Balearia Caribbean: 15 years connecting Florida and the Bahamas
From one route to Freeport in 2011 to two routes and more than 1.2 million passengers: 15 years of Balearia Caribbean between Florida and th...
Freeport ferry to Fort Lauderdale Florida
Freeport to Fort Lauderdale ferry
The Freeport – Fort Lauderdale ferry takes you from Grand Bahama Island back to Florida with Balearia Caribbean, the only ferry company on this route. The fast ferry Jaume II leaves Freeport Harbour at 6:30 PM (5:30 PM on some dates) and reaches Port Everglades in about 3 hours, with 3 to 4 sailings a week (Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, plus some Sundays).
Departure6:30 PMFreeport Harbour, Grand Bahama
Duration3 hfast ferry, Gulf Stream crossing
Frequency2–3 / weekTue · Sat (+Thu in season)
Arrival9:30 PMPort Everglades, Terminal 21
Most travellers book this crossing as the return of a round trip or day trip from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport, but one-way tickets are available if you flew into Grand Bahama and want to sail back to Florida.
Freeport to Fort Lauderdale ferry: prices and schedules
Choose your dates in the search box above (or click Check Schedule & Prices), pick Economy or Economy Premium, and receive your e-tickets by email. For a round trip, search from Fort Lauderdale and the return sailing from Freeport is shown in the same booking.
Tip: Saturday and Sunday returns fill up first, and the cheapest fares on every sailing go first. In high season book at least 2–3 weeks ahead.
Freeport
Fort Lauderdale
Scheduled sailings. Availability and final prices are confirmed on the next step.
Ferry tickets >>Freeport - Fort Lauderdale ferry schedules
Freeport → Fort Lauderdale
from $246- Frequency
- 3 - 4 sailings a week
- Duration
- 3 - 3:30 hours
- Next departure
- Operator
-
Balearia Caribbean
Fort Lauderdale → Freeport
from $246- Frequency
- 3 - 4 sailings a week
- Duration
- 3 - 3:30 hours
- Next departure
- Operator
-
Balearia Caribbean
Indicative schedules and subject to variation by the ferry company for operational reasons without prior notice.
How much does the Freeport - Fort Lauderdale ferry cost?
A one-way ticket from Freeport to Fort Lauderdale costs from $225 in Economy class. Most people buy it as part of a round trip from Florida, which is cheaper. Prices vary by date and demand, so the earlier you book, the cheaper it is. These are typical fares per person:
| Trip | 1 adult | 2 adults |
|---|---|---|
| One way Freeport → Fort Lauderdale (Economy) | from $225 | from $450 |
| Round trip from Fort Lauderdale · Day trip | from $246 | from $492 |
| Round trip from Fort Lauderdale · Economy Premium | from $306 | from $612 |
Indicative fares per person, Bahamas taxes and port fees included.
What Economy Premium includes
- Priority embark in Fort Lauderdale.
- Priority debark upon arrival at your destination (Fort Lauderdale / Bimini / Grand Bahama).
- A snack onboard in the morning and a snack onboard in the afternoon (a small packaged sandwich) with a drink (coffee, water or tea).
Children and infants
- Children from 3 to 12 years old (at the time of travel) pay half the fare, but the same Port Taxes & Fees as adults.
- Infants from 0 to 2 years old (at the time of travel) do not pay the ticket fare, but do pay the same Port Taxes & Fees as adults.
Freeport – Fort Lauderdale ferry: ticket types
| Fare | Luggage | Changes & refunds |
|---|---|---|
| Economy · promo fare the cheapest and most popular |
1 personal item | No changes, no cancellation · non-refundable |
| Economy · standard fare | 1 personal item | Date changes allowed (fee + fare difference) · no cancellation |
| Economy · unrestricted fare | 1 personal item + 1 checked bag | Free changes · refundable |
| Economy Premium priority embark & debark, snacks and drink included |
1 personal item + 1 checked bag | Promo Premium fares: no changes, no cancellation · standard Premium fares: changes allowed, no cancellation |
Before you choose the cheapest fare: the promo Economy fare is the one most travellers book, but it cannot be changed or cancelled and it is not refundable. The same applies to promo Economy Premium fares. If your plans may change, pick an unrestricted fare: the exact conditions of every fare are shown under the (i) icon in the search results before you pay.
Taxes and port fees
All fares on this page include the mandatory Bahamas Departure Tax and the Port Entrance Fees: the price you see is the price you pay, and the breakdown is shown in the search results before payment. Children and infants pay the same taxes and fees as adults.
Discounts on the Freeport – Fort Lauderdale ferry
- Infants (0–2): free ticket fare (taxes and port fees apply).
- Children (3–12): 50% off the ticket fare (taxes and port fees apply).
- Groups (10+): ask us for a quote at our contact page.
