Bimini Ferry

Question

What company do you recommend to ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini, Bahamas? Anything else to know or do while there?

Answer

Great question! There are a couple of solid ferry options from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades) to Bimini, plus some tips for what to do once you arrive.

Ferry Companies to Consider

Baleària Caribbean — This is the main high-speed ferry operator for the Fort Lauderdale ↔ Bimini route. Their “Jaume II” fast ferry takes about 2 hours.
- Departure from Fort Lauderdale: Port Everglades, Terminal 21.
- Onboard amenities: air-conditioned seating, bar/café, duty-free shop, entertainment system, and luggage included.
- Approximate one-way fare: Starting around $181+ per person.
- Booking: Because it's a popular route, it’s best to book in advance—especially for day trips.
BahamaShuttleBoat.com / Bimini Shuttle Boat — Another option for fast ferry service from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini.
- They advertise “super-fast” 30-knot speed.
- Day-trip prices: Around $155+ for a one-day round trip, depending on promotions.
- They depart from Port Everglades.

Things to Know / Tips for Your Trip

Travel Documents: A valid passport is required to travel to the Bahamas via ferry.
Timing: Arrive at the terminal early to allow time for check-in, customs, and boarding.
Seasickness & Weather: The ride is usually about 2 hours but can be rough when the Gulf Stream is choppy. Some passengers on Reddit recommend taking seasickness meds just in case.
Return Options: Both Baleària and the shuttle offer same-day return options, making Bimini a realistic day-trip destination.
On Bimini:
- Visit Alice Town for shops, island culture, and local food.
- Explore the beaches — calm, clear waters make it perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
- Consider renting a golf cart — it’s a popular way to get around the island.
- If you enjoy history, check out Dolphin House (a quirky artist’s home) or the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

Recommendation: For reliability and comfort, Baleària Caribbean is probably your best bet. If you’re looking for a slightly more adventurous (or less conventional) option, BahamaShuttleBoat could work if their schedule lines up with your plans.

Enjoy your trip — Bimini is a beautiful getaway with just enough island charm and accessibility from Fort Lauderdale!