Can you take a small boat from Miami to Bahamas?

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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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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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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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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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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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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To enter The Islands Of The Bahamas, private vessels need digital submission of forms and on-line pleasure vessel clearance from Click 2 Clear. For detailed information and instructions, visit Click 2 Clear information page. Visiting boaters must clear Customs and Immigration at the nearest designated Port of Entry.

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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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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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