Ferry vs Flight vs Cruise to the Bahamas (2026)
The short answer
From Florida, the fast ferry to Bimini is the cheapest and most relaxed way to reach the Bahamas: $199 same-day round trip on Wednesdays ($246 other days, taxes included), a 2-hour crossing from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), with generous luggage and walk-on boarding. Flights are faster in the air but usually cost more to Bimini and add airport time. Cruises include an overnight cabin and an onboard experience, but cost more and take longer door to door. A valid passport is required for all options.
Side-by-side comparison (Florida → Bahamas)
| | Fast Ferry (Balearia) | Flight | Cruise |
|---|
| Round-trip price (per person) | day trip from $199 (Bimini, Wed.) · $246 (Grand Bahama) | ~$180–$400 (varies) | from ~$150 (incl. cabin) |
| Travel time (one way) | 2 h (Bimini) · 3 h (Freeport) | ~35–60 min in the air (+ airport time) | overnight (~12 h+) |
| Departs from | Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale | MIA / FLL airports | Palm Beach / Miami |
| Luggage | 2 bags + carry-on, no extra fees | strict limits & fees | generous |
| Boarding | relaxed walk-on at the port | check-in + security | terminal check-in |
| Day trip possible? | Yes (Bimini Day Trip) | rarely practical | no (overnight) |
| Best for | value, families, day trips, more luggage | speed to Nassau | the onboard experience |
Flight and cruise prices are typical ranges and vary by date, route and operator. Ferry fares are Balearia Caribbean round-trip "from" prices, taxes included (verified 2026).
How much would your group pay by ferry?
Why most travelers pick the ferry
It is the lowest-cost way to the Bahamas from Florida, you can bring real luggage with no airline fees, boarding is a relaxed walk-on, and a same-day Bimini day trip is possible. The crossing itself is part of the holiday. Honest trade-offs: the ferry runs on set sailing days (not hourly like flights to Nassau), and if your destination is Nassau specifically, flying may suit you better.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to get to the Bahamas from Florida?
The fast ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini, from $199 per person for a Wednesday day trip ($246 other days, taxes included) with Balearia Caribbean, and bookings can be made online at I Love Ferry, official partner.
Is it faster to fly or take the ferry?
Flying to Nassau is faster in the air (~1 h), but door to door the 2-hour Bimini ferry is comparable once you add airport time.
Can you do a day trip to the Bahamas?
Yes - the Bimini Day Trip sails from Fort Lauderdale in the morning and returns the same evening, from $199 per person on Wednesdays ($246 other days).
