’s another Florida and Bahamas luxury motor yacht charter SEAFARER that you might want to consider. There are always more yacht charter options at BVI SAIL.

Contact us at 1-321-777-1707 or complete this form to discuss your vacation plans.

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Sailing to the Bahamas

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Exotic waters and the cooling trade winds have earned The Bahamas an international reputation for sailing, with regattas and races held year-round. The islands are actually the birthplace of the Gulf Stream, a phenomenon that also accounts for their astonishing variety and abundance of marine life. Legendary game fish draw sport fisherman in search of the "big one," and more than 50 international fishing records have been set in these waters. The great writer and fisherman Ernest Hemingway considered the Bahamian island of Bimini a home. The same conditions that make these islands so appealing to sailors and fisherman draw visitors to the vast and diverse underwater parks. With more than 5% of the planet's reef mass, the Bahamas offer inexhaustible pleasures and challenges to snorkelers and divers. The natural beauty of the water extends to the thousands of miles of shoreline, which has some of the world's most stunningly beautiful and unsullied beaches. From the pink sands of Harbour Island and Eleuthera to the deserted strands of the Exumas and San Salvador, there is a lifetime of beaches to experience. Further inland are gardens and National Parks with rare and endangered species, such as the exotic Abaco Parrot and the Bahamian Iguana. Although The Bahamas are as diverse and numerous as the days of the year, the reassuring unifier is the charm and hospitality of its people.  

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When and How to Sail to the Bahamas

When and How to Sail to the Bahamas | Life of Sailing

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

With the western islands of the Bahamas located 50 miles away from Florida's East Coast, sailing to the Bahamas is very possible even in a very modest sailboat. All you need to know is when and how to sail to the Bahamas.

With over 700 separate islands spread across an ocean area as big as Florida and arguably the most desired climate on the planet, it's easy to see why the Bahamas is a paradise and one of the top sailing destinations in the world. But as they always say, reaching paradise is never easy. It may be an overnight sail away from South Florida but deciding the best month to sail and how to sail to the Bahamas can be overwhelming to most sailors. Of course, there are several factors such as where you're sailing from, the weather conditions, and the hurricane season that may determine your Bahamas sailing experience.

So when is the best time to sail to the Bahamas? Even though you can sail to the Bahamas year-round, the best time to sail to the Bahamas is between December and April. The weather is warm, there are no hurricanes, and the waters are relatively calm to allow you to travel around 15 to 25 knots. Sailing to the Bahamas revolves around crossing the open Ocean and boating in the island's remote areas.

As such, it's of great importance that you plan well and have the right things to augment your Bahamas sailing adventure.

Table of contents

When to Sail to the Bahamas

One of the most important things to consider when planning sailing to the Bahamas is the weather conditions. You certainly do not want to be caught out by a deadly hurricane when sailing to the Bahamas. So you should avoid sailing during the hurricane months (June to November).

The Bahamas has experienced various hurricanes and there is much less protection and help in the Bahamas than you might find back at home. As such, it's advisable that you stay informed on daily tropical reports and get back to the United States as quickly as possible if there is any developing hurricane.

That being said, the best time to sail to the Bahamas is generally between December and April. The temperatures are slightly cooler, drier and the Bahamas is less humid. If anything, it's at the height of winter in the United States, so this can be a perfect opportunity to escape the biting winter, soak up some sun, and work on your tan.

It's also important that the most effective time to sail to the Bahamas may largely depend on your interests, schedules, and, of course, budget. You should, however, keep in mind that sailing is more pleasant when the average wind speeds are between 5 and 20 knots, which is the scenario throughout the year, except when there's a hurricane.

As far as hurricanes are concerned, they've hit the Bahamas in the past but they tend to head for the United States than the Bahamas, so there's no cause for worry. Statistically speaking, the chance of a hurricane hitting the Bahamas during the official hurricane season (June 1st and November 30th) is 1 in 5 chances.

But if you have to sail to the Bahamas during the hurricane season, it's highly advisable to take extra precautions. For example, you can factor in travel insurance both on you and your sailboat.

Having the Right Boat

Here are a few things to consider when choosing an ideal boat for sailing to the Bahamas.

Type of Boat - The type of boat that you use to sail to the Bahamas must be built well enough to handle the open ocean, especially when the weather conditions are adverse. It should be large and heavy enough to safely carry you and your crew, as well as all the equipment and supplies you might need for the trip. In terms of the size of the boat, it will generally depend on what's comfortable for you, how carefully and well you pick your sailing weather conditions, and your willingness to wait until when the weather conditions are favorable.

Cabin Accommodation - Generally, a boat that's built for offshore fishing can be ideal for sailing to the Bahamas. Many sailors prefer boats with cabin accommodations as they're normally ideal for your safety if you plan to stop at various marinas. Such boats are common in the Bahamas and are a great way to easily blend in with the crowd or other sailors at the marinas.

Speed of the Boat - Another important thing to consider when choosing an ideal boat for sailing to the Bahamas is speed. A boat that's able to notch up to 25 knots can take a couple of hours to sail from your departure point is South Florida to the western islands of the Bahamas. Such a boat can take just about a day to sail from Florida to Nassau or Marsh Harbor (the Boating Capital of The Bahamas).

On the contrary, a sailboat that can notch up to six knots may take most of the day to sail from your point of departure in South Florida to a safe harbor in one of the islands in the western Bahamas. In addition to the slow speed, the powerful northerly Gulf Stream currents can seriously affect a slow-speed displacement hull.

All in all, it's advisable that you consider using a faster boat as it can help you in maximizing shorter weather windows.

How to Sail to the Bahamas

Here's how to sail to the Bahamas from the United States. 

Starting Point

The best departure point from the mainland United States is generally Florida. You can start the voyage from typically anywhere in South Florida and crossing will be a lot easier if you go more into the south. That's why many sailors sailing to the Bahamas from the United States choose Miami as their favorite departure point.

If you're planning to check-in at the Cat Cay or Bimini in the Bahamas, you can consider moving further south and using Key Largo as your departure point. But if you want to check-in at Abacos, Fort Lauderdale or Miami will be your best departure point since they'll allow you to ride the Gulf Stream a bit.

While it's possible to sail straight across the Gulf Stream, many seasoned sailors would advise you to take this route. Instead, the best thing to do is to wait for a weather window when there are no northerly winds. In other words, it's best to cross when the wind is less than 10 knots from the east and less than 15 knots from the west.