- Promo codes: when a Balearia Caribbean promotion is running, enter the code in the search box and the discount is applied before payment. Check our ferry deals.
Ferry + Hotel: combining your ticket with a night in Lucaya (Grand Lucayan area, Port Lucaya) is usually cheaper than booking separately. See the Ferry + Hotel packages.
Ferry Deals
Freeport - Fort Lauderdale ferry deals
Check our bonifications
We provide different bonifications for your travel
Freeport - Fort Lauderdale ferry timetable
| Freeport | Fort Lauderdale |
|---|---|
| 6:30pm | 9:30pm |
| Departures | October, 2026: 20th, 24th, 27th, 31st |
| Departures | November, 2026: 3rd, 7th, 10th, 14th, 17th, 21st, 24th, 28th |
| Departures | December, 2026: 1st, 3rd, 5th, 8th, 10th, 15th, 17th, 19th, 22nd, 26th, 29th |
| Departures | January, 2027: 2nd |
| Departures | February, 2027: 11th, 16th, 20th, 23rd, 27th |
| Departures | March, 2027: 2nd, 6th, 9th, 16th, 20th, 23rd, 30th |
| Departures | April, 2027: 3rd, 6th, 10th, 13th, 17th, 20th, 24th, 27th |
| Departures | May, 2027: 1st, 4th, 8th, 11th, 15th, 18th, 22nd, 25th, 29th |
| Departures | June, 2027: 1st, 5th, 8th, 12th, 15th, 22nd, 29th |
| Departures | July, 2027: 6th, 13th, 15th, 20th, 22nd, 27th, 29th |
| Departures | August, 2027: 3rd, 5th, 7th, 10th, 12th, 14th, 17th, 19th, 21st, 24th, 28th, 31st |
| Departures | September, 2027: 4th, 7th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 21st, 25th, 28th |
| Departures | October, 2027: 2nd, 5th, 9th, 12th, 16th, 19th, 23rd, 26th, 30th |
| Departures | November, 2027: 2nd, 6th, 9th, 13th, 16th, 20th, 23rd, 27th, 30th |
| Departures | December, 2027: 2nd, 4th, 7th, 9th, 11th, 14th, 16th, 18th, 21st, 23rd, 28th, 30th |
| 4:30pm | 7:30pm |
| Departures | December, 2026: 13th |
| 3:00pm | 6:00pm |
| Departures | December, 2026: 24th, 31st |
| 5:30pm | 8:30pm |
| Departures | February, 2027: 13th |
| Departures | March, 2027: 12th, 27th |
| Departures | June, 2027: 19th, 26th |
| Departures | July, 2027: 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st |
Indicative schedules and subject to variation by the ferry company for operational reasons without prior notice.
Useful information for the Freeport - Fort Lauderdale ferry
Useful tips for the ferry from Freeport to Fort Lauderdale
- Be at Freeport Harbour 3 hours before departure. Check-in closes 60 minutes before sailing and late passengers are not boarded; Bahamas departure formalities are done at the terminal.
- Passport, always. Even for a day trip, every passenger (adults and children) needs a valid passport. Photocopies, birth certificates and enhanced driver's licenses are not accepted.
- US immigration on arrival. You clear US Customs and Border Protection at Port Everglades when you land, around 9:30 PM: allow 1 to 1.5 hours before onward connections and avoid same-night flights from FLL.
- Evening departure. The ferry leaves at 6:30 PM most of the year (5:30 PM on some dates): check the exact time on your ticket and on the timetable on this page.
- Weather. The Gulf Stream can get rough. If a sailing is rescheduled because of a small-craft advisory, we notify you by SMS and email before you leave your hotel.
- No cars on this ferry. The service is passenger-only.
Where does the ferry from Freeport to Fort Lauderdale depart from?
From Freeport Harbour, on the west side of Grand Bahama Island, about 15 minutes by taxi from Port Lucaya Marketplace and the Lucaya hotels; ask your hotel about the shared shuttle to the ferry.
Which terminal does the ferry use in Freeport?
The passenger ferry terminal at Freeport Harbour, with check-in desks, a covered waiting area and restrooms. Bring original documents: digital copies are not accepted.
Where does the ferry arrive in Fort Lauderdale?
At Port Everglades, Terminal 21 (2021 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316), 10 minutes from Fort Lauderdale airport and 45 minutes from Miami.
Getting from Port Everglades to Fort Lauderdale, Miami or the airport
- Your own car: if you parked at the Midport Garage, you are 5 minutes from I-595 and I-95.
- Taxi / Uber / Lyft: available outside the terminal; 10 minutes to FLL airport or downtown Fort Lauderdale, 45 minutes to Miami.
