cruise to florida keys and bahamas

Virgin Voyages' guide to Cruise Key West

A haven for artists and sunset-seekers alike, the only poetic rival to the writers who called Key West home is the geography itself.

It’s all a breeze in the keys

More than its pirate past and raucous Duval Street parties (although, to be fair, those are worth the hype), Key West is home to an ever-evolving community of boundary-pushing artists and dedicated preservationists—lined with pastel-colored houses and nights spent toasting sunsets so incredible they inspire some of the world’s most sacred art.

What to see and do on the island

The Shore Things, the tour things and Hemingway’s fur things

Dolphin Watch and Wildlife Snorkel

A dolphin-watching and wildlife snorkeling trip

Key West Rum & Cigar Tasting Tour

A tour of the cigar and rum industry in Key West

The Duval Crawl: Key West's Pub Crawl

Pub crawl down Duval Street at the liveliest bars

Key West Rum and Cigar Tasting Tour

The duval crawl: key west's pub crawl, we have even more in our curated catalog., named by spanish settlers — english speakers heard, “key west” instead., shore things.

Parasail the Painted Island Skies

Float through the air as one of the 12-passenger parasailing boats glides you past sights that can only be seen from the air. As you parasail, take a look below to spot dolphins playing in the surf, or colorful tropical birds flying past.

When the sun sets in Key West… you’ll know. And not just because a myriad of artists from Jimmy Buffet to Judy Blume will make art inspired by the island’s evening end. You’ll know because the sky lights up like fire—tangerine and gold stretching far and wide across the Caribbean sea as you pull away from the dock. Setting on a day spent in a place that goes far beyond a bachelor and bachelorette party destination—where the best of New Orleans and Nantucket meet in the Caribbean to create a little island with a very big personality.

Set Sail the Virgin Way

Set sail the Virgin way and find a new approach to cruise vacations. Select this special itinerary and let's sail.

Fire & sunset soirées.

Painted skies in the Florida Keys

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Key West, Florida

• Need to Know
• Itineraries
• VIEW CRUISES

Located at the southernmost tip of the United States, this cool little island hideaway is closer to Havana, Cuba, than it is to Miami. Visit two of Key West's best attractions, the Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum and the Key West Aquarium.

Key West Cruise Image Gallery

• Ernest Hemingway House
• Southernmost Point
• Stunning views
• Soft sands and warm waters
• Meet the colourful locals
• Whimsical crafts
• Grilled shrimp by the Harbor
• White Knuckle Thrill Boat
• Travel by trolley

What you NEED TO KNOW

Featured Key West CRUISE ITINERARIES

• Cruise Destinations
• The Bahamas
• Key-West-Cruises

Key West, FL

• Carnival Conquest
• Carnival Dream
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Spirit
• Carnival Sunrise

* Coming Soon

• Things To Do
• Past Guest Photos

Cruises to Key West are packed with coastal-town energy and layers of American history just waiting to be discovered. Enjoy a laidback Caribbean vibe with a dash of the high life on Carnival cruises to Key West. The southernmost island of the Florida Keys, Key West is a sunny, fun-loving place with plenty of charm, and more than a little touristy goofiness. (But that’s optional.) Key West cruises deliver you to palm-shaded streets lined with gaily-painted bungalows, vintage saloons and blooming tropical flowers. Whether life’s a beach or you’re life of the party, cruises to Key West definitely over-deliver.

• Stroll amid 19th-century architecture in Key West’s Old Town.
• Step inside the breeze-filled homes of Hemingway and Audubon.
• Make a pilgrimage to the southernmost point in the United States.
• Join the perpetual party in one of the town’s old-time fisherman’s saloons.

Things to do in Key West

Gotta see key west.

We have a few ideas for you.

* Taxes, fees, and port expenses are included.

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Hashtag your cruise photos #carnival and #keywest  — you may see them right here.

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Cruise to Key West, Florida

Key west shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in key west.

Garden Party

Garden Party Parrot Jungle, Key West, Florida

Meet macaws and play with parrots at Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden, a haven for rescued exotic birds.

CONCH CABOOSE

Conch Caboose Aerial View of Street, Key West, Florida

Hop on the world-famous Conch Train to get a lesson in Key West history and hear local legends while touring Old Town and some of the island’s most iconic landmarks.

SQUARE DANCING

In the hours leading up to dusk, head to Mallory Square and watch as it comes to life with acrobats, dancers and performers. The grand finale is a sunset you must see to believe.

LOCAL CUISINE

You can catch all kinds of exotic fish in Key West’s tropical waters, so it’s no surprise that much of the local cuisine centers on fresh seafood. Be sure to try some conch fritters and the iconic key lime pie, of course. When it comes to bars, you’ll find no shortage along lively Duval Street.

In Mallory Square, you’ll find lots of local vendors selling seashells, souvenirs, cigars, rum, and of course, key lime pie. If you’re looking for art galleries and clothing boutiques, head to Duval Street.

Best Deals to Key West, Florida

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Bimini ferry AUGUST 30 CANCELLED ►

• Ferry to Bahamas

• Florida Bahamas ferry

from Florida to Freeport and Bimini

ferry to Bahamas 2022

From $98 per person + taxes.

ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas

The caribbean fast ferry from florida.

Balearia Caribbean Bahamas ferry

The express ferry service to bimini and grand bahama.

direct fast ferry to Bahamas

¡ only 2 hours to bimini and 3 hours to grand bahama.

Balearia Caribbean opperates the Florida Bahamas ferry routes connecting Miami and Florida with the Bahamas islands.

Fort Lauderdale, in Florida, is from where Balearia opperates its rides to Gran Bahama (Freeport) and to Bimini.

Florida Bahamas ferry: schedules and prices

¿How long is Florida Bahamas ferry ride? The ferry sailings from Florida to the Bahamas takes between 3 hours (Florida - Bimni route) to 4 hours (Florida - Gran Bahama route).

Each week there will be 1 frequency to and from Grand Bahama and three frequencies (also roundtrip) to connect Bimini with Florida.

If the health situation caused by Covid 19 improves, more frequencies and schedules will be placed on the two routes from Florida.

Search our timetable and prices search engine for the dates of the route you want to take.

• Bimini ferry:
• Ft Lauderdale to Bimini
• ferry to Bimini
• Miami to Bimini ferry
• to Bahamas:
• Ft Lauderdale to Bahamas

ferry to Bahamas

• Boat from Miami to Bahamas
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Florida Bahamas ferry news

Leap year 29% off to bahamas.

February 29th, 2024

Book today with this offer from Balearia Caribbean and travel on the Bimini ferry with a 29 percent discount on the price of your ferry tickets. You must book today, February 29, 2024, to travel to Bimini or Freeport until May 31.

This offer is only valid for booking on February 29, 2024. You can travel until May 31 on any of its routes. It is mandatory that the trip be round trip. But it is not valid for daytrips .

Enter the Promo Code LEAPYEAR when making the reservation and enjoy this discount. You have only 24 hours to make your reservation, while there are seats available. Balearia Caribbean has limited places for this Leap Year offer.

Offer Conditions of "29 off to Bahamas for Leap Year" with Balearia Caribbean ferry.

With the promo code LEAPYEAR you will get a 29% discount on the price of your ferry tickets to Bimini or Freeport.

You have to book today, February 29th, 2024 or until the end of offer seats.

It's mandatory to book return tickets. Offer not valid for daytrips.

If you book this offer and want to make changes, you will be subject to a penalty fee and to pay if there is a difference in the price of your rate.

Cancellations and annulments are not allowed for this offer.

Book as soon as possible as the places in this offer are very few and they will run out quickly.

Another option is to discover the Bahamas islands with a stay in Bimini. Check the Bimini hotel and ferry vacation packages (staying at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini) or the package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

29 off to Bimini or Freeport Leap Year

Ferry to Bahamas Thank You message

23rd of November, 2023

ferrytobahamas.com Thank You message

Updated on the 23rd of November, 2023

Hey everyone,

Today is Thanksgiving in the U.S. and it’s always a good time to reflect and express gratitude.

From Ferry to Bahamas we want to thank you all.

THANK YOU to our whole TEAM that works hard to keep all the information updated about the schedules and prices to travel by ferry to Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama) from Fort Lauderdale (Florida).

Without your work, these amazing results would be impossible.

THANK YOU to our trusted provider, BALEARIA CARIBBEAN ferry , for the support that all their departments (Customer Service, Commercial, Billing, Crew on board the fast ferry Jaume II, Ground staff and Management) give us. You make our work easier and the relationships with our mutual customers smoother.

THANK YOU to all of you for the community that we are creating.

And, of course, THANK YOU to our more than 5,000 CUSTOMERS in these barely 2 years of journey.

Your desire to discover the wonders of the Bahamas islands has inspired us to create and develop this project.

THANKS to your support we have been able to offer you all the updated information about the schedules, prices and Bahamas (Freeport and Bimini) vacations deals of the Balearia Caribbean, the information of the hotels in Bahamas where you can stay (both in Bimini and Grand Bahama), what you can see and do in the Bahamas or how to book the best ferry and hotel packages in Bimini or Freeport.

Our mission is that you can continue to discover the natural and spiritual beauty that the Bahamas islands radiate and we remind you that during these days the Balearia Caribbean Black Friday , Cyber Monday and the discounts on Bahamas ferry and hotel of Balearia Caribbean are still available.

We hope to continue helping customers like you to dream of the Bahamas as we do every day and, why not, to see each other someday on one of their magnificent islands.

Until then, THANK YOU

Balearia Caribbean Black Friday

21st of November, 2023

Balearia Caribbean Black Friday 2023. -35% Off!

Updated on the 21st of November, 2023

Enjoy the Balearia Caribbean's Black Friday Week and you will have a discount of 35% Off for your next ferry tickets to the Bahamas (Bimini and Freeport). Take advantage of this incredible offer and get your cheapest boat tickets from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas now! . Don't let escape the 35% Off Pre-Black Friday Discount Now! 🚀 .

This offer is valid for travel during the entire 2024 calendar except for some special days that you have below. Enter the Promo Code BLACK35 when booking and enjoy this discount. The deadline to make your reservation is from November 21 to 26, while there are still places available. Balearia Caribbean has limited places for this Black Friday offer.

TAKE NOTE: Exclusive Pre-Black Friday Access : If you are a member of Balearia Caribbean (or are a new member), for three days starting November 21st, you will have early access to all the places on offer that Balearia Caribbean is going to put on sale this week. In addition, and just by becoming a member of Balearia Caribbean, you will receive an even more surprising discount. Enter the Rewards section of Balearia Caribbean and buy the cheapest tickets to the Bahamas now.

Offer Conditions of "35 off to Bahamas on Black Friday 2023" with Balearia Caribbean ferry.

With the promo code BLACK35 you will get a 35% discount on the price of your ferry tickets to Grand Bahama and Bimini.

Offer valid for travel on 2024 open calendar except deadlines.

Offer NOT valid to travel: between 17th and 30th November 2023. Between 20th December 2023 and 2nd January 2024. Between 1st and 31st March 2024. Between 20th and 30th November 2024 and between 17th and 31st December 2024.

This offer is ONLY valid for ferry tickets. NOT valida for ferry and hotel packages. Limited places.

You can book until November 27th, 2023 or until the end of offer seats.

If you want to book one of the Bimini ferry and hotel packages that Balearia Caribbean offers, whether in Bimini or in Freeport, check out our Bimini hotel and ferry vacation packages (staying at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini) or the package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

Hilton Bimini packages with ferry from $250

November 21, 2023

Celebrate Spring Break this coming February at Hilton at Resorts World Bimini with the special offers from Balearia Caribbean. Enjoy the whitest waters of the Caribbean, from February 24 to 1st of March from $250 per person, per night, incluiding the ferry tickets too. The best getaway for a 5 nights stay and Bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale (Florida). Bahamas, the perfect place to conect with sun and water.

If you have heard of a paradise called Bimini (in the Bahamas) and a wonderful Hilton hotel (World Resorts Bimini) that is at least on the beachfront, with a Casino and a very cool beach club, this website will help you book the perfect weekend.

You can enjoy 5 hotel nights at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini plus roundtrip ferry to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale starting from $250 per person per night .

Bimini is only 2 hours by direct fast ferry from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Balearia Caribbean is the company that makes the crossing. The Jaume II ship is a modern and fast ferry, which has different categories of confortable seats: tourist and economy premium. It also has a cafeteria, snack bar, outdoor terrac and duty free

The Hilton at World Resorts Bimini hotel is ideal for spending a romantic weekend, enjoying the beautiful sunsets over the island in the rooftop pool, having a cocktail at its bar, and enjoying the crystal clear waters that surround North Bimini. Lovers of water sports or fishing also have excellent entertainment options to discover Bimini.

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Hilton Bimini packages with ferry" conditions:

This promotion applies only to Bimini Island. NOT for Grand Bahama or Freeport Resorts.

The price is per person per night, based in double occupancy.

This offer is subjected to change or to cancel at Balearia Caribbean's discretion.

This promotion is non-refundable.

The Balearia Caribbean or Hilton at Resorts Wolrd Bimini hotel flexible policy does not apply to ferry and hotel packages. If you want to make any changes, you must do so more than 72 hours before the ferry departure time.

You can also make just one reservation for the Hilton at Words Resorts Bimini hotel, by clicking on the following link that we show you: Hilton at Resorts World Bimini Bahamas

If you prefer to book separately the ferry and on the other hand the hotel or your vacation package you can do it on our website, at your leisure. ferrytobahamas.com . The Balearia Caribbean system will send you, directly to the email you provide us, the confirmation of the reservation..

Book your package with Balearia Caribbean's ferry and the Hilton Bimini Hotel as soon as possible and enjoy a few days in paradise. You deserve it!

Hilton Bimini packages with ferry

Bimini ferry August 30th Cancelled

September 1st, 2023

Updated on the 1st September, 2023

All Balearia ferry services from Fort Lauderdale (the Bimini ferry and the Freeport ferry) have already been restored and are operating normally.

And the following is the Old New about the cancellation of Bimini ferry of Balearia Caribbean due to Idalia Hurracane on August 30th.

Bimini ferry of tomorrow, August 30 th, has been cancelled by Balearia Caribbean due to bad weather conditions. The Freeport service is confirmed and it will be direct, the sailing times will remain as they are.

Due to bad weather conditions, Balearia Caribbean, the ferry company that connects Florida with the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale, has suspended the departure of its ship, Jaime II, tomorrow, Wednesday, August 30, 2023.

If you have a ferry reservation for this day, August 30, to go to Bimini, contact Balearia ferry to reschedule your trip or to get a refund of your total reservation.

You can contact Balearia Caribbean directly by sending an email to [email protected] or by phone (+ 1 866.699.6988). The Balearia Caribbean staff will be happy to help you, give you the information you need and answer all your questions.

You can also find all the updated information on the Balearia website and on our website, ferry to Bahamas .

Bimini ferry August 30 cancelled

Balearia Caribbean promo code FALL4U

August 23rd, 2023

Updated on the 23rd of August, 2023

New offer from Balearia Caribbean to travel this coming fall to Bimini and Freeport. Get a 25% off on your ferry tickets from Fort Lauderdale.

