🏝️ QUICK FACTS
- Distance from Miami: 50 nautical miles (2-hour ferry)
- Port capacity: 1 ship at a time (max 6,000 passengers)
- Free tram: Every 15 minutes around the island
- Golf cart rental: $60-90 ($65-97) for the day
- Best transport: Free tram or rent a golf cart
I’ve been helping cruise passengers discover Bimini since the port opened in 2021, and honestly, it’s become one of my absolute favourites. You’re getting a proper Bahamas experience without the chaos of Nassau – just pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, and that laid-back island vibe that makes you never want to leave.
For other Bahamas destinations, check out our Bahamas & Turks and Caicos Cruise Destinations page.
Map of Bimini, Bahamas Cruise Ship Port
What Makes Bimini Special (From Someone Who’s Been There)
Here’s the thing about Bimini – it’s tiny (just 7 miles long) but absolutely brilliant. Unlike Nassau where you’re fighting crowds, or Freeport where it feels touristy, Bimini still feels like a hidden gem. With only 2,000 residents and just one cruise ship allowed at a time, you’ll actually have space to breathe.
What I tell all my clients: if you’re looking for shopping and casinos, this isn’t your port. But if you want stunning beaches, incredible water sports, and that authentic Caribbean feeling, Bimini is absolutely perfect.
Getting Around
When you step off your ship, you’ll see the complimentary tram waiting – this is brilliant and completely free. But here’s my insider tip: if you want real freedom to explore, rent a golf cart straight away.
Golf cart rental: $60-90 ($65-97) for the whole day Pro tip: No paperwork needed, just cash and off you go!
I’ve done both, and while the tram is convenient, having your own golf cart lets you discover those hidden spots that most cruise passengers miss. Check out my complete transport guide for all the details on getting around.
Virgin Voyages Beach Club (The Real Story)
If you’re sailing with Virgin Voyages, you’ve hit the jackpot. Their Beach Club at Bimini is absolutely stunning – lagoon pools, beachfront service, and everything included in your cruise fare.
Here’s what I’ve learned from multiple visits:
- Arrive early for the best lounger spots by the pool
- The Lagoon Bar swing seats fill up fast – grab one if you see it empty
- Food and drinks are all included, so no need to budget extra
- It’s adults-only, so perfect if you want a peaceful day
Not on Virgin? Don’t worry! Other cruise lines can purchase day passes, and there are brilliant public beaches that are just as gorgeous.
Best Beaches
I’ve been to every beach on Bimini, and here are my honest recommendations:
Radio Beach – My favourite for families
- Gorgeous white sand that goes on forever
- Shallow, calm water perfect for kids
- Local food trucks with proper Bahamian conch fritters
Blister Beach – Best for couples
- More secluded and romantic
- Crystal-clear water that’s brilliant for swimming
- Great for those Instagram shots
Paradise Beach (at Resorts World) – Best facilities
- Beach chair and umbrella rentals available
- Close to restaurants and bars
- Can get busy when ships are in
For all the details on each beach plus hidden gems, check out my complete beaches guide.
Water Sports & Marine Life (Absolutely Brilliant)
This is where Bimini really shines. The water is so clear you can see 30 feet down, and the marine life is incredible.
Must-do experiences:
- Swimming with wild dolphins – I’ve done this three times, absolutely magical
- Shark diving at the Shark Lab – Nurse sharks and reef sharks in their natural habitat
- SS Sapona shipwreck snorkeling – WWI concrete ship in just 15 feet of water
- Stingray encounters – Gentle giants that swim right up to you
My water sports and marine life guide covers all the operators, costs, and what to expect.
Shore Excursions (What’s Actually Worth It)
I’ve tried most of the excursions on offer, and here’s my honest take:
Definitely worth booking:
- Dolphin encounters (if you’re not comfortable arranging independently)
- Jet ski tours around the island
- Deep-sea fishing (Bimini is famous for marlin)
- Glass-bottom boat tours
You can skip:
- Island tours (just rent a golf cart instead)
- Basic snorkeling trips (you can do this yourself from the beach)
For the complete rundown of all available shore excursions and my recommendations.
Where to Eat (The Good, Bad, and Brilliant)
At the port area:
- Resorts World restaurants – Pricey but good quality, make reservations
- Food trucks near Radio Beach – Best value, try the conch fritters
- Fisherman’s Village – Decent options, tourist-friendly pricing
My food tip: The local bakery in Alice Town does the most incredible cinnamon bread – it’s worth the golf cart ride just for this!
