Yacht charter Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas, private crossing to Bimini and Nassau

Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas Yacht Charters

Yacht Charter Fort Lauderdale To Bahamas

Private crossings to Bimini, Nassau, the Berry Islands, and the Exumas, departing through the Port Everglades inlet. Captain, crew, and customs coordination on every voyage.

Captain and crew on every crossing. Customs coordination included.

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PRIVATE BAHAMAS CROSSINGS FROM FORT LAUDERDALE

Fort Lauderdale To Bahamas by Private Yacht Charter

The Bahamas begin roughly 50 nautical miles east of Fort Lauderdale across the Gulf Stream. A private yacht charter from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas covers that distance in 4 to 6 hours on an offshore-rated vessel departing through the Port Everglades inlet. Every crossing is completely private, fully crewed, and managed from first inquiry to the final dock approach in the Bahamas.

Fort Lauderdale is the yachting capital of the world, with the deepest concentration of offshore-capable yachts and crew in the country. Crown Yachts Miami operates a fleet of vessels cleared for Gulf Stream crossings and open Bahamian passages. The captain manages the crossing route, weather windows, customs clearance at the Bahamian port of entry, and all navigation throughout the voyage. You arrive in the Bahamas with nothing left to arrange. Bimini, Nassau, the Berry Islands, the Exumas, and multi-island custom itineraries are all available on the appropriate vessel and timeline.

Bahamas charter pricing is built around your specific crossing plan. The vessel, destination, number of guests, duration, and add-on services including a private chef, DJ, and open bar all factor in. Share your dates and itinerary via WhatsApp and we build the quote.

Luxury superyacht on open water, private Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas yacht charter

Bahamas Fleet

Offshore Vessels for Bahamas Crossings

Offshore-rated yachts available for Gulf Stream crossings and Bahamian passages. Captain and crew on every booking. Vessel eligibility confirmed for your destination and group size before the charter date is locked.

WHAT TO EXPECT

How a Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas Yacht Charter Works

A Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas yacht charter is more involved than a day charter on the Intracoastal. Here is what every crossing includes from first contact to your arrival at a Bahamian anchorage.

PLAN YOUR CROSSING
GULF STREAM CROSSING

Roughly 50 Nautical Miles from Port Everglades to Bimini

The Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas crossing begins at the Port Everglades inlet, the deep-water ocean cut at the south end of Fort Lauderdale. From there the yacht heads east into the Florida Straits and across the Gulf Stream, a 2 to 4-knot northeast-flowing current that separates the Florida coast from the Bahamian Bank. Bimini is roughly 50 nautical miles from the inlet. The captain departs early morning to complete the crossing before the afternoon sea breeze builds.

COMPLETELY PRIVATE

One Group, One Vessel, No Other Passengers

Every Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas yacht charter is a completely private booking. No shared passengers, no group tour format, no other guests at the marina or on board. Your group books the vessel exclusively for the entire voyage from the Fort Lauderdale departure marina to every Bahamian anchorage and back.

OFFSHORE-RATED VESSELS

Vessels Cleared for Gulf Stream and Open Atlantic Passages

Not every yacht in a Fort Lauderdale charter fleet is equipped for offshore crossings. Bahamas-rated vessels require extended fuel range, offshore navigation equipment, stabilization systems, and life safety gear beyond what Intracoastal charters need. Fort Lauderdale, the yachting capital of the world, has the deepest concentration of offshore-capable yachts in the country. Crown Yachts Miami confirms vessel eligibility before booking. View the luxury fleet.

CAPTAIN HANDLES EVERYTHING

Customs, Cruising Permit, and Navigation Managed by the Crew

Passengers carry only a valid passport. The captain handles the Bahamian cruising permit, vessel documentation, customs clearance at the official port of entry, and all navigation throughout the voyage. Every crossing from the Fort Lauderdale marina to every multi-island stop is managed entirely by the crew.

FULL PROVISIONING PRE-LOADED

Every Meal, Drink, and Supply Loaded Before Departure

Multi-day Bahamas crossings require everything loaded before leaving the dock. Crown Yachts Miami coordinates full trip provisioning through the onboard catering team and private chef service. All meals, beverages, ice, and daily supplies for the entire trip are sourced and organized before departure. An open bar package and custom decoration for milestone crossings are also available.

