Fort Lauderdale to Bimini by Boat: Distance, Time & Fuel Calculator

Fort Lauderdale to Bimini Route Calculator

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52
nautical miles
~4.5h
at 12 knots
59
statute miles
95
kilometers

Planning a boat trip from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini? The calculator above shows distance, travel time, and fuel consumption for your Bahamas crossing. At 52 nautical miles, Bimini is one of the easiest international destinations for South Florida boaters.

Distance from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini

The distance from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini is 52 nautical miles (59 statute miles or 95 kilometers). This is slightly farther than the Miami–Bimini crossing (48 nm), but both offer quick access to the Bahamas.

Bimini consists of North Bimini and South Bimini, sitting at the edge of the Great Bahama Bank. It's famous for world-class fishing, crystal-clear waters, and as a weekend escape for Florida boaters.

Departing from Fort Lauderdale

Most boats depart through Port Everglades Inlet — one of the deepest inlets in South Florida with easy ocean access. Alternative departure points include Hillsboro Inlet (north) or Government Cut in Miami (south).

Fort Lauderdale Marinas

  • Bahia Mar Marina: Close to inlet, full service, fuel dock
  • Pier Sixty-Six Marina: Iconic location, great amenities
  • Lauderdale Marine Center: Large facility, repair services
  • Las Olas Marina: Downtown location

Travel Time to Bimini

Crossing times depend on your vessel:

  • Fast center console (30+ knots): 1.5–2 hours
  • Sport fishing boat (20–25 knots): 2–2.5 hours
  • Cruiser (12–15 knots): 4–4.5 hours
  • Trawler (8–10 knots): 5–6.5 hours
  • Sailboat (6–7 knots): 7–9 hours

Pro tip: Leave at first light to arrive before afternoon. This gives you time to clear customs, find a slip, and enjoy lunch in Bimini.

Crossing the Gulf Stream

The Fort Lauderdale to Bimini route crosses the Gulf Stream — a powerful current flowing north at 2–4 knots. This is the most important factor in your crossing.

Navigation Strategy

  • Compensate for drift: Aim south of Bimini — the current will push you north
  • Use GPS waypoints: Set waypoints to track your actual course vs. planned
  • Monitor speed over ground: Your SOG will differ from boat speed due to current

Weather Windows

Best conditions: Winds under 15 knots from south or east. The Gulf Stream becomes dangerous when north winds blow against the current — steep, short-period waves can build quickly.

Best season: April through July offers the calmest crossings. Winter cold fronts bring strong northerlies — check forecasts carefully.

Customs and Immigration

Bimini is an official Bahamian port of entry — you can clear customs directly without going to Nassau first.

Required documents:

  • Valid passport for every person aboard
  • Boat registration
  • Crew and passenger list
  • Declaration of goods/provisions

Clear customs at Bimini Big Game Club or Alice Town. The captain goes ashore first with all documents; passengers must remain aboard until clearance is complete.

Arriving in Bimini

Marinas

  • Bimini Big Game Club: Most popular, fuel, customs, restaurant on-site
  • Bimini Sands Marina: South Bimini, quieter atmosphere
  • Blue Water Marina: Alice Town, convenient location

Anchoring

The harbor between North and South Bimini offers protected anchorage in 8–12 feet of crystal-clear water. Great holding in sand.

What to Do

Bimini is a fishing legend — Hemingway spent years here chasing marlin. Today visitors enjoy world-class sport fishing, snorkeling the Bimini Road, diving the Sapona shipwreck, and fresh conch salad at waterfront restaurants.

⚠️ Gulf Stream Safety: Life jackets for all, working VHF radio, GPS, EPIRB (recommended), adequate fuel (plan for 1.5× expected consumption), check weather before departure, file float plan with someone onshore.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Bimini from Fort Lauderdale by boat?

52 nautical miles (59 statute miles / 95 km).

How long is the boat ride from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini?

2–7 hours depending on speed. Fast boats (25+ kn) make it in about 2 hours. Cruisers at 12 knots take about 4.5 hours.

Is Fort Lauderdale or Miami closer to Bimini?

Miami is slightly closer — 48 nm vs 52 nm from Fort Lauderdale. About 30 minutes difference at cruising speed.

Do I need a passport for Bimini?

Yes. Every person needs a valid passport. Bimini is part of the Bahamas — you must clear customs upon arrival.

When is the best time to cross to Bimini?

Early morning departure, April through July. Check Gulf Stream conditions and avoid north winds.

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