Complete dining guide with all my restaurant reviews: Best Restaurants & Local Food in Bimini.
First-Time Visitors (Everything You Need to Know)
Heading to Bimini for the first time? I’ve got you covered with my complete first-timers guide, but here are the essentials:
What to bring:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (the Bahamas take this seriously)
- Cash for golf cart rentals and local vendors
- Snorkel gear if you have it (saves rental fees)
- Waterproof phone case for photos
What to expect:
- Small, intimate port with personal service
- Gorgeous beaches but limited shopping
- Brilliant water activities
- Relaxed, authentic Caribbean vibe
Cruise Line Comparisons (The Honest Truth)
I get asked this constantly: “Sofia, which cruise line is best for Bimini?”
Here’s my take after sailing with multiple lines:
- Virgin Voyages: Best beach club experience, adults-only
- Celebrity: Good excursion options, more refined crowd
- Carnival: Family-friendly, most affordable shore excursions
- Royal Caribbean: Largest selection of activities
For the complete breakdown: Celebrity Cruises vs Virgin Voyages in Bimini.
Bimini vs Other Bahamas Ports
I’m constantly asked how Bimini compares to Nassau, and honestly, they’re completely different experiences:
Bimini: Small, intimate, beach-focused, authentic Nassau: Large, busy, shopping-focused, touristy
For the full comparison: Bimini vs Nassau: Which Bahamas Port is Better?
Weather & Best Time to Visit
I’ve been to Bimini in every season, and here’s my honest assessment:
December-April (Peak Season):
- Perfect weather: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
- Minimal rain, gorgeous beach days
- More crowded, higher prices
- Best time for water sports
May-June (Shoulder Season):
- Still great weather, fewer crowds
- Best value for money
- My personal favourite time
July-November (Hurricane Season):
- Hot and humid, occasional storms
- Cheapest cruise fares
- Can be brilliant if weather cooperates
Complete weather guide and packing tips: Bimini Weather & Best Time to Cruise.
Money Matters (What Things Actually Cost)
Currency: US dollars accepted everywhere (no need to exchange)
What I spend on a typical Bimini day:
- Golf cart rental: $75 ($81)
- Lunch for two: $40-60 ($43-65)
- Drinks: $8-12 ($9-13) each
- Snorkel gear rental: $15 ($16) per person
- Souvenirs: $20-50 ($22-54)
Money-saving tips I’ve learned:
- Bring your own snorkel gear
- Pack a picnic for the beach
- Use the free tram instead of golf carts
- Buy drinks from local vendors, not resort bars
Family Travel & Practical Tips
Traveling with kids? Bimini is absolutely brilliant for families. The beaches have gentle, shallow water, and there’s plenty of space for kids to run about. The local vendors are incredibly friendly and patient with little ones.
Accessibility: The port and main beaches are wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and accessible facilities at Resorts World.
Quick Answers to Questions I Get All the Time
“Is one day enough in Bimini?” Absolutely! The island is tiny, so you can see everything in 6-8 hours. Perfect for a cruise day.
“Should I book excursions or go independently?” For water sports, book through your cruise line for peace of mind. For beach time and exploring, go independent with a golf cart.
“Is it safe to drink the water?” Stick to bottled water. Most places serve bottled water anyway.
“What’s the WiFi situation?” Available at Resorts World and some restaurants, but patchy elsewhere. Perfect excuse to disconnect!
Other Bahamas Destinations Worth Exploring
Since you’re cruising the Bahamas, why not check out these other brilliant ports:
Similar vibe to Bimini:
- Great Exuma Bahamas – Swimming pigs and pristine beaches
- San Salvador Bahamas – Quiet and authentic
Different experiences:
- Nassau Cruise Port – Shopping and history
- Caribbean Cruise Ports Guide – Complete overview
General Bahamas inspiration:
- Amazing Bahamas Beaches – Beyond the cruise ports
- Authentic Bahamian Culture – Local experiences
Need Help Planning Your Perfect Bimini Day?
That’s where I come in! With thousands of cruise options and all these brilliant destinations to choose from, I’ll personally help you find the perfect cruise that includes Bimini and matches your travel style and budget.
I’m Sofia, and I absolutely love helping people discover these incredible Caribbean gems. Get in touch and let’s plan your dream Bahamas cruise!