Attentive! If you are thinking of buying ferry tickets with Balearia Caribbean, here is a good offer that you cannot miss. Just use the promo code FALL4U and bam! you will get a fantastic 25% discount. This discount is not only valid for Balearia ferry trips, but also for the purchase of the ferry and hotel in Bimini vacation packages. Why is this Balearia offer a good offer? Don't let this offer from Balearia Caribbean slip through your fingers: before you is the perfect opportunity to explore Bimini Island or Freeport (Grand Bahama). And hey, don't forget, you can take a quick day trip or stay in a hotel overnight and still take advantage of this amazing promo code. So what are you waiting for to book it?"

if you want to do it (we are talking about the day trip to Bimini or Freeport (Bahamas) or you prefer to book a ferry and hotel package) run and calculate in our ferry search engine the price of your ferry tickets with Balearia Caribbean. Then perform the same calculation again but, in the "Promotional Code" section of the search engine, write the promo code FALL4U. If you meet all the conditions of the offer (which you have here above) a 25% discount will be automatically applied to the price of your ferry tickets (or to your Bimini vacation package).

Remember that if your stay in Bimini or Freeport lasts a few days, you must add more luggage to the basic rate of your trip, since it only accepts the limited number of pounds. Depending on the days you want to stay in the Bahamas, you will have to carry more or less luggage. So plan your vacation days well and prepare your luggage ahead of time. You can always add extra luggage to your reservation. Although it may be cheaper, you do it in advance than the Balearia Ferry Terminal at boarding time.

Do you want to know more about Balearia Caribbean ferry ? Also known as Balearia Bahamas express the Balearia is the only ferry company that departures from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini and Freeport (in Grand Bahama island) on the Bahamas. Get all the info you need in this website ( Balearia ferry schedule or photos, as example).

Balearia Caribbean promo code fall4u

Bahamas vacation 15 Off

June 20th, 2023

Updated on the 20th of June, 2023

Enjoy your Bahamas vacation with a 15 percent discount using the "SUMMERSALE" Balearia Caribbean's code. In this way, you will have in the same package the ferry tickets to travel from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini or Freeport (Grand Bahama island) and your hotel stay.

Balearia Caribbean has the promo code SUMMERSALE available for you to have a 15 percent discount on the price of your ferry and hotel package for your vacation in the Bahamas this summer. What does this Bahamas vacation package consist of? In the price of the package you have the ferry tickets, round trip, from Fort Lauderdale (Fll) to Bimini or Freeport (Grand Bahama). If you want to visit Bimini you will stay at the Hilton Hotel and if you prefer the all-inclusive package of the offer you will stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach Hotel on Grand Bahama Island.

What is the difference between the "Bimini vacation package" and the "All inclusive vacation package" offered by Balearia Caribbean? The first one will take you to the island of Bimini (2 hours by ferry from Fort Lauderdale) and the stay at the Bimini Hilton hotel. This vacation package ONLY package includes the hotel stay (no breakfast, meals, dinner or any drink).

In the Bahamas vacation packages that included All Inclusive, Balearia Caribbean will take you from its base in Florida to the island of Grand Bahama, to the port of Freeport (about 3 hours from Fort Lauderdale). In this package, you will stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach resort in All Inclusive (food and drinks) during your entire stay.

If you want to know more info about Balearia Caribbean, the Balearia ferry to Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama), check one of these pages where you will find all the information you are looking for: Balearia Caribbean ferry offices , Balearia ferry schedule and Balearia ferry to Bimini info.

Bahamas vacation 15 off

Bahamas ferry 15 Off

June 14th, 2023

Updated on the 14th of April, 2023

Paradise awaits you. Summer to the Bahamas with a 15 percent discount with the Balearia Caribbean offer on the ferry tickets that depart from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport (Grand Bahama) and Bimini.

To get this discount you have to add the code SUMMERSALE in the Promotional Code box and your discount will be updated directly on the price of your ferry tickets (if you meet the conditions of the offer of course). If you have been waiting for a long time to get to know the Bahamas with this offer from Balearia Caribbean, you have no excuse to discover Freeport (Grand Bahama) or the beautiful island of Bimini.

Take note that, in order to travel to the Bahamas, it is necessary to comply with the regulations of the Bahamas in possession of the mandatory travel documentation (passport or residence card, depending on your nationality). It is also mandatory to have a valid driver's license if you plan to rent a golf cart. And if you want to rent a boat or yacht to sail the waters of the Bahamas on your own, you must also have your corresponding navigation and fishing licenses in order.

If you want to stay at the best hotel on Bimini Island, click on "Bimini ferry and hotel" page. Balearia Caribbean usually has special offers for your vacations called "Bimini Vacation packages" where you can buy, at a special price, both your accommodation at the Hilton hotel and the Balearia Caribbean ferry tickets..

If you visit this website regularly you will get all the updated information about Balearia Caribbean : schedule, reviews, office phone numbers, port adresses, customer service number, promo codes, ... and all the info you need to travel with Balearia.

Bahamas ferry 15 off

Memorial Day 2023 15 Off to Bahamas

May 21st, 2023

15 Off to Bahamas Memorial Day 2023

Updated on the 21st of May, 2023

Take advantage of the Balearia Caribbean offer to travel on Memorial Day 2023 and enjoy a 15 percent discount on the price of your ferry tickets. Book before May 28th, 2023 for travel in this weekend. (Saturday to Grand Bahama and on Sunday to Bimini island).

This offer is valid for travel on Memorial Day weekend. To travel on May 27, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Freeport in Grand Bahama and on May 28 to travel on the Bimini express ferry that makes the Fort Lauderdale - Bimini route.

Enter the Promo Code MEMORIAL15 when making the reservation and enjoy this discount. You have until May 28 to make your reservation, while there are seats available. Balearia Caribbean has limited places for this Memorial Day offer.

Offer Conditions of "15 off to Bahamas on Memorial Day 2023" with Balearia Caribbean ferry.

With the promo code MEMORAIL15 you will get a 15% discount on the price of your ferry tickets to Grand Bahama and Bimini.

Offer valid for travel on Memorial Day weekend 2023.

Offer valid to travel on May 27 from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport (Grand Bahama) in a One Day Trip. Round trip on the same day.

Offer valid to travel on May 28 from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini in a One Day Trip. Round trip on the same day.

You can book until May 28th, 2023 or until the end of offer seats.

If you prefer to spend the entire Memorial Day weekend staying in Bimini check out our Bimini hotel and ferry vacation packages (staying at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini) or the package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

15 off to Bahamas Memorial Day 2023

Balearia Caribbean ferry Offices

March 28th, 2023

Balearia Caribbean ferry offices

Updated on the March 28th, 2023

Balearia Caribbean has offices in Fort Lauderdale (Fll, United States) and in the Bahamas on the island of Bimini and in Freeport, in Grand Bahama island. From these offices and ports the Balearia boat departs, they are the boarding point and you can buy ferry tickets directly too.

The Fort Lauderdale offices, in Port Everglades, are where passengers embark to Bimini and Grand Bahama (Bahamas). As a general rule, boarding takes place at Terminal 21, although it is always good to make sure that there has not been a last minute change in the departure terminal. Balearia is working on being granted its own terminal in the port of Port Everglades..

In Bimini, the Balearia office is located in a yellow house in Fisher Village, less than a 5-minute walk from the Hilton Hotel. The boarding pier is also a 5-minute walk away. From the office there is a free transfer that leaves you at the ferry door before boarding.

Here you have a lot of information about the Balearia Caribbean offices in each of the ports. We will update and expand this information as we can. Thanks for your understanding..

NOTE: Balearia ferry schedules are subjected to modifications due to operational issues or the state of the sea without prior notice.

If you want to know the schedules, departure dates and real-time price of the Balearia Caribbean ferry to go to Bimini, click on the following link: ferry to Bimini schedule or if you prefer to visit Grand Bahama click in the following link ferry to Bahamas schedule to know all the schedules, time and prices.

If what you want to know the schedules and prices of the Balearia Caribbean ferry to travel from Bimini to Fort Lauderdale or from Freeport (Grand Bahama) to Florida US, click on the following links: Bimini to Fort Lauderdale ferry schedule and ferry from Freeport schedule .

You can find all the information about Balearia Caribbean offices, their contact number, address and information about schedules and routes on the Balearia Caribbean website and on our website.

Balearia Caribbean Changes, Cancellations & Refunds

March 23, 2023

Balearia Caribbean's ferry ticket are not transferable. The name of the passenger cannot be modified in any case.

Those reservations whose cancellation is requested seven days before the ferry departure date, are entitled to a full refund.

If the reservation cancellation request is made between 7 and 4 days before the ferry departure date, the cancellation penalty will be 50%.

Those reservation cancellations requested three days or less before the ferry departure date will not be refunded.

Date changes : Date changes are allowed if they are requested at least 24 hours before the ferry departure date. A fare difference and a US$75 penalty will be applied for each change.

Special Offers and One day Trips: No refund will be applied for cancellations of special offers and one-day trips.

Any passenger who does not board the ferry for any reason, beyond the control of Balearia Caribbean, will not be entitled to a refund or date change under any circumstances.

Balearia Caribbean does not assume any responsibility other than the refund of the ticket, in case it has to refund it, if the ferry trip for which the ticket has been issued does not make the stipulated trip due to operational difficulties, weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances or forces beyond Balearia Caribbean's control.

Baleària Caribbean is not responsible for any denied boarding due to failure to present the appropriate travel documentation. Always remember to carry all the documentation in order to be able to enter and exit correctly both in the United States and in the Bahamas depending on the nationality of your passport.

You can check the Balearia Caribbean ferry ticket contract at the following link: https://www.baleariacaribbean.com/en/ticket-contract

Bahamas Spring Break packages

March 21st, 2023

Updated on the March 21st, 2023

Are you looking for one of Balearia Caribbean's Hilton Bimini packages with ferry for this Spring Break? Take advantage of your Spring Day vacation and relax 2 nights in Bimini at an incredible price. This is probably one of the best Bimini vacation packages you will find.

This package consists of a 2 night hotel stay at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini with the tickets from the ferry to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale . Price starting from $567 per person per night .

The Balaria ferry makes the connection in only 2 hours, departing Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US) at 9 am and arriving Bimini port at 11 am.

The Bimini package includes only the stay at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini hotel. Meals, drinks and casino expenses, among other expenses, go separately. Resort taxes and Bimini fees are also payable at the hotel.

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Bahamas Spring Break packages: ferry and hotel packages with Balearia Caribbean ferry" conditions:

This offer is only for travel to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale. NOT valid for Freeport and Grand Bahama.

The starting price is per person per night, based in double occupancy in double room.

Subject to change or to cancel at Balearia Caribbean's discretion.

This deals is non-refundable.

Another option that you have is to enjoy in Freeport (Grand Bahama) the All Inclusive hotel Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach Resort.

Enjoy the best All Inclusive in the Bahamas with this package that includes hotel and ferry tickets from $299 per person.

You will be able to do the excursion of the swimming pigs, bathe in the transparent waters of the Caribbean, dance all day and savor the delicious Bahamian food.

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Bahamas Spring Break packages: ferry and All Inclusive hotel packages with Balearia Caribbean ferry" conditions:

The price of this package starts from $299 per person based in double room occupancy.

Also includes ferry tickets from Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US) to Freeport (Grand Bahama, Bahamas), round trip, on Economy seats.

Depending on the ferry avilable dates, you can enjoy 2 nights, 3 nights, and 4 nights packages. You have to check the availability and traveling dates on the searching engine to choose them.

This package offer is valid for travel anytime during 2023.

Remember to ckeck ferry and Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach availability to travel.

Depending on the travel dates you choose, ferry rates and the price of the vacation package may vary. Only during sailing dates this promotion is apllicable.

Take note that taxes (like resort tax, Bimini tax) are not included in this price).

Bahamas Spring Break packages: ferry and hotel vacation deals with Balearia Caribbean ferry

Grand Bahamas Spring Break

March 17th, 2023

Updated on the 17th of March, 2023

Get the latest Balearia Caribbean offer to enjoy Spring Break. It is a 15% discount on the One Day Trip tickets from Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama island, only on Saturdays until April 30. Use the code SPRINGDAY15 in the "Promotional code" section of the schedules and prices search engine and, automatically, the price of the ferry to Grand Bahama will have the discount included. Remember to read the conditions of the offer well to be able to comply with them all.

Celebrate Spring Break traveling to Grand Bahama by ferry with Balearia Caribbean and enjoy a full day on its fine sandy beaches, soaking up the Caribbean sun, taking selfies with the pink swimming pigs or simply resting from the speed of life in Miami.

Below we show you all the information you need to know about this offer, One Day Trip to Grand Bahama on Spring Break, with the Balearia Caribbean discount.

General Conditions of the "Spring Break" offer for the route Fort Lauderdale - Freeport, Grand Bahama - Fort Lauderdale on Balearia Caribbean ferry.

Travel on Suntardays until April, 30th 2023, to Freeport (Grand Bahama, Bahamas) and get a 15% off.

Book your One Day Trip to Grand Bahama going and back on the same day.

The reservation must be made before April 30th 2023.

The travel date of this offer is the Saturdays before the April, 30th 2023.

This offer is valid for the Florida Bahamas ferry route between Fort Lauderdale to Freeport, in Grand Bahama island.

Changes allowed subject to a fee and rate updates. No cancellations allowed.

If you want to get the deal it's reto book in advance to take this deal it is advisable to book in advance as the seats with this discount are very few.

This offer is for a One Day Trip to the Bahamas. Perhaps you are more interested in spending 2 or 3 nights in the Bahamas. If you click on the following link, Bimini hotels , you will see Bimini ferry and hotel packages in the Hilton . The Hilton is the best Bimini Bahmas hotels in the resorts category. It has a private beach club where you can enjoy the sand, a pool roof, a private yacht marina and a casino.

Would you like to know Bimini island? Well, book your Day Trip to Bahamas now on Saturdays to Freeport and on Wednesdays to Bimini and enjoy up to a 15% discount with the Balearia Caribbean ferry deal for this coming Spring Break.

15% discount on the One Day Trip from Balearia Caribbean to Grand Bahama island.

Bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale from $155

March 14th, 2023

Bimini ferry schedule 2023 updated

Updated on the 14th of March, 2023

Many of you ask us how much is the bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale with Balearia Caribbean ferry company. Depending on the date you want to travel, the price of the Bimini ferry is different, and it is also different if you do the day trip - this is a round trip on the same day - or if you want to make a round trip and stay a few days in Bimini island.

If you want to do the Balearia Caribbean day trip you can buy it from $155 + taxes per person. This price is for 1 adult, children (from 1 to 12 years old) pay half. But if the round trip is on different days the price is higher. Also, if you book in advance the price is cheaper than if you wait until the last day to book. Here your have some examples of bookings from our clients and the prices of the Bimini ferry from Balearia Caribbean.

Our customers' bookings examples to Bimini

The conditions of this offer / deal as follows:

$155 + taxes, price valid from for the day trip with Balearia Caribbean to Bimini (the Bimini day trip).

