This trip is short on stress, long on sun. I love the easy ferry day format and the chance to spread out on island beaches like Crystal-clear Bahamas water. One thing to plan for: the air conditioning on the ferry can feel brutally cold.

The timing is simple, but strict. Check-in closes at 8 AM sharp, and you’ll need a valid passport (plus USA re-entry authorization like ESTA if you’re not a US citizen).

Once you’re out at sea, the pacing feels easy. You get a comfortable ride with restrooms and a snack bar, and then you choose your own adventure on the islands with optional activities you can add on.

Key things to know before you go

• A full beach day with minimal hassle: depart around 9 AM and return to Florida around 8 PM
• Choose Bimini or Grand Bahama: both are close to the US and known for beaches and warm water
• Ferry comfort beats a long day on the road: seats, restrooms, and a snack bar onboard
• Crystal Beach and pigs are not included: you can plan them separately
• Bring a sweater for the ferry: strong A/C shows up in the feedback every time

Why this ferry day trip from Fort Lauderdale works

A ferry trip to the Bahamas is one of those “why didn’t I do this sooner” travel moves. You’re not stacking hotel nights, you’re not changing buses all day, and you’re not losing half your trip to transit. Instead, you’re trading it for a long stretch of beach time and sea air.

I like that the ferry handles the main transportation piece: roundtrip from Port Everglades, with guaranteed seating and onboard basics. From there, you’re free to slow down—lie out, wander, and come back when it’s time for the return boat.

The value is strongest if you like flexibility. The island portion isn’t locked into one fixed tour. You can tack on add-ons like snorkeling or jet skiing if you want more action, or keep it chill and just enjoy the beaches.

Where you go: Bimini vs Grand Bahama (and how to choose)

This day trip focuses on two options: Bimini or Grand Bahama Island. Both are among the closest Bahamas islands to Florida, which is exactly why a same-day ferry works so well.

Bimini tends to feel like a “get out to the water fast” choice. The ferry arrival there is around 11 AM, and the return leaves around 6 PM (it can vary by season). You’ll get a clean mid-morning start on island time.

Grand Bahama gives you a slightly different rhythm. You arrive around noon, and the return ferry typically leaves around 5 PM. That makes your afternoon feel tighter, so plan to spend time choosing your beach spot quickly.

If your priority is famous beach time, either works. If your priority is the well-known pigs on Crystal Beach experience, Grand Bahama is the one to target—even though it’s not included in this package.

The ferry ride: what it’s like and what you should bring

The ferry part runs the show for comfort. From Florida, you’ll enjoy about 2–3 hours on the air-conditioned boat with comfortable seats, restrooms, and a snack bar for light food. You also get information onboard about popular water activities, which helps you decide what’s worth paying extra for once you land.

Here’s the practical tip that matters most: bring a sweater or at least a light layer. The ferry A/C is strong enough that people actively use towels as makeshift blankets. Even if you’re fine with cool air, you’ll likely want something for the ride.

You’ll also get great sea views. Expect to spend time looking out at shimmering water and the coastline fading behind you. It’s not sightseeing-with-guides; it’s more like you’re buying time to enjoy the journey.

Morning logistics in Florida: pickup options and timing

This tour uses two pickup/drop-off options in the Fort Lauderdale area: Port Everglades and Eller Drive. Hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll want to plan a simple way to reach one of the listed meeting points.

Departure from Florida is roughly 9 AM, and check-in closes at 8 AM sharp. That “sharp” matters. If you like to arrive early and relaxed, you’re set. If you’re always the person sprinting at the last minute, you’ll feel the pressure.

You’ll also go through US Customs and Immigration as part of the travel process. That means you should keep your documents organized and ready to show. The boat provider isn’t responsible for weather, Coast Guard, or immigration delays, so it’s smart to build calm into your day.

Stop on the itinerary: the Bimini day (how your time is used)

When your trip lands on Bimini, your ferry arrival is around 11 AM. After that, your day becomes a classic beach-day schedule: arrive, get oriented, and use the afternoon at your own pace.

You’ll typically have the chance to add optional activities on the island at an extra cost. The tour information lists activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boating. If you’re the type who gets itchy sitting still, add one. If you’re more of a “walk, swim, repeat” traveler, skip extras and spend that money on a good lunch and a longer beach stretch.

The return ferry leaves around 6 PM and brings you back to Florida around 8 PM. That means you’re not forced into an exhausting all-day itinerary; you just work within daylight hours and the ferry’s timetable.

Stop on the itinerary: Grand Bahama day (boat cruise + island freedom)

On Grand Bahama Island, the pace is similar in structure but different in feel. You arrive around 12 noon, then you get time for scenic boat views before you settle into the island portion.

The itinerary includes boat cruise/scenic views on the way (listed as multiple 3-hour blocks). The key point for you is that there are longer segments built in where you’re not constantly changing plans. That’s good news if you hate racing between stops.

Once you’re on the island, you’re again in self-guided mode. Transportation on Grand Bahama isn’t included, so plan on staying close to where you land and what’s easiest to reach on foot or through whatever local arrangements you choose on arrival.

Grand Bahama is also where you’ll hear about Crystal Beach. That’s where the famous pigs are associated, but remember: visiting Crystal Beach and swimming with pigs is explicitly not included in this ferry package.

