Yacht Charter Bimini – A Luxury Family Adventure in the Bahamas
The island of Bimini in the Bahamas sits 50 miles north of Miami with its blue waters and private atmosphere. This tropical island serves as the closest Bahamian destination to the United States while offering extensive pristine beaches and historical significance as Ernest Hemingway's former residence. A yacht charter Bimini provides the ideal combination of luxury and adventure with convenient access to this tropical destination which welcomes both families and first-time charter guests. A short cruise from Miami allows you to experience vibrant shipwrecks while snorkeling or encounter wild dolphins or engage in deep-sea fishing or relax in five-star comfort on deck.
Bimini draws in both beginners and experienced sailors with its enchanting charm. The sportfishing and diving opportunities at Bimini attract experienced sailors yet families prefer its protected shallow waters and marine activities. The yacht charter experience includes personalized service through crewed motor yachts starting at 78 ft and superyachts exceeding 100 ft with professional staff to fulfill your needs. Boatcrowd – a premier luxury charter platform – connects you with these world-class yachts and crafts an unforgettable Bimini itinerary tailored just for you. Boatcrowd provides exceptional Bimini yacht charter experiences through its guided island tours and gourmet dining services. Ready to embark on a luxury adventure? Bimini stands as an ideal yacht charter destination which you can start planning today by inquiring about your escape.
Yacht Charter Bimini – Destination Highlights
Bimini is actually a small chain of two main islands (North Bimini and South Bimini) plus some offshore cays, but its appeal to yacht-goers is enormous. North Bimini – home to lively Alice Town and most marinas – exudes friendly Bahamian charm with its pastel-colored houses and salty fishing docks. South Bimini, just across a narrow channel, is quieter and home to the local airport and several nature trails (including one leading to the famed Fountain of Youth). Despite their modest size, these islands offer an impressive variety of experiences – from sleek modern resorts to uninhabited sandbanks where it’s just you and the sea. Arriving by yacht allows you to savor all these facets: you can dock in the heart of the action or anchor off a deserted beach where yours are the only footprints in the sand. This exclusive access to both Bimini’s luxuries and its hidden gems is a key part of the island’s magic. Here are some highlights that make a Bimini yacht charter so special:
Snorkel the S.S. Sapona Wreck
The partially submerged Sapona shipwreck located at Bimini serves as the most popular snorkeling destination. The Prohibition-era concrete ship which operated as a rum-runner during the 1920s now hosts a diverse marine ecosystem that allows snorkelers to explore its historical structure with tropical fish and colorful corals. The wreck remains accessible for snorkelers of all skill levels because it sits in 15 feet of water while some sections remain visible above the surface creating an excellent photo opportunity.
Swim with Wild Dolphins
The crystal-clear waters of Bimini harbor Atlantic spotted dolphins in their natural habitat. Your crew will lead you to swim respectfully with these intelligent playful creatures in their natural environment which will create an "incredibly magical" experience that your family will always treasure. Bimini stands as one of the rare locations worldwide where you can consistently interact with dolphins in their natural environment while following guidelines that ensure safety for both species. The dolphins show interest in human swimmers through their curiosity which leads to unforgettable memories.
Secluded Beaches & Sandbars
From Radio Beach on North Bimini to the remote Honeymoon Harbour on nearby Gun Cay, Bimini offers powdery white sands and shallow turquoise coves perfect for relaxation. Many beaches are blissfully uncrowded – your yacht can anchor off a private stretch of sand for the day, allowing you to sunbathe, beachcomb, or enjoy a gourmet picnic in total tranquility. At low tide, hidden sandbars emerge offshore – your crew can even set up a private picnic on a secluded sandbar in the middle of the sea, a surreal experience where you’re surrounded 360° by turquoise water.