This deal is valid to travel anytime during 2023 schedule

It's valid only for ferry bookings. Not valid for Bimini ferry and hotel packages , only hotel bookings or any kind or Bimini vacation packages.

Limited seats available. Please, book in advance as soon as you can.

No cancellations allowed. This deal doesn't allow cancellations. Please, be sure about all of details of your booking at the time you do it.

Changes subject to a fee or penalty and rate updates.

You already have the information to be able to travel on the Bimini ferry, round trip on the same day - the Bimini day trip - and thus be able to experience, at least for a few hours, the wonders that are told about Bimini and the Bahamas.

But if you prefer to spend more days on the island, rest at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini hotel, you can see the offers that are in the Bimini vacation packages that Balearia Caribbean has prepared. Check them out!

Bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale from $155 + taxes

fast ferry to Bahamas

February 23th, 2023

Updated on the 23th of February, 2023

Many people do not travel to the Bahamas by ferry because they think that the "fast ferry to the Bahamas" takes 4 hours to make the crossing between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini, and that is not the case. In fact, it only takes 2 hours! to travel the 55 miles between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini by ferry. The shipping company Balearia Caribbean is the company that makes these trips.

The Bahamas fast ferry company, Balearia Caribbean , based in Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US), makes 3 to 4 weekly trips to Bimini and 2 to 3 departures to Freeport (Grand Bahama) on it's ship, Jaime II, a comfortable fast speed ferry.

Most of you may know these crossings as the Bimini fast ferry or the fast ferry to Bahamas to Fort Lauderdale that for many years left from the port of Miami (operated by FRS Caribbean) and is now operated by Balearia Caribbean from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale.

The fast ferry to Bahamas schedule for 2023 is:

fast ferry to Bahamas schedule 2023

Touch on the schedule you prefer to check the availability and price on this moment.

from February 03rd to December 31st, 2023

From bimini, to freeport (grand bahama), from freeport (grand bahama), from january 04th to december 30th, 2023.

Schedules subject to modifications by the shipping company due to operational issues or the state of the sea without prior notice.

The following ferry routes between: Fort Lauderdale and Bimini , Fort Lauderdale and Freeport (Grand Bahama) and the connection between Bimini - Freeport (Grand Bahama) are the routes planned to date by Balearia Caribbean in which they provide passenger transport service at least for all of 2023. In the event that Balearia Caribbean increases the number of frequencies to the Bahamas, adds one more ship to these routes or launches new routes in different Caribbean countries (Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic,...) we will keep you informed of all this, when it is made public by Balearia Caribbean.

If what you want is to obtain information about schedules and prices of ferries to the Bahamas and the option of being able to stay in Bimini at the Hilton hotel, you only have to click on the following link: Hilton Bimini packages with ferry . If you prefer to book an All Inclusive in the Bahamas, we recommend traveling to Freeport (Grand Bahama) and staying at the Viva Wyndham hotel. Here you can see the prices and book the package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

Fast ferry to Bahamas, schedule and prices

Bahamas fast ferry schedule 2023

February 06th, 2023

Bahamas fast ferry schedule 2023 updated

Updated on the 6th of February, 2023

A fast ferry takes 4 hours? No! The Balearia Caribbean fast ferry to Bahamas that departs from Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US) takes only 2 hours of direct sailing to Bimini island and just 3 hours to Freeport in Gran Bahama, both in the Bahamas. That is the reason a lot of people call Balearia ferry the fast boat to Bimini. Now the schedule for 2023 is public and here you can get the info and make the reservations for your next vacations in the Bahamas.

The Bahamas fast ferry is named the ferry service that provides the Balearia ferry company between the port of Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades) to Bimini island and to Freeport in Gran Bahamas. It's fast beacause the ride is only 2 hours or 3 hours if you go to Freeport. There is no other company that make these rides.At least 6 o 16 times a week to both islands.

Known as Bimini fast ferry , or Bahama express, or the fast ferry to Bimini, the vessel Jaume II is the ship tha makes the connection Fort Lauderdale-Bimini. The Balearia fast ferry It usually has more or less fixed dates and times for its departures and they only tend to vary if the weather or sea conditions so advise. So that nothing catches you off guard, write your personal information correctly (email and telephone as well) when making the reservation with Balearia Caribbean so that, in case they have to notify you of any changes, you can receive it immediately.

Balearia ferry has this schedule in 2023 for the Bahamas fast ferry:

This calendar of dates and times are for the routes between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini , Fort Lauderdale and Freeport (Grand Bahama) and the connection between Bimini - Freeport (Grand Bahama) . If in the future more ferry routes are added in the Bahamas, the United States or in other Caribbean countries (Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, for example) we will update them in our search engine and we will publish it in our news for your information, as soon as possible. as Balearia Caribbean communicate it to us.

Also take advantage of the info and engine that this website offers you to complete your vacation in the Bahamas. Book your vacation package with a hotel in Bimini (Hilton at World Resorts Bimini) or an package all-inclusive resort in Freeport (Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive).

Balearia ferry schedule 2023

Balearia ferry schedule updated

Updated on the 14th of February, 2024

Here you have a direct link to the updated Balearia Caribbean ferry schedule for this year. Enjoy the Bahamas!

And here you have all the info about the schedule in 2023 for you to compare with this year.

Once the year 2023 has begun, and after the stop of the Jaume II ferry for its mandatory inspections, all the schedules of the ferry services that connect Fort Lauderdale with Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama) in the Bahamas are already underway. Here we show you the scheduled schedule, as of today, for Balearia ferry to travel between Florida and Bahamas, in both directions. You can also check the dates and times that the Balearia Caribbean ferry makes the direct route between Bimini and Freeport as a layover between Fort Lauderdale and Grand Bahama.

The ferrie usually leave quite early from Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) and in just 2 hours it reaches Bimini and in 3 hours it reaches Freeport. Every week there are usually between 2 and 4 departures from Florida to each of the islands, being in summer, spring break and Christmas when there are more departures.

In case there is any change in the schedules and/or dates scheduled for the departures of the ship, Balearia Caribbean will contact you directly through the communication channels that you have provided at the time of making the reservation (email, sms, telephone) so it is very important that you make sure that you enter your information correctly when you make your ferry reservation to the Bahamas .

Balearia ferry has planned these schedules in 2023 to connect Fort Lauderdale, Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama):

from Bimini to Freeport (Grand Bahama)

From freeport (grand bahama) to bimini.

These scheduled departure times and dates to travel to the Bahamas by boat from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) or on the Bimini Bahamas ferry are operated by Balearia Caribbean, the only shipping company that makes ferry trips from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas ferry , (not Miami) to the islands further north than the Bahamas, as Bimini island, on the also known as Bimini Bahamas ferry .

You can also enjoy the different packages that add a stay at a hotel or resort in Bimini or Freeport to your ferry tickets. By booking a ferry and hotel package in Bahamas you get a cheap way to save on your vacation in the Bahamas. If you want to stay in Bimini you can stay at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini in North Bimini hotel. Its beach club and its marina are the ideal place to enjoy the sea. If you prefer an All Inclusive package in the Bahamas, book your ferry tickets and stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive hotel in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island. The best way to enjoy an All Inclusive while saving money.

Balearia Caribbean Rookie 2022

January 30, 2023

Updated on the 30th of January, 2023

Balearia ferry company has awarded I Love Ferry the Balearia Caribbean Rookie 2022 award for having been one of the leading European agencies in its sales on the routes between Fort Lauderdale and the Bahamas (Bimini and Freeport in Grand Bahama).

During the celebration of the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) that took place in Madrid from January 17th to 22th, 2023, the shipping company based in Denia (Alicante), Balearia ferry awarded a group of travel agencies for their trajectory and results during the past year 2022.

I Love Ferry, the company of which we are a part, was awarded by Balearia as the European agency with the greatest increase in sales on the routes in the United States and the Bahamas in the first two years that I Love Ferry has been selling these routes between Fort Lauderdale and the islands of Bimini and Grand Bahama.

Our Marketing Director collected the Balearia Caribbean Rookie 2022 award from the Sales Director of Balearia in Spain and our Denia salesperson during the award ceremony for travel agencies.

This type of event and many others, such as those that took place during the International Tourism Fair, are among the events celebrating the 25th anniversary of the foundation in 1998 of the Balearia ferry shipping company. Throughout this year 2023 Balearia will carry out various events to commemorate its anniversary.

We are extremely grateful for the recognition received by Balearia Caribbean and Balearia ferry and we will continue working very hard to, on future occasions, be eligible for another award.

About I Love Ferry.us : I Love Ferry is a search engine for ferries in the United States and the Bahamas where you can access information on schedules and prices of the routes of the Balearia Caribbean shipping company between the ports of Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US) and the islands of Bimini and Grand Bahama (Freeport) in the Bahamas. In addition to having access to the latest news and offers from Balearia Caribbean, buy your ferry tickets (both one-way and return) you can also book ferry and hotel packages in Bimini (at the Hilton hotel) and ferry and hotel in Freeport.

Balearia Caribbean Cyber Monday offer

Novermber 28th, 2022

Updated on the November 28th, 2022

Only today, Cyber ​​Monday, you can get a 40 percent discount when buying your Bimini ferry tickets or on your vacation to the Bahamas. Run, time is running out!

Use the code CYBERSALE22 when making the reservation in our ferry ticket search engine and our system will automatically apply the discount to the final price of your trip.

This price discount is valid for the following routes operated by Balearia Caribbean: Fort Lauderdale - Bimini , Fort Lauderdale - Freeport (Grand Bahama) , Bimini - Fort Lauderdale , Freeport (Grand Bahama) - Fort Lauderdale , Bimini - Freeport (Grand Bahama) and Freeport (Grand Bahama) - Bimini .

This offer is valid ONLY for ferry bookings. NOT valid for Bimini ferry and hotel bookings, Bimini world resorts packages or Hilton Bimini packages with ferry .

As always, places are limited. Make your reservation today and get this amazing offer for your future vacations.

Make your reservation now in our search engine and enjoy this incredible discount for travel to Bahamas with Balearia Caribbean bahamas express compnay.

Balearia Caribbean Cyber Monday offer.

Balearia Caribbean ferry Schedule Change - Ian Hurricane

September 27, 2022

Balearia Caribbean ferry Schedule change - Ian Hurricane

Updated on the 27th of September, 2022

Today, September 27th, Hurricane Ian will reach the coast of Florida, will arrive in Tampa late on Wednesday, September 28th and will cross the entire state, with winds of more than 30 miles per hour as a tropical storm.

This Wednesday, September 28th, is when the strongest winds are expected in the Fort Lauderdale area (Florida, US) and even in Bimini and Freeport in the Bahamas.

Hurricane Ian, who is currently a category 3 hurricane, is moving from western Cuba and will cross the Florida Keys in the next few hours towards the north of the state.

Due to weather conditions Balearia Caribbean ferry company has changed its sailing hours from Freeport (Grand Bahamas, Bahamas) to Fort Lauderdale (Florida), today, Tuesday September, 27th 2022. The new departure schedule is earlier than normal one.

Balearia Caribbean's vessel will depart from Freeport (Grand Bahama) at 2:00 PM arriving to Fort Lauderdale (Florida) at 5:00PM .

Daytrips from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport (Grand Bahama) have been canceled. If you have a confirmed booking with us please contact us to re schedule your booking or cancel to obtain a refund.

Schedules are subject to modifications by Balearia Caribbean due to operational issues or the state of the sea.

In the event that Balearia Caribbean makes new changes to the schedules of its ferries we will notify you on our website as soon as possible.

Balearia Caribbean ferry schedule change - Ian Hurricane

Balearia Caribbean ferry Schedule Change - Hurricane Fiona

Balearia Caribbean ferry Schedule change - Hurricane Fiona

Hurricane Fiona becomes the strongest atlantic storm in 2022 and now is near Bahamas islands. Fiona winds remain at 130 miles per hour (more than 200 kilometres per hour) according to a US National Hurricane Center.

Balearia Caribbean ferry schedule change - Hurricane Fiona

Bimini ferry and hotel package from $275

July 29, 2022

Updated on the 29th of July, 2022

Looking for the best Bimini ferry and hotel package? If you want to enjoy a fantastic hotel, like the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini hotel, here you will find an offer that will leave you speechless. This package includes round trip ferry tickets from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini in tourist seats and two hotel nights, in a double room, room only, at the Bimini Hilton.

The offer consist in 2 hotel nights at the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini plus roundtrip ferry to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale starting from $275 per person per night .

The Bimini Islands are the closest Bahamian island to Florida (just 50 miles away). It consists of several islands, being the North Island where the ferry arrival dock and the Hilton Hotel are located.Bimini is a group of islands known for its transparent waters, its sea full of marine species - which you can see while snorkeling and even fishing - white sand, and delicious local food.

Bimini is the perfect place to spend a romantic weekend. The Hilton hotel has rooms with king size beds, junior suites, and a rooftop pool from where you can watch the sun go down.What are you waiting for to book your bimini ferry and hotel package now and share it with the person you most want?

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Bimini ferry and hotel package" conditions:

This promotion applies only to Hilton at Resorts Words Bimini. NOT for any other hotel in Bimini, Grand Bahama or Freeport Resorts.

The price of the offer is per person per night, based in double occupancy.

This offer is non-refundable.

If you prefer to book directly the Hilton hotel you can do it throught this link: Hilton at Resorts World Bimini Bahamas

Want to book ferry tickets with Balearia Caribbean not in a package? In our website, ferrytobahamas.com , you can do by yourself. Make your booking and get your booking confirmation at your email adress.

Anyway you prefer to do it, don't waste time and book right now your next holidays in Bimini island and enjoy this incredible ferry and hotel package opportunity.

Bimini ferry and hotel package

Bimini and Grand Bahama ferry Travel Requeriments and covid restrictions

June 17th, 2022

Bimini and Grand Bahama ferry Travel Requirements and covid restrictions

New requirements effective on June 19th, 2022 .

June 17th, 2022: ALL passengers will NO LONGER need a Bahamas Health Visa starting on June 19th, 2022

Every passenger that is fully vaccinated WILL NO LONGER NEED A TEST .

All unvaccinated travelers ages 2 and older will be required to obtain either a negative RT-PCR test or a Rapid Antigen test— taken no more than three days (72 hours) prior to travel and present the negative test results at check-in before travel to The Bahamas.

Passengers will be required to bring Covid test result, proof of vaccinations (original card) on travel day. This is a mandatory request by The Bahamas government. The embarkation may be denied due to failure of facilitating the proper travel documents.

Children under the age of 2 are exempt from testing requirements.

* Currently, no Covid test or vaccination is required to enter Florida when traveling by ferry.

May 31, 2022: LATEST UPDATE from the Bahamian authorities regarding passengers traveling to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale (both Bimini and Grand Bahama) on the day trip. Although those passengers who come to the Bahamas for one day trip do not need to present the Health Visa upon arrival at the port of the Bahamas, it is mandatory that they present a negative result of a rapid antigen test upon arrival.

All other passengers who spend at least one night in the Bahamas must present the Health Visa upon arrival in the country.