ITINERARY OPTIONS

Day Trip to Multi-Week Custom Itinerary

Bimini day trips depart and return within a single day. Bimini overnights take two days. Nassau and the Berry Islands suit 3 to 4-day charters. The Exumas require a minimum 5-day itinerary. Multi-island custom routes combining Nassau, Eleuthera, Harbour Island, and the Abacos are available on extended charters. View overnight charter options.

DEPARTURE POINTS

Fort Lauderdale Marinas for Bahamas Departures

Pier Sixty-Six and the 17th Street Causeway marinas are the primary departure points for Bimini and Nassau crossings. Bahia Mar and Las Olas and Harbour Towne in Dania Beach are matched to your route and vessel requirements.

Select a marina to see the location

Pier Sixty-Six Marina

17th Street Causeway, Fort Lauderdale

The primary departure point for Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas crossings. A landmark deep-water marina on the Intracoastal at the 17th Street Causeway, at the crossroads of the Intracoastal and the Port Everglades inlet, moments from Harbor Beach. Vessels clear the inlet within minutes of departure and are in open water heading east toward the Bahamian Bank. The most requested marina for Bimini and Nassau crossings on larger offshore yachts.

The flagship Fort Lauderdale beach marina on the barrier island, home of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and a deep-water base for large offshore yachts. A short southbound Intracoastal transit reaches the Port Everglades inlet and open water. Preferred by guests staying along the beach and in the Las Olas district for Bimini and Nassau crossings.

A full-service marina on the 17th Street Causeway with direct Intracoastal access, minutes from the Port Everglades inlet. A convenient boarding point for guests near Harbor Beach and the Fort Lauderdale beach hotels, and one of the closest departure points to open water for early morning Gulf Stream departures to Bimini and Cat Cay.

A newly rebuilt marina on the Intracoastal at the eastern end of the Las Olas causeway, steps from Fort Lauderdale Beach. Direct access to the Intracoastal and a short run south to the Port Everglades inlet. A natural departure for guests in the Las Olas beach and dining district heading out on a Bahamas crossing.

On the Intracoastal near Fort Lauderdale Beach, just north of the Bahia Mar basin. A convenient beach-side departure with a short southbound transit to the Port Everglades inlet and open Atlantic water. Well suited to mid-size offshore yachts departing for Bimini day trips and overnight crossings.

A full-service marina on the Dania Cut-off Canal in Dania Beach, just south of the Port Everglades inlet and minutes from Fort Lauderdale airport. A short northbound transit reaches the inlet and open water, a practical departure for fly-in groups joining a Bahamas crossing without an overnight in the city first.

A city marina on the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Vessels transit the New River and the Intracoastal down to the Port Everglades inlet before heading offshore. A convenient boarding point for guests staying downtown or along the Riverwalk before a multi-day Bahamas voyage.

