Do U.S. citizens need a passport for the Bahamas ferry?

Yes. Every U.S. citizen, including babies and children, needs a valid U.S. passport book or passport card to take the ferry from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini or Freeport, even on a day trip. A driver's license, a birth certificate or any other photo ID is not accepted at check-in.

What to bring

A valid U.S. passport book or U.S. passport card for each traveler, adults and children alike.
The passport card is enough for this trip because you travel by sea. It is not valid for international flights, so if you might fly home, bring the passport book.
The same documents apply to a day trip and to a stay of one or more nights.
We recommend that your passport is valid for more than 6 months after your travel date. It must not be expired on the day you sail.

Documents that are not accepted

Birth certificates, including for children.
Driver's licenses, including enhanced driver's licenses, and other photo IDs.
Naturalization certificates.
Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI cards. They do not replace the passport.

If you only have one of these, you will be denied boarding and the ticket is not refunded. Apply for a passport card or book in time, because processing takes weeks.

Children and teens

Children need their own passport book or card. If a minor does not travel with both parents, also bring a notarized consent letter. Read minors traveling without both parents.

The name on your ticket

Book with your name exactly as it appears on your passport. If it does not match, you may not be able to travel. If your name changes after you book, contact us before your trip.

If you lose your passport in the Bahamas

Report it to the local police and contact the ferry staff at the terminal. U.S. citizens need an approval by email from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before they can board the ferry back. Keep a photo of your passport on your phone: it helps, but it does not replace the passport.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my passport card for the Bimini ferry?

Yes. The U.S. passport card is valid for the ferry to the Bahamas because it is a sea trip. It is not valid if you fly back.

Can I take the ferry to the Bahamas with my driver's license?

No. A driver's license, including an enhanced or REAL ID license, is not accepted. You need a passport book or passport card.

Do children need a passport for the Bahamas ferry?

Yes. Every passenger, including babies, needs a valid passport book or passport card. A birth certificate is not accepted.

Do I need a passport for a day trip to Bimini?

Yes. The documents are the same for a day trip and for an overnight stay.

Can I travel with an expired passport?

No. Your passport must be valid on the day you travel. We recommend more than 6 months of validity left.

What happens if I lose my passport in Bimini or Freeport?

Report it to the police and tell the ferry staff. You need an approval by email from U.S. Customs and Border Protection before boarding the ferry back.

Not a U.S. citizen? Read documents for green card holders and other nationalities. Next step: where and when to check in at Port Everglades.

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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