As of now, May 2022, the health visa that was requested by the Bahamian authorities from Balearia Caribbean passengers on a one day trip to the Bahamas (both Bimini and Grand Bahama) will no longer be mandatory however they are requiring a Negative RAPID Test.

With this new initiative of the permanent secretary of the Bahamas government, it is intended to increase the number of visitors and travelers of the one day trip, in both directions, both for those who want to travel to the Bahamas (Bimini and Grand Bahama), and for those Bahamians who want to travel to the United States.

As of this communication received from Balearia Caribbean on May 23th, the shipping company will apply this new regulation from now on to all passengers traveling on routes between Fort Lauderdale - Bimini and Fort Lauderdale - Grand Bahama , in both directions.

NOTICE that Balearia Caribbean continues to apply all Health Visa requirements to those passengers who spend at least one night in the Bahamas or Florida.

Covid travel requirements to enter Bimini and Grand Bahama, and the rest of Bahamas islands, depending on your vaccination status. Travel requirements update. Travel requirements to enter the Bahamas.

These conditions and obligations may change depending on the health situation in the Bahamas or the United States. Please visit the websites of the Ministry of Health of the USA, Bahamas or Balearia Caribbean where you will find all the updated information.

Requirements to travel to Bimini and Grand Bahama for VACCINATED passengers:

- All passengers of the ferry who are FULLY VACCINATED must present a negative rapid antigen test or negative PCR test no more than 72 hours prior to boarding date.

- All travelers who want to enter the Bahamas, including children and infants regardless of their age at the time of travel, must fill out a Bahamas HEALTH TRAVEL VISA on the website travel.gov.bs. Citizens or residents of the Bahamas are exempt from presenting this travel visa.

- Passengers who want to travel to Bimini or Grand Bahama islands must present at the time of boarding: the negative result of the Covid test, proof of vaccination (original card) and the health visa for travel approved on the day of travel. As it is a mandatory request from the government of the Bahamas, boarding the ferry in Fort Lauderdale may be denied for not providing the requested travel documents.

Requirements to travel to Bimini and Grand Bahama for UNVACCINATED passengers:

- All unvaccinated passengers who want to visit Bimini or Grand Bahama (Bahamas) will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before the date of boarding the ferry.

- All travelers who want to enter the Bahamas, including children and infants regardless of their age at the time of travel, must fill out a Bahamas HEALTH TRAVEL VISA on the website travel.gov.bs. Citizens or residents of the Bahamas are exempt from presenting this travel visa

- Passengers who want to travel to Bimini or Grand Bahama islands must present at the time of boarding: the negative result of the Covid PCR test and the health visa for travel approved on the day of travel. As it is a mandatory request from the government of the Bahamas, boarding the ferry in Fort Lauderdale may be denied for not providing the requested travel documents.

Travel with CHILDREN and BABIES to Grand Bahama and Bimini by ferry

- To travel with children between 2 and 11 years old, a negative rapid antigen test or a negative PCR test must be obtained no more than 72 hours before the date of embarkation on the ferry.

- Testing requirements to enter the Bahamas are waived for children under 2 years of age.

- Children and babies (no matter how old they are at the time of travel) must present their own health visa. Children and infants who are citizens or residents of the Bahamas are exempt from this rule.

CURRENTLY, no Covid test or vaccination is required to enter Florida when traveling by ferry.

Measures adopted by Balearia Caribbean for the prevention of Covid in the Embarkation and Disembarkation Terminals, in all its ships and among its crew.

All passengers, (vaccinated, unvaccinated, children and infants) are required to wear a mask/face covering at all times while at the ferry terminals and while sailing their ship.

For the safety and hygiene of ferry passengers, Balearia Caribbean has placed additional disinfectant dispensers in its terminals and in its lounges on board the ship. Baelaria Caribbean has also placed methacrylate partitions and information signs in all areas of the ship, common and private, to ensure that the safety distance between all passengers and crew members is maintained.

For full details of these travel requirements, please visit Bahamas.com/travelupdates or ask Balearia Caribbean.

Bimini and Grand Bahama Bahamas ferry travel requeriments and covid restrictions

Bahamas ferry Fathers day 2022

May 18, 2022

Updated on the 18th of May, 2022

This year 2022 Fathers day is celebrated on June 19th. As always, it is the third Sunday of the month of June. This year 2022 marks the 50th anniversary since President Nixon proclaimed Fathers Day as a holiday throughout the United States. Although there have been more than a hundred years trying to make Fathers Day a holiday on the calendar..

At first, it was even said that establishing the Fathers Day holiday was the idea of ​​men's clothing retailers who, in order to sell clothes, wanted Fathers Day to be celebrated just like Mothers Day. Although there may be a sales intention beyond celebrating Fathers Day, what was intended, initially, was also to give value to the efforts and sacrifices that fathers make for their children, giving this day the importance it deserves.

For those who are looking for gifts and ideas to Fathers Day, we will tell you that an idea that everyone likes is to go on a trip. And what better place than the Bahamas to enjoy a weekend with your partner or family under the umbrella, with your feet in the warm waters of the Caribbean of the Bahamas islands. Look at this special deal that can take your father to Bimini (Bahamas islands) on the Balearia Caribbean ferry. It is also valid to take to the father of your children and is be able to travel with the whole family together.

KEEP IN MIND: Offer "Bahamas ferry Fathers day 2022 from $135 plus taxes" conditions:

This promotion applies only to Bimini Island. NOT for Grand Bahama.

Price per person per night, based in double occupancy.

Subject to change or to cancel at Balearia Caribbean's ferry company discretion.

The Balearia Caribbean ferry company or Hilton at Resorts Wolrd Bimini hotel flexible policy does not apply to ferry and hotel packages. If you want to make any changes, you must do so more than 72 hours before the ferry departure time.

If you want to make a reservation for the Balearia Caribbean ferry and at the Hilton hotel, click on the following link: Hilton at Resorts World Bimini Bahamas package

And if you prefer do the package by your self you can book your ferry tickets to Bahamas directly here ferrytobahamas.com . The boarding cards will be send to your email address or mobile.

Book your ferry and hotel package in Bimini now and enjoy a well-deserved getaway to the Bahamas on Mothers Day 2022.

Fathers day 2022

Memorial day 2022 weekend and getaway to Bahamas

May 11, 2022

Updated on the 11th of May, 2022

Memorial Day 2022 is very close and surely you want to celebrate it this year in a more special way than ever. Have you thought about celebrating this Veterans Day in Grand Bahama (Bahamas islands) by enjoying one of the holiday weekend deals of ferry and hotel package?

Enjoy traveling by ferry from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Freeport on Grand Bahama with Balearia Caribbean the fast ferry express service between Florida and the Bahamas. The ferry ride is only 2:30 hours as you will travel on the super fast ferry, Jaume II, of Balearia Caribbean, a modern ship that can reach to 32 knots of speed and where more than 600 passengers can travel.

The Viva Wyndham Fortuna Resort is an incredible All Inclusive hotel where you can enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Bahamas, go on jet ski excursions and sailing sports and, of course, enjoy a Caribbean meal and a refreshing drink.

If you want to have an unforgettable holiday on Memorial Day, prepare your suitcase, wear shorts and light shirts, don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen and a lot of desire to have fun. Grand Bahama Island offers you crystal clear waters, white, soft and fine sand, and beachfront resorts where you are going to live an incredible weekend, where relaxation and fun reign equally.

If you are a beach lover, the Bahamas is your ideal place to enjoy the Memorial Day 2022 deals. Book a room with a sea view and wake up every morning seeing the Caribbean sea. The sun will enter through your window and will say good morning to you. Try its tasty food, relax with a cocktail in front of the sea and let the sound of the waves transport you to the ocean.

For lovers of fishing, water sports and marine fauna, Grand Bahama is a very special place to go fishing on a tour, rent a jet ski or snorkel among colorful fish, corals and plants. Swim with dolphins or look for your Blue Marlin fish in the Caribbean Sea. Try the tasty conch salad where you will discover all the flavor of the Bahamian Caribbean.

About Memorial Day

Memorial day (also known as Veterans day or Decoration day) is an American holiday, celebrated every year on the last Monday of May. This day is a holiday to honor the men and women who belonged to the United States of America Army and gave their lives for their country.

When is Memorial Day 2022? Memorial Day 2022 will take place next Monday, May 30.

A little bit of history about Memorial Day. After the Civil War between the Confederates and Unionists in the mid-19th century, Decoration Day began to be celebrated in honor of those who had fallen during the war years. In 1971 this date became an official federal holiday and during this day tribute is paid to all those members of the army who have lost their lives.

Nowadays,on Memorial Day it is very common to see families and members of the military visiting cemeteries or memorials, as well as participating in parades throughout the country.

For Americans, it's the unofficial start of summer.

If you want to celebrate Memorial Day in a special way with your loved ones, make a getaway to Grand Bahama, in the Bahamas islands, in All Inclusive.

Memorial day 2022 weekend, a getaway to Grand Bahama in the Bahamas islands

Balearia Caribbean ferry price increase from April 1st 2022

March 30th, 2022

Today, March 30th, in a written statement, the shipping company that makes the connections from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to the Bimini and Grand Bahama islands (in the Bahamas) by ferry, Balearia Caribbean, has informed us that:

"Due to the actual situation with operational cost increases affecting our business model mainly coming from the oil and gas prices, we, Balearia Caribbean, are being forced to increase the Operational Fees and Taxes with an addition of fuel surcharge in passengers and cargo."

Starting April 1st 2022:

$10 Fuel Surcharge per passenger

$20 Fuel Surcharge per cargo piece

This price increase will be applied to the prices of all the routes operated by Balearia Caribbean: Fort Lauderdale - Bimini, Fort Lauderdale - Freeport (Grand Bahama), Bimini - Fort Lauderdale, Freeport (Grand Bahama) - Fort Lauderdale, Bimini - Freeport (Grand Bahama) and Freeport (Grand Bahama) - Bimini.

"Prices will be reflected on the on the overall Taxes & Fees costs for each pax reservation. Keep in mind that any date changes in the reservation will update the rate and the difference will have to be covered by the customer."

Which means that, as of April 1st, 2022, it will be more expensive to go on vacation to the Bahamas traveling by ferry. If you were thinking of going to the Bahamas at Easter, or to celebrate Memorial Day and you still don't have your reservation, you still have time to book and save money. Remember that whenever you make your reservations in advance, you save money that you can later spend in the Bahamas.

Make your reservation now in our search engine and only worry about what bikini you are going to wear in the Bahamas.

Balearia Caribbean ferry price increase from April 1st 2022.

Day trip to Bahamas from Miami (Fort Lauderdale)

March, 30 2024

Day trip to Bahamas . Although a day trip to the Bahamas may seem like a short trip, it is actually a trip to paradise. Miami, and the southern coast of Florida, are only 60 miles from the Bahama Islands (58,8 miles to Bimini and 96,7 miles to Freeport, in Grand Bahama island). Bustling Miami, teeming with people, traffic jams and high-rise business buildings, is just a stone's throw away from the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean and the tranquility of the Bahamas.

The Bahamas are a group of more than 700 islands, very famous for their warm climate throughout the year, their cuisine based on fish and shellfish and their beautiful beaches, almost virgin, that will take your breath away. The perfect place to make a day trip from Miami.

You can also take a day trip to Freeport, on Grand Bahama Island, another of the magnificent islands in the Bahamas that are close to Miami and Florida. From Fort Lauderdale the fast ferry takes only 3 hours to navigate and, although it may seem like a short time, your total stay on the island is the best and cheapest option to get to know a little bit of the Bahamas. And if you like it you can always come back and stay for several days.

Those who do not know these islands can visit them on a day trip to the Bahamas, by ferry or by plane, and find out if their next trip will be a 2, 3 or 4 day trip to the Bahamas or not.If you are on vacation in Miami (or in the south of the Florida) you can also take advantage of a one-day getaway to the Bahamas. More fun for little money.

Day trip to Bahamas from Miami Lately everyone in Miami wants to go to the Bahamas: some want to take a day trip and get to know Bimini, others - the younger ones - want to celebrate Spring Break on the beaches of Grand Bahama with All Inclusive and couples prefer to relax on the white sand beaches and crystal clear water to celebrate Memorial Day, for example.

Just 2 hours by ferry from Fort Lauderdale (30-45 minute drive from Miami) Bimini is the closest Bahamian island to Florida. To get to Grand Bahama from Miami - Fort Lauderdale it takes 3 hours by ferry. Balearia Caribbean is the shipping company that makes this connection. Because the distance between Miami - Florida and these islands of the Bahamas is so short, it is easy to make a 2, 3, 4 and 5 day trip to the Bahamas and stay in some of the hotels on the islands ( Hilton World Resorts Bimini in Bimini island and Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive hotel , Grand Lucayan Bahamas hotel , Flamingo Bay Hotel & Marina , Grand Lucayan Light House Pointe , Island Seas Resort , Taino Beach Resort hotel , Pelican Bay Resort hotel , Castaways Resort hotel and Bell Channel Inn hotel in Grand Bahama island), some of them even with All Inclusive packages.

We recommend this one day trip to Bimini (Bahamas) or to Grand Bahama island, to all those who live in one of the following cities, or in their vicinity: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Hialeah, Port St. Luice, Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Miramar, Coral Springs, West Palm Beach (all Palm Beach, North and South, Royal and Palm Beach Gardens), Pompano Beach, Miami Gardens, Davie, Boca Raton and Sunrise.

Most of the time, the best way for those living near Miami to travel to the Bahams is by ferry or plane. If your vacation destination is Bimini or Grand Bahama, it is better to go by ferry from Fort Lauderdale. It will take between 2 to 3 hours by ferry. From here you can access to our search engine for ferry to Bahamas .

If you prefer to travel to other islands of the Bahamas, such as Nassau or Exuma, it is better to travel by plane. You can find cheap hotels and flights to the Bahamas from Miami at this link: Hotels in Bahamas .

2 day trip to Bahamas

Day trip to Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale is the city where the shipping company Balearia Caribbean has its headquarters and from where the ship Jaume II departs every day for the Bahamas (sometimes to Bimini and other times to Grand Bahama - Freeport).

Remember that if you are going to board the Bimini ferry you have to be at the passenger terminal 3 hours before the scheduled boarding date. Boarding closes one hour before the ferry departure time. After this time Balearia Caribbean will not let you access the ship. We advise you to be in Port Everglade in plenty of time to board the ferry to the Bahamas.

For those of you who live in Fort Lauderdale, or near Fort Lauderdale, an hour's drive from Fort Lauderdale for example, it is very interesting to do this one day trip to the Bahamas, whether it is to Bimini or Freeport (Grand Bahama).

Getting to Fort Lauderdale from many Florida cities will take no more than an hour by car. Miami, Hialeah, Port St. Lucie and West Palm Beach are some big cities that are within a 1-hour drive from Fort Lauderdale. Other cities, such as Pembroke Pines, Hollywood, Miramar or Coral Springs, are located more or less 30 minutes by car from Fort Lauderdale and, therefore, it is very easy to get to the ferry terminal to the Bahamas with your car and enjoy your one day trip to Bahamas.

