Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Round-Trip Miami Transfer

Traveling across the Atlantic for a taste of the Bahamas sounds like a dream, and for many, this Bimini Day Cruise promises just that—a quick escape to the sun, sand, and sea. While this tour offers a convenient way to visit Bimini without the hassle of a longer trip, it’s important to weigh the experience against some real-world considerations.

What we particularly like about this tour is the stunning ocean views during the boat ride and the chance to spend a good chunk of the day relaxing on the famous Bimini beaches. You also get the benefit of Miami hotel pickups, which can save you some logistical headaches. However, some travelers have expressed concerns about long waiting times, costly expenses on the island, and the fact that certain amenities—like beach access—are not included in the price.

This experience is best suited for those who want a quick, scenic getaway to the Bahamas, especially if you’re comfortable with early mornings and a full day of logistics. It’s ideal for travelers who prioritize visual and cultural exposure over luxury amenities or a fully all-inclusive resort experience.

Key Points

• Efficient way to visit the Bahamas with a short, organized day tour.
• Enjoy scenic boat rides with ocean views en route to Bimini.
• Includes hotel pickup in Miami for convenience.
• Be prepared for additional costs on the island, from water sports to food and beach passes.
• Long travel days and wait times can be tiring, especially at immigration.
• Great for those seeking a quick taste of Bimini without a multi-day commitment.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Departure Times

The adventure kicks off early, with pickups from Miami hotels or direct from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. The meeting point at Port Everglades is at 1850 Eller Dr, with the tour scheduled to start at 5:00 am. Yes, that’s before sunrise, which can be a tough start for some but means you maximize your time on the island.

The Boat Ride

The highlight for many is the 49-mile boat journey across the ocean. The ride offers great ocean views and a sense of adventure. Travelers often describe it as a “rocking” experience, with some noting that the boat “rocked constantly” and warning about motion sickness. If you’re prone to seasickness, be sure to bring appropriate medication, as some reviews mention lingering nausea days later.

On Arrival at Bimini

Once you arrive, you’ll have around six hours to enjoy the island. Your main focus will likely be the beach—regarded by travelers as “beautiful” with “sandy shores” that surpass those in Miami. You can lounge, swim, snorkel, or explore the island at your leisure.

Optional Water Sports and Activities

Water sports like snorkeling, jet skis, and parasailing are available but at your own expense. Some reviews note that most amenities and activities are paid extras, which can catch travelers off guard if they assume they’re included in the ticket price. You can purchase a pass to access the Hilton Beach Club and enjoy the resort’s amenities, but this isn’t part of the standard package.

Exploring Resorts and the Island

Resort transportation is included, allowing you to tour Resorts World Bimini or drive golf carts—an activity highly recommended by visitors who want to explore the island beyond the beach. However, be aware that the resort area can be quite quiet, with many establishments closed or offering limited services, especially outside peak seasons.

Returning Journey

As the sun begins to set, you’ll hop back on the boat for the return trip, heading back to Port Everglades. The entire day is quite long—some reviews mention 12 to 14 hours of logistics and travel, including immigration checks, which can be slow. Travelers quote experiences of waiting more than two hours at immigration, which can be frustrating.

What to Expect from the Experience

The Scenic Boat Ride

The boat ride is often described as “smooth” and “exciting,” with high-speed options making the journey feel swift and exhilarating. Many travelers enjoy the views during the crossing, and some mention that it felt almost like a cruise experience. Yet, the rocking motion might not suit everyone, especially those with motion sickness issues.

The Island and Beach Time

Once ashore, the beaches of Bimini are the star attraction. Reviews describe the sands as “better than Miami”, with clear, warm waters perfect for swimming and relaxing. The island itself is small but has its charm with local vendors and golf cart rentals. However, not all shops or eateries are open, and the resort area can seem quite deserted if you’re expecting a bustling tourist hub.

Food, Drinks, and Additional Expenses

Onboard, food and drinks are available for purchase, but travelers have noted that costs are high, and the lunch, dinner, and beverages you might want to buy will add up. The tour does not include a meal, so come prepared with snacks or expect to spend extra on the island.

The Cost-Value Balance

While the ticket price of $289 per person may seem reasonable for a day trip, some reviews suggest the true cost can be higher once you factor in on-island expenses. Activities like reef snorkeling or dolphin swims are paid separately, and the beach pass is an extra, especially during times when beach access is limited.

Real Traveler Insights

From actual travelers, we hear both positives and negatives. Some found the experience “well organized” and the staff friendly, especially praising the crew’s alertness and care. Others caution about long wait times at immigration and the quality of the boat windows, which some say need upgrading.

Practical Considerations

• Timing is tight; with such early departures, you’ll need to be an early riser.
• Long travel days mean it’s not ideal for everyone, especially if you prefer relaxing vacations over packed schedules.
• If you want beach access, double-check whether it’s included or if you’ll pay extra.
• Weather conditions impact plans; the tour requires good weather, and cancellations are possible if conditions worsen.
• The group size is capped at 100 travelers, which isn’t too crowded but can feel busy on busy days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip works best for adventurous travelers seeking a quick Bahamas experience without the need for a multi-day stay. If you’re comfortable with early mornings, long travel hours, and some extra expenses, you’ll appreciate the chance to see Bimini’s beaches and enjoy a scenic boat ride.

It’s particularly suited for those who value ocean views and want a snapshot of island life. However, if you’re expecting a luxurious beach resort experience or want all-inclusive amenities, this tour might not meet those expectations. Travelers who are prone to seasickness or dislike long wait times at immigration should consider this carefully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Miami hotels, which makes logistics easier. If you’re staying in Downtown Miami or Miami Beach, you’ll be picked up; otherwise, you’ll need to meet at Port Everglades.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup and departure are scheduled for 5:00 am, an early start to maximize your day on the island.

How long is the boat ride?
The crossing to Bimini is approximately 49 miles, with most travelers describing the boat ride as “rocking” and “exciting.” It takes around 1 to 2 hours each way, depending on sea conditions.

Is there time to explore Bimini?
Yes, you get about six hours on Bimini, enough to relax on the beach, snorkel, or tour the resort area. Keep in mind that some shops and resorts might be closed or limited in services.

What’s not included in the ticket price?
Food, drinks, water sports, and the beach pass are extras. You can purchase access to the Hilton Beach Club and enjoy additional amenities, but these are not included in the base price.

Can I purchase a beach pass on the island?
Yes, but it’s an extra expense and not included in the standard ticket. Be aware that sometimes, due to events like cruise dockings, access to the beach might be restricted or unavailable.

Final Thoughts

The Bimini Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with Miami transfers offers a straightforward way to step outside the U.S. and catch a glimpse of the Bahamas in just a day. The journey itself is quite scenic, and the beaches of Bimini are widely praised for their beauty. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to combine convenience with the chance to relax on a sunny island for a few hours.

However, keep in mind the long travel hours, especially with immigration checks and potential wait times, and be prepared for additional costs for activities and amenities. If you’re seeking a truly luxurious, all-inclusive experience, this might not be the right fit. But if you’re after a cost-effective, scenic escape with a splash of island life, this tour can deliver.

Ultimately, this is a solid option for those who prioritize scenery and adventure over perfection. Just go with realistic expectations, bring some extra snacks, and enjoy the ride—and the beaches.

Ready for a quick trip to paradise? Just remember to pack your patience and a sense of adventure.