View Harbor Beach yacht charters
  • Pier Sixty-Six Marina17th Street Causeway, Fort LauderdaleThe primary departure point for Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas crossings. A landmark deep-water marina on the Intracoastal at the 17th Street Causeway, at the crossroads of the Intracoastal and the Port Everglades inlet, moments from Harbor Beach. Vessels clear the inlet within minutes of departure and are in open water heading east toward the Bahamian Bank. The most requested marina for Bimini and Nassau crossings on larger offshore yachts.Harbor Beach yacht charters
  • Bahia Mar Yachting CenterFort Lauderdale BeachThe flagship Fort Lauderdale beach marina on the barrier island, home of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show and a deep-water base for large offshore yachts. A short southbound Intracoastal transit reaches the Port Everglades inlet and open water. Preferred by guests staying along the beach and in the Las Olas district for Bimini and Nassau crossings.Las Olas yacht charters
  • Lauderdale Marina17th Street Causeway, Fort LauderdaleA full-service marina on the 17th Street Causeway with direct Intracoastal access, minutes from the Port Everglades inlet. A convenient boarding point for guests near Harbor Beach and the Fort Lauderdale beach hotels, and one of the closest departure points to open water for early morning Gulf Stream departures to Bimini and Cat Cay.Harbor Beach yacht charters
  • Las Olas MarinaFort Lauderdale BeachA newly rebuilt marina on the Intracoastal at the eastern end of the Las Olas causeway, steps from Fort Lauderdale Beach. Direct access to the Intracoastal and a short run south to the Port Everglades inlet. A natural departure for guests in the Las Olas beach and dining district heading out on a Bahamas crossing.Las Olas yacht charters
  • Hall of Fame MarinaFort Lauderdale BeachOn the Intracoastal near Fort Lauderdale Beach, just north of the Bahia Mar basin. A convenient beach-side departure with a short southbound transit to the Port Everglades inlet and open Atlantic water. Well suited to mid-size offshore yachts departing for Bimini day trips and overnight crossings.
  • Harbour Towne MarinaDania BeachA full-service marina on the Dania Cut-off Canal in Dania Beach, just south of the Port Everglades inlet and minutes from Fort Lauderdale airport. A short northbound transit reaches the inlet and open water, a practical departure for fly-in groups joining a Bahamas crossing without an overnight in the city first.Dania Beach yacht charters
  • Cooley's LandingNew River, Downtown Fort LauderdaleA city marina on the New River in downtown Fort Lauderdale. Vessels transit the New River and the Intracoastal down to the Port Everglades inlet before heading offshore. A convenient boarding point for guests staying downtown or along the Riverwalk before a multi-day Bahamas voyage.Downtown Fort Lauderdale yacht charters

BOOKING PROCESS

How to Plan a Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas Yacht Charter

01

Share Your Dates, Destination, and Group Size

Contact us via WhatsApp with your preferred travel dates, the Bahamian destination you have in mind, and how many guests will be on board. We respond with available offshore vessels and a route recommendation tailored to your group and timeline.

02

Receive an Offshore Vessel Shortlist

We send a curated list of vessels cleared for Bahamas crossings matched to your group size and destination. Options range from the Lazzara LSX 75 and Azimut 105 to the Azimut 116 and Pershing GTX 116. Each option includes offshore range, speed, and passenger capacity.

03

Choose Your Islands, Route, and Departure Marina

We confirm the departure marina closest to where your group is staying and finalize the preferred route. Day trip to Bimini, overnight crossing, 4-day Nassau circuit, or a full Exumas expedition. Depart from Pier Sixty-Six and Lauderdale Marina, Bahia Mar, or Harbour Towne in Dania Beach depending on your destination and vessel assignment.

04

Arrange Provisioning, Add-Ons, and Documentation

Multi-day charters require full trip provisioning loaded before departure. We coordinate with the private chef on menus and dietary requirements, confirm the beverage package, and arrange any celebration setup. Every passenger receives the passport and documentation checklist at this stage.

05

Confirm with a Deposit and Receive Your Charter Agreement

Secure the vessel and crossing dates with a deposit. You receive a full charter agreement covering the marina address, boarding time, captain contact, provisioning confirmation, and a complete checklist of everything included. The captain monitors the 7-day marine forecast and confirms the exact departure window 48 hours out.

06

Board Before Dawn and Cross the Gulf Stream

Most Bahamas crossings depart between 5am and 7am to complete the Gulf Stream transit in the calmest part of the day. The captain and crew are on board before you arrive. Every add-on, provision, and decoration is ready when your group boards. The vessel clears the Port Everglades inlet and heads east into open water. You arrive in the Bahamas with nothing left to arrange.

BAHAMIAN DESTINATIONS

Where to Go on a Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas Charter

Six destinations reachable by private yacht from Fort Lauderdale, from a Bimini day trip to a full Exumas expedition. Every itinerary is built around where you want to go and how long you have.

Select a destination to see where it is

Bimini

Day Trip or Overnight

Bimini is the closest point in the Bahamas to Fort Lauderdale, roughly 50 nautical miles east across the Gulf Stream. The crossing takes 4 to 6 hours depending on vessel speed and sea conditions. North Bimini has a main marina, restaurants, dive shops, and direct access to clear Bahamian flats with visibility of 30 to 50 feet. South Bimini offers protected anchorages and calmer water. Bimini is the most popular first stop for charters clearing the Port Everglades inlet.

