Bimini Bahamas from Florida by boat 

Bimini family trip itinerary : An Unforgettable Boat Trip from Florida to Bimini

There is a specific moment when you’re crossing the Gulf Stream where the world simply vanishes. No land, no houses—just a 360-degree horizon of deep, cobalt blue.

Our recent trip from Sarasota to Bimini was more than just a vacation; it was an adventure shared between two families of four. If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your own boat to the Bahamas, here is the inside scoop on how we did it, where we stayed, and the hidden gems we found along the way.

How to Get to Bimini by Boat from Florida

While we started our journey in Sarasota, the real "crossing" began in Miami. We launched from Crandon Marina, which ended up being a fantastic choice for a multi-day trip.

Parking Tip: We were able to park both our standard car and the truck with the trailer at the marina for the entire duration of the trip. It’s a relief to know your gear is secure while you’re off-island.

The Run: On a clear day, the crossing from Crandon to Bimini took us approximately 2 hours and was 57 miles.

Nothing prepares you for the color shift. As you approach the island, the water transforms from that deep Atlantic navy into a vibrant, glowing teal that you just don't see on the Florida coast. Seeing the iconic Bimini Big Game Club come into view with world-class boats is the moment you realize: You’re officially in the Bahamas.

How much does it cost to take your boat to Bimini?

The fees have changed significantly. As of July 2025, the Bahamas updated cruising permit fees. For pleasure vessels under 50 feet, a 12-month permit costs $500. For vessels 50–99 feet, it's $1,000. per Biggameclubbimini

On top of the permit: fishing permits are no longer bundled with the cruising permit. A separate fishing permit runs $100 for vessels under 50 feet and is only valid for 30 days, even if you have a 12-month cruising permit. Biggameclubbimini If you have more than 3 passengers aboard, every additional person aged 6 and up is charged a $30 passenger tax per entry..

 Important heads up for 2026: Following widespread outcry over the 2025 fee increases, the Bahamian government began reviewing the higher boating fees. As of April 2026, new short-duration permits (30-day and 6-month) have been added alongside the existing 12-month permit. Megayacht News Fees are in active flux — always check bahamasmarinas.com before you go.

Do You Need a Passport?

Yes — no exceptions. US citizens must present a valid passport. Everyone on board must have proof of citizenship and fill out an immigration card. This applies regardless of age.

What's the Customs Check-In Process in Bimini?

Private vessels must submit forms digitally and obtain pleasure vessel clearance through Click2Clear before arrival. When you enter port, fly the yellow quarantine flag and notify Customs of your arrival. Only the captain is permitted to leave the boat until the vessel has been cleared — Customs and Immigration officials will come to you. 

All visitors are required to be in possession of a return ticket. This is a quirky rule that catches people off guard — even if you're 100% returning by boat, technically you need a return ticket. In practice, boat captains presenting the cruising permit can satisfy this requirement for their passengers, but it's worth knowing before you show up.

If you have a firearm on board (shotguns and handguns only), you must declare it with Bahamian Customs, provide the serial number, manufacturer, and exact ammunition count. The firearm cannot leave the boat and must be under lock and key at all times.

Where to Stay in Bimini for Families: Bimini Waterfront Villas

Finding a spot for eight people (two families of four) can be tricky, but we struck gold with the Bimini Waterfront Villas.

This isn't your average island rental. It’s a modern, 4,000+ square foot luxury home that felt incredibly spacious even with a full house.

The Amenities: Modern finishes and "comfy-meets-cool" decor.  A side-by-side to get around, hammocks, games to play outside, a place to clean your fish and an ice maker

The Dock: A massive 90-foot private dock. We could have easily fit multiple boats here, making it the perfect hub for a fishing or diving group.

Best Things to Do in Bimini Bahamas with Kids

Once we settled in, we spent our days exploring the unique geography and history that makes Bimini so legendary.

1. The Middle-of-the-Ocean Sandbar

Imagine standing in knee-deep, gin-clear water with nothing but white sand beneath your toes and the open ocean surrounding you. It’s the ultimate spot to anchor, turn up the music, and let the kids swim in nature’s most beautiful pool.

2. Snorkeling the SS Sapona

The SS Sapona is a must-see. This WWI-era concrete-hulled ship was once a floating warehouse for liquor during Prohibition before a 1926 hurricane grounded it. Today, it’s an eerie, beautiful reef. Snorkeling through the ruins is like swimming through a piece of history.

3. The "Escobar" Plane Wreck

Just south of the island lies the South Bimini Lagoon Wreck. It’s a Curtiss C-46 Commando lying upside down in the shallows. Local legend claims it belonged to the Medellín Cartel, crashing during a midnight drug run. Whether the rumors are true or not, diving down to see the fuselage in the clear lagoon water is an absolute thrill.

4. Honeymoon Harbor

For a change of pace, we headed to Honeymoon Harbor. It’s famous for its friendly stingrays and nurse sharks. It’s one of those rare places where you can get up close and personal with marine life in their natural habitat.

Island Eats: Where to Fuel Up

Here’s where we grabbed a bite:

• Bimini Hideaway: We stopped by for cocktails, though be warned: they were mostly out of food when we arrived! It’s a great spot for a drink and a vibe, but maybe have a backup plan for dinner.

• Bimini Seafood Company & Conch Bar: The food here was excellent. Like most things in the Bahamas, it is a bit pricey, but you’re paying for the fresh catch and the view.

• Nate’s Bimini Breads: The MVP of the trip. You cannot leave the island without trying Nate’s. The fresh-baked Bimini bread and their pizzas were a massive hit with both the kids and the adults. The service is super friendly, and the smell of the bakery alone is worth going. One thing to note is that there was one woman who worked there that always said they could not make pizza because they were closing, even at 5 pm but then the other would do it happily.  Its the islands and this place is worth it.

Final Thoughts

Bimini is a world away, yet only a two-hour boat ride from the hustle of Miami. Between the modern luxury of the Bimini Waterfront Villas and the beauty and story of the Sapona, it was a trip our families will be talking about for years.

Pro Tip: Pack extra sunscreen, bring your own snorkel gear, a dry bag and always, always buy two loaves of bread at Nate's—because one will be gone before you get back to the boat.

Have you ever made the crossing to Bimini? What was your favorite wreck to explore?  Message me and let me know