Imagine waking up in Miami and within a few hours, you’re sipping a cocktail on white-sand beaches or snorkeling in turquoise waters in the Bahamas. This 15-hour day trip by ferry offers a chance to visit two of the most popular islands—Bimini or Grand Bahama—depending on your travel date. With round-trip ferry transportation, comfortable onboard amenities, and plenty of time to explore, this trip promises a taste of island life without the need for a longer stay.

We particularly love how flexible this tour is—allowing you to choose between Bimini’s laid-back vibe or the more adventurous Grand Bahama. The convenience of same-day travel from Florida means you can pack a lot into a single day, whether you’re after relaxation or adventure.

A possible consideration is the time constraints—with only about 5.5 hours on Bimini or 4 hours on Grand Bahama, you’ll want to prioritize your preferred activities. Still, the trip’s value for money and the chance to experience the Bahamas’ stunning scenery are hard to beat for those with limited time.

This tour suits families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a compact yet fulfilling escape to the Caribbean, especially if you appreciate authentic beaches, easy logistics, and informative guides who can point you toward the best local spots.

Key Points

Flexible Island Options: Choose between Bimini’s peaceful beaches or Grand Bahama’s larger exploration area.
Round-Trip Convenience: Enjoy a smooth, same-day ferry ride with onboard amenities like restrooms and snacks.
Ample Free Time: Spend about 4 to 6 hours on the island, enough for relaxing, swimming, or trying optional activities.
Authentic Beach Experience: Swim in clear waters, sunbathe on pristine beaches, or rent a golf cart for a local tour.
Ideal for Short Stays: Perfect for travelers with limited time wanting a quick escape to paradise.
Quality Experience: Highly rated (4.6/5 from 290 reviews) for friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and well-organized logistics.

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Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins early, with check-in closing at 7:30 AM at either Port Everglades or a designated pickup point. From there, it’s about a two-hour ferry ride across the Florida Strait—a comfortable journey with amenities like restrooms and a snack bar onboard. We found that the ferry’s modern, air-conditioned setting made the trip relaxing rather than tiring.

The ride’s length is a big plus, especially compared to more elaborate travel options. Plus, the onboard staff are helpful, offering tips for your day ahead, which is especially useful if you’re unfamiliar with the islands.

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Choosing Between Bimini and Grand Bahama

Depending on your travel date, you’ll pick between two fantastic options:

Bimini Island — The Gateway to the Bahamas

A shorter two-hour ferry gets you to Bimini, famous for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Many travelers appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to soak up the sun. With around 5.5 hours on the island, you’ll have ample time to lounge, swim, or rent a golf cart to explore.

A standout activity here is swimming with sting rays, which many reviews highlight as a memorable experience. The island’s smaller size means you can focus on relaxing without feeling rushed. Travelers also enjoy the casual vibe—perfect if you’re craving a peaceful escape.

Grand Bahama Island — Larger and More Diverse

The ferry ride to Grand Bahama takes about three hours, with about four hours of free time once on the island. This option is ideal if you want a bit more variety—perhaps exploring Crystal Beach or even meeting the famous swimming pigs (an optional activity). This island offers more opportunities for sightseeing and water activities, making it a good choice if you want a more active day.

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What Happens When You Arrive?

Once on the island, the free time is yours. You can relax on the beach, take part in optional activities like snorkeling or jet ski rentals, or rent a golf cart—a popular way to see more of the island at your own pace. Many reviews mention the friendly locals, and some travelers find that the guides’ tips help maximize their visit.

If you’re into snorkeling, you’ll love the clarity of the water and the variety of marine life. For the more adventurous, swimming with sting rays or trying a snorkel tour can turn your day into a fun-filled adventure.

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The Return Journey and End of Day

After about 6 hours on Bimini or 4 hours on Grand Bahama, you’ll hop back on the ferry for the return trip, which takes roughly two hours. The ferry departs in the late afternoon or early evening, with arrival back in Florida around 8 PM. This timing is ideal, as it allows you to enjoy your island experience without feeling rushed.

The trip’s organized schedule ensures you’ll have enough time on the islands while still returning comfortably on the same day. However, weather or customs delays are outside the operator’s control, so a flexible attitude is recommended.

Authenticity and Value

Since the tour is highly rated (4.6/5 from 290 reviews), it clearly resonates with many travelers. Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience feel personal rather than commercial. The scenic ferry ride itself is a highlight, with many reviewers commenting on the beautiful views and the smooth logistics.

The value lies in the combination of transportation, free time on the islands, and optional activities, all packed into a single day. Compared to booking a hotel stay or multiple excursions, this day trip offers a practical way to enjoy the Bahamas’ highlights without overspending or losing too much time traveling.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring your passport and check if you need a visa or ESTA approval—especially if you’re not a U.S. citizen.
Arrive early, as check-in closes promptly at 7:30 AM.
Pack sun protection, swimwear, and perhaps a light jacket for the ferry ride.
Consider purchasing beach day passes or activities onboard if you want a more active or luxurious experience.
Be aware that infants under 6 months are not permitted, and pregnant women might want to consult with the provider beforehand.

This day trip is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to experience the beauty and culture of the Bahamas. It’s perfect if you’re interested in beach relaxation, snorkeling, or exploring at your own pace. The high ratings and the positive reviews about friendly guides and stunning scenery suggest you’ll have a safe, enjoyable day.

It’s especially suited for those who value convenience and value for money—the round-trip ferry, ample free time, and optional activities make it a good deal. Families or couples looking for a stress-free escape will find it particularly appealing.

However, if you seek a full-length cruise or luxury resort experience, this day trip may not satisfy all needs. It’s a quick taste, but one that’s packed with enough highlights to make it worthwhile.

What are the pickup locations?
You can be picked up at Port Everglades or a designated nearby location, with check-in closing at 7:30 AM.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry takes about 2 hours from Florida to Bimini and approximately 3 hours to Grand Bahama.

What is the duration on the islands?
You’ll have roughly 4 to 6 hours on the islands, depending on your destination—enough to relax, swim, or try some activities.

What should I bring?
A valid passport, swimwear, sun protection, and any optional activity payments (like beach passes) you wish to purchase.

Are there any age restrictions?
Infants under 6 months are not permitted, and pregnant women should consult the provider for safety advice.

When does the ferry depart and return?
Ferries depart roughly around 9 AM from Florida, with return around 8 PM, but times can vary depending on the season.

Can I buy optional activities on the boat?
Yes, beach day passes and activities like snorkeling or jet skiing can be purchased onboard.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, families with children over 6 months generally enjoy this trip, especially if they like beaches and water activities.

What if the weather causes delays?
The activity provider isn’t responsible for delays caused by weather or customs, so it’s wise to be flexible.

This Miami to Bahamas day trip offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience island life in just a day. The combination of scenic ferry rides, stunning beaches, and flexible activities makes it a practical choice for those wanting a taste of the Caribbean without committing to a longer stay. Whether you choose the peaceful shores of Bimini or the more varied landscape of Grand Bahama, you’ll find plenty to love.

For beach lovers, adventure seekers, or those simply wanting a quick escape, this tour promises beautiful scenery, friendly service, and just enough time to create memorable moments. Its high reviews and well-organized logistics mean you can focus on enjoying yourself, confident that the experience will meet expectations.

If you’re after a low-stress, value-packed way to visit the Bahamas, this day trip from Miami deserves serious consideration. Just pack your passport, your sense of adventure, and an open mind ready to embrace island time—even if only for a day.