Cat Cay is a private island roughly 55 nautical miles from Fort Lauderdale, slightly south of Bimini. The surrounding water and nearby sandbars are accessible on a day trip on a fast vessel or an easy overnight. The water at the Cat Cay sandbars rivals any in the northern Bahamas for clarity, with brilliant aquamarine shallows over white sand. A quieter alternative to Bimini for groups seeking a private anchorage close to Florida.

Nassau sits on New Providence Island roughly 180 nautical miles southeast of Fort Lauderdale. The crossing takes 8 to 12 hours on larger vessels, or a day to Bimini followed by a second leg. Nassau Harbour divides New Providence and Paradise Island and is one of the most recognizable anchorages in the Caribbean. Cable Beach extends along the northwest shore, and Paradise Island offers quiet anchorages away from the cruise terminal. Nassau works best on a 3 to 4-day charter that allows one travel day each way and two full days in harbour.

The Berry Islands are a collection of roughly 30 cays and rocks about 130 nautical miles from Fort Lauderdale. Chub Cay at the southern end is the main port of entry. The Berry Islands are known for deep-sea fishing along the Tongue of the Ocean, private uninhabited anchorages, and the absence of the weekend boat traffic that characterizes Bimini. A 3 to 4-day charter allows one crossing day each way and two days exploring the anchorages.

The Exumas are a 365-island chain stretching 100 miles southeast of Nassau. Water clarity in the Exumas is widely considered the finest in the Atlantic, ranging from brilliant aquamarine in the shallows to deep cobalt in the Sound. Key stops include Staniel Cay Yacht Club, the swimming pigs of Big Major Cay, Thunderball Grotto, nurse shark shallows at Compass Cay, and Exuma Land and Sea Park. The Exumas require a minimum 5-day charter from Fort Lauderdale, with 7 days allowing a more relaxed pace.

Andros is the largest island in the Bahamas and one of the least developed, roughly 170 nautical miles from Fort Lauderdale. The Andros Barrier Reef, the third largest in the world, runs along the eastern shore and is accessible to snorkelers and divers directly from the yacht. The Tongue of the Ocean off Andros drops to over 6,000 feet within a few miles of shore. Andros suits groups who prioritize diving, fishing, and nature over marinas and nightlife.

  • BiminiDay Trip or OvernightBimini is the closest point in the Bahamas to Fort Lauderdale, roughly 50 nautical miles east across the Gulf Stream. The crossing takes 4 to 6 hours depending on vessel speed and sea conditions. North Bimini has a main marina, restaurants, dive shops, and direct access to clear Bahamian flats with visibility of 30 to 50 feet. South Bimini offers protected anchorages and calmer water. Bimini is the most popular first stop for charters clearing the Port Everglades inlet.
  • Cat CayDay Trip or OvernightCat Cay is a private island roughly 55 nautical miles from Fort Lauderdale, slightly south of Bimini. The surrounding water and nearby sandbars are accessible on a day trip on a fast vessel or an easy overnight. The water at the Cat Cay sandbars rivals any in the northern Bahamas for clarity, with brilliant aquamarine shallows over white sand. A quieter alternative to Bimini for groups seeking a private anchorage close to Florida.
  • Nassau3-4 DaysNassau sits on New Providence Island roughly 180 nautical miles southeast of Fort Lauderdale. The crossing takes 8 to 12 hours on larger vessels, or a day to Bimini followed by a second leg. Nassau Harbour divides New Providence and Paradise Island and is one of the most recognizable anchorages in the Caribbean. Cable Beach extends along the northwest shore, and Paradise Island offers quiet anchorages away from the cruise terminal. Nassau works best on a 3 to 4-day charter that allows one travel day each way and two full days in harbour.
  • Berry Islands3-4 DaysThe Berry Islands are a collection of roughly 30 cays and rocks about 130 nautical miles from Fort Lauderdale. Chub Cay at the southern end is the main port of entry. The Berry Islands are known for deep-sea fishing along the Tongue of the Ocean, private uninhabited anchorages, and the absence of the weekend boat traffic that characterizes Bimini. A 3 to 4-day charter allows one crossing day each way and two days exploring the anchorages.
  • Exumas5-7 DaysThe Exumas are a 365-island chain stretching 100 miles southeast of Nassau. Water clarity in the Exumas is widely considered the finest in the Atlantic, ranging from brilliant aquamarine in the shallows to deep cobalt in the Sound. Key stops include Staniel Cay Yacht Club, the swimming pigs of Big Major Cay, Thunderball Grotto, nurse shark shallows at Compass Cay, and Exuma Land and Sea Park. The Exumas require a minimum 5-day charter from Fort Lauderdale, with 7 days allowing a more relaxed pace.
  • Andros Island3-4 DaysAndros is the largest island in the Bahamas and one of the least developed, roughly 170 nautical miles from Fort Lauderdale. The Andros Barrier Reef, the third largest in the world, runs along the eastern shore and is accessible to snorkelers and divers directly from the yacht. The Tongue of the Ocean off Andros drops to over 6,000 feet within a few miles of shore. Andros suits groups who prioritize diving, fishing, and nature over marinas and nightlife.