The Best Routes

Here are a few tried-and-tested routes for sailing to the Bahamas from the United States. This should be based on a sailboat that can notch up between 15 and 25 knots in moderately calm waters.

A Short Sailing Trip to Bimini (50 nautical miles, one trip)

You will cover about 50 miles when sailing to Bimini, Lucaya, Cat Cay, or any other island in the western Bahamas. These destinations will give you a glimpse of what to expect deep into the Bahamas but will at least give you a taste of what it is like to cross the Gulf Stream. You can anchor your sailboat behind Gun Cay to the north of Cat Cay. 

Sailing to the Abacos (190 nautical miles, one trip)

Located next to the Grand Bahama Island, the Abacos is home to Hopetown, Marsh Harbor, and Man of War. This area is perhaps one of the best in the Bahamas as it offers numerous treats of civilization than most areas in the Bahamas including museums, shopping, and restaurants.

The best way to sail to the Abacos is to depart from Palm Beach and sail 60 miles across the Gulf Stream before stopping at the Old Bahama Bay Marina at West End. The next leg of your voyage should be 100 miles taking you to the Green Turtle Cay. You can then sail 20 miles to the epicenter of Abacos, which is home to Marsh Harbor, the Boating Capital of The Bahamas. You can sail 15 miles farther south to Little Harbor where you'll find numerous marinas and anchorages.

Northern Exumas (220 nautical miles, one trip)

This voyage will take you to one of the very gorgeous out-island destinations in the Bahamas. You can set sail from Fort Lauderdale or Miami and sail 50 miles to your first stop in Bimini. You can then head to Chub Cay, which is 80 miles farther south. You can then sail to Nassau (the Capital City of the Bahamas), which is nearly 40 miles across the Tongue of the Ocean.

You can then head to the Northern Exumas but you'll have to sail cautiously as there are several reefs at the southern end of Nassau Harbor. Northern Exumas is home to several marinas including the Highbourne Cay Marina, Sea Park at Warderick Wells, and the Exumas Land.

So no matter which route you take when sailing to the Bahamas, the beauty of the Gulf Stream is, without a doubt, one of the highlights of this voyage. You may experience calm crossing but keep in mind that the area between Florida and Bimini or any other island in the western Bahamas can be very extreme, especially if the wind is blowing from the north. This is why you should be on top of the weather information before setting sail.

In addition to avoiding the hurricane, here are a few recommendations to make you voyage to the Bahamas much better.

  • ‍ Have on board enough food and fresh drinking water to last you for a week even if you have plans to stop at the marinas.
  • Bring a wetsuit.
  • Your boat should have an outboard if you're planning to anchor out.
  • Have good anchoring equipment.

All in all, have a good plan in place, have an ideal boat, choose the best time to sail , pick your most preferable route, and set sail to the Bahamas; it's one of the greatest experiences that any sailor can ever have.

Carry with you an appropriate snorkeling gear if you want to experience the coral reefs up close. While you can see them from a flybridge, the experience isn't the same as when snorkeling.

Related Articles

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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How to sail from Florida to the Bahamas?

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Lying as little as fifty miles from the Florida coast, the Bahamas are a tantalizing offshore destination for boaters and sailors. With over 700 islands and 2,400 cays and islets scattered over 150,000 square miles of crystal clear water, the Bahamas is a perfect playground for limitless exploration and recreation.

The thirty populated islands feature resorts, restaurants, gorgeous beaches, and many sights to see. Whether you’re looking for a posh resort or a private corner away from it all for a Bahamas Yacht Charter , you’ll find miles of white sand beaches and coral reefs in this sprawling paradise.

The Bahamas is also a popular starting point for boats headed to a Caribbean Yacht Charter via the Thorny Path, an island-hopping route from Florida all the way to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.

The distance to sail between Florida and the Bahamas

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Depending on where you leave from and where you sail to, the distance varies from fifty nautical miles (nm) to about 100 nm. Those are distances to the westernmost ports, so may opt to sail a little further in before making landfall and clearing into the country. It’s not a long sail, but it is an offshore sail, and needs to be taken seriously.

Most departures to the Bahamas are between Port St. Lucie and Miami, and head to Grand Bahama (Freeport and Port Lucaya), Bimini, the Abacos, Nassau or the Andros. It’s not uncommon to clear into one of the more western islands before proceeding further into the archipelago.

Depending on the speed of your boat, where you leave from and where you’re headed, this trip can range from a few hours for fast power cruisers up to a full day and overnight for slower sailboats.

Use our Sailing Distance calculator

The best time of the year to sail from Florida to the Bahamas

catamaran from florida to bahamas

The winter months are the most popular time of year to sail to the Bahamas. Hurricane risks end in early November, and the winter is cooler with less rain. Though hurricanes are possible in the summer, the odds of getting caught in one are low, though you should always keep a sharp eye on the weather in season.

Bahamas Weather

Winter in the Bahamas is lovely, with average temperatures of 70-75ºF. The trade winds are almost constant, keeping away stifling heat in the summer months, where the temperature averages 80-85ºF. You should have a light jacket in case of a cool breezy evening in the winter months, but most days are light clothes weather.

Wind in the Bahamas

The trade winds dominate wind patterns in the Bahamas, and sailors can be guaranteed of near constant easterlies. In the winter, the trades tend more northeasterly, and in the summer they come more from the southeast. Average wind strengths are five to twenty knots most of the time.

What are the dangers of sailing from Florida to the Bahamas?

catamaran from florida to bahamas

The trip out to the Bahamas isn’t long, but it’s a sail across open, deep ocean with serious wind and currents. Storms are possible, and poor conditions can develop even on a brief trip. It’s important to pay close attention to wind and weather patterns, and pick a favorable window to cross. The Gulf Stream is the prime consideration for course routing and weather windows.

Negotiating the Gulf Stream

The Gulf Stream is a North-flowing current between the coast of Florida and the Bahamas. There is no way to avoid sailing through it. If you pick a good day, it’s just pretty water that pushes you off course. But if you pick poor wind conditions, it can be one of the worst ocean passages you’ll experience.

You’ll know you’re in the Gulf Stream by an increase in water temperature, and sometimes by a startling change in color to a deep, cobalt blue, and by wildlife. You’ll also start seeing sideslip on your GPS track.

Adjusting for Current

The average current across the Gulf Stream is about 3.5 knots (4 miles per hour), strongest in the center, and tapering off towards the boundaries. Off Florida, it may be thirty or forty miles across. For every hour you spend in the Gulf Stream, your boat will be swept 3.5 miles off course to the north. It’s critical to plot a course-to-steer route that accounts for the current, or you will end up sailing extra distance.

