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.
| 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).
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 »
Get Bahamas Deals Subscribe to our Newsletter >>
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).
Staying at least one night? Book your round trip with code LASTMOMENT and save 15% on the ferry.
Fort Lauderdale – Bimini round trips with a later return, at I Love Ferry. Book at least 7 days before you travel and by December 31, 2026. Not valid for one-way tickets or day trips. Non-refundable, limited seats. No vehicles: the ferry doesn’t carry passenger cars. Pets travel at the regular fee (no discount). Offer terms
Free travel guide
Get our free insider guide, written by people who have made the trip, and our newsletter with current deals and discount codes.
You are subscribed to our newsletter: we will email you the best deals for your dates.
Booking a round trip to Bimini? Code LASTMOMENT gives 15% off Fort Lauderdale – Bimini round trips at I Love Ferry (not valid for one-way tickets or day trips; book at least 7 days ahead and by December 31, 2026).
