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.

The Bahamas is remarkably close to the United States, with the nearest islands lying just 45 to 55 nautical miles (approx. 52 to 63 miles) off the Florida coast. Specifically, the shortest distance is between Miami (Key Biscayne) and Bimini, which is a mere 45 nautical miles across the Gulf Stream. This proximity makes the Bahamas a premier destination for day-trippers using high-speed ferries or private boats; a typical powerboat can make the crossing in under two hours in calm conditions. Further north, the distance from Lake Worth or West Palm Beach to the West End of Grand Bahama is roughly 55 nautical miles. While the capital, Nassau, is further away—about 180 miles from Miami—the "gateway" islands of the Bahamas are close enough that on an exceptionally clear day, the lights of the Florida coast can sometimes be glimpsed from the westernmost shores of Bimini. This geographical closeness has fostered a deep cultural and economic link between the two regions, making "hopping over to the islands" a standard weekend activity for many South Florida residents in 2026.