3 day trip to Bahamas

Bimini day trip . Bimini is the closest Bahamian island off the coast of Florida (USA) and the fastest way to get to the island is by ferry from Fort Lauderdale (30-45 minute drive from Miami). From Fort Lauderdale there are between 2 to 4 departures a week (depending on the month of the year), and the shipping company that does it is Balearia Caribbean. The trip between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini takes two hours and departs from the Port Everglades docks in Fort Lauderdale.

The ferry arrives at the pier in Alice Town (North Bimini) from where you can rent a golf car to explore this small island and go to one of its beautiful beaches, one of its famous beach clubs, where you can spend the day, or at the Hilton at World Resorts Bimini Hotel and Casino where you can also spend the day paying an extra admission.

During the ferry ride you can enjoy an outdoor deck and a cafeteria where you can order hamburgers, soft drinks or hot drinks. Once in Bimini we advise you to enjoy a refreshing seafood salad or grilled fish on the seafront. The lobster salad is also one of those dishes that you should not miss. Bury your feet in the white sand as your senses marvel at the culinary spectacle. Luxury turned into food.

Of course you should not forget a refreshing cocktail where you will notice the Caribbean character of its people. Ask for it with a little spice. Tabasco, lime and salt will give life to your drink.

If you like sea sports you can snorkel, swim with dolphins, kayak and paddle surf. Other sports, such as diving, feeding sharks or jet skiing, are recommended for longer stays in Bimini, from 2 to 5 day trips.

Discover the Hilton at Resorts World Bimini and prepare your next 3 or 4 day trip to the Bahamas. This hotel has panoramic views of the sea and the marina, more than ten restaurants, a casino and a roof pool that will make Instagrammers fall in love.

On a day trip to Bimini you will be between 5 and 6 hours on the island, so we recommend that you simply enjoy one of its beaches, try the local food and plan your next getaway to Bimini to spend your next vacation on the island with one of the ferry plus hotel packages.

4 day trip to Bahamas

5 day trip to Bahamas

ferry or crusie day trip

If you are thinking about which is better, whether to do a ferry one day trip or a cruise one day trip to the Bahamas, we are going to present you the advantages and disadvantages of each of them, in our opinion.

ferry one day trip to bahamas, Pros: It only takes 2 hours from leaving Fort Lauderdale to arriving in Bimini - 3 hours if you do your one day trip to Grand Bahama. Traveling by ferry to the Bahamas makes the most of your time in Bimini (6 hours) or in Grand Bahama (5 hours).

Bahamas Cruise Day Trip, Pros: Cruise ships usually have pools, bars, entertainment. As soon as you leave Miami for the Bahamas, your vacation begins. As a rule, the ferry does not have a swimming pool and has a small cafeteria.

Bahamas Cruise Day Trip: Pros: On cruises you have the option to purchase All Inclusive beverage packages. From the moment you get on the cruise you are entitled to your drinks.

You can take a day trip to the Bahamas by ferry almost every day. Some days to Bimini and other days to Grand Bahama. One day (really one night) cruises have fewer departures and less flexibility in dates. In addition, with the ferry you can travel on a one day trip to the Bahamas all year round, while cruise ships usually do these mini cruises (1 or 2 nights) normally in low season.

As you can see, doing a one day trip to Bimini (or Bahamas) by ferry or on a cruise is very different. In addition to the price, there are other factors that you must take into account when choosing your next vacation in the Bahamas. But most importantly, never give up on the Bahamas vacations, whether you're vacationing at a resort in Bimini (Hilton for example) or cruising in Nassau or Exuma.

Book your one day trip to the Bahamas as soon as possible and get the best prices and offers.

Balearia Caribbean ferry Bimini Bahamas schedule

March 24, 2022

Balearia Caribbean ferry Bimini Bahamas schedule updated

Updated on the 24th of March, 2022

All the schedules for this year of the shipping company Balearia Caribbean with final destination by ferry to Bimini , in the Bahamas, from Fort Lauderdale (Florida), are already published on our website ferrytobahamas.com . Thanks to our boat search engine, schedules and prices, you will be able to find all the updated information in real time, to travel to and from Bimini (Bahamas) to the port of Fort Lauderdale, in Florida, US.

Remember that there are still some rules and regulations that must be followed regarding the restrictions imposed by Covid-19. Both to enter the Bahamas and when returning to the United States, you must comply with regulations (vaccination, PCR and documentation) that we encourage you to know so that you can make your trip to the Bahamas without setbacks.

The schedules that we show on these pages are subject to possible changes by Balearia Caribbean, either for reasons of the state of the sea, for weather reasons, or for operational reasons. In case of modification of the departure time of your ferry, Balearia Caribbean will contact you through the means of contact that you have added when making the reservation (SMS to the telephone and/or email). We remind you to be at the Balearia Caribbean terminal at least 2 hours before the ship's departure time to avoid problems.

These are the next schedules planned by Balearia Caribbean to and from Bimini Bahamas:

from January 02nd to December 30th, 2022

Schedules subject to modifications by Balearia Caribbean due to operational issues or the state of the sea without prior notice.

If you also want to see the ferry schedules to Grand Bahama island, another paradisiacal island of the Bahamas, visit the following page: Freeport Grand Bahama ferry schedules .

Here you will also find all the answers to the questions you may have about making your trip on the Bimini Express ferry and on the Bahamas: How long does the Bimini ferry take? How much is the Bimini ferry from Fort Lauderdale? Is it possible to do a one day trip to Bimini? How to travel from Freeport - Grand Bahama - to Florida by ferry?. We will also inform you of all the offers published by Balearia Caribbean, its discount codes, ferry + hotel packages to Bahamas offers, All Inclusive offers, schedules and prices for fast ferry only and everything about documentation, luggage, children and fun on board the ship. of Balearic Caribbean.

Balearia Caribbean ferry Freeport Bahamas schedule

Balearia Caribbean ferry Freeport Bahamas schedule updated

The Balearia Caribbean schedules for traveling by ferry from Freeport (Grand Bahama) to Fort Lauderdale (Florida, USA) and ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport (Grand Bahama island) in 2022 are now published. In our ferry search engine you will be able to find information about the schedules and prices of each route and you will be able to buy your ferry tickets to and from the Bahamas.

Even today, it is necessary to keep in mind the mobility restrictions that must be met in order to board the ferry to the Bahamas, and back to the United States. Please, contemplate the vaccination documentation and personal documentation that you must present, both in Fort Lauderdale and in Freeport, to travel without problems.

The schedules and prices that, right now, are published on this Balearia Caribbean website, and in ours Bahamas ferry web, are subject to possible changes due to weather or Balearia Caribbean operational causes. Stay tuned to your email, telephone and Balearia Caribbean social networks. If there is any change, Balearia Caribbean will try to contact you through the information you provided when making the booking. Thank you for your collaboration. These schedules for the line may vary. We encourage you to stay tuned on this website for possible changes and modifications that Balearia Caribbean may make.

These are the next schedules planned by Balearia Caribbean to and from Freeport Bahamas:

from January 04th to December 31th, 2022

From january 28th to december 30th, 2022.

If you also want to see the ferry schedules to Bimini island, another paradisiacal island of the Bahamas, visit the following page: Bimini ferry schedules .

If your are looking for the most important information about Balearia Caribbean ferry services, you are in the correct website. We explain how to get to the Balearia Caribbean ports in Fort Lauderdale (Florida - USA), Freeport (Grand Bahama) and Bimini in the Bahamas, how to book ferry tickets with Balearia Caribbean, the rules for children, babies and the time in advance (3 hours before) with which you must present yourself at the Balearia Caribbean ports to board and we solve all your doubts about Balearia Caribbean so that your trip to the Bahamas will be an incredible experience.

Children policy on Bahamas Bimini ferry

March 15, 2022

Children policy on the Bahamas and Bimini ferry

Updated on the 15th of March, 2022

Minors, children and babies have a special space on the Balearia Caribbean ship that travels to the Bahamas. A trip to the Bahamas by ferry, whether it's a day trip to Bimini or a family vacation on Grand Bahama island, is without a doubt the ultimate family vacation. But if you are traveling with children (for the best family vacations) you must take into account Balearia Caribbean's policy for traveling with children, minors, babies and pregnant women.

CHILDREN, INFANT & MINORS TRAVEL CATEGORIES

Children 2 years old and under travels FREE with an accompanying adult. (They pay only taxes), Economy or Premium class, any season, one way or round trip. Babies must travel in the lap of an adult and they have no seat asigned.

Children from 3 to 12 years old travel by ferry with a 50% discount on the price of the adult fare, taxes not included.

Children 13 years and older pay the regular Adult rate (paying the same taxes as adults).

Infants (from 0 to 6 months) may travel on board Balearia Caribbean ferry to Bahamas.

PLEASE NOTE: In the event of heavy seas, strong winds or inclement weather, Balearia Caribbean may deny boarding of the baby at the discretion of the Company for reasons of safety of the baby.

MINORS (under 18 years of age) traveling with an accompanying adult, who is not the parent or legal guardian of the minor, a notarized parent/guardian letter of consent is required at the time of travel (signed by both parents) with a copy of a photo ID.

MINORS traveling with ONLY ONE of their parents ALSO require a notarized consent letter from the other parent not traveling, if this parent does not have the Consent Letter available, they must sign a Release Form, which is available at check in.

If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (deceased, sole custody, etc.) any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., would be useful.

NOTES: While the Authorities may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and the traveler does not have it, may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.

Adults traveling with children should also be aware that, while the U.S. does not ask sometimes for this documentation, other countries (as Bahamas) may have a requirement and failure to produce notarized permission letters and/or birth certificates could result in travelers being refused entry.

Balearia Caribbean LTD, ferrytobahamas.com and its ownwer, are not responsible for any person(s) denied boarding due to failure to produce the consent letter. To request the Consent Letter Form for minors , please email: [email protected]

Birth certificates are not accepted as a valid document to travel from April 23, 2018.

PREGNANCY WOMEN POLICY on board.

Any passenger who is 31 weeks or more pregnant on the date of their ferry journey will not be allowed to sail. Before the departure of the ship, pregnant women from 24 to 30 weeks must present, before boarding, a letter from their doctor certifying the gestation period in which they are and that the future mother is fit to navigate on ferry.

If you are traveling as a family on vacation, with minors, children and babies, and you have questions about the documentation you have to present to travel and enter the United States and/or the Bahamas, do not hesitate and ask us. We will be happy to help you solve your doubts.

Children policy on the Bahamas Bimini ferry

FRS Caribbean to Bimini ferry

March 08, 2022

Updated on the 08th of March, 2022

We are sorry but the ferry company FRS Caribbean is now no longer available here at ferrytobahamas.com . Instead, please look at our ferry routes that run from Fort Lauderdale ferry , or ferries that are offered by Baléaria Caribbean.

There are already many clients who are asking us about the shipping company FRS Caribbean and its ferries to Bimini and Freeport in Grand Bahama from Miami. You ask us about the schedules of FRS Caribbean, its prices and offers for this upcoming summer 2022. The truth is that the shipping company FRS Caribbean has not operated on the ferry routes to Bimini and on the ferry route to Freeport for a few years now. These routes are now carried out by the shipping company Balearia Caribbean from the port of Fort Lauderdale (Florida), to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale and to Freeport (Grand Bahama island) from Fort Lauderdale.

If you want to know the schedules, prices and offers to travel on the Bahamas ferry of Balearia Caribbean, we present them below. You can find in our search engine offers to spend a one day trip in Bimini, round trips to Freeport (Grand Bahama), where we encourage you to book an All Inclusive hotel and enjoy the Bahamian blesse.

These are the schedules planned by Balearia Caribbean for the Bahamas ferry route in 2022:

Bahamas ferry 2022 schedule

from January 26th to December 30th, 2022

If you prefer to see the schedules by destinations, here you can see the Bimini ferry schedules and here the schedule of the ferry to Freeport (Grand Bahama) from Fort Lauderdale (Fll) .

About FRS Caribbean.

For you to know more about FRS Caribbean, we tell you that it began its journey on the Bimini ferry, connecting the port of Miami with the port of North Bimini in 2015, to later carry out the Miami Freeport (Grand Bahama) ferry route from 2017. In July 2017 FRS Caribbean announced the launch of its new service to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island. On that date, the super fast ferry "San Gwann" made the connection between Miami and Bimini Island. As of this date, it also began to carry out this route that took clients from Miami to Freeport in 3 hours.

The FRS Caribbean ferry San Gwann had a capacity for 427 passengers seated in seats. In addition, this FRS Caribbean ferry was equipped with: 2 bars on the passenger decks, where passengers can buy snacks and soft drinks during their trip, a tax free shop for souvenirs and gifts. In addition, FRS Caribbean also gave the option of buying excursions on board to enjoy the islands, both Bimini and Grand Bahama, (water activities, kayaking, rowing, jet skiing and snorkeling), among others. All of these services are now also available on Balearia Caribbean's Jaume II ferry on its routes to Bimini and Grand Bahama.

According to FRS Caribbean "Bimini and Grand Bahama islands offers a combination of historic appeal and modern attractions. Clients can enjoy a glamorous vacation at a luxury resort with charming small-town charm." FRS Caribbean began its operations between Miami and Freeport on Thursday, November 9, 2017, allowing passengers to enjoy a fast, easy and relaxing one day trip aboard the HSC "San Gwann" with day trip prices starting at just $69.98 plus taxes and fees.

FRS Caribbean had its headquarters in Port Miami, Terminal H, where passengers could park their car nearby during the day or night. With this new line, and the Bimini ferry line, FRS Caribbean continued to bet on the development of maritime connections between Florida and the Bahamas, although a couple of years later it left the Caribbean and suspended all its operations.

About FRS Group.

FRS Caribbean was part of the FRS Group. FRS Group is a leader in the short-sea transportation of people, vehicles and cargo: a global group of ferries and maritime transport. FRS Group currently operates 64 vessels and carried 7.9 million passengers and 2.1 million vehicles last year on domestic and international ferry lines. Headquartered in northern Germany, FRS includes 24 operating subsidiaries in Europe, North America, North Africa and the Middle East, with more than 1,500 employees. The FRS fleet includes RoPax ferries, passenger ferries, high-speed vehicle and passenger catamarans, crew transfer vessels for the offshore wind industry, hovercrafts, water taxis and solar electric powered ferries. In addition, FRS provides port management and operation services around the world.

FRS Caribbean to Bimini

Memorial day 2022 weekend and getaway in Bahamas

February 25, 2022

Updated on the 25th of February, 2022

If you are thinking about "things to do on Memorial Day weekend 2022 near me" and you are one of the lucky ones who live in Florida, or near Fort Lauderdale, we encourage you to make a getaway to Grand Bahama, in the Bahama Islands.

In this getaway you can enjoy the ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama and stay at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach All Inclusive resort, an incredible All Inclusive resort where you can rest by the sea and enjoy the crystal clear waters of its beach.

You can leave Fort Lauderdale on May 28 and return from Grand Bahama on May 31 - one day after Memorial Day 2022 which this year is May 30, 2022.

