Can you take a personal boat from Florida to Bahamas?

If your private boat dock for rent is located far south of Miami and Biscayne Bay, you'll have no problem. Simply head out into the open ocean. When entering the Bahamas by private boat, there are guidelines and regulations to follow, such as entry fees, vessel registration documents and more.



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In the past, it took a relatively large boat to safely travel the waters from Florida to the Bahamas. But with today's advancements in hull engineering, you can make the trip in a boat that is only 30 feet or less.

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The western islands of the Bahamas are only 50 miles from Florida's east coast. With a bit of prep and planning, you can get there even in a modest-sized boat. Used to be, when cruising the Bahamas, you would mostly see cruising sailboats, trawlers, and large yachts.

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Yes, just like when traveling by air, a valid passport book OR passport card is a topmost Bahamas travel requirement via a boat (note: closed loop cruises are different), being a private charter, fishing boat, or party boat. In total, all options for traveling via sea are: Passport Book.

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Bahamas Customs and Immigration: There are fees for entry to the Bahamas – $150 for vessels up to 35 feet and $300 for vessels larger than 35 feet. Fishing license and departure tax for four people are included in the fee.

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The western islands of the Bahamas are only 50 miles from Florida's east coast. With a bit of prep and planning, you can get there even in a modest-sized boat. Used to be, when cruising the Bahamas, you would mostly see cruising sailboats, trawlers, and large yachts.

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Bahamas Customs and Immigration: There are fees for entry to the Bahamas – $150 for vessels up to 35 feet and $300 for vessels larger than 35 feet. Fishing license and departure tax for four people are included in the fee. You'll be asked to declare your stores and general itinerary.

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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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Good to know: Bimini, the westernmost island of The Bahamas is the nearest of these islands to Miami, Florida.

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Yes, just like when traveling by air, a valid passport book OR passport card is a topmost Bahamas travel requirement via a boat (note: closed loop cruises are different), being a private charter, fishing boat, or party boat. In total, all options for traveling via sea are: Passport Book. Passport Card.

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Ferry from Florida to Bahamas The ferry crossing from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport takes approximately 3 hours on ferries servicing this route. Fort Lauderdale to Freeport ferry duration can range between 3 hours and 3 hours 15 minutes depending on the operator that you decide to travel with.

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Nowadays the situation is way calmer on the wonderful bahamian waters however boaters should always be careful. Risks if any are extremely limited, US boats yachts are allowed to keep weapons on board just in case. Stay amongst other boats when anchoring or at marinas and you will be 1000% safe.

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It is more expensive to fly on a private jet than it is to buy a seat on a commercial flight. But there are ways to make it more affordable than a straight private jet charter. It can be more affordable to fly privately if the cost is shared among all the passengers or by booking a flight on an empty leg.

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Upon arrival, everyone on board will need proof of citizenship (passport) and a completed immigration card. All boats entering The Bahamas are required to pay an entry fee that covers a cruising permit, fishing permit, and departure tax for up to three people.

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