From Fort Lauderdale: Day Trip to Bimini

From Fort Lauderdale: Day Trip to Bimini offers a chance to experience a slice of the Bahamas without the hassle of an overnight stay. For $260 per person, you get an 18-hour adventure that includes a two-hour ferry ride, about six hours on the island, and a variety of activities and sights to enjoy. Whether you’re craving sunbathing on pristine beaches, exploring local shops, or sampling Bahamian cuisine, this trip has something for most travelers seeking a quick Caribbean getaway.

We particularly like how smoothly the ferry operates—it’s modern, comfortable, and capable of transporting up to 600 people at a time. The fact that you can purchase a full bar and browse a duty-free gift shop onboard adds a touch of luxury to what might otherwise be seen as just a day at sea. The leisurely six hours in Bimini allow enough time to explore, relax, or indulge in optional activities like swimming with dolphins or renting a golf cart.

One thing to consider is that the free time is limited—about six hours—and some shops or attractions might not be open during your visit, as some reviews mention. There’s no included hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point. Still, this trip suits travelers eager for a quick, authentic taste of the Bahamas without the expense or time commitment of an overnight stay.

This trip is best for those who want a straightforward, well-organized day in the sun, and who enjoy a blend of natural beauty, light adventure, and local culture. It’s ideal if you’re curious about the Bahamas, enjoy beach days, or simply want to add a tropical twist to your Florida vacation.

Key Points

Convenient ferry transfer from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini in just 2 hours.
Leisurely six hours on the island to explore, swim, or relax.
Comfortable transportation onboard with options for full bar and duty-free shopping.
Optional Day Pass to Resort World Bimini for $30, providing access to amenities.
No hotel pickup, so plan your arrival at the departure point.
Short and flexible trip, perfect for a quick escape or day trip.

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Exploring the Day Trip to Bimini: An In-Depth Look

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The Journey Begins: Comfortable and Efficient Ferry Service

The heart of this experience lies in the ferry ride. Departing from Fort Lauderdale, you step aboard a modern vessel that can hold up to 600 passengers. The boat is described as “smooth and comfortable,” making the roughly two-hour crossing feel more like a relaxing cruise than a cramped transit. You can settle into your seat, order a drink from the full bar, or browse duty-free shops, which adds a touch of luxury to the trip.

The ferry’s capacity means it can accommodate most group sizes, helping to keep the atmosphere lively yet manageable. The ride is a practical way to get to the Bahamas quickly while enjoying scenic water views and the anticipation of reaching a tropical paradise.

Arrival in Bimini: What to Expect on the Island

Once you arrive, the leisurely six hours are yours to enjoy. The reviews highlight that travelers find the time to be just right for a taste of Bimini’s charms. Some choose to rent golf carts (a recommendation from one reviewer) to explore the island more freely. Others prefer to relax on the beach—water clarity and stunning views are frequently praised.

The island offers a variety of options: local eateries serving authentic Bahamian food, beach chairs and umbrellas provided for free, and shopping opportunities like the Straw Market. Several reviews mention spontaneous adventures like discovering shipwrecks, observing rays, or simply basking in the sun while enjoying the warm waters.

Optional Resort Access: A Bonus for Relaxation

For an extra fee of $30, you can purchase a Day Pass to Resort World Bimini, granting access to facilities at the Hilton. Many travelers find this a worthwhile upgrade, especially if they want to lounge by the pool or enjoy the resort’s amenities after a day on the beach. It’s a flexible option, available onboard, giving you a chance to indulge a bit more without committing to a full hotel stay.

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Activities and Personal Experiences

The reviews are filled with positive comments about local food, friendly staff, and beautiful scenery. One traveler raved about exploring the island in a golf cart, reaching the very end where they found a shipwreck and encountered rays and crabs—a reminder that Bimini offers adventures beyond just sitting on the beach.

Others enjoyed the beach day, noting how the clear water makes it perfect for swimming and wading. The beach chairs and umbrellas provided free of charge were a hit among visitors, offering comfort in the strong Bahamian sun.

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Practical Considerations and Tips

While the trip is well-organized, it’s important to note that shops might not be open upon arrival (some reviews mention this). Also, since hotel pickup is not included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the departure point, making it more suitable for those staying nearby.

Travelers should bring their passport, towel, comfortable clothes, and a public transport ticket if needed. For those with mobility issues, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but only foldable wheelchairs are recommended.

The timing is generally from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving ample daylight for beach activities and exploration. Be aware that delays can occur due to weather or customs, and that re-entry into the U.S. requires proper documentation and re-entry permissions.

What the Reviews Say: Authentic Perspectives

A majority of reviews are glowing. Priscilla from the U.S. called it “great,” expressing gladness about the adventure. Amber described the beach as “blue and clear,” and loved renting a golf cart to explore. Marcia appreciated the beach day on her birthday, highlighting the friendly people and good food.

Many travelers, like Josee and Tonje, enjoyed their birthday trips or special occasions, emphasizing the friendly atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The consistent praise for staff friendliness, the quality of the water, and the ease of transportation make this trip appealing.

A few minor negatives include the limited shop hours and the need for better planning for customs. Still, the overall consensus is that the trip offers great value for the price, especially considering the scenic beauty and leisurely exploration.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Appreciate This Trip?

This day trip to Bimini is perfect for those who want a quick escape from Florida to enjoy natural beauty, swim in clear waters, and experience a taste of the Bahamas without the hassle of overnight planning. It’s well-suited for families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a relaxed day of sun, sand, and light adventure.

If you’re seeking a straightforward, organized trip with the chance to explore, swim, or just unwind on the beach, this tour hits the mark. You’ll love the modern ferry, the flexibility of leisure hours, and the opportunity to sample local flavors and meet fellow travelers.

However, if you desire more in-depth exploration or wish to see shops and attractions with full hours, you might find the limited time and shop openings less satisfying. Also, keep in mind that no hotel pickup means planning your own transport to the departure point.

In sum, this trip offers good value and a genuine taste of the Bahamas in a manageable, enjoyable package—ideal for those short on time but eager for a tropical dose of paradise.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup and drop-off. You’ll need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini takes about 2 hours aboard a modern, comfortable vessel.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport, a towel, comfortable clothes, and a public transport ticket if needed for getting around the island.

Can I buy food and drinks onboard?
Yes, there is a full bar available, and you can purchase snacks and drinks during the ferry ride.

Is there an option to access resort facilities?
Yes, for $30, you can buy a Day Pass to Resort World Bimini, which offers access to amenities like the pool and lounge areas.

How much leisure time do I get in Bimini?
You’ll have approximately six hours on the island, from around 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, to explore, relax, or enjoy optional activities.

Are children allowed on this trip?
Infants under 6 months are not permitted. Please check your specific needs if traveling with children, as the review data primarily focuses on adult experiences.

What happens if there’s bad weather?
The local operator is not responsible for delays caused by weather, the Bahamian Coast Guard, or Immigration services. Always check the weather forecast before your trip.

This day trip to Bimini offers a balanced mix of convenience, natural beauty, and relaxed exploration, making it a solid choice for a quick Bahamian escape. Whether you’re seeking a fun beach day, a scenic adventure, or simply a change of scenery, this tour delivers a taste of island life in a friendly, straightforward package.