Split Cruise To Bimini & Free Transportation!

If you’re eyeing a quick getaway from Miami, a cruise to Bimini might be just the ticket. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, I’ve looked into what it offers, and it’s definitely a popular choice for travelers looking to soak up some sun and sand without staying overnight. This tour from Admiral Tours Miami promises a smooth ride, a taste of the Bahamas, and a day full of potential memories.

What really caught my attention are the comfortable, roomy ferry—with onboard movies and snacks—and the all-inclusive day access to Hilton Beach Club, a solid perk if you’re after relaxing beach time. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the limited time on land, which might feel a bit rushed if you’re hoping for a deep dive into local culture.

This trip seems best suited for those who want a straightforward, hassle-free way to experience Bimini’s beaches and vibe, especially if you appreciate convenience and don’t mind a busy schedule. Perfect for a couple of days of sun, sand, and sea, especially if you’re a fan of quick escapes from the city.

Key Points

• Comfortable ferry ride: The fast ferry offers movies, snacks, and a relaxed atmosphere.
• All-day access at Hilton Beach Club: Enjoy amenities and water sports at your own expense.
• Quick, convenient trip: From Miami, it’s a 2-day experience designed for efficiency.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind.
• Ideal for a short Bahamas fix: Perfect for travelers with limited time but craving beachside relaxation.
• Accessible start point: Convenient pickup from South Beach makes logistics easier.

What the Experience Looks Like

Day 1: Setting Sail from Miami

The adventure begins early. Pickup is arranged from South Beach around 5:00 am, which means you’ll want to be prepared for an early start. The tour’s main transportation is a fast ferry departing from Port Everglades at 9 AM, sailing to Freeport and then landing at Bimini by 11 AM.

The ferry is described as comfortable and roomy, with movies available if you’re in the mood for some entertainment. You can also purchase breakfast onboard—think croissants, snacks, coffee, orange juice—which is a nice touch for a morning journey. The duration of the ride is around 2 hours, making it a manageable trip for most.

Day 2: Relaxing at Bimini

Once you arrive in Bimini, the day is yours. The highlight is the Hilton Beach Club, which your day pass grants access to. You can lounge on the beach, take a swim, or simply soak up the sun. If you’re feeling more active, water sports are available but at your own expense, so bring some extra cash if that’s your thing.

The return trip scheduled later in the day gets you back to Miami, with the tour wrapping up around evening time. This setup suits travelers who want to maximize their beach time without feeling rushed, though the limited hours mean you won’t experience everything Bimini has to offer.

The Pros and Cons

What We Loved

The ferry experience is a big selling point. It’s comfy, with room to relax and enjoy the ride, which is important when crossing the 49 miles from Miami. The onboard amenities, like movies and snacks, help pass the time. Plus, the quick turnaround makes it ideal for a weekend escape or a day trip.

The all-day access to Hilton Beach Club is another plus. It’s not just a quick beach stop—your pass gives you access to a well-known resort’s amenities, ensuring you have a comfortable place to unwind after the ride. If water sports are your thing, they’re available, though at an extra cost.

Considerations

A potential downside is the short time on land—just a few hours to enjoy Bimini. If you’re someone who loves exploring or enjoying local culture, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since water sports and other activities cost extra, you might want to budget accordingly.

Price Analysis

At $329 per person, this tour isn’t exactly cheap, but it does include transportation, a day pass to a high-end beach club, and the convenience of a planned itinerary. For travelers craving a hassle-free, organized day trip with some comfort, this price can be reasonable. However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth or cultural experience, this might not hit the mark.

The Itinerary in Detail

Morning Departure

Starting at 5 am from South Beach, the early morning pickup might be a stretch for some, but it sets the tone for a full day. The transfer to Port Everglades is smooth, and the ferry boards by 9 am. The journey takes about two hours, during which you’ll probably enjoy the onboard movie options or simply relax with a snack or drink.

The Ferry Ride

The boat itself seems well-equipped for comfort. The approximately 49-mile crossing offers scenic views, and the onboard amenities help make the trip pleasant. You might find the ferry’s size and comfort level a significant plus, especially compared to smaller, less comfortable options.

Arrival and Beach Time

Arriving around 11 am, you’ll head to Bimini’s Hilton Beach Club. This is a popular spot, offering a luxurious yet casual environment. Your day pass includes access to the beach and amenities, and you can opt to rent water sports equipment if you’re feeling adventurous.

Return to Miami

After a few hours of relaxing, you’ll depart back to Miami. The timing is designed so you can maximize your day without feeling overly rushed—though the limited hours mean you won’t have time for extensive exploration.

Authentic Traveler Insights

While official descriptions are helpful, real experiences often reveal more. One review mentions that the ferry is “comfortable and roomy,” which makes a big difference on longer crossings. Others highlight the convenience of the free transportation from South Beach, saving you the hassle of organizing additional transport.

Some travelers mention that the food onboard is decent, though simple—if you’re expecting gourmet breakfast, you might be disappointed. As for the beach club, reviews suggest it’s a “great place to relax,” especially if you’re in search of a luxurious environment.

However, some note that the short duration on Bimini is a bit limiting. If you’re looking for a deep cultural experience or extensive exploration, this trip might feel too rushed. But for quick sun and sand, it hits the right notes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for travelers with limited time who want a straightforward way to visit the Bahamas. It’s also suitable if you value comfort and convenience—the ferry’s amenities and the all-inclusive beach club access make it a stress-free experience.

It’s ideal for first-timers looking to get a taste of Bimini’s beaches without the hassle of planning multiple logistics. However, if you’re after an immersive cultural experience or longer beach time, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

If you’re seeking an easy, no-fuss way to get a taste of the Bahamas, this Miami to Bimini cruise offers a good balance of comfort, convenience, and scenic beauty. The ferry’s roomy design and onboard amenities make the crossing pleasant, and the access to Hilton Beach Club allows you to unwind in style.

While the trip’s limited hours on land mean you won’t be exploring Bimini extensively, it’s perfect for a quick escape, especially if you’re not keen on complicated travel arrangements. The price reflects the ease and comfort of the experience, making it worth considering if a relaxing day at the beach is your main goal.

This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a hassle-free, scenic day trip with access to luxury amenities and no surprise costs—ideal for a weekend or a spontaneous getaway from Miami.

FAQ

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry crossing from Miami to Bimini is approximately 2 hours, covering about 49 miles.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup from South Beach begins around 5:00 am, with the ferry departing at 9 am.

Is food included onboard?
No, but a continental breakfast with croissants, snacks, coffee, and juice is available for purchase onboard.

What does the day at Bimini include?
Access to Hilton Beach Club’s amenities, with optional water sports available at your own expense.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation with a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-oriented, the trip’s amenities and short duration could suit families, but consider the early start and limited land time.

How many people typically book this tour?
Up to 600 travelers can join, so expect a large group, but the boat’s comfort level helps keep it pleasant.

Are there any hidden costs?
The main extra expense might be water sports or additional food and drinks outside the onboard breakfast.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where do I meet for the pickup?
Start point is South Beach, Miami Beach, FL 33139, with easy access to public transportation.

I hope this helps you decide if a quick Bimini trip from Miami fits your travel plans. It’s a straightforward, relaxing way to dip your toes into the Bahamas—just check the weather and your schedule, and you’re all set for a little island adventure.