The easiest way to get to Bimini from Florida is the Baleària Caribbean ferry from Fort Lauderdale. The crossing from Port Everglades takes about two hours. You can also fly from Miami to South Bimini, take a seaplane from Fort Lauderdale to North Bimini, or cross by private boat.
Bimini Transportation Options at a Glance
| Option | Florida Departure Point | Bimini Arrival Point | Approximate Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High-speed ferry | Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale | Fisherman's Village, North Bimini | 2 hours | A direct sea crossing |
| Commercial flight | Miami International Airport | South Bimini Airport | Under 1 hour | Travelers near Miami |
| Seaplane | Fort Lauderdale Sheltair terminal | North Bimini Seaplane Base | About 25 minutes | The fastest route to North Bimini |
| Private boat | South Florida marinas | An approved Bimini port of entry | Variable | Experienced boat owners |
1. Take the Ferry from Fort Lauderdale
Baleària Caribbean operates a direct ferry from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale to Bimini. The operator lists Terminal 21 as the departure point and Fisherman's Village in North Bimini as the arrival area. The crossing takes about two hours.
The ferry is a practical choice if you want to avoid an airport and arrive in North Bimini.
Ferry Travel Tips
- Check the sailing schedule before booking. Service runs on a limited schedule, and times can change.
- Arrive well before departure. Baleària recommends checking in at least two hours before sailing.
- Confirm the terminal number with Baleària before leaving for Port Everglades.
- Bring a valid passport and proof of return or onward travel.
- Fares vary by sailing, passenger type and seating category.
2. Fly from Miami to South Bimini
American Airlines operates nonstop flights from Miami International Airport (MIA) to South Bimini Airport (BIM). The flight takes less than an hour.
South Bimini Airport is on a different island from North Bimini, where many hotels, restaurants and attractions are located. Travelers staying in North Bimini generally need to take a local ferry after landing, followed by a taxi or another local transfer. The Bahamas tourism site says many visitors use this route to continue from South Bimini to North Bimini.
Choose This Option If:
- You are near Miami International Airport.
- You prefer flying to traveling by sea.
- Your accommodation is in South Bimini.
- Connecting through Miami fits your travel plans.
3. Take a Seaplane from Fort Lauderdale
Tropic Ocean Airways operates scheduled seaplane service from its private Sheltair terminal at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to the North Bimini Seaplane Base. The flight takes about 25 minutes and arrives directly in North Bimini, so you do not need the South Bimini airport transfer.
The seaplane works well for travelers staying near Alice Town, Resorts World Bimini or other locations in North Bimini. Tropic Ocean Airways advises passengers to arrive about 30 minutes before departure. Confirm the check-in and baggage rules when booking.
Choose the Seaplane If:
- Travel time matters most.
- You want to arrive directly in North Bimini.
- You are planning a short trip from the Fort Lauderdale area.
- You want to depart from a private terminal.
4. Travel by Private Boat
Experienced boaters can cross from South Florida to Bimini by private vessel. The route is an offshore crossing, so boaters need to plan for navigation, safety equipment, weather and fuel.
All foreign private, noncommercial pleasure boats entering Bahamian waters need a Bahamas cruising permit. Boaters must clear Customs and Immigration at an approved port of entry, display the yellow quarantine flag on arrival and keep everyone aboard until the vessel has been cleared. The captain may leave the boat to handle the clearance process.
When returning to Florida from The Bahamas, private boaters must report their arrival to U.S. Customs and Border Protection immediately.
Passport and Entry Requirements
Bring a valid passport when traveling from Florida to Bimini. The U.S. State Department says U.S. citizens generally do not need a visa for a short tourist stay in The Bahamas, but travelers need a passport valid for entry and proof of anticipated departure. Requirements differ for non-U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents, so check the rules for every traveler before booking.
Which Route Should You Choose?
Choose the ferry for a direct trip to North Bimini, the seaplane for the shortest travel time, or the Miami flight if you are near Miami International Airport.
- Best overall: Baleària Caribbean ferry from Fort Lauderdale.
- Fastest: Tropic Ocean Airways seaplane from Fort Lauderdale.
- Best from Miami: American Airlines to South Bimini Airport.
- Best for North Bimini hotels: The ferry or seaplane, since both avoid the South Bimini transfer.
- Best for boat owners: A private vessel, if you are prepared for the offshore crossing and customs clearance.