An aggressive “stay on course” navigation will ensure you arrive where you’re intending, but it will not be the fastest, most effective course to sail. This also works better for faster power boats. Current will sweep low sailboats much further north.

Do not cross with Northerly winds

When northerly winds blow into a southerly current (which flows to the north…), the result is waves. Big, steep waves. In the Gulf Stream, a day of hard breeze from the north can build up steep waves and truly nasty and dangerous conditions.

So check the weather, and if northerly winds are blowing over 15 knots, do not leave for a day or two .

Read also: What is a bareboat charter?

Hurricane risk isn’t null

Hurricane season runs from June through November in the north Atlantic, so any time you sail in that wind there is a slight chance of a hurricane developing while you are en route to the Bahamas or cruising the islands. The islands in the Bahamas are low-lying, with little protection and few good “hurricane holes” if a storm develops.

The chances of a hurricane strike are quite low, but you should be prepared. As you sail deeper into the islands, keep a plan of what you will do if a hurricane forms, and where you will go to avoid it or secure the boat to ride it out.

Even outside hurricane seasons, storms can sweep through the Bahamas and make the trip treacherous, so always mind the weather.

On this subject: Hurricane season in the BVI: what you should know

What yacht do you need to sail safely from Florida to the Bahamas?

catamaran from florida to bahamas

The sail across to the Bahamas is quite short, and with pleasant weather it’s a not a hard trip which many small boats have made. But the boat should be seaworthy with protection from ocean spray and waves. Low-sided or open boats with little freeboard are not good choices since they may swamp, so most “day boats” like small dinghies and skiffs are not safe.

Sailboats and catamarans should have some shelter and protection, and a place to store enough food and water for the trip. Powerboats need a reliable engine, and a hull designed for offshore waters. Remember, the smaller the boat, the longer the trip will be, so make sure you have plenty of supplies.

Read also: The 5 best sailing boats under 60 feet

A shallow draft is better for cruising much the Bahamas, because there are many flats and shallows. Sailboats with drafts over six feet may want to reconsider, and the lower the draft, the easier.

What are the common routes and starting points?

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Your choice of where to leave from affects where you want to sail, and it may be better to pick a better starting place by the destination. If you’re headed to Grand Bahama Island or the Abacos, a northern departure is better, but Bimini, Andros and Nassau most leave from further south.

Rather than sail a course from the north that takes you into the teeth of the Gulf Stream current and across the Little Bahama Bank, most choose to sail south along the coast to a departure point where they can wait for a weather window for the shortest time in the Gulf Stream.

Miami is the easiest jumping off point for Bimini and on to Andros or Nassau. The initial distance is short, less than fifty nautical miles, and can be an easy day trip for some.

Fort Lauderdale

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Only twenty miles north of Miami, Port Everglades is another popular jumping-off point for Bimini and beyond. It adds about five miles to the distance, making it over fifty nautical miles with a little more time in the Gulf Stream.

catamaran from florida to bahamas

If you’re headed to Grand Bahama, Palm Beach is a better starting point. It’s not quite seventy-five miles to Freeport, and a few miles past that to Port Lucaya. Palm Beach is about sixty miles north of Miami.

Stuart/Port St. Lucie

catamaran from florida to bahamas

The St. Lucie inlet is about as far north as you may want to start your way to the Bahamas. It’s closer to ninety nautical miles, but still a pleasant sail.

Clearing In and Formalities

When you enter the Bahamas, you’ll need to clear in with customs and immigration as soon as you arrive. Use their Click2Clear website to pre-register for a mandatory cruising permit, and contact Customs and Immigration at the port of entry where you arrive. Check the Noonsite country page for the Bahamas more details.

Chartering a yacht to sail the Bahamas

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Chartering a boat from the coast of Florida to sail to the Bahamas is a great opportunity for real sailing experience on an extended tropical vacation. Power and sail charters are available at any of the starting ports, though Miami to Bimini may be easiest for a first-timer.

Plan to spend at least a week on your charter, but the Bahamas are so expansive you’ll probably want more time. Make sure you leave enough time to wait for a weather window at the end. While there are worse places to be “stuck” waiting for a northerly wind to clear than the Bahamas, you don’t want pressure to sailing into something you shouldn’t.

For more details read the cost of chartering a yacht and the common pricelist for yacht charters in the Caribbean .

The Bahamas Loves Cruisers

the-bahamas-2

Cruisers love the Bahamas because you can sail there from the U.S. so easily, and because the islands are so wide and varied with so much to explore. The beauty is unsurpassed, and you can spend months hopping from island to island and port to port. But the people and government of the Bahamas also love you to come visit, and they make it an amazing boat destination. So plan your trip, pick your weather window, and head out!

Read also: Top 3 Luxury Yachts of the Week in the bahamas

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How to Charter a Private Boat to Bahamas From Florida

Maps of Bahams and Florida side by side.

Published July 26, 2022

The Bahamas is a go-to retreat for Floridians that want to have a little break. While most get to the archipelago by plane, it’s also possible to head there by sea. 

We strongly recommend that you charter a private boat to the Bahamas from Flordia. Doing so is much better than sharing a ferry with so many other people.

So how much does it cost to charter a boat from Florida to the Bahamas? Well, that depends on several factors like the season and what kind of vessel you will be chartering. 

Nevertheless, a chartered trip to the Bahamas often lasts a week so it’s safe to say you’ll be spending a few thousand bucks. 

The Seafari Powercat Ultrawide

Photos of the Seafari charter yacht.

Our main vessel is the Seafari Powercat Ultrawide . It’s a catamaran-type yacht that’s 42 ft. long and 22 ft. wide. As you can expect, it comes with loads of amenities to make sure that you have a trip of a lifetime. Examples of these amenities include refrigerators, freezers, wifi, basic fishing equipment, a deck shower, and a wireless sound system.

The Seafari can host up to twelve people, including the captain. It has three bedrooms that have three beds each. Also, the yacht has a shower so staying clean will not be a problem. Lastly, the Seafari is fairly new, being built in 2010, making it completely seaworthy and comfortable to ride.

Our Rates To The Bahamas

private boat to bahamas from florida 3

Boca Raton, Florida is roughly 193 miles from the Bahamas. As such, it’s not possible to get to the archipelago within a day. 