PLAN YOUR BAHAMAS CROSSING

Ready to Charter a Yacht from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas?

Tell us your dates, how many guests, and which islands you want to reach. We recommend a vessel, build the itinerary, and quote the crossing. Everything from the Fort Lauderdale marina to the Bahamian anchorage is handled.

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FORT LAUDERDALE TO BAHAMAS YACHT CHARTER

Yacht Charter From Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas: Gulf Stream, Private Islands, Open Atlantic

Crown Yachts Miami operates a private charter fleet for Bahamas crossings from Fort Lauderdale, the yachting capital of the world. Every booking is fully private, fully crewed, and managed from first inquiry to the final anchorage in Bahamian waters.

Private yacht on open water crossing the Gulf Stream from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas

Yacht Charter Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas: The Gulf Stream Crossing and Bimini

Roughly 50 nautical miles from Port Everglades to clear Bahamian water

A private yacht charter from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas begins at the Port Everglades inlet, the deep-water cut at the south end of the city. From the inlet the vessel heads east into the Florida Straits, crosses the Gulf Stream, and emerges into the Bahamian Bank on the other side. Bimini is roughly 50 nautical miles from the inlet. Water clarity on the Bimini flats reaches 30 to 50 feet, a complete contrast to the Intracoastal. Crown Yachts Miami operates offshore-rated vessels from 75 to 116 feet with the range, speed, and sea-keeping ability to make the crossing comfortably. Every Bimini and Nassau charter departs from Pier Sixty-Six or the nearest marina to your group.

Fully provisioned yacht bar for Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas multi-day crossing

Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas Boat Charter: Bimini, Nassau, and the Berry Islands

Three Bahamian options at different distances and durations

A Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas boat charter takes several forms depending on your group and timeline. A Bimini day trip gets you to the Bahamas and back in a single day. A Bimini overnight adds a night at anchor on the flats. A 3 to 4-day Nassau circuit covers Bimini and Nassau on a single itinerary. The Berry Islands offer private uninhabited anchorages roughly 130 nautical miles from Fort Lauderdale with world-class deep-sea fishing along the Tongue of the Ocean and none of the weekend boat traffic that crowds Bimini. Multi-day charters include full provisioning, a private chef, and open bar service pre-loaded before departure from Fort Lauderdale.

Crown Yachts Miami captain and crew ready for Fort Lauderdale Bahamas crossing

Private Yacht Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas: Captain Handles Customs, Crew Handles Everything Else

Passports are all guests carry on a Crown Yachts Miami Bahamas crossing

International entry into the Bahamas requires a Bahamian cruising permit, vessel documentation, a passenger manifest, and customs clearance at an official port of entry. On every Crown Yachts Miami Bahamas charter, the captain handles all of it. Passengers carry only a valid passport. The captain coordinates the arrival call-ahead, presents all documentation on entry, and manages departure clearance for each leg of a multi-island itinerary. The overnight charter format includes a full crew night watch, anchor management, and morning preparations before the next day of cruising. No logistics are left to guests at any point in the voyage.