- Brightline: 15 minutes by taxi to Fort Lauderdale station, then trains to Miami, West Palm Beach and Orlando (check the last train of the night).
Onboard services on the Freeport - Fort Lauderdale ferry
The crossing is on the Jaume II, a 35-knot fast catamaran for 600 passengers. It's a 3-hour evening trip, so there are no cabins: you travel in reclining seats with a cafeteria, a duty-free shop and the sunset over the Gulf Stream from the open deck.
- Cafeteria & bar: hot meals, snacks, soft drinks, beer and Starbucks coffee — a good option for dinner on board.
- Duty-free shop: perfumes, spirits, tobacco and gifts at tax-free prices.
- Economy Premium: priority embark and debark, plus snacks and a drink onboard.
- Open deck: outdoor seating at the stern for sunset photos.
- Accessibility: step-free boarding and accessible restrooms; tell us when booking if you need assistance.
Digital services on board
Satellite Wi-Fi is available but limited (fine for messaging, not for streaming). Mobile coverage drops mid-crossing, so download your tickets before boarding.
Are there cabins on the Freeport ferry?
No. The crossing takes about 3 hours, so cabins are not needed. You travel in reclining seats in Economy or, with priority embark and debark plus snacks and a drink included, in Economy Premium (see prices above).
How much luggage can I take?
- Day Trip: hand luggage only (a backpack or beach bag).
- Economy: 1 personal item (up to 26.5 lb).
- Economy unrestricted / Economy Premium: 1 personal item + 1 checked bag (up to 26.5 lb).
- Extra bags can be added at check-in for a fee.
Can I travel with my dog from Freeport to Fort Lauderdale?
Yes. Pets travel for $150 one way / $300 round trip and must be booked at least 72 hours in advance. To enter the US your dog needs a current rabies vaccination certificate and, since 2024, the CDC Dog Import Form receipt; check the CDC requirements before you travel. Service animals travel free with the corresponding documentation.
Services onboard the Jaime II
Excellent facilities and the best service during your trip
The fast ferry Jaume II has leisure areas where you can relax while enjoying the onboard cuisine. There's a spacious cafeteria and an outdoor area where you can enjoy the views of the sea.
Coffee Shop
The Jaume II has a fast-food and snack cafeteria. What’s more, you can enjoy great cocktails in both accommodations at the bar. Don’t forget to try our famous Bahama Mama cocktail!
Gift shop
While travelling, you can buy your first souvenir, perfumes or cigarettes…and all tax free! Our stores have a wide range of gifts, perfumes, liquor, cigarettes, cigars… There is also an Excursion’s Office on board where you can find everything you might want to do on the island…from snorkeling to renting a car, a golf cart, a bike… and much more!
Children Zone
The ship has a special space for the littlest members of the family.
ADA
The entire Baleària Caribbean's fleet is adapted for ADA passengers. All the company's ships have adapted seating and bathrooms, as well as special anchoring points for wheelchairs.
Internet
This Baleària Caribbean's ship offers extensive connectivity thanks to the on-board Wi-Fi signal, with access to the network available by purchasing vouchers, allowing you to stay connected throughout your trip.
Seats and accommodations on the Jaime II
Economy Seats
Padded standard seat, located in economy class lounges. Economy seating is located on the main (forward/mid) and second deck of the ferry. Amenities include: reclining Seats & USB charging ports available at every seat. Meals and beverages are available for purchase on-board.
Economy Premium Seats
Padded, spacious and reclining seats for greater comfort. Economy Premium seating is located on the main deck in the aft of the ferry. Amenities include: Soft drink & Snack each leg of the voyage, reclining Seats & USB charging ports available at every seat.
Priority embarkation available at the Port Everglades terminal (Fort Lauderdale - Florida, US). Priority debarkation in Bimini, Freeport (Bahamas) and upon arrival to Fort Lauderdale (Florida, US).
How long is the ferry from Freeport to Fort Lauderdale?
3 - 3:30 hours
Latest news
Balearia Caribbean Rookie 2022
Baleària, which operates in the US as Balearia Caribbean, gave I Love Ferry the "Balearia Caribbean Rookie 2022" award at FITUR in Madrid on...
Frequently asked questions about the Freeport - Fort Lauderdale ferry
ARC (resident alien card holders) must have a valid passport and a valid ARC CARD.
Adults and children will need VISA (To travel into the United States). Valid passport and valid U.S. visa for both.
Bahamian residents must have (not Bahamian citizens): a valid residency card of the Bahamas or a letter of permit to reside from the Bahamian ministry or a valid residency stamp in their valid passport of their country of citizenship.
IMPORTANT ADVICE TO NOTE:* Balearia Caribbean LTD and/or I LOVE FERRY are not responsible for any denied boarding or desembarking due to failure to present proper travel documentation*
More updated information on international travel regulations, on the following border protection website: Border Protection Regulations.