You’ll need to spend up to two days at sea and then another two days to get back to Florida. Of course, while docked, you and your friends would also like to experience the many tourist destinations within the Bahamas, which can take a day or two or maybe even three.

All in all, a proper chartered trip to the Bahamas with us will take a week . Hence, you shall have to coordinate with our management to create a special booking for the occasion.

How much will it cost you to charter the Seafari to the Bahamas for seven days? The answer to this question depends on the season among other factors. 

Needless to say, we normally charge $16,800 for a round trip to the archipelago. However, this does not include any extra expenses that you might find yourself having to pay.

If you think an excursion to the Bahamas may be a little too pricey, then we recommend that you consider our other packages. You see, we offer both daytime and nighttime cruises around the Florida coast. And yes, you can book the Seafari yacht for half a day or for the entire day.

The table below breaks down our current rates:

The Bottom Line

It’s admittedly quite pricey to charter a private boat to the Bahamas from Florida. However, we think that expenses are justified because you’ll be having a once-in-a-lifetime experience with your friends and family. 

Now if you’re ever in Boca Raton and want to have the trip of a lifetime, do not hesitate to get in touch with us . Remember that our team is there to meet all your yacht chartering needs.

We can discuss the arrangement we shall make so that you can have the most fun without spending too much. Remember that we at Seafari Yacht Charters strive to keep our prices competitive so that we can remain ahead of the many other chartering services in Florida.

(Related: Exploring the Gorgeous Pink Sand Beach in the Bahamas )

Experience Yacht Charters With Seafari In Boca Raton Florida

Looking for a great time on the water in Boca Raton Florida? Seafari Yacht Charters is number choice for yacht rentals in Boca Raton . Book our yachts for parties , exciting day trips to the Bahamas, romantic yacht dinner cruises , and much more. Come experience all South Florida has to offer with us.

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How to Charter a Private Boat to Bahamas From Florida

About The Author

Christian Cruz is passionate about yachting and South Florida life. As a professional blogger he has reached millions of people around the world with his work.

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photo of What Is The Best Boat For Cruising To The Bahamas?

What Is The Best Boat For Cruising To The Bahamas?

By Robert Bowman | Posted On Jun 06, 2023

There is nothing quite like crossing the Gulf Stream from Florida and catching the first glimpse of that striking iridescent turquoise water of the Bahamas. With the Resorts World in Bimini so popular and Walker's Cay Marina re-opened, heading to the islands by boat is not the worst idea in the world. In fact, the Bahamian government recently reported that tourists arriving in 2022 were up by 233% over the same period in 2021! There's no question that social media has played a big role in educating the world in the beauty of places like Rose Island that can only be reached by boat.

Whether you cruise south in the fall to spend the winter in the Bahamas or you're heading over from South Florida, selecting the right yacht for sale can make a world of difference. Opinions differ, but generally a boat for the Bahamas will perform the best if it draws 5-feet of water or less, which can limit some larger yachts and sailboats. If you're trying to determine what boat to buy for the islands, it's best to look at what actual boats are for sale on the market.

So what is the best boat for cruising the Bahamas? According to the type of boats listed for sale in the Bahamas, 43% are either catamarans or center-console boats. Each of these different types offer a shallow draft for safe navigation between islands and are easy to maneuver, making them the best boats for Bahamas cruising. With an average price of $535,382 there are plenty of options at both ends of the market depending on your budget. Not far behind, luxury yachts are the next most popular boat, but have an average asking price of over $7 million.

(Below: Youtube Channel 'Life By The Bow' offers tips on crossing from Florida to the Bahamas.)

While purchasing a boat in the Bahamas and taking possession of it there is an option, finding the right yacht for sale in Florida may make more sense. You can have it surveyed much more easily, complete any repairs with a certified technician, and the closing process will be smoother. That being said, the United Yacht Sales team has experts on staff to assist you every step of the way from the beginning of your search, to closing and taking delivery of your boat. If buying a boat and setting sail to the islands is part of your dream, let us help. Call our main office today at 1-772-463-3131 and we'll connect you with a professional, experienced yacht broker that knows the ins and outs of cruising the Bahamas.

Below are several options, in order by length, of boats we recommend for taking to the Bahamas to cruise, fish, snorkel, and explore the many uninhabited islands.

"PLOTO" - 1999 FOUNTAINE PAJOT 56 SAILING CATAMARAN

Fountaine Pajot sailing catamaran bahamas

With a draft of 4' 5", this Fountaine Pajot 56 is quite capable of cruising the Bahamas and will offer exceptional fuel efficiency. Accommodating up to 6 guests in 3 cabins, along with a beam over 26-feet, PLOTO has the space on board for multi-night vacations. This particular sailing catamaran is configured for single-handed sailing thanks to a self-furling main and self-tracking jib. PLOTO also has all of the comforts many cruisers desire including air-conditioning, water-maker, ice machine, sound system, and more.

Asking Price: $499,000

Location: Key West, Florida

Search More: Fountain Pajot Boats

"BLESSED" - 2021 AQUILA 54 POWER CATAMARAN

aquila power catamaran for bahamas

If you enjoy the advantages of cruising on a catamaran, but prefer your power source to be from diesel and not wind, look no further than a power catamaran . " BLESSED " is a 2021 Aquila 54 that is equipped for private ownership, but could easily be placed into a successful yacht charter program. This boat was the winner of the Multi-Hull Of The Year award in 2022 and has an island-friendly draft of 4' 6". You can cruise comfortably at 18-20 knots or put it in fuel-efficient mode which gives you a 957 nautical mile range at 7.8 knots.

Asking Price: $2,650,000

Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Search More: Aquila Boats

"JERSEY LILY" - 2013 BENETEAU 52 SWIFT TRAWLER

beneteau 52 swift trawler for bahamas

For those of you who desire a long-distance cruising boat that can be your home on the water for weeks at a time, this Beneteau 52 Swift Trawler checks a lot of important boxes. The draft on the Swift Trawler is less than 4 feet and the twin Volvo D9 575HP engines offer quiet, efficient performance. Even better, JERSEY LILY was re-fit in 2019 with updated upholstery, refrigeration, head systems, freshwater systems, and new electronics. 

