Escaping to the Bahamas has never been easier with the Day Escape by Ferry Tour. Departing from Fort Lauderdale, travelers can explore the stunning islands of Bimini or Grand Bahama on this round-trip journey. The ferry ride provides ample time to unwind and indulge in onboard amenities, while the islands offer an array of activities, from beach lounging to snorkeling. However, prospective participants should be aware of the travel document requirements and accessibility limitations. With the promise of a day filled with sun, sand, and island adventures, this tour is sure to pique the interest of anyone seeking a quick tropical getaway.
Key Points
- The Bahamas Day Escape By Ferry Tour offers round-trip ferry transportation from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini or Grand Bahama Island with 5-6 hours of exploration time on the island.
- The ferry journey takes 2-3 hours each way, with onboard amenities including a full bar, snack bar, and duty-free shop to enhance the overall experience.
- Popular island activities include beach lounging, pool parties, snorkeling tours, and opportunities to swim with stingrays, catering to a variety of preferences.
- Travelers must have valid passports or US passport cards, and the tour is not recommended for individuals with back problems or serious medical conditions.
- Reviews for the tour are mixed, with some positive experiences, such as seamless processes and beautiful island views, as well as negative feedback, including long immigration wait times and limited food options.
Tour Overview
The Bahamas Day Escape Tour by ferry offers travelers a convenient way to visit Bimini or Grand Bahama Island from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
This round-trip excursion departs from Port Everglades and takes passengers across the crystal-clear waters of the Bahamas for approximately 2-3 hours each way.
Once on the island, visitors have 5-6 hours to explore, with options like lounging on the beach, attending pool parties, or booking additional activities like swimming with stingrays.
The ferry features a full bar, snack bar, and duty-free shop, ensuring a comfortable journey.
With an average rating of 3.0 out of 50 reviews, this tour provides a taste of Bahamian paradise just a short distance from the U.S.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Fort Lauderdale.
Itinerary and Schedule
Travelers begin their Bahamas Day Escape Tour with a 6:00 AM departure from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The round-trip ferry crossing to either Bimini or Grand Bahama Island takes approximately 2-3 hours each way, allowing for 5-6 hours on the island.
During the ferry ride, passengers can enjoy the ferry’s amenities, including a full bar, snack bar, and duty-free shop.
Once on the island, travelers have the option to lounge on the beach, attend DJ-hosted pool parties, swim with stingrays, or go snorkeling, though additional charges may apply for some activities.
At the end of the day, the ferry departs for the return journey back to Port Everglades in the evening.
Ferry Amenities
Aboard the ferry, passengers are guaranteed a seat and have access to a full bar, snack bar, and duty-free shop, ensuring their journey is comfortable and enjoyable.
The ferry’s amenities provide ample opportunities for refreshment and entertainment during the 2-3 hour crossing to the Bahamas.
Travelers can relax with a cocktail, grab a quick bite, or browse the duty-free offerings, making the most of their time aboard.
These onboard facilities cater to the needs of passengers, enhancing the overall experience of the Bahamas Day Escape Tour.
With these conveniences, the ferry ride becomes an integral part of the day’s adventure, setting the stage for the island exploration to come.
Island Activities
Upon arrival on Bimini Island, visitors can choose from a variety of activities to fill their time, including lounging on the beach, attending DJ-hosted pool parties, and embarking on snorkeling tours (for an additional fee).
The island offers the perfect setting for relaxation, with its pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
Those seeking a livelier experience can join the pool parties, where DJs provide the soundtrack for a day of fun and socializing.
For the more adventurous, snorkeling tours provide the opportunity to explore the island’s vibrant marine life.
No matter the preference, Bimini Island presents an array of options to make the most of the Bahamas day escape.
Travel Requirements
Valid passports or US passport cards are mandatory for entry to the Bahamas when taking the Bahamas Day Escape Tour from Fort Lauderdale.
Booking details require passport information such as full name, date of birth, citizenship, and expiration date.
The tour isn’t recommended for certain travelers, including:
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Those with back problems or serious medical conditions
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Pregnant women
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Individuals requiring wheelchair accessibility
Ensuring your travel documents are in order and understanding the tour’s limitations are essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience on this day trip to the Bahamas.
Familiarizing yourself with the requirements ahead of time will help you plan and prepare for a seamless island escape.
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Accessibility Considerations
The Bahamas Day Escape Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions.
The tour involves a round-trip ferry ride from Port Everglades to Bimini or Grand Bahama Island, which can be physically demanding for some passengers.
The ferry itself may not have the necessary accommodations or amenities to cater to the needs of travelers with mobility issues or certain health conditions.
Prospective guests should carefully consider their physical abilities and any medical concerns before booking this tour.
Those with accessibility requirements may find it challenging to fully enjoy the planned activities and experience on the islands.
Reviews and Feedback
Travelers have provided a mix of experiences and feedback regarding the Bahamas Day Escape Tour, with some praising the seamless process and beautiful views, while others reporting issues with organization and communication.
Some common praise for the tour includes:
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The ease of the overall experience and stunning scenery on the islands.
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The enjoyment of DJ-hosted pool parties and opportunities to swim with stingrays.
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The convenience of the ferry’s amenities like the full bar and duty-free shop.
However, negative feedback also emerged, citing problems such as long wait times at immigration, limited food options on the ferry, and a lack of communication about schedule changes and activity details.
Planning and Preparation
To ensure a seamless experience, travelers should thoroughly review the tour’s requirements and make necessary preparations before their Bahamas Day Escape Tour.
First and foremost, ensure you have a valid passport or US passport card, as these are mandatory for entry into the Bahamas. Plus, be sure to provide accurate passport details when booking the tour.
On the day of the trip, charge your phone fully before boarding, as there may be limited charging options on the ferry. Familiarize yourself with the available activities on the island and plan accordingly to make the most of your time there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Ferry?
Passengers can typically bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages on the ferry, though the tour operator may have restrictions. It’s best to check the tour’s policies prior to the trip to ensure compliance.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is generally no strict dress code for ferry tours, though passengers are advised to dress comfortably and wear suitable beachwear if planning to swim or engage in water activities at the destination. Casual, weather-appropriate attire is recommended.
Are There Any Size/Weight Restrictions for Luggage?
There are no specific size or weight restrictions for luggage on this tour. However, passengers are advised to pack light and bring only essentials, as space on the ferry may be limited. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any additional guidance on luggage.
Can I Extend My Stay on the Island Beyond the Scheduled Return Time?
Travelers can typically only extend their stay on the island beyond the scheduled return time if they make their own arrangements to return separately. The tour itinerary and ferry schedule are fixed, so extending one’s stay may not be easily accommodated.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for This Tour?
The tour provider may offer discounts or packages to make the experience more affordable. Customers should check the website or contact the company directly to inquire about any available deals or bundled options.
Recap
The Bahamas Day Escape by Ferry Tour offers an exciting day trip from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas.
Travelers can enjoy the ferry ride, island activities, and onboard amenities.
However, they’ll need valid travel documents and should be aware the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Overall, it’s a great option for those looking to explore the islands in a day.
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