Minors traveling to the Bahamas by ferry without both parents: consent letter

A minor (under 18) who does not travel with both parents needs a notarized consent letter. If the child travels with another adult, both parents sign it. If the child travels with one parent, the other parent signs it. Minors cannot travel alone: teens from 13 to 17 must travel with a responsible adult.

With an adult who is not a parent or legal guardian (grandparents, uncles, friends): a notarized letter signed by both parents, with a copy of their photo ID.
With only one parent: a notarized letter from the parent who is not traveling.
If there is no second parent with legal rights (for example, deceased or sole custody): bring papers that show it, such as a court order, a death certificate or a birth certificate that names only one parent.
It applies to children of every nationality, including U.S. and Bahamian children.

What to put in the letter

There is no official form, so you write your own letter and have it notarized. Include:

The child's full name, date and place of birth, home address, phone number and passport number.
The names and contact details of the parent or parents who are not traveling.
The name and passport details of the adult the child travels with.
The travel dates and the places the child will visit (for example, Bimini, Bahamas).

Attach a copy of each signing parent's photo ID. The letter is valid only if it is notarized.

Teens from 13 to 17

They pay the adult fare but cannot travel alone. They must travel under the supervision of a responsible adult (18 or older), and their booking must be linked to that adult's booking. Contact us before you book and we will tell you how to do it.

What happens if you do not have it

The authorities do not always ask for the letter. If they do and you do not have it, the child may be held until the case is checked or refused entry, and boarding can be denied. The ticket is not refunded if boarding is denied for missing documents.

Frequently asked questions

Can a child travel to the Bahamas by ferry without parents?

Yes, with a responsible adult, a valid passport and a notarized consent letter signed by both parents, with a copy of their photo ID.

Can a 16-year-old take the ferry to Bimini alone?

No. Teens from 13 to 17 must travel with a responsible adult, and their booking must be linked to that adult's booking.

Does the consent letter have to be notarized?

Yes. The letter is valid only if it is notarized.

Do I need a letter if I travel with my child but without the other parent?

Yes. Bring a notarized consent letter from the parent who is not traveling.

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Up to date as of October 28, 2026. Rules and fees can change, so check again close to your travel date. Written by the I Love Ferry team. Questions? Contact us.

Help template v4 · 28/10/2026