4 days of vacationsin which you will discover the happiness of the Bahamas' bliss. Where very friendly people serve you, always with a smile on their face. Now is the time to dedicate some time to yourself and your loved ones and what better time than to take advantage of Memorial Day to treat yourself to these holidays.

Book your ferry tickets in our website ferry to bahamas where you have all information about schedules, offers and prices of Balearia Caribbean's ferries.

If you want to make your reservation at the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Resort you can do so at this link: Viva Wyndham Fortuna Resort Bahamas

Stop thinking about things to do on Memorial Day 2022. This is a great idea to surprise your partner and escape to paradise together.

Plan this Memorial Day getaway in advance and discover the Bahamas Islands. Catch that fish you always dreamed of in its deep waters, invite your friends to a long weekend where you can enjoy the warmth of its beaches, its crystal clear waters and the friendliness of the locals.

If you book your fast ferry tickets to Grand Bahama on our website ferrytobahamas.com you will receive youre boarding cards for your next ferry to the Bahamas directly at your email.

You already have things to do on Memorial Day weekend 2022: book your trip to Grand Bahama, tell your partner about it, think about the things you are going to pack in your hand luggage, discover the Bahamas, immerse yourself in its transparent waters, rent a jet ski, a kayak, savor a local beer, a shell salad and everything you can think of ;)

Bahamas Spring Break 2022

February 23, 2022

Updated on the 23rd of February, 2022

The Bahamas islands (both Bimini and Grand Bahama) are possibly one of the best places to celebrate Spring Break 2022, for many reasons. The first reason is due to climate and good weather. Spring Break is usually during the months of March and April. In these months, in the Bahamas, temperatures are usually around 77 degrees Fahrenheit. This good temperature makes possible many outdoor activities and the practice of water sports. It also makes it possible for you to be outdoors at night and enjoy the islands or music concerts.

Another reason why the Bahamas is the perfect place for Spring Break is the islands themselves. We are talking about paradise. Fine white sand beaches. Crystal clear water, very clean. A natural environment full of life, ideal for snorkelling, diving and spotting marine animals, such as sharks or dolphins. In the Bahamas you can go on excursions on the sea, rent jet skis, a boat to discover desert islands or paddle surf, among many other activities. If you like sport fishing you have found paradise. In the Bahamas there is a great diversity of big fish and many companies that will help you make your biggest catch.

The All Inclusive resorts in the Bahamas are hotels that have everything you need to spend a good Spring Break vacation. Places to relax or have fun, a beach club by the sea, casinos, delicious food and drinks included in the price of your resort, a very friendly staff and all kinds of activities to do.

The best way to get to the Bahamas from Florida is by ferry from Fort Lauderdale. The ferry takes only 2 hours whether you are traveling to Bimini or Grand Bahama (Freeport). It is comfortable, safe and cheap. If you travel to Bimini, the ferry leaves you in North Bimini, very close to the Hilton Resort, one of the best resorts in the Bahamas. If you travel to Grand Bahama we recommend that you take a taxi to, for example, Viva All Inclusive resort. You can buy ferry tickets by clicking on this link: ferry to bahamas

If you want to make your reservation at the Hilton at Resorts Bimini Resort you can do so at this link: Hilton at Resorts Bimini Hotel Bahamas

Don't think twice and enjoy the upcoming Spring Break 2022 in the Bahamas, the perfect place to make this getaway that you've been waiting for so long.

What are you waiting for?

Book your ferry tickets to Bahamas on our website ferrytobahamas.com and you will receive in your email the boarding passes for your next ferry to the Bahamas.

Balearia Caribbean ferry services

January 31, 2022

Updated on the 31th of January, 2022

Balearia Caribbean is the only shipping company that makes direct fast ferry routes to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama). The journey time between Fort Lauderdale and Bimini is only 2 hours and between Fort Lauderdale and Freeport, Grand Bahama is 3 hours long.

With Balearia Caribbean you can go on vacation to the Bahamas for a few days and stay in one of its fantastic hotels, on the beachfront, with incredible views of its crystal clear waters or make the round trip on the same day (Same Day Return offers) ideal for a quick getaway and also a perfect option for those tourists on vacation in Florida who want to take advantage of the proximity to Bimini to discover the Bahamas.

While sailing aboard this fast ferry you will find a variety of services on board and different lounges that will make your trip very pleasant. In the cafeteria or bars on board you can taste snacks, soft drinks and coffee to quench your thirst. Music and movies for all ages (children and adults) are part of the entertainment you can enjoy while browsing. Travel by ferry with the whole familiy is fantastic.

On the exterior deck of the boat, and if the weather and waves allow it, you can enjoy the Atlantic Ocean while you sail, see how Miami and the Florida coast recede, and how a sea of ​​clean waters and white sand opens up before your eyes. In addition, once the ferry is in international waters, the ship's shop will open where you can buy souvenirs, perfumes, cigars and liquors tax exempt.

For those who want to have everything planned, we encourage you to go to the Excursions Stand where you will find a wide variety of activities to do after setting foot in Bimini or Freeport. Booking them is easy and the ship's staff will inform you of any questions.

Plan your next vacation in Bimini or Freeport now and don't miss out on the Caribbean closest to Miami.

Book on our website ferrytobahamas.com and you will receive in your email the boarding passes for your next ferry to the Bahamas.

January 28, 2022

Bahamas ferry 2022 schedule updated

Updated on the 28th of January, 2022

The schedules of the Balearia Caribbean ship that makes the routes by ferry to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale and to Freeport (Grand Bahama island) in 2022 are now public. In this website you can find all the information about the ship that makes the ride, its prices and the engine to book the ferry tickets to these two destinys of the Bahamas islands.

At this time (January 2022) there are still many restrictions and mandatory regulations that must be met in order to leave the United States and travel to the Bahamas.Please, take into account the documentation that you must fill out and provide. Stay informed on this website, and your trip will be safer and without mishaps.

The schedules and dates published at this time of the Bahamas ferry of Balearia Caribbean may be modified due to weather conditions or without notice of the operating price. Although, in case of changes in schedules or dates, the shipping company will try to contact you (by phone, email or sms), please keep yourself informed of possible changes. Thank you for your collaboration. These schedules for the line may vary. We encourage you to stay tuned on this website for possible changes and modifications that Balearia Caribbean may make.

If your are looking for the most important information about Bimini and Freeport (Grand Bahama) ferry services, you are in the correct website. All the info about how long does the ferry from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Bimini and Grand Bahama take, the distance from Miami to Bahamas or how much does the boat from Miami to Bahamas cost, click on the buttons of our search engine and you will obtain, with a few clicks, all the information on the available dates for each route, the departure and arrival times of each port and the prices (with taxes included) of each journey. With ferrytobahamas.com it is very easy to book Balearia Caribbean Miami to Bahamas ferry .

Bahamas travel Health Visa

August 4, 2021

Bahamas will require negative PCR or rapid antigen test event vaccunated travelers from August 6th

Updated on the August 04th, 2021

The government of the Bahamas has modified the requirements for entry into the Bahamas islands and travel between certain islands in the Bahamas in order to provide a safe and healthy island experience for all travelers visiting the Bahamas to safely enjoy the islands.

This new regulation is aimed at all people who apply for a Health Visa to travel to the Bahamas or travel between islands within the Bahamas as of next Friday, August 6, 2021.

From this date to:

Entering the Bahamas from other countries:

All fully vaccinated travelers, as well as children ages 2 to 11, will need to obtain a negative COVID-19 test (either a rapid antigen test or a PCR test) taken no more than five (5) days prior to departure/arrival date to the Bahamas.

Unvaccinated travelers 12 years of age and older must obtain a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 5 days prior to arrival.

All children under the age of 2 are exempt from any testing requirements.

If you want to travel between islands within the Bahamas from the following islands:

Nassau and Paradise Island, Grand Bahama (Freeport), Bimini (Alice Town), Exuma, Abaco, and North and South Eleuthera, including Harbor Island.

Requeriments for Cruise Passengers.

Guests on cruises originating in and returning to the Bahamas must apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa and follow the new testing requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated persons.

Vaccinated people must provide a negative PCR test or rapid antigen test performed no more than five (5) days prior to arrival in the Bahamas islands.

Unvaccinated people must obtain a negative PCR test performed no more than five (5) days prior to the date of arrival in the Bahamas islands.

All travelers entering the Bahamas on cruises originating in the United States will be subject to the testing requirements required by the cruise line and approved by the Bahamian government.

Cruise lines may have different requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated passengers. Travelers should check with their cruise line for specific details related to their cruise.

The new testing protocols are for all travelers applying for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa from Friday, August 6th onwards. These protocols will not apply to anyone with imminent travel who has already applied for and obtained a Bahamas Travel Health Visa.

For full details, please visit Bahamas.com/travelupdates .

As of today, August 4th, 2021, less than 16% of the total population of the Bahamas has received the first dose of the vaccine.

Bahamas will require negative PCR or rapid antigen test to vaccinated tourists too.

Bahamas for vaccinated tourists

April 26, 2021

Bahamas for vaccinated tourists from May 1st

Updated on the April 26th, 2021

With the idea of ​​seeking stimuli to reactivate tourism in the Bahamas islands from next May 1st, tourists vaccinated with the 2 doses will be able to travel to the Bahamas without having to present a negative COVID 19 test result.

The Bahamas islands will allow all those people who have received the full doses of immunization, at least two weeks before traveling, to the country to enter the country. Negative PCR with up to 5 days of validity is required for the rest of the travelers.

Prime Minister Hubert Minnis announced at a press conference that: "All that will be medically required to enter the country will be the proof of vaccination and that two weeks have passed since the final dose." This measure wants to activate tourism as soon as possible, on which the Caribbean archipelago largely depends.

The prime minister indicated that anyone who has not been fully vaccinated must provide a negative PCR test taken within five days prior to arrival in the Bahamas. "This measure will greatly enhance our economy and will also help reduce the number of infections. When tourists are fully vaccinated, since they will have received all the doses, they will be able to participate in events in a closed environment where the mask would not be necessary".

This measure has been announced when several cruise lines (Royal Caribbean, Crystal Cruises and Bahamas Paradise Cruise Lines) are going to start sailing in the Bahamas from June and July, this coming summer.

Warning in the United States. On the other hand, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) raised the warning level for the Bahamas this week to the highest level of health risk, the 4.

Fully vaccinated travelers may be at risk of contracting and spreading covid-19 variants, due to the current situation in the Bahamas, so all trips to the archipelago should be avoided," says the updated advice from the CDC. The United States recommends not traveling to 80% of the world's countries.

The Bahamas has reported 10,000 infections and 194 deaths since the beginning of the pandemic, with a population of around 400,000 people. There are currently just over 500 active cases in the nation. Not everyone has been in favor of this decision, although many sectors of the Bahamas, dependent on tourism, want to reactivate their economy as soon as possible.

As of today, April 26th, 2021, less than 4% of the total population of the Bahamas has received the first dose of the vaccine.

Bahamas will allow the arrival of vaccinated tourists

Ferry to Bahamas relaunched

February 02, 2021

Balearia Caribbean will relaunch its ferry service from Florida to the Bahamas on Febraury 2021, departing from Fort Lauderdale port. The South Florida-based company runs ferry services from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini first and from Port Everglades to Freeport (Grand Bahama island).

The company announced last week that the Government of the Bahamas has approved the launch of the fast ferry service between Miami (Fort Lauderdale) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) in the Bahamas. His first departure to Freeport is scheduled for February 11, 2021.

Balearia will be offering initially one sailing service a week, with ferry on Thurdays. At the end of Febraury, another ferry service will be implemented on Sundays. If there is an increase in demand for passenger transport, the shipping company is prepared to increase the number of weekly departures in March and April.

At the same time, Balearia will reopen the ferry route between Florida to Bimini island starting on February 10th, 2021. This route will have, at the moment, a frequency of 3 departures a week, in both directions. The Jaume II ferry will be the ship that does both routes.

Balearia will retake its operations with a host of new health and safety protocols, including mandatory face masks, electronic boarding passes, enforced social distancing and temperature checks prior to boarding, and only 40% occupancy of the total capacity of its ferry.

Other sanitary measures imposed by Balearia are: plexiglass dividers have been placed in the common areas and between all the seats, the ship and the ferry terminals are subjected to a deep and extensive cleaning process before, during and after each crossing.

The company’s ships also undergo “deep and extensive sanitation” before, during and after each sailing, the company said. Balearia says it has been certified by Bureau Veritas with the Global Safe Site Covid-19 certificate, one of the first shipping companies to receive the designation. It should be noted that all travelers to The Bahamas must fill out an electronic travel form and have proof of a negative COVID-19 test that is no more than seven days old, among other requirements.

All passengers boarding from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Grand Bahama or Bimini (Bahamas) will have to show a negative PCR test for COVID-19 performed at least 5 days before the trip. Each passenger must also apply for a travel health visa.

NOTE: We recommend that all passengers verify all the necessary travel requirements at the time of their trip, both in and out of the countries they are going to visit, always before starting with the preparations and purchases of their ferry tickets.

To keep up to date and have all the information, safety and travel protocols in the Bahamas, you can visit the websites http://travel.gov.bs (Bahamas) and https://travel.state.gov (United States). The reopening of the shipping routes between Grand Bahama and the United States is expected to increase the number of visitors to Grand Bahama island and help recover the jobs lost due to Covid-19 and mitigate the economic effects of the pandemic.

Ferry to Bahamas Covid 19

April 29, 2021

The government of the Bahamas has announced that it will open its borders to the transport of passengers by ferrys of February 10, 2021 to Bimini island and on February 11, 2021 to Freeport Harbour (Gran Bahama island).

For that, Balearia Caribbean is preparing the safety and hygiene protocols (in its ships and passenger terminals) necessary to offer its customers safe transport, both for people and goods.

The ferry route to Freeport, Grand Bahama, will be opertate once a week (Thurdays) and, if possible, it will be two days a week in February. If passenger demand increases, and sanitary conditions allow it, the frequency on the ferry routes will be increased in March and April 2021.

When booking your trip to The Bahamas Islands, be sure to read, understand and follow these requirements, which are mandatory and required by the government of The Bahamas

As a GENERAL RULE, all travelers who want to visit the Bahamas should apply for a Bahamas Health Travel Visa. This visa can be obtained through the website travel.gov.bs . Also children and babies (regardless of their age) will need their own health visa (although they are not required to take the Covid test due to their age).

VACCINATED PASSENGERS

People who are fully vaccinated (2 doses or 1 dose depending on the vaccine) and who have waited as least the 14 days immunity period will be able to travel to The Bahamas without a negative COVID-19 test result.

Vaccinated passengers must provide, for their entry into the country, proof of vaccination (original card and copy of vaccination card) in addition to the approved Travel Health Visa printed on the day of travel. As we have discussed previously, this is a mandatory requirement of the Bahamian government. If you do not provide the required travel documents, boarding the ferry can be denied by the health authorities.

In case of traveling to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island on a Sunday, you must bring 2 printed copies of the Travel Health Visa and Covid vaccination card plus the original.