Luxury yacht charter Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas for celebrations and milestone crossings

Luxury Yacht Charter Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas: Milestone Crossings and Exumas Expeditions

Proposal crossings, anniversary charters, and group expeditions to the Exumas

A luxury yacht charter from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas is one of the most significant private charters available in South Florida. The Exumas are widely regarded as among the finest cruising grounds in the Atlantic: 365 islands, extraordinary water clarity, and anchorages accessible only by private vessel. For milestone birthdays, bachelorette crossings, or proposals with a Bahamian anchorage as the backdrop, Crown Yachts Miami coordinates the entire voyage: the vessel, the route, the provisioning, the decoration setup, and the crew service at every stop. Everything in place before you board in Fort Lauderdale.

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Joshua S.

2 hours ago

Amazing yacht rental experience. Ben was great on board, helpful, friendly and on top of everything. Everything went perfect, and the jet skis were superior. Will definitely be back.

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Anthony V.

1 day ago

Great service, fast responses, and everything perfectly arranged. The yacht was amazing and exactly as described. Would definitely recommend!

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Tymo

3 days ago

We had an amazing experience with Crown Yachts Miami. The crew and captain were friendly, professional and made sure we had the best time. We cruised past Star Island and later stopped at a sandbar to swim. Such a great day, thank you!

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Carlijn M.

3 days ago

It was our first time exploring Miami by yacht and it was one of the best experiences we've had. The crew took great care of us the entire time. They were super friendly and patient. We stopped at multiple spots to take photos and the captain was more than happy to adjust the route whenever we wanted. Marinda also helped capture so many great moments for us, which made the whole experience even better. We will absolutely be returning!

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Enso A.

6 days ago

Booked a Sunseeker yacht in South Beach last month and it was amazing. The yacht looked incredible and the whole setup was perfectly arranged. Everything was on point from the moment we arrived. Our captain Ben was also very friendly and professional. Definitely one of the highlights of our trip. Highly recommend!

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Kuba C.

6 days ago

We had the best day on Saturday. Chris and the crew/captain made sure it was a day we won't soon forget. From the yacht, food, service and weather, it was the perfect day. Thank you so much to everyone!!

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Jesse

6 days ago

We were on vacation in Miami for a week and decided to book a yacht just 3 days in advance. Chris handled everything perfectly. The communication was super fast and really helpful! We had such a great time with the family. Totally worth it!

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Janis P.

6 days ago

Our company chartered the 105 ft Azimut for a corporate outing from Miami Beach Marina. All our distributors had a great time! Delicious food, great staff and a wonderful experience for our partners! Highly recommend, and it was a pleasure dealing with representative Chris!

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Vincent E.

1 week ago

We had an amazing experience with Crown Yachts Miami! They took care of every item on our list and the yacht was even nicer than we anticipated. 10/10 would recommend for a top-notch experience in Miami. Communication was also smooth.

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Haris T.

1 week ago

We rented the 66ft Azimut during our trip to Miami and it was honestly one of the best days of our vacation. Everything was smooth from the start. We ordered food and drinks ahead of time, and when we arrived, everything was already set up on the yacht and super fresh. The drinks were already chilled in the ice box, which was perfect. We had an amazing time out on the water, everything was exactly how we hoped it would be. Definitely recommend Crown Yachts Miami if you're trying to have a fun day out with friends. Would 100% book again!

