From Florida, the fast ferry to Bimini is the cheapest and most relaxed way to reach the Bahamas: $199 round trip (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.
| Fast Ferry (Balearia) | Flight | Cruise | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round-trip price (per person) | from $199 (Bimini) · $240 (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).
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.
Check ferry dates & prices » Plan a Bimini day trip »
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What is the cheapest way to get to the Bahamas from Florida?
The fast ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini, from $199 round trip (taxes included) with Balearia Caribbean.
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 around $219 per person.