Asking Price: $895,000

Location: Stuart, Florida

Search More: Beneteau Yachts

"HOT MIX" - 2012 CABO 44 HTX

cabo sportfish for the bahamas

If you're coming to the Bahamas to fish, which many of the visitors do, it's hard to beat the versatility of the Cabo 44 HTX. With a draft of 3' 7" and loaded with fishing features galore, HOT MIX is the sportfish you need to see. Notable features on this Cabo include Raymarine electronics, Triple Stidd helm seats, Zipwake Trim Tab Control, built-in livewell, and much more. The popular 2-cabin layout means you can bring your closest friends along for the ride.

Asking Price: $899,000

Location: Key Largo, Florida

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"REELIN N DEALIN" - 2021 HCB 42 LUJO

hcb  yachts in the bahamas

If you've ever been to Bimini on the weekend and strolled down to the marina, there's a good chance you'll see a handful of HCB Yachts tied up. REELIN N DEALIN is an excellent example of a 42 LUJO powered with triple Yamaha 425 XTO's and has a draft less than 3 feet. Capable of easily handing the normal 2-3 foot swells you encounter when crossing over, this is a great Bahamas boat to island hop and hunt big game.

Asking Price: $784,900

Location: Miami, Florida

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"KNOT APPROPRIATE" - 2017 LEOPARD 40

leopard sailing catamaran bahamas

With as popular as catamarans are in the islands, it made sense to include KNOT APPROPRIATE in our list of best boats for the Bahamas. A feature of the boat new to the catamaran industry is the doorway from the main salon to the foredeck. This allowed you to go from the stern to the foredeck without having to go around the sides of the boat. At first other manufacturers said it was a mistake but now every manufacturer is doing it. So put Roberson and Caine down for innovation and design along with sailing performance. 

Asking Price: $435,000

Location: Jacksonville, Florida

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"DIRTY NEST" - 2012 CONTENDER 39 ST

contender boats for bahamas

It's hard to beat a Contender center-console cruising in the Bahamas. DIRTY NEST is a newly listed 2012 Contender 39ST with brand new Mercury 400's. If you don't want it to take forever to sail your cat to the Exumas, a fast center-console might be right up your alley. Imagine cruising into the uninhabited islands from the vantage point of the Gap Tower, seeing the shadows of Tarpon cruising the flats. This boat has 4 live wells and new Garmin electronics for the serious anglers that want to fish the Bahamas.

Asking Price: $410,000

Location: Miami Beach, Florida

Search More: Contender Boats

All of the featured boats above can be easily delivered to you on the east coast of Florida where you can provision, fuel, and set sail for your Bahamas adventure. Remember, the key things you need in the perfect Bahamas boat are a shallow draft, good visibility, good storage, and air-conditioning certainly helps. But whether you choose power or sail, fast or fuel efficient, cruising-oriented or hardcore fishing, it's entirely up to your boating plans. The United Yacht Sales team is here to assist you in your search for the perfect boat to go to the Bahamas. If you already own a boat and want to see what it's worth in today's market, please use our What's My Boat Worth form and our team will get back to you with a market evaluation.

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My Cruiser Life Magazine

Sailing From Florida to The Bahamas [GUIDE] for #BoatLife

There are very few places on earth as beautiful as The Bahamas. This archipelago of more than 700 islands starts off of Florida and stretches across the southwestern Atlantic, almost to the northern parts of the Caribbean. The islands are world-renown for their stunning gin-clear waters, friendly locals, and laid-back island style. 

If you dream of sipping rum punches on the beach or watching starfish crawl along the sandy bottom from the deck of your boat, The Bahamas are the place to go. Most vessels start their Bahamian adventure from Florida. So let’s dive into those gin-clear waters and take a look at what a trip would look like and what you could expect.

Table of Contents

What and where are the bahamas, destinations within the bahamas, when should you sail to the bahamas, crossing the gulf stream, what kinds of boats can go to the bahamas, north crossings, south crossings, bahamas customs and immigration requirements, final thoughts.

Sailing From Florida to The Bahamas_Where you make it

The Bahamas , or more properly The Islands of The Bahamas, is a sovereign nation made up of over 700 islands and smaller cays (pronounced “keys”). Only a handful of these islands are inhabited. The islands stretch for more than 500 miles from just off of the coast of Florida until they almost touch Hispaniola. 

The Bahamas were a British Crown Colony until 1973. The country is now an independently-governed Overseas Commonwealth. 

Unlike the mountainous Caribbean nations farther south, The Bahamas are low-lying coral islands and cays with very little topography. There are many shallow sea areas, known as the Banks, which are separated by deep stretches of open ocean. Navigating between the islands involves playing the weather carefully and navigating both shallow coral-strewn waters and deep bluewater passages. 

The country is divided up into distinctly different cruising areas for boaters. Each separate island group within The Bahamas has its own attractions. In the country’s center is New Providence Island, home to the nation’s capital—Nassau. Every island that is away from Nassau is referred to as an “Out Island.” Some also call them the “Family Islands,” since often, workers in Nassau will come from these islands and have family back there. 

Organized roughly from north to south—

  • Grand Bahama Island and the city of Freeport
  • The Berry Islands
  • The Bimini Islands
  • New Providence Island, Paradise Island, and the city of Nassau
  • The Exumas and Great Exuma Island 
  • Long Island
  • Rum, Conception, and San Salvador Islands
  • The Ragged Islands
  • Acklins and Crooked Islands
  • Mayaguana and Inagua Islands

Of these island groups, the two most popular destinations for US boaters are the Abacos and the Exumas. Of course, the other islands hold special appeals too, but it’s the Abacos and Exumas that keep visitors flocking back year after year. These are the spots constantly featured in magazines and discussed in detail during many dockside cocktail hours.

It’s also worth noting that The Bahamas lie along what is known amongst sailors as “The Thorny Path.” This is a route to the eastern Caribbean that can be made with a minimum of long passages. If you play the weather right and want to make the journey with as little time “offshore” as possible, you can island-hop your way from Florida to Grenada with only a handful of overnights at sea. 

Picking the time of year you want to sail The Bahamas should be first and foremost on your mind. The primary boating season for the country is from December through May, which coincides both with the coldest winter months up north and the months with nearly no tropical storm or hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin. 

During this time of year, the weather is much like Florida. The average daytime temperatures in the northern Bahamas seldom get below 70, but the occasional cold front can bring a brief blast of cold air. 

These cold fronts are the primary weather event during the winter months that boaters need to be aware of. They bring with them the potential for short-lived albeit strong thunderstorms and a few days of strong northerly winds. Luckily, cold fronts are forecast well in advance.

June 1st through November 31st is officially hurricane season in the western Atlantic, a fact that you cannot ignore if traveling to the islands. The Bahamas are precisely located within the hurricane danger zone, and if you find yourself in this zone during this time of year, you will need to take special precautions. 