Crystal Beach and the pigs: plan it or skip it

Crystal Beach is the name you’ll keep hearing for a reason. It’s known for the pigs on Grand Bahama, and the tour description points you that direction as a “don’t miss” style landmark.

But here’s the important catch: the package doesn’t include Crystal Beach or swimming with pigs. So if pigs are a must-do for you, you’ll need to organize that part separately.

I like how this works for different travel styles. If you want the classic beach day only, you can ignore the pig angle and enjoy the island without extra planning. If you’re specifically interested in the Crystal Beach story, treat this as your signal to budget extra time and money and set it up independently.

Price and value: is $259 a good deal?

At $259 per person, you’re paying for a roundtrip ferry day from Port Everglades plus guaranteed seating. You also get onboard basics like restrooms and a snack bar, and your island time is flexible.

Here’s how to judge the value without getting fooled by the sticker price. The main cost driver is transportation across the water. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, the price is best for people who can handle getting to Port Everglades or Eller Drive on their own.

Your total spend can rise fast if you add multiple paid activities. Snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boating are all listed as options with surcharge. Beach chairs and certain beach day passes may also cost extra, and those beach day passes must be purchased on the ferry.

Still, the core package is good value if you plan smart:

• Choose either beach lounging or one activity, not every activity
• Add chairs only if you truly want them
• Treat food as separate and plan around that cost

Also, the overall rating is 4.2 out of 22 reviews, which suggests a solid experience for the majority—especially for the beach-and-sea crowd.

What to pack (and what will slow you down)

Bring your passport. This is required, and you also need USA re-entry authorization (like ESTA) unless you’re a US citizen. The info is clear that not having the right documents can lead to no refund if the booking details don’t match or the passport data is wrong.

Pack light layers. Even if you’re sweating at check-in, the ferry ride is air-conditioned. A small sweater is often enough, but a larger layer gives you control.

Plan your beach basics even though food isn’t included. Water and snacks are not guaranteed onboard beyond the snack bar, and the island portion doesn’t include meals. If you’re someone who needs steady fuel, consider eating before you board or planning what you’ll buy once you’re there.

One more reality check: this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and infants under 6 months old are not permitted.

Food, drinks, and activities: how to budget your day

Food and beverages are not included, and that shapes how you should spend your time. The ferry has a snack bar for a light bite, but don’t count on it for a full meal plan.

On the island, your main decisions are about add-ons and where to spend. Optional activities are available at surcharge, and you can also rent beach chairs for extra. If you want water action, you’ll likely want to choose one activity so you don’t run out of time or energy.

If you plan to do something like snorkeling, the “buy it there” style matters. Optional activities such as beach day passes need to be purchased on the ferry. So once you’re onboard, get clear about what’s available and what you actually want.

Who this trip suits best (and who should skip it)

This day trip fits best if you want a real Bahamas beach day without a hotel. If your ideal vacation is laying out, taking a swim, and doing one or two paid activities at most, you’ll probably love the pace.

It also fits well for couples and solo travelers who can handle self-guided time on the islands. The transportation on Grand Bahama isn’t included, so you should be comfortable making your own local plan.

It’s a less good fit if you want a structured guided tour on the island. The ferry gives you the main ride and then you’re on your own once you arrive. If you want every minute scripted, this isn’t that.

Also skip it if you’re pregnant, and note the infant restriction if you’re traveling with a baby.

Should you book this Miami to Bahamas ferry day trip?

I’d book it if you’re chasing beach time and you can get yourself to Port Everglades or Eller Drive easily. The ferry format is efficient, and the island hours are long enough to actually feel like you left Florida, not just visited the dock.

I wouldn’t book it if you need food included, you want guaranteed Crystal Beach + pigs as part of the package, or you dislike ferry schedules that can’t be controlled by weather or immigration timing. The itinerary is tied to ferry departure times, so if your day must be perfectly flexible, you’ll feel that constraint.

If you book, do two things and you’ll be happier:

• Bring a sweater so you’re comfortable on the ferry
• Decide early if you want an optional water activity, because spending time choosing once you land can cut into beach time

If your goal is a straightforward Bahamas day with lots of sun, this is a solid value play.

FAQ

How long is the Miami to Bahamas day trip by ferry?

The duration is listed as 16 hours. You’ll depart Florida in the morning and return in the evening.

Where does the ferry depart from?

The roundtrip ferry ride is from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, with two pickup/drop-off options: Port Everglades and Eller Drive.

Do I need a passport?

Yes. You must have a valid passport or passport card. You also need USA re-entry authorization such as ESTA or a similar document if you’re not a US citizen.

Is Crystal Beach and swimming with pigs included?

No. Visit to Crystal Beach and swimming with pigs are not included in this activity.

What activities are available on the islands?

Optional activities at an additional cost can include snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boating. Beach chairs and some beach day passes may also be available for extra purchase.

Is food and drinks included?

No. Food and beverages are not included.

What time is check-in, and when does the ferry leave?

Check-in closes at 8 AM sharp. The ferry departure from Florida is about 9 AM.

When do you arrive and return?

Ferry arrival is about 11 AM for Bimini and about noon for Grand Bahama. Return departures are about 6 PM for Bimini and about 5 PM for Grand Bahama, with arrival back to Florida around 8 PM.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or young infants?

It is not suitable for pregnant women. Infants under 6 months old are not permitted on this tour.