UNVACCINATED PASSENGERS

All unvaccinated passengers over 10 years of age must submit a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test performed no more than 5 days prior to their travel date. (This requirement is not mandatory for children under 10 years old).

At the time of boarding in Fort Lauderdale (Florida) and entering the country, passengers must present printed copies of the negative result of COVID 19 and of the Travel Health approved on the day of the trip. The health authorities of the Bahamas Islands are requesting these two printed reports, both the Travel Health Visa and the result of the COVID-19 RT-PCR test with a negative result. If the passenger does not provide these documents, the health authorities can deny the boarding or entry into the country.

BALEARIA CARIBBEAN'S COVID MEASURES

In order to maximize the safety and tranquility of the passengers on board, and due to the current situation, Balearia Caribbean has taken the following measures against Covid 19:

Before boarding, a member of the Balearia Caribbean staff takes the body temperature of all passengers who are going to make the trip. If the reading of this temperature is higher than 100º Fahrenheit or 37.7º Celsius, the passenger will be denied boarding on the ferry.

While in the ferry terminals and on board the boats throughout the navigation, the use of a mask or face cover is always mandatory for all passengers.

With the safety and hygiene of passengers in mind, Balearia Caribbean has installed additional disinfectant dispensers in all its terminals and on board the ship.

Plexiglass dividers and informational signs have also been placed in different areas throughout the vessel to promote safe distances between passengers and the crew members.

You can contact Balearia Caribbean directly by email ([email protected] or [email protected]) or by phone (866) 699-6988 to resolve any questions you may have.

How long is a Florida to Bahamas ride?

Florida bahamas ferry schedule.

This schedule MAY VARY because of Covid 19 Alarm. Check Information Advisory

Florida Grand Bahama ferry Florida Grand Bahama Balearia Caribbean Florida Grand Bahama Fort Lauderdale - Grand Bahama

From february 03rd to december 31st, 2024, florida bimini ferry florida bimini balearia caribbean florida bimini fort lauderdale - bimini.

Schedule subject to variation by the shipping company for operational reasons without prior notice.

Florida Bahamas ferry shipping companies

Ships Florida Bahamas

Super Fast Ferry

High speed seacat catamaran in which the whole family will enjoy a pleasant journey.

Enjoy its modern facilities suitable for all members of the family.

Our customers last bookings

People also ask

How much is the Florida Bahamas ferry?

ferry to Bahamas schedule

From january 02nd to december 31th, 2022, how long is the florida bahamas ferry ride.

2 hours and 30 minutes to do the Florida - Grand Bahama route.

How far is Bahamas from Florida?

And 51 miles is approximately the distance from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Bimini island, about 44 nautical miles.

Is there a Florida Bahamas ferry?

Yes, there are two ferry regular routes from Florida to Bahamas. Departing from Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, connets US with Grand Bahama and Bimini islands in the Bahamas.

Do you need a passport to embark in the Florida Bahamas ferry?

Yes. An international travel passport is required to be able to enter and exit the Bahamas. It is also mandatory to comply with the measures and requirements imposed by the Government of the Bahamas, as well as the measures adopted by the United States Health Department when entering the country.

GENERAL DOCUMENTATION AND VISA INFORMATION REQUIREMENTS:

In accordance with Customs, Border Protection (CBP) regulations, please be advised that all U.S. Citizen adults and minors must be in possession of a current, valid passport book or passport card as of, April 23, 2018.

*Note that Birth Certificates, Photo I. D, and naturalization documents ( Naturalization certificate) will no longer be accepted* Only PASSPORTS will be accepted for international travel. This applies to our day trip and overnight packages.

Ehanced driver's license is not a valid document to board the vessel.

US RESIDENTS SAME DAY TRAVEL:​

US Residents must travel with Valid ARC (Green card).

Bring the valid passport of country of citizenship at check in.

If ARC is expired must bring the original extension document with expired ARC card​.

US RESIDENTS OVERNIGHT:

Bring ARC (green card) and must have passport of the country you were born in.

IMPORTANT NOTE* Balearia Caribbean LTD and ferrytobahamas.com are not responsible for any denied boarding due to failure to produce the proper travel documentation*

You can find all up-to-date information on international travel regulations at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports.html in the travel section of the border protection home page.

Bahamas travel restrictions

In order to maintain the health and well-being of all tourists visiting or residing in the Bahamas, all Bahamians are making great diligent efforts to minimize the spread of COVID-19. The Government of the Bahamas has implemented the following entry and travel protocols to ensure that The Bahamas is a safe and clean destination.

Get the Bahamas Travel Health Visa in this link:

Pre departure & Arrival:

1.- Everyone travelling to The Bahamas must obtain a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR (swab) test taken no more than 5 days prior to the date of arrival. The day the test is taken is considered day zero. Test must return a negative result for entry into The Bahamas.

2.- Travellers must apply for their required Bahamas Travel Health Visa at travel.gov.bs. (Clicking on International Tab). Travellers will be required to opt-in to COVID-19 health insurance that covers them for the duration of their stay in The Bahamas. The cost of insurance is included in the Travel Health Visa application fee.

*A Bahamas citizen or resident planning to travel abroad for five (5) days or less must secure a test in the destination they visited before travelling back to The Bahamas. Any RT-PCR test taken in The Bahamas prior to travel will not be valid for re-entry.

During travel:

3.- Wear a face mask (airport terminals), comply with health monitoring procedures. Travellers who are staying in The Bahamas longer than four (4) nights and five (5) days will be required to take a rapid COVID-19 antigen test.

All persons travelling into and throughout The Bahamas will be required to complete a short Health Survey during their stay.

Once on Island:

4.- Wear a face mask and physical distance when in public places and abide by all protocols and restrictions as outlined in the most recent Emergency Powers Order.

All Rules and Regulations are being enforced:

- Travellers who do not complete a Bahamas Travel Health Visa or present COVID-19 RT-PCR Test with a negative result will be denied entry.

- Travellers who show symptoms of COVID-19 may be transferred to an area away from others for further testing and evaluation, and quarantine may be required by health personnel.

- A $250 fine or a penalty of one month imprisonment, or both, is to be enforced for visitors or residents found not wearing face masks in areas where it is required.

- For travellers staying longer than four nights and five days, failure to take a rapid antigen test on the fifth day will result in a $1,000 fine or one month imprisonment.

- Citizens and residents who fail to complete the daily Health Survey will be required to submit to a mandatory quarantine at a government identified facility.

- Travellers who fail to complete the daily Health Survey will be subject to deportation.

For more official information visit the following link

Bahamas vacation

The most popular destinations to enjoy a Bahamas vacation are:

Grand Bahama: Freeport, beautiful beaches and ideal waters for snorkelling. Ferry: rt tickets from $166 + tax. Grand Bahama hotel prices from $126.

Bimini: exclusivity, sharks, crystal clear waters, diving and sport fishing. Ferry: rt tickets from $198 + tax. Bimini hotel prices from $290.

Nassau: Bahamaian capital and place of large casino & all inclusive hotels. Nassau hotel prices from $260.

Pig Beach: famous beach where you can swim with pigs. Hotel prices from $258.

Eleuthera: Caves, clear water beaches and open water swimming. Hotel prices from $298.

Great Abaco: group of islands in the Bahamas known worldwide for coral reefs, ideal for diving and sailing in the Abaco Sea. Hotel prices from $298.

Andros island: Large island ideal for diving vacations with coral reefs

Long island: white sand beaches, caves and fishing sports.

Can I travel with my pets by ferry to Bahamas?

At the moment, only dogs are allowed to board on the Baleària Caribbean fast ferry. You can travel with your dog by ferry to Bahamas considering the following rules. Always remember that, when you make your reservation, you must also make the reservation for your pet and obtain the boarding card since, otherwise, they will not be able to travel. Your dog/s must travel in its own kennel or pet carrier or in the kennels supplied and equipped by Baleària Caribbean on the ship.

Dogs will be charged as an additional passenger. Please check the ferry Booking enging to confirm rates in any moment. Dogs under 6 months are not allowed to travel. While dogs are on the boat, they must be in their own pet carriers or restrained with a harness and leash, and never in the passenger seat. Owners will also be asked to ensure that their dog does not disturb other passengers.

During the crossing: The dog would need a kennel and a muzzle during the trip. Small dogs (less than 11 lbs.) During the voyage, they will be on the deck or in the place indicated by the crew. Large dogs (over 11 pounds) must travel in a kennel. The kennels are installed on the deck of the ferry, properly ventilated and located in a suitable place, protected from the rain and cold. Only "service dogs" can remain in the passenger area during the trip. While on board, outside of the kennel, all dogs must be restrained with a harness and a leash.

Pet owners must sign a liability waiver form that exempts Baleària Caribbean and ferrytobahamas.com from all liability that may arise from the injury or death of an animal during the trip. Baleària Caribbean reserves the right to deny the transport of an animal for reasons it deems appropriate, such as: illness of a pet or an animal that shows aggressive or violent behavior.

Dog documentation requiered to enter the Bahamas islands: always dogs must travel with the corresponding documents. Pets must have a valid document certifying that they have been vaccinated against rabies within no less than 1 month and no more than 10 months prior to import for the 1 year vaccine. For the 3-year vaccination, it must be within no less than 1 month and no more than 3 years before entering the Bahamas.

All dogs must have a Veterinary Health Certificate presented within 2 days of arrival in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to a licensed veterinarian for examination. An import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture, Commerce and Industry is required for all pets brought to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. You can get this permit in the following link http://www.bahamas.com/sites/default/files/pdfs/bahamas_application_to_import_domestic_animals_in_tiotb.pdf

To enter the United States all dogs must have an APHIS 7001 form completed by a registered veterinarian. This form can be obtained at the following link: https: //www.aphis.usda.gov/library/forms/pdf/APHIS7001.pdf

Price of traveling with a dog on the ferry to Bahamas. The cost to travel by ferry with a dog to the Bahamas is $ 100 for each leg of the trip.

Dog reservations must be made in advance and can be made by emailing the customer service department of Balearia Caribbean ([email protected].). At least 72 hours prior to the departure of the ferry to the Bahamas.

Baggage policy and ferry fares to Bahamas

Baggage policy and ferry fares to Bahamas with Balearia Caribbean. As a courtesy to all the passengers, each adult can bring only ONE carry-on item on board at no charge. The courtesy bag must weigh a maximum of 26.5 LBS or less, with maximum dimensions of 22 ”x18” x10 ”.

All passengers traveling with infants / children will be allowed one additional piece of luggage (26.5 LBS or less, with maximum dimensions of 22 ”x18” x10 ”) free of charge.

Rate: Bags that exceed 26.5 LBS or the excess of a courtesy bag will be subject to a charge of $ 25.00 (USD) per bag, one way.

Oversized bags or large items such as bicycles, kayaks, diving equipment, etc., will be subject to a charge of $ 50.00 (USD) per item, one way.

The best way to know the prices, schedules and offers of every date is to make a booking in our Balearia ferry engine .

Florida Bahamas ferry reviews

" A coffee or breakfast would be appreciated before boarding the ferry. The Fort Lauderdale terminal is not bad although I miss more offer while waiting for the ship to depart.

The bathrooms in the terminal are small. The ferry ride to Freeport was quick and comfortable"

"The ferry was fine and seems well organized. We pay for premium seats because it has priority boarding and food and soft drinks included on board. Highly recommended. The trip is short, barely two hours, and we did not have time to cool down despite the fact that the air conditioning was very strong.

As soon as we got to Freeport, we went by bus to a beautiful beach. The people of the place are friendly and if you only go for a day it is better that you bring food and drink since there the prices are expensive and there is not much option.

A round trip on the same day is enough time."

" Enchanting with the trip. Very comfortable premium seats. The crew members are very friendly. My experience aboard the Balearia Caribbean ship is highly recommended. We leave from Port Everglades at the scheduled time.

The premium service has been good as it allows you to charge the phone on the seat. You can stretch your legs while resting. We will be back."

" My experience traveling by ferry with Balearia Caribbean has not been the best. I bought the ferry tickets to travel to Bahamas on February 12 and my trip was one way. The boarding process is very slow and there is a lack of communication between the company and customers.

The Balearia Caribbean confirmation system gave my boyfriend Javier and I different terminals to board. While my boyfriend was told to go to terminal 21, I received a notice to show up at terminal 19. All this, as you can imagine, is very confusing and we lost a lot of time to find the correct terminal."

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Cheap 3 to 5 Day Key West Cruises

• United States    
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4 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You like having plenty of organized activities by day and night
• You want a classy cruise on a big ship for a reasonable price
• You value stylish interior design and innovative amenities
• You don’t want to have extra fees and costs for dining and drinks
• You are looking for a ship holding fewer than 2,000 passengers

3 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want to sail aboard one of Celebrity’s newer ships
• You like plenty of activities, dining options and lounges
• You want a classy cruise experience at a reasonable price
• You dislike the idea of sailing with over 3,000 passengers
• You don’t want to be bothered with upsells and other costs

4 Night Cruise to the Caribbean

• You want to dine at any time and wherever you want, at no extra cost
• You want gratuities included in the cost of the cruise
• You'd like to get a tattoo onboard your cruise ship
• You don't like vibrant and late-night nightlife
• You are traveling with anyone under the age of 18
• You want a cruise longer than five nights
• You want plenty of evening entertainment and production shows
• You don't mind paying extra for some specialty restaurants
• You want plenty of fun options for all ages by day and night
• You're after a more classic, laid-back onboard experience
• You prefer taking part in lectures and enrichment activities
• You don't like paying extra for drinks and other options
• You want a fun, value-packed cruise on a manageable scale
• You don't need the flashy features of MSC's newer ships
• You want a cruise experience that focuses on unique itineraries
• You want splash parks, waterslides and bowling alleys onboard
• You are looking for a cruise that caters to North Americans
• You want a big-ship experience with plenty of classy spaces
• You appreciate good cuisine, wine and beverage offerings
• You enjoy a more upscale cruise experience on a big ship
• You always cruise on ships that are brand-new and innovative
• You want the latest technological advances and features
• You aren’t interested on longer, more unique itineraries
• You want plenty of choice when it comes to bars and dining
• You like keeping busy and want plenty of scheduled activities
• You want a ship that's filled with fun but not too busy
• You're looking for Norwegian's newest, most elaborate ship
• You don't like extra costs; there are plenty of those onboard
• You want a cruise with plenty of poolside fun in the sun
• You're bringing the family, kids or friends along with you
• You value casual informality over rigid dining times and dress
• You're not a fan of wacky, organized poolside activities
• You need top-notch suites and lavish amenities to go with them

5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want a quick, fun cruise with inclusive alcoholic beverages
• You appreciate value-added inside and oceanview cabins
• You like plenty of organized activities by day and night
• You're looking for a cruise vacation lasting a week or more
• You want the latest and greatest megaship experience at sea
• You want luxury cabins and suites with lavish amenities

Explore Key West

I've been on 50 cruises. Here are 3 routes I'd sail again in a heartbeat and 3 I'd probably skip.

• I've been on 50 cruises (at least six a year), and some routes are better than others. 
• I try to avoid cruises that make stops at Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas.
• My favorite cruise I've ever been on was a Mediterranean voyage from Barcelona. 