It is still busy with American vessels during hurricane season. But during these summer months, most visitors arrive by fast-moving powerboat or yacht from Florida. If a storm pops up, they know that they can be back in Florida in one or two days and safely back in their home slip.

The problem with being in The Bahamas during the summer months for slower vessels is that there is no safe harbor available. There are a few hurricane holes, and marinas tucked “inland.” But in a nation where the largest islands are only a few miles across, “inland” provides scant protection. 

Sailing From Florida to The Bahamas_Where you make it

The biggest challenge in crossing to The Bahamas from anywhere in the United States is the mighty Gulf Stream current. The Gulf Stream is one of the world’s great ocean currents. It transports warm waters heated by the Caribbean sun northbound along the east coast of the US, between Florida and the Bahamas, before hooking east and heading for the United Kingdom. 

The Gulf Stream moves as fast as three knots in some places off of the Florida coast. This has two effects for boaters. Firstly, it can create some horrid sea conditions. Off of Florida, where the current sets northbound, any wind blowing out of the north will build up a steep nasty chop. Sea conditions can quickly become dangerous for many vessels and uncomfortable for all vessels. 

Secondly, the north-setting current means that slow-moving boats will need to make a strategic plan for their crossing. Much like crossing a 50-mile-wide river, the speed of the current is not uniform for the entire trip. Therefore, you must take the average current into account, and a correction to your desired course should be applied early in the trip. GPS makes planning these trips more straightforward, although the more planning you do in advance, the better you will do. 

The Gulf Stream is not unlike any other body of water—it has the potential to be gnarly on bad days. But it can be as calm as a millpond on a good day. Weather planning and interpretations are vital parts of cruising The Bahamas, not just for the Gulf Stream crossing but for your enjoyment of cruising the islands overall. 

The limiting factor of what sort of boats can go to The Bahamas is the weather for the crossing. On calm days, jet skis have successfully crossed from Florida and back again. Many open fishing boats and smaller vessels cross and stay in resorts and hotels on the islands.

But most people who go want to cross in a cruising vessel and live aboard while cruising in remote areas far removed from resorts. Indeed, this is the ideal way to travel to these islands. The locals welcome visiting yachts regularly, and there are enough places to stay and explore that you can be kept occupied for many seasons. 

Both sail and powerboats routinely make the trip. While the trip requires crossing some very deep “blue water,” these passages are usually 50 miles or less. So with the right weather, even coastal cruisers can make the trip safely. 

Full-service marinas, diesel, and gas are available in many locations as you work your way east and south. However, once beyond George Town on Great Exuma, marinas and fuel options become much more limited. As a result, motor vessels usually turn around at George Town, although plenty can continue to the Caribbean if they can carry enough fuel. 

Best Routes to Get to The Bahamas From Florida

Sailing From Florida to The Bahamas_Where you make it

Most cruisers take their Bahamian adventure in short hops between weather systems. This provides the opportunity to minimize long passages and break up the longest parts of the trip. 

The two most common landfall points for arrival into the islands from Florida are Freeport on Grand Bahama Island and Bimini. Grand Bahama is a good entry point for cruisers bound for the Abacos, while Bimini lies along the best route to get to the Exumas. 

Remember that the north-setting Gulf Stream lies between Florida and these points. If a slow boat is headed east across the Gulf Stream, the farther south they start their journey, the better. If a six-knot boat leaves Fort Piece and heads southeast towards the islands, more or less directly into the Gulf Stream, their speed over the ground could fall to as little as three knots. No one wants to putter across the Gulf Stream at three knots. Go-fast powerboats seldom care, but sailors will want to plan carefully.

The prevailing winds in this part of the world are from the east or southeast, making finding a day when the winds are not directly on the nose tricky. Many boats hole-up in West Palm, Lauderdale, and Miami waiting for a “weather window” to cross. As a result, you’ll rarely be alone when you decide to cross the Gulf Stream.

Common departure points include the Fort Pierce, St. Lucie, and Lake Worth (West Palm Beach) Inlets. These routes from Lake Worth to West End, Grand Bahama, is approximately 55 nautical miles. 

In a slow sailboat, this trip will take about nine hours. In a fast trawler, it will be closer four. 

From the Old Bahama Bay Resort in West End, you can head northeast across the Little Bahama Bank to the Abaco cays. This is one of the most popular cruising areas in The Bahamas. In the protected and shallow Sea of Abaco, you can hop your way between great cruising ports like Green Turtle Cay, Man-o-War Cay, Hope Town on Elbow Cay, and Treasure Cay.

Most people will take two days to get from West End to Green Turtle Cay in the Abacos, a journey of about 100 nautical miles.

Common departure points include Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), Miami, or the upper Florida Keys. Miami to Bimini is approximately 48 nautical miles, while Miami northeast to West End, Grand Bahama is approximately 85 nautical miles.

For the shorter leg, this trip would take a little more than eight hours in a typical six-knot sailboat. A 15-knot fast-trawler could do it in four or so, while a fast speed boat could do it in three or less. 

The logical route east into the islands crosses the Great Bahama Bank to the Berry Islands from Bimini. You can then cross the Northeast Providence Channel to arrive in Nassau, Eleuthera, or cross the Bank again to come into the northern Exuma Cays. 

The crossing from Bimini to the Exumas can be divided up in many ways. It’s about 150 miles to the great cruising that starts around Highbourne Cay in the Exumas. But, of course, there are plenty of places you could stop for a night or a week, depending on how much you liked it.

These stop-over points on the way to the cruising ground are not entirely arbitrary. All inbound vessels must clear both customs and immigration upon arrival, and both West End and Bimini have facilities for doing just that. 

Your first stop in The Bahamas must be at a port of entry. You cannot even land at an uninhabited sandbar until you have “cleared in.” The customs fees for entering The Bahamas range from $300 to over $2,000, depending on the length of your stay and your boat’s size.

There are many other ways to plan your trip and many other ports of entry that you could use. A complete list is available on the Bahamas boater information page .

There is plenty to learn and some challenges to overcome if you decide to sail from Florida to The Bahamas, but it’s all well worth the effort. The waters in the islands are clearer, the beaches more secluded and private, and the rum drinks are tastier and stronger. Basically, The Bahamas represent everything people who buy boats dream of—they are the place in the sunset that you want to sail away to. Interested in liveaboard marinas in Florida , visit our guide!

