Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer

A Day Trip to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale: What You Need to Know

When you think of a quick escape to the Bahamas, a day trip to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale might just be your best bet. For $289 per person, you get around 11 hours of travel and island fun, including a round-trip boat ride that promises sea views and a taste of island life. The journey is roughly 49 miles (79 km), which for a high-speed ferry feels like a swift glide across the water. You land on Bimini—a small, lush island—where you can lounge on the beach or explore the local sights.

Two things we particularly like about this tour: first, the scenic boat ride offers an exhilarating sense of adventure, with ocean vistas that beat any airport or bus ride. Second, the inclusion of Miami hotel pickup makes the logistics smoother, especially for those staying in the area. Still, be aware that passengers report some issues with scheduling and on-island amenities, so managing expectations is key.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a quick, scenic getaway who don’t mind a long day and some logistical quirks. If you’re curious about the Bahamas, love the idea of beach time and watersports, but want to keep costs reasonable, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride provides ocean views and a feeling of adventure.
• Convenient Miami pickup makes logistics easier for local travelers.
• Six hours on Bimini allows for plenty of beach, water sports, or resort exploration.
• Optional activities like snorkeling and jet skis are available but at extra cost.
• Long day (about 11 hours) including travel, with some reviews mentioning long waits at immigration.
• Cost includes transportation, landing fees, and island transfers, but not on-island food or resort passes.

Getting to Know the Bimini Day Cruise

This tour strikes a balance between adventure and relaxation, designed for those who want a taste of the Bahamas without the expense or hassle of an overnight stay. From the start, you’ll meet at Port Everglades or be picked up from Miami-area hotels, with a departure time as early as 5:00 am. That means an early start, but it’s a small price to pay for what’s essentially your all-in-one day in paradise.

The journey itself is a highlight. As you speed across the water, you’ll love the views of Miami Beach and the open sea, feeling a bit like a jet-setter heading to an exclusive tropical hideaway. The boat ride is fast and smooth, but some reviews mention that the boat can rock quite a bit, and if you’re prone to seasickness, you might want to bring meds.

Once you arrive on Bimini, your time is flexible—about six hours—which is enough for beach lounging, swimming, snorkeling, or just soaking up the sun. The Hilton Beach Club is the focal point, offering the chance to relax on soft sands or try water sports like jet skiing or parasailing, at your own expense. You can also opt for a resort pass to access all amenities, but keep in mind that the island is quite laid-back, with limited open establishments, especially if a cruise ship like Virgin docks, as some reviews mention.

Detailed Itinerary and What to Expect

Departure and Travel

Your day kicks off early at Port Everglades or via hotel pickup, with a 5:00 am departure time being typical. The early start is necessary because the boat ride is 49 miles across open water—an adventure in itself. The ferry ride lasts about 2 to 3 hours, depending on conditions, and offers plenty of ocean views that many travelers find thrilling.

Passengers have noted that boarding can be cumbersome, with multiple checks and security procedures, but once on board, the atmosphere is generally comfortable. The crew is described as alert and caring, making sure everyone’s needs are met throughout the journey. Be prepared for some vibrations and rocking—a common feature on high-speed ferries—and if you’re sensitive, plan accordingly.

On Arrival at Bimini

Once you arrive, you are greeted with breathtaking beaches and a small resort environment. The Hilton Beach Club offers facilities and amenities, and you can purchase a full-day pass if you’d like access to everything the resort has to offer. Some reviews mention that food and drinks on the boat and island are expensive, so bringing some snacks or drinks might be wise.

You’ll have about six hours to enjoy the island. Many visitors spend their time sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling. If you’re interested in water sports like jet skis or parasailing, they’re available for additional fees. Some travelers suggest renting a golf cart to explore the island, which is highly recommended since many shops or sights might be far apart.

Exploring Bimini

While some find the resort quiet and relaxing, others mention that much of the island is deserted or not open—especially if a Virgin cruise is docked, which can block beach access. As one reviewer noted, “The resort is dead and nothing is open hardly,” so plan your expectations accordingly.

For those interested in local culture or history, Bimini offers some points of interest, and a free shuttle can take you around the resort area. If you want to tour the island, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and know that on-island activities are optional and at your expense.

Return Journey

As the day winds down, you’ll board the ferry back to Florida, usually around sunset or early evening. The return trip takes a similar amount of time, with some travelers describing the return sail as smooth but noting that the ferry rocks constantly, which might be uncomfortable for some.

Immigration checks can be a lengthy process, with reviews noting wait times of over two hours at customs, which can be frustrating. The boat ride back offers an opportunity to reflect on your mini-escape to paradise, despite the long day.

Pros and Cons Based on Real Experiences

What travelers love:
– The scenic, fast boat ride offers great ocean views and a sense of adventure.
– The beach at Bimini is described as beautiful, with fine sand and warm water.
– Many appreciate the good communication and attentive crew.
– The chance to visit the Bahamas without overnight planning or high costs.

What could be better:
– Some reviews mention long waits at immigration, which can extend the day unnecessarily.
– The limited amenities on the island mean that most shops or food options are either closed or expensive.
– Boat rocking and seasickness are concerns for sensitive travelers.
– Not all beach access is guaranteed, especially if a Virgin cruise is docked, which can restrict access to the beach.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip makes the most sense if you’re looking for a quick, scenic escape and are comfortable with a long day of travel. It’s ideal for beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to see the Bahamas without committing to an overnight stay. If you’re prepared for some logistical bumps—like potential waits at immigration or limited on-island amenities—this trip offers a cost-effective way to enjoy a taste of island life.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer luxurious, all-inclusive experiences, or those who might be sensitive to seasickness or long waits. Also, if your priority is beach access, it’s wise to check if a Virgin cruise is in port to avoid surprises with beach entry restrictions.

The Sum Up

The Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale offers a quick, scenic, and affordable way to visit the Bahamas. With breathtaking views on the ferry ride and a beautiful beach waiting on Bimini, it’s a tempting option for those eager for a taste of island life without the hassle of overnight travel. The Miami pickup adds a touch of convenience, making it easier to fit into a busy schedule.

However, long waits at immigration, costs for extras, and limited amenities on the island are worth considering before booking. Still, the experience of crossing the Atlantic in a high-speed boat and relaxing on one of the world’s most inviting beaches is hard to beat for a day trip.

This tour suits travelers who value scenic journeys and island relaxation, and who are prepared for a long day. If you’re looking for a cost-effective, adventure-filled way to see the Bahamas, this trip might just be perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is available from Miami hotels, but not from hotels outside the Miami area.

How early do I need to be at the meeting point?
The typical start time is around 5:00 am, so expect an early morning departure.

How long is the boat ride to Bimini?
The boat travels about 49 miles (79 km), usually taking around 2 to 3 hours each way.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, landing and facility fees, and ground transfers at Resorts World Bimini.

Are there on-board food and drinks?
Yes, food and drinks are available for purchase on the boat, but they can be expensive.

Can I do water sports or explore on my own?
Yes, water sports are available on the island at your own expense, and there’s a free shuttle service around the resort.

Is beach access guaranteed?
Not always—if a Virgin cruise is docked, beach access may be restricted, which some travelers note can be disappointing.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, some snacks or drinks if you prefer, sunscreen, and perhaps motion sickness medication if needed.

What about long waits at immigration?
Some reviews mention waits exceeding two hours, so plan accordingly. It’s part of the process, but it can extend your day more than expected.

All in all, this trip offers a fun, scenic, and practical way to enjoy a slice of the Bahamas, especially if you are short on time but still craving beach and ocean.