I've taken 50 cruises with family and friends, and I'm always looking to try out new routes with different port stops .

Before I ever book a cruise — which I do about six times a year — I try to find either a new-to-me ship or a new-to-me route. If neither of those options works for my budget or timeframe, I opt for a familiar favorite.

Here are my favorite cruise routes that I'm always happy to book, and the ones I don't need to sail again.

My favorite route is a Mediterranean cruise that starts and ends in Barcelona, Spain.

Mediterranean cruises start and end in various ports of call around Europe, typically throughout the summer sailing season.

Last year, my family and I took a Disney Cruise that started and ended in Barcelona, with stops in France and Italy.

My favorite part of this trip was splitting a day between Nice and Eze in the French Riviera . I was able to walk through cobblestone streets overlooking the ocean while sipping on limoncello.

I love Caribbean cruises along the western ports.

I've taken many western Caribbean routes over the years on Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line, and they never disappoint.

The route usually includes stops at Cozumel, Mexico, and Georgetown, Grand Cayman. But it may also include ports of call at Falmouth, Jamaica; Costa Maya, Mexico; or Roatán, Honduras.

I always get off the ship in Cozumel, even if it's just to have lunch at a taco shop. Don't get lured into the restaurants right at the docks because the best food is in the spots farther down the main street.

I also love getting off in Roatán. On a recent cruise, I took an excursion to Roatan Island Brewing Company to try different beers made with local ingredients.

I also enjoy routes that only stop at private islands.

Every once in a while, I can find a short three-night cruise on Royal Caribbean or Disney that only visits the brand's private islands.

These short cruises are ideal weekend getaways and go to some of my favorite ports of call, like Royal Caribbean's CocoCay and Disney's Castaway Cay.

I love both of these destinations because there's so much to do — you really can spend the entire day at the beach or exploring the various parts of the island. I also love that food and drinks are all provided, so I don't have to return to the ship for lunch.

On the other hand, I don't need to go to Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas again.

I love short cruises from Port Canaveral or Fort Lauderdale, Florida, but they often mean stopping at Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas .

I don't really think there's much to see at either stop once you've done it once or twice. If my route includes them, I usually stay on the ship to enjoy the less crowded pool and spa.

The trade-off for these two ports is often getting to visit a cruise line's private island , so I think it's worth it for that. But I don't need to go on another long cruise through the Bahamas.

I'm also not a big fan of Bimini, Bahamas.

Many cruise lines, like Carnival and Virgin Voyages , are now taking cruisers to Bimini for an easy beach day. But if you're not a big fan of chilling at the beach, there's not much else to do on the island.

I’d probably skip cruising to Key West.

I love Key West in the Florida Keys , but as a port stop, it was hard to see a lot of the island and explore beyond Duval Street.

I'd prefer to spend a few days in the destination to explore all that it has to offer instead of making it a cruise stop.

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Cruises From Miami to Key West

Embark on a relaxing journey along Florida’s coast and through its sun-drenched island chain on cruises from Miami to Key West. You’ll visit the southernmost point in the U.S., swim over dazzling corals, tour prehistoric archaeological sites, and learn about hundreds of years of maritime history while in the Keys and beyond. Spend hours soaking up the warm Florida sun on Simonton Beach. Walk the walls of a massive fortification, and enjoy snorkeling over shipwrecks and coral reefs.

On a cruise to Key West from Miami, you’ll stop at exciting ports like Nassau, where you can walk through a glass tunnel underneath sharks at Predator Lagoon, or Cozumel, where you’ll visit an ancient Mayan temple and settlement. In Key West, take in the scene with a traditional rum runner cocktail on Duval Street. Visit the historic home of Ernest Hemingway and the beautiful Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Enjoy the comfort, relaxation, and world-class service that you get on each and every luxury cruise with Celebrity.

Itineraries

View all cruises to key west from miami, featured ports of call, key west, florida.

Key West is famous for its laid-back lifestyle, artistic cultural heritage, and natural tropical splendor. Enjoy the island’s unique charm as you explore its historical architecture along Duval Street where you can enjoy cool frozen drinks and delicious fresh seafood in one of its many inviting bars. Visit the former home of Ernest Hemingway, and take a walk around the iconic fortification at Dry Tortugas National Park. Learn about the island’s military and mercantile history at the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum, and shop for historic replicas as souvenirs to take back with you.

Nassau, Bahamas

In Nassau, you’ll find small-town charm and plenty of exciting things to do and see. Walk through underwater glass tunnels as you observe sharks circling overhead at Predator Lagoon on Paradise Island. Shop for hand-woven traditional hats and baskets at the Nassau Straw Market. Climb up the steep stone steps of the Queen’s Staircase and through the thickly forested tropical vegetation to reach the 18th-century Fort Fincastle. Swim in the warm, serene, turquoise waters of Cable Beach before heading back to your ship.

Cozumel, Mexico

If you're looking for the perfect Mexican getaway with incredible diving and snorkeling, look no further than Cozumel. Visit the island’s more remote and wild east side to find breathtaking and secluded beaches like Punta Morena and Chen Rio. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Chankanaab Reef to search for barracuda, angelfish, nurse sharks, and giant sea turtles. Shop for hand-made hammocks with Mayan prints, painted ceramics, sculptures, and artisan tequila at the Mercado Municipal, a short ride from the cruise terminal.

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Carnival Freedom's next two sailings canceled after funnel fire, second within 2 years

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the Florida-based ship's next two sailings are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

There were about 3,700 passengers onboard the ship when the fire occured. And the two upcoming sailings, which were canceled, likely would have had a similar passenger count amid the busy Spring Break season.

Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cays due to adverse weather.

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

How safe are cruise stops? Travel advisories are only one marker for destinations

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022 , a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] .

2 crew members die on Holland America ship; fire breaks out on Carnival cruise

MIAMI — Two crew members died on board a Holland America cruise ship, and a fire broke out on a Carnival ship while both of the ships were in the Bahamas this weekend, officials said.

The two crew on the Florida-based Nieuw Amsterdam died Friday during an "accidental steam release" while it was calling at the private resort island Half Moon Cay, Holland America said in a statement on Sunday.

"There was an accidental steam release in an engineering space on board Nieuw Amsterdam, which sadly resulted in the death of two crew members," the cruise line said.

The Bahamas Maritime Authority and the Dutch Safety Board were investigating the exact cause of the release, Holland America said.

A representative of the Bahama’s Coroner’s Court did not immediately respond to a request for information, such as the crew members’ identities and the cause and manner of death.

The cruise line said the conclusions of any investigation would be taken seriously. "Safety is always our top priority, and we are working to understand what, if anything, can be learned from this tragic accident," it said.

Passenger Laine Doss said she was on board when the captain announced the deaths on the vessel's P.A. system.

"We were celebrating the last day of the cruise," she said, when the mood changed "to something extremely somber."

The captain's voice broke, she said.

"He broke down crying," Doss said. "There was a moment of silence that the captain requested. And that entire scenario did affect the entire cruise. Things were canceled, joyous events were canceled, and we really just thought about mortality — the people who perished on the ship."

Crew members were being offered counseling, Holland America said.

Dutch government inspectors determined the vessel to be "fully operable," and this was "confirmed" by the U.S. Coast Guard, the cruise line said.

A U.S. Coast Guard spokesperson said she was looking into the statement and was unable to immediately confirm it.

The Nieuw Amsterdam returned Saturday to its home port of Fort Lauderdale, guests disembarked, and the vessel has embarked on a cruise with a stop in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, on Monday, Holland America said.

"All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this event," the cruise line said. "We’ve been in contact with the families of both team members and are offering our support to them and to all of our crew at this difficult time."  

The ship set sail out of Fort Lauderdale on March 16 for a seven-night trip.

Fire on the port-side exhaust funnel of another Florida-based cruise ship in the Bahamas, the Carnival Freedom, rocked some passengers Saturday and took the ship out of commission for repairs, the cruise line said.

No injuries were reported.

In a statement Sunday, Carnival Cruises acknowledged witness reports of a lightning strike or the sound of thunder before the fire erupted.

Passenger Heath Barnes said the ship was on a detoured path, destined for an unscheduled stop in Freeport, as a result of stormy weather and high winds when fire started.

"I was shocked," he said. "I mean, I looked out there and you're not supposed to see black smoke and fire shooting out of the tail end of the cruise."

The blaze was preceded by "the loudest thunder-lightning clap that I've ever heard in my life," Barnes said.

Ship personnel extinguished the fire, Carnival Cruises said.

The cruise line said a technical team determined the ship sustained enough damage that it will need repairs before it can be returned to scheduled cruises. The funnel was stabilized, passengers were expected to be returned to Port Canaveral, and the ship will set off to Freeport for repairs, it said.

"The damage is more than we first thought and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," Carnival Cruises said.

Passengers scheduled for those late-March cruises are being offered full refunds and credit that can be used for a future cruise, it said.

It was the second funnel fire on the Carnival Freedom since 2022.

Marissa Parra is a national correspondent for NBC News based in Miami, Florida.

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. 

Carnival cruise ship returns to Florida after funnel fire

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A Carnival cruise ship that caught fire over the weekend safely returned to Florida on Monday.

Video from WESH showed the Carnival Freedom bringing passengers back to Port Canaveral around 7:30 a.m.

The ship’s funnel caught fire off the coast of the Bahamas on Saturday.

“The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames. Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike and that is being investigated but cannot yet be confirmed,” Carnival told WFLA in a statement on Saturday.

A portion of the funnel fell onto Deck 10. The crew asked passengers to avoid balconies and open decks for safety.

Carnival said two crew members who extinguished the fire were treated for minor smoke inhalation. No guests were injured.

The cruise line had to cancel the Freedom’s next two voyages , departing on March 25 and March 29, out of Port Canaveral.

Guests scheduled for those cruises will be issued a full refund and a future cruise credit, Carnival said.

The ship will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday to undergo repairs.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.

DeSantis, state environmental regulators greenlight bigger ships at Key West harbor

Larger ships sailing around troubled reefs and into the Key West harbor will be allowed for the next quarter century under an expanded lease deal approved by Gov. Ron DeSantis and his cabinet on Tuesday.

The deal, greenlit by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, comes in the wake of an unprecedented ocean heat wave that bleached coral throughout the Keys and amid growing evidence that sediment churned up by ships damages reefs.

The unanimous vote was approved without discussion in just over a minute.

READ MORE: Scientists racing to save coral from bleaching are running out of space

In its recommendation, FDEP concluded expanding the lease space another 58,600 square feet to allow larger ships would be good for the economy without causing any environmental harm. But critics question how that determination could be made without a new environmental study. The larger space, they say, will allow ships 50% larger.

“The decision today [and] the lack of real regulatory performance by DEP really clearly demonstrates why we need federal oversight of clean water issues in Florida,” said Arlo Haskell, a board member at the nonprofit Safer Cleaner Ships, which opposed the expansion. “We have a regulatory agency that is not regulating.”

The expansion is the latest skirmish over cruise ships sailing to the four-square mile island at the tip of Florida.

After the pandemic shut down cruise traffic, residents and activists convinced the city council to permanently limit the number of passengers flooding the island to 1,500 a day. But DeSantis and lawmakers overturned those rules. In 2022, Safer Cleaner Ships and other activists convinced the council to pass a new rule: only one ship a day is now allowed to dock at the historic harbor.

This new lease comes after a wave of complaints over bigger ships that exceeded the boundary limits spelled out in a decades-old lease.

In response, DEP granted Pier B Development Corp. and president Mark Walsh, a temporary lease in June 2023 that expanded boundaries to accommodate the bigger ships.

Reef, seagrass and endangered species

In recommending full approval of the new lease, DEP officials noted that the expansion would not lead to worse water quality or harm any habitat or rare species. In the Keys, that includes the largest remnants of Florida’s reef tract, miles of seagrass meadows and endangered species including coral, sea turtles and manatees. The area is also home to sawfish, now undergoing a mysterious die-off. Since January, 27 of the rare fish have been found dead in Key West and around the Lower Keys.

A Florida International University study comparing water quality before and during the pandemic also found vast improvements in water quality with no cruise traffic. Turbidity and stirred up sediment that can block sunlight significantly decreased south of Key West and on the reef in 2020 compared to the previous 24 years, according to the report by Henry Briceno's Water Quality Monitoring Lab.

"What is interesting is that small improvements in turbidity ... swiftly cascade into observable changes in water quality perceived by Keys neighbors, and surely by the rich biota of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary," the report said.

Those kind of impacts were anticipated more than 20 years ago when the state granted an original lease for cruise ship docking at the slip, Haskell said.

“The original lease was issued hand-in-hand with an environmental resource permit, which was very focused,” he said, and specifically looked at potential damage to bottom habitat around the shallow islands. "That permit says expansion of the lease is not authorized. So it's baffling to me.”

The Lower Keys Guides Association also opposed the expansion and in a letter to Cabinet members this week, reminded them that it had already fought twice to remove state preemption laws that overturned home rule. The group said DEP officials have not inspected the docks since 2019, despite complaints from guides and Safer Cleaner Ships about harms caused by sediment spread by ships.

“The original lease was issued hand-in-hand with an environmental resource permit [that] says expansion of the lease is not authorized. So it's baffling to me.”

They also worry that the ocean heat wave and worsening conditions spurred by ship traffic may have triggered the unusual behavior spotted in sawfish and other species this fall, including tarpon and snook that draw anglers from around the world.

As part of Tuesday's deal, Walsh agreed to donate $50,000 a year for the term of the lease to Mote Marine Lab, which operates a coral nursery at his resort hotel in Key Largo.

Mote also operates a reef research lab on Summerland as part of a growing effort to breed and replant coral on reefs in a race to restore the dwindling reefs. Scientists say the work is not meant to save the reef, but give it a lifeline until rising global temperatures and impacts from pollution can be brought under control.

“There was a bumper sticker when I was growing up, ‘Protect What’s Left,’” he said. “It’s sad because there's so little of it left. But first and foremost, anybody that sets out to protect the environment ought to actually be protecting it, not allowing it to be further injured.”

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2 crew members die during ‘incident’ on Holland America cruise ship

FILE - A Holland America cruise ship is shown in Victoria, Canada on Saturday, April 9, 2022. Two crew members on a Holland America cruise ship died during an “incident” in the ship’s engineering space, the cruise line said. The unidentified crew members died Friday, March 22, 2024, while the Florida-based Nieuw Amsterdam was at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America said in a statement.(Darryl Dyck/The Canadian Press via AP)

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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Two crew members on a Holland America cruise ship died during an “incident” in the ship’s engineering space, the cruise line said.

The unidentified crew members died Friday while the Florida-based Nieuw Amsterdam was at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas, Holland America said in a statement.

Authorities were notified and the cause of the accident is being investigated, the cruise line said. Crew members were being offered counseling.

“All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with our team members’ families at this difficult time,” the statement said. “The safety, security and welfare of all guests and crew are the company’s absolute priority.”

The cruise line did not offer any further details about the crew members. It later said the Bahamas Maritime Authority was leading the investigation. The ship set sail out of Fort Lauderdale on March 16 for a seven-night trip.