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

Florida to Bahamas Boating Guide.

Florida to Bahamas Boating Guide: Everything You Need to Know

catamaran from florida to bahamas

Table of Contents

If you’ve dreamed about a quick one-day trip to the Bahamas, then peer-to-peer (P2P) boat rental might be exactly what you’re looking for.

The Bahamas is a tropical paradise begging to be explored by boat. And from the east coast of Florida, the Bahamas is just 50 miles away. How could you not book a boat rental and cruise on down?

The 600-mile archipelago is made up of over 2,400 islands. That said, The Bahamas isn’t really one destination but rather many smaller groups of islands— the Abacos, Exumas, Berry Islands, Bimini , and more. In this post is everything you need to know for your Florida to Bahamas boat trip.

Best locations to launch from

Best boat type for a florida to bahamas boat trip, best time of year to go to the bahamas.

  • Island highlights & boat trip tips

Discover South Florida boat rentals for your Bahamas trip

If you’re looking to make a trip from the US to the Bahamas by boat, it should come as no surprise the best state to do that from is Florida, given its proximity to the Caribbean. From there, the best jumping-off points are:

  • Fort Lauderdale
  • West Palm Beach

Boating in The Bahamas.

Powerboats can cover the distance to the closest island of Bimini in two hours but the slower the boat, like sailboats , the more planning it takes to cross the Gulf Stream which can be either benign or seriously lumpy and unpleasant.

Make sure you have a weather window before setting out because when the wind from the north meets the current flowing from the south, conditions can be rough. Also, most of the Bahamian waters are quite shallow and full of coral heads so shallow draft boats are your best bet.

The best time of year to visit the Bahamas is mid-December to mid-April. Remember that during hurricane season (June to November), there are no places in the Bahamas to hide from big winds. We strongly recommend planning your boating trip for the December to April window.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to kick back and relax, browse for boat rentals with captains . All captains on the Boatsetter Captain Network are USCG-certified.

Sailing in The Bahamas.

Island highlights

Many people cross to Bimini, rest, and then decide whether to go north to the Sea of Abaco or south to the Berry Islands and Exumas. The Abacos are a compact cruising destination protected from the wrath of the Atlantic Ocean by their outer island structure. They form a sort of saltwater lake where some cruisers hang out nearly the entire winter.

Little Harbor in the south is protected on nearly all sides and is a great place to explore caves or watch jumping rays and surfacing turtles. Farther north is Hope Town with its striped lighthouse and then Man-O-War Cay with a shallow harbor bordered by mangroves. Green Turtle Cay is home to the iconic Dollar Bar and is about as far north as most boaters venture when staying in the Abacos.

A larger territory is to the south in the Exuma Cays, a 37-mile crescent of nearly 400 isles. The Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park is a great place to snorkel, as are the many sunken airplanes left over from what used to be a busy drug trade in the 1980s.

About 80 miles southeast of the jumping-off point of Nassau is Big Major Cay, with pigs that swim up to your dinghy begging for treats. Thunderball Grotto nearby is a cave you can swim into but be sure to visit in the morning or the late afternoon to skip the crowds.

Boat trip tips

Exuma, Bahamas aerial.

Have an accurate and current weather forecast before setting out. Mild southerly winds minimize the Gulf Stream waves, while a strong, cold northerly front will make the crossing miserable. Always make sure to check for a weather condition known as “The Rage.” This phenomenon is when large swells from the Atlantic Ocean enter the Abacos waters, making everything uncomfortable.

Have the latest charting software in your plotter, but remember that markers and buoys often shift and may not be on station, and keel -grabbing sandbars move continuously. Keep an eye on your depth sounder at all times – these waters are skinny.

When entering a cove or harbor, do so with the sun high in the sky to provide color contrasts that indicate shallows. Have a good pair of eyes scoping the water ahead for coral heads that aren’t charted.

Carry an anchor in your dinghy when snorkeling, and stock up on sunscreen and rash guards because the sun here is unrelenting.

Connectivity is sketchy in the out islands, and WiFi is hard to come by, so either carry a satellite communicator or just be ready to unplug. Most islands are pretty mellow without a lot of nightlife except during festivals and events like junkanoos and regattas.

The bone fishing and snorkeling in the Bahamas are amazing, so bring your gear and your camera because these islands offer some of the most spectacular blue waters anywhere in the world.

Boatsetter is a unique boat-sharing platform that gives everyone— whether you own a boat or you’re just renting — the chance to experience life on the water. You can list a boat , book a boat , or make money as a captain .

Rent, Charter, Share— Only at Boatsetter

Zuzana-Prochazka

Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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  • Day Trip | Depart Ft Lauderdale 8am, Return 9pm
  • One-Way | Depart Ft Lauderdale to Grand Bahama (Enter same date in both date fields below)
  • One-Way | Depart Grand Bahama to Ft Lauderdale (Enter same date in both date fields below)
  • No (You may reschedule your travel dates, without penalty.)
  • Yes (You may cancel at least 48 hours in advance & receive a refund of the ticket price.)

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  Package Description

The Bahamas Ferry Express, High-Speed Ferry Service | The new Bahamas Fast Ferry departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and arrives in the Bahamas in a few hours

Fast Ferry Regular Schedule (SUBJECT TO CHANGE. REVIEW YOUR TICKET FOR DEPARTURE TIMES)

  • Fast Ferry departs Port Everglades at 9:00 am (check-in begins 3 hours prior to departure & ends 1 hour before departure)
  • Fast Ferry arrives in Freeport, Bahamas at 11:30 pm on same day (1:30 pm on Wednesdays / check your ticket for your arrival time) 
  • Fast Ferry departs Freeport, Bahamas  at 5:00 pm or 6:30 pm (check your tickets for your departure time)
  • Fast Ferry arrives Fort Lauderdale, FL at 9:30 pm on same day (check your tickets for your arrival time)

Balearia Caribbean launches the new Jaume II high-speed ferry with service to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island. The Jaume II has a capacity of 600 passengers and features both economy and economy premium class, cafe, bar, lounge areas, arcade as well many other features never before included on a traditional ferry service. Plus, it's on sale right now! Book the fast ferry with any Grand Bahama Island resort and save even more. Book online now or call (800) 991-0623 and speak with a travel specialist.