FAQ

Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas Yacht Charter FAQ

How long does the Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas crossing take by private yacht?
The crossing from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini, the closest point in the Bahamas, takes approximately 4 to 6 hours depending on vessel speed and sea conditions. Fort Lauderdale to Nassau is approximately 8 to 12 hours on a larger vessel. The Exumas require a multi-day passage stopping overnight at Nassau or intermediate anchorages. The Gulf Stream runs northeast at 2 to 4 knots and must be factored into every Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas route.
Do I need a passport for a Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas yacht charter?
Yes. All passengers must hold a valid passport for entry into the Bahamas on a private yacht. US citizens do not require a visa for stays under 8 months. The captain handles the vessel's Bahamian cruising permit and coordinates the customs clearance process at the official port of entry. All passengers present passports to Bahamian customs on arrival.
What is the Gulf Stream and how does it affect the crossing?
The Gulf Stream is a powerful ocean current running northeast at 2 to 4 knots through the Florida Straits between Fort Lauderdale and the Bahamas. In favorable conditions with southwest or southeast wind, the crossing is smooth. When northeast or east winds blow against the Gulf Stream current, a short and steep chop develops. The captain monitors the 7-day marine forecast and recommends the optimal departure window within your travel dates. Most crossings depart early morning before the afternoon sea breeze builds.
Can we do a day trip to Bimini from Fort Lauderdale on a private yacht charter?
Yes. A Bimini day trip is the most popular first-time Bahamas crossing. Departure through the Port Everglades inlet at 6am reaches Bimini by midday. The afternoon is spent at anchor on the Bimini flats before a late afternoon return. The day trip requires a vessel capable of 20 knots or more to complete the round trip within a single day. Slower vessels suit the Bimini overnight format with a return the following morning.
What is included in a Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas yacht charter?
Every Crown Yachts Miami Bahamas charter includes a USCG-licensed captain experienced in offshore and international passages, a professional crew, all vessel navigation and safety equipment, Bahamian cruising permit coordination, and customs entry coordination at the port of entry. Full provisioning, a private chef, DJ, watersports equipment, and custom celebration setup are available as add-ons and are pre-loaded before departure from Fort Lauderdale.
How many days do I need for a Bahamas yacht charter from Fort Lauderdale?
A Bimini day trip can be completed in a single day. A Bimini overnight requires 2 days. Nassau and the Berry Islands work best on 3 to 4-day charters. The Exumas require a minimum 5 days and are best on a 7-day charter. Custom multi-island itineraries covering Nassau, Eleuthera, and the Exumas typically span 10 to 14 days.
Is Fort Lauderdale a good departure point for the Bahamas?
Yes. Fort Lauderdale is the yachting capital of the world and one of the leading departure points for the Bahamas on the East Coast. Bimini is roughly 50 nautical miles east across the Gulf Stream, essentially the same crossing distance as from Miami, and the Port Everglades inlet gives direct deep-water access to the open Atlantic. Fort Lauderdale also has the deepest concentration of offshore-capable yachts and crew in the country, which makes vessel selection and provisioning for a crossing straightforward.
What size yacht do I need for a Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas crossing?
Gulf Stream crossings and open Atlantic passages require vessels designed for offshore use. Crown Yachts Miami maintains a specific list of offshore-capable vessels with the range, stability, and navigation equipment appropriate for the Florida Straits and Bahamian waters. Vessels available for Bahamas crossings include the Pershing GTX 116, Azimut 116, Princess 88, and San Lorenzo 97. We confirm vessel eligibility for your destination and group size at booking.
Which Bahamian islands can I reach on a private yacht charter from Fort Lauderdale?
Bimini and Cat Cay are the closest, reachable on a day trip. Nassau is a full-day crossing. The Berry Islands, Eleuthera, and Harbour Island are 8 to 12 hours and suit 3 to 4-day charters. The Exumas are best on 5 to 7-day itineraries. The Abacos in the northern Bahamas are accessible on multi-day charters. Every destination listed is reachable on a Crown Yachts Miami charter with the appropriate vessel and itinerary.
How much does a Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas yacht charter cost?
Bahamas charter pricing is built around your specific crossing plan. The vessel, destination, number of guests, duration, and add-on services including provisioning, a private chef, and DJ all factor into the total. We do not publish fixed rates for Bahamas crossings because no two charters use the same vessel for the same route over the same number of days. Share your dates, destination, and group size via WhatsApp and we build a quote tailored to your itinerary. Browse the offshore fleet.

Ready to Charter a Private Yacht from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas?

Tell us your dates, how many guests, and which islands you want to reach. We recommend an offshore vessel, build the itinerary, and handle everything from the Fort Lauderdale marina to the Bahamian anchorage.

Captain and crew on every crossing Offshore fleet 75 to 116 feet Day trips to multi-week expeditions 5.0 Google rating

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