Can I get to The Bahamas without flying?

Conveniently accessible by air and sea, The Bahamas welcomes visitors arriving on commercial and charter flights, ferries, cruise lines, and private planes and pleasure craft.



Yes, you can reach the Bahamas without flying by using the frequent ferry services or by taking a cruise ship. From South Florida, multiple ferry operators (such as Balearia Caribbean) provide high-speed service from Fort Lauderdale or Miami to Bimini and Freeport. The journey to Bimini takes approximately two hours, making it a viable day-trip or weekend option. Additionally, nearly every major cruise line (Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney) operates short 3-to-4-night itineraries from Florida ports to Nassau and their respective private islands. For those seeking a more private experience in 2026, chartering a private yacht or "deadheading" on a cargo vessel are alternative maritime options, though the ferry and cruise routes remain the most accessible and cost-effective ways to enjoy the archipelago without stepping foot on an airplane.

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British Airways offers frequent flights from the UK to multiple destinations in The Bahamas. If you choose their direct flight from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) to Nassau's Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS), you'll likely depart from Terminal 5.

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How long is the boat from Miami to Bahamas trip? The ferry boat that makes the route from Miami to Grand Bahama (to the port of Freeport) takes between 3 and 4 hours. To get to the island of Bimini in the direct fast boat from Balearia it takes between 2 and 3 hours.

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The best way to get around the Bahamas is by car, whether that's a rental or taxi. If you're staying at a big resort and plan to remain on-site for the majority of your trip, then taking a taxi to off-site attractions is more cost effective than shelling out money for a rental.

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There are groups that make this ride regularly from Miami. Once you are fully prepared you need to decide on a route to The Bahamas. The most direct route is from Miami to Bimini. This route can take one and a half (1.5) hours.

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Summary of cost of living in Bahamas: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 4,934.6$ without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,396.5$ without rent. Cost of living in Bahamas is, on average, 24.2% higher than in United States.

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Marco Island sits along the Gulf of Mexico and is the largest barrier island within Florida's Ten Thousand Islands area. A 2-hour drive west of Miami, it's surrounded by brilliant emerald waters and soft white sands, with more than 6 miles of beaches within just 24 square miles.

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Gun Cay (part of Bimini) is only 44 miles from Miami. That's 9 hours for a sailboat, about 4.75 hours for a trawler, and 2.5 hours for a fast cruiser. While Bimini is the closest Out Island to Florida, the clear waters of The Abacos are a favorite sailing destination and dream vacation for many Florida residents.

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Gun Cay (part of Bimini) is only 44 miles from Miami. That's 9 hours for a sailboat, about 4.75 hours for a trawler, and 2.5 hours for a fast cruiser. While Bimini is the closest Out Island to Florida, the clear waters of The Abacos are a favorite sailing destination and dream vacation for many Florida residents.

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General road rules Driving in Nassau Bahamas is on the left-hand side of the road. Overtaking is on the right-hand side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants of the vehicle.

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Drinking Laws -- Alcohol is sold in liquor stores and various convenience stores; it's readily available at all hours, though not for sale on Sundays. The legal drinking age in The Bahamas is 18.

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Mayaguana is one of the least visited islands in the Bahamas! It has around 200 full time residents, and any tourists that come have to fly themselves or charted a flight. The beaches are beautiful, untouched and pristine.

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New Providence is one of the best islands in The Bahamas – in fact, it's usually the first stop for most visitors to the archipelago. It's the place where you'll find Nassau, the capital of The Bahamas. This vibrant city is known for its impressive range of resort casinos, upscale restaurants, and unique museums.

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