Jaume II Technical details

  • Length:   81 meters
  • People:   600
  • Beam:   26 meters
  • Vehicles:   140 
  • Speed:   35 knots

  

Bahamas Fast Ferry General Schedule - Departs & returns on dates listed below (Subject to change)  

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Each adult passenger is allowed one carry-on item (free of charge). Maximum dimensions for a carry-on item is 22 inches x 18 inches x 10 inches (length x width x height), with a maximum weight of 26.5 lbs. / 12 kgs. Additional luggage or luggage exceeding these dimensions and weight will be checked at the cost of $25.00 USD per bag, each way.  Oversized items, such as golf clubs, scuba gear, bicycles, etc. can incur a surcharge of $50 each way, depending on weight and size.

*U.S. Customs recently changed the passport requirements for U.S. citizens. All U.S. citizens, as well as passengers from other countries must have a valid passport to travel. U.S. citizens may also use a valid passport card. Birth Certificates will no longer be accepted.

**Rates may be higher during peak season periods, based on availability, class of seating and other factors. Port taxes, Bahamas departure fees and service fees will be added to your final rate before check-out.

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  Cancellation Policy

All cancellations made 6 days or less prior to departure: 100% Penalty / 0% Account Credit / No Direct Refund Available All cancellations made 30-7 days prior to departure: 50% Penalty / 50% Account Credit / No Direct Refund Available All cancellations made 31 days or more prior to departure: 25% Penalty / 75% Account Credit / No Direct Refund Available Any account credit balance may be used towards a future booking within 12 months of the date of your initial booking or transfered to another traveler when traveling in groups of 10 or more. All confirmed flights are non-refundable & subject to all rules of the carrier. The carrier may or may not issue a partial credit for booking a future flight. Contact the carrier for more information. Changes made to confirmed cruise reservations at any time will be assessed a $50.00 fee per person/change. Travel insurance is highly recommended and available upon request. In most cases, travel insurance covers 100% of your package price should you need to cancel a confirmed reservations for a covered reason and as long as you meet the qualifications and terms of the insurance policy.

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Very convenient and comfortable!!

Posted by Kevin on Feb 24th 2020

Cindy at go Bahamas was awesome!!! She help me through the process of booking the ferry as well as filling us in on any information we needed seeing how this was our first time. She is very very knowledgeable and helpful!! The ferry was clean! The people working the ferry were very very friendly and the seats were very comfortable! I highly recommend this way of transportation to the Bahamas and definitely call Cindy!

A Comfortable Ride

Posted by Latasha Leslie Dotson on Oct 15th 2018

I was pleasantly surprised by the ferry ride from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport, Bahamas. All of the chairs were comfortable and fairly spacious. I sat by the window both times and enjoyed the scenery. The ride was super smooth... although I had vertigo for almost 2 weeks when I got back home. I think that it was a mixture of boat rides and plane rides back to back. The drinks at the bar are expensive. The food choices were not that great either. I didn't pay extra to go to the VIP section on the 2nd floor. They boarded first and exited first which looked nice. I also noticed that the day travelers go to exit before my group, which were the extended stay group. This meant that we were at the end of the customs line, which was irritating, but the line actually moved fairly quickly and we were out of there in about 30 minutes.

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Cruising Sea

Sailing from Florida to Bahamas – Cross the Ocean!

Florida is a beautiful region of the United States which is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico, by the Atlantic Ocean, and by the Straits of Florida.

Florida is a very popular destination and attracts plenty of travelers from all over the world due to its beautiful subtropical climate all year round, warm, clear blue water, and incredible white sandy beaches, which are the main attractions.

The Bahamas is an archipelago of two thousand beautiful islands with plenty of stunning coral reefs located in the Atlantic Ocean, which means not far from Florida!

Table of Contents

Not so far!

The distance from Florida to the Bahamas is only 313 miles, which allows you to sail on the Atlantic Ocean among these beautiful regions. Sailing from Florida to the Bahamas means that you have to cross the open ocean and sail in many areas made of coral reefs, so make sure to organize your trip well.

Why a large boat?

The size of the ship has a critical role, and for this kind of trip, it is preferable to pick a reasonably large sailboat. That way, you will have enough places to carry all your needs and equipment. For example, a catamaran is a great option due to its stability, fast speed, comfort, and social spaces.

CATAMARAN

Sail safely

There are important details to take into consideration to have a safe and unforgettable sailing vacation.

Here are some advice that will help you organize your fleet trip.

  • Always check the weather before and while you’re sailing (crucial)
  • Fill your cupboard with food and plenty of water.
  • Take in extra fuel.
  • Bring with you flares for visual signals and navigation lights.
  • Appropriate Clothes depending on the weather.
  • Life jackets.
  • Equipment for scuba diving and fishing.
  • Proper equipment for anchoring (Anchor, chain, or riding, depending on the boat weight).
  • You’ll need a radio and a GPS.

It’s time to sail!

Once you have organized everything, then you can start your trip from Miami or Fort Lauderdale, and sail up to Chub Cay, there you can anchor in the marina and unwind on this beautiful island.

rsz_fort_lauderdale

After Chub Cay you can sail to the Exumas, which is a very popular spot for yachting, and diving. Don’t miss to explore the protected Exumas National Land and the Sea Park of the Bahamas National.

EXUMAS

Continue sailing to the Abacos Islands, it’s a beautiful place to explore and to practice all kinds of water sport There are many places to visit on this beautiful island, such as the Abacos National Park, the Pelican Cays, Black sound Cays, Tilloo Cay National Reserve, Fowl Cays National Reserve, and the Walker’s Cay National Park, as well as bars, restaurants, shops, and ancient ruins.

Abaco_Islands_Lighthouse_view_9

Your next destination is Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, and the largest city of the Bahamas Once you have anchored in Nassau, have a walk in this lovely town to explore beautiful monuments, pirate museum, the famous parliament building, the Fort Fincastle, and the paradise island.

Nassau

Crossing the Atlantic Ocean and discover plenty of beautiful deserted islands surrounded by spectacular coral reefs will make your sailing trip an incredible experience and will make your dream come true.

Have you sailed from Florida to the Bahamas? Please feel free to share your wonderful experiences with us by leaving a comment below

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Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

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    100ft+ yacht that charters for $50,000 a week ($7,142 a day) Cruises 16knts @ 120gph fuel burn. 10hrs (each way) x 2 = 20hrs. 20hrs x120gph = 2,400gal. 2,400gal x $3.50gal (est.) = $8,400. Lose two days of time traveling open ocean that could be spent in the Abacos or Exumas - $7,142 a day x 2 =$14,284. $5,000 Repo fee (est.)

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