It depends on the fare you bought. Day trips and Promo fares (Economy and Economy Premium) cannot be changed or cancelled. Standard fares can be changed up to 24 hours before departure with a $75 fee plus any fare difference; unrestricted fares can be changed for free. Check the (i) icon of your fare before paying. To request a change, email us at info@iloveferry.us with your booking reference and the new date.
Balearia Caribbean ferry tickets can be canceled under the following rules:
- Promo fares are non-refundable.
- Full refund, if the date of request to cancel the reservation is before 7 days of the ferry departure date.
- 50% penalty, if the reservation cancellation request is made between 7 and 4 days before the scheduled departure date.
- No refund, if the reservation cancellation request is made 3 days or less before the scheduled departure date of the ship.
- One-day trips or special offers cancellations has No refund.
Remember that ferry tickets are non-transferable. The name of the passengers cannot be modified.
Any passenger who does not board the ferry for any reason, which is not under the control of Balearia Caribbean and/or I Love Ferry, will not have the right to a refund or change of date.
Balearia Caribbean and/or I Love Ferry will not assume any responsibility beyond the refund of the amount of the reserved ticket if the ferry for which the ticket was purchased and paid for does not carry out the stipulated trip due to operational difficulties, weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances or forces. outside the control of these companies.
The ferry. The Balearia Caribbean fast ferry from Fort Lauderdale takes about 3 hours to Freeport Harbour, with no baggage weight limits like on small planes, you can travel with your pet, and the terminal is 15 minutes from Port Lucaya.
From $225 per person one way in Economy and from $246 for a same-day trip to Grand Bahama,, Bahamas taxes and port fees included. Prices change with the date and demand: booking early is always cheaper.
About 3 hours. The ferry leaves Port Everglades at 9:00 AM and docks in Freeport at around 12:00 PM. In rough seas the crossing can take up to 3.5 hours.
Tuesday and Saturday all year, plus Thursday sailings in high season. The return ferry leaves Freeport at 6:30 PM (5:30 PM on some dates). Check the timetable on this page for the exact dates of your month. Travel days and dates may vary due to the shipping company's operational reasons. Please consult our calendar for dates, schedules, and prices.
Yes. Departure at 9:00 AM, arrival at noon, and the return ferry at 6:30 PM gives you about six hours on Grand Bahama: enough for Port Lucaya Marketplace and a beach afternoon at Taino or Lucaya Beach. Book the Day Trip fare.
Yes. Every passenger, adults and children, needs a valid passport — even for a same-day trip. US citizens: passport or passport card valid for at least 6 months after your return. Green-card holders: ARC plus the passport of your country of citizenship. Birth certificates, photo IDs and enhanced driver's licenses are not accepted, and all documents must be originals.
No. This is a passenger-only fast ferry. Leave your car at the Midport Garage next to Terminal 21 and rent a car or take a taxi on Grand Bahama.
From Port Everglades, Terminal 21 (2021 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316). The Midport Garage is right next to the terminal ($20/day). Arrive 3 hours before departure; check-in closes 60 minutes before sailing.
About 90 nautical miles (165 km / 105 miles) across the Gulf Stream, which is why the crossing takes 3 hours instead of the 2 hours to Bimini.
High season (March–August, Thanksgiving, Christmas): 3–4 weeks ahead — with only 2–3 sailings a week, Saturdays sell out first. Low season (September–February): a few days ahead is usually enough, but the cheapest fares still go first.
It depends on the fare you bought. Day trips and promo fares (Economy and Economy Premium) cannot be changed or cancelled. Standard fares can be changed up to 24 hours before departure with a $75 fee plus any fare difference; unrestricted fares can be changed for free. Check the (i) icon of your fare before paying. To request a change, email us at info@iloveferry.us with your booking reference and the new date.
If you want a bigger island than Bimini — beaches, Port Lucaya Marketplace, Lucayan National Park with its caves and Gold Rock Beach, golf and diving — yes. A day trip works, but with a 3-hour crossing each way it is even better with one or two nights in Lucaya. See our Ferry + Hotel deals.
Freeport - Fort Lauderdale ferry companies
Balearia Caribbean
Balearia Caribbean is a ferry company based in Fort Lauderdale (FL) that makes connections between Fort Lauderdale - Bimini, Fort Lauderdale - Freeport and Bimini - Freeport (the port where the ship arrives on Grand Baha...
About Balearia Caribbean >>Freeport - Fort Lauderdale ferry ships
Jaime II
Three 'fast ferries' in honor of three kings This series of fast ferry catamarans was built by the Australian shipyard Incat and acquired by Baleària between 2005 and 2007. They can reach a maximum speed of more than 30...
more about the Jaime II ferry >>DESTINATIONS
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