World-Class Fishing
Nicknamed the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” Bimini draws anglers from across the globe. Just offshore, the nutrient-rich Gulf Stream current teems with trophy fish – marlin, sailfish, wahoo, tuna, and more. Legendary author Ernest Hemingway was lured to Bimini by tales of giant marlin and tuna prowling these waters, and over 50 record-setting catches have been made here. Fly-fishing enthusiasts will also be thrilled by Bimini’s bonefishing on the flats – the island’s shallow inner bays are renowned for elusive bonefish and permit, offering exciting challenges for light tackle anglers year-round. Even if you’re not a pro fisherman, trying your luck at dropping a line off the yacht can be thrilling – and any catch of the day can be prepared fresh by your chef for an authentic “hook-and-cook” dinner.
Exclusive Resorts and Nightlife
Bimini offers its visitors a mix of relaxed island atmosphere together with high-end facilities. The Resorts World Bimini complex offers beachfront luxury resort accommodations that include a casino and spa facilities and fine dining options and luxurious spa treatments. The Hilton hotel at the resort provides guests with an ocean-view rooftop infinity pool and complete spa facilities for massage and wellness services. The marina at this facility accepts yachts measuring up to 180 feet which allows direct access to pools and restaurants and beach club cabanas located near your yacht docking area. The historic Big Game Club bar in Alice Town offers a relaxed atmosphere where you can share sailing stories with other sailors while enjoying Goombay Smash cocktails beneath walls displaying images of renowned anglers and their fishing accomplishments.
Rich History & Hidden Gems
Bimini presents interesting cultural attractions which extend beyond its natural beauty and glamorous attractions. The Dolphin House Museum stands as a Bimini treasure because local artist Ashley Saunders created this whimsical hand-crafted structure using shells and sea glass. The island's history museum together with the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial serve as historical markers that show the island's past. The Bimini Road underwater rock formation attracts adventurous divers who believe it could be part of the fabled Lost City of Atlantis. The Gallant Lady shipwreck stands as a photographer's delight because this rusty freighter became stranded on North Bimini rocks after a hurricane before transforming into an artistic ruin that glows during sunset. The secluded freshwater well known as the Fountain of Youth on South Bimini remains a famous landmark because 16th-century explorer Juan Ponce de León searched for it. Bimini creates a captivating tapestry through its combination of historical sites with mythological elements and natural wonders.
In essence, Bimini offers a bit of everything – natural wonders, luxury leisure, and a dash of adventure – all within a compact area easily explored by private yacht. Its close proximity to Florida (you can see Miami’s glow on the horizon at night) means you spend less time in transit and more time enjoying paradise. In fact, Bimini’s location just 50 miles off the Florida coast means you can reach it in as little as 1–2 hours by yacht. Many Boatcrowd clients choose to begin their journey in South Florida; a short yacht charter Miami to Bimini delivers the feeling of a far-flung escape without a long voyage. This unique combination of accessibility and allure is what makes Bimini a prime yacht charter destination.
3-Day Yacht Charter Bimini from Miami – Sample Itinerary
For travelers short on time, a three-day yacht charter from Miami to Bimini is a popular choice. In one long weekend, you can experience the best of Bimini’s sights and sensations. Below is a high-level sample itinerary showing what a 3-day crewed yacht charter Bimini adventure might entail:
Day 1: Miami to Bimini – Embarkation & Island Welcome
Your journey begins in Miami, where you board your private yacht and set course for Bimini mid-morning. Enjoy a scenic cruise across the blue Gulf Stream, watching for flying fish and maybe a sea turtle along the way, with your crew attending to your comfort. By around noon, you’ll see Bimini’s emerald-green islands appear on the horizon. Soon, you arrive at Bimini’s shores and pull into the marina at North Bimini. As your captain handles Customs and Immigration clearance, you can toast the start of your vacation with a welcome drink. That afternoon, ease into island life: swim directly off the yacht in crystalline water or tender ashore to feel the soft sand between your toes. Come evening, consider a casual stroll through Alice Town, Bimini’s quaint main village. You might visit a local favorite like Stuart’s Conch Stand to sample the island’s famous fresh conch salad (diced conch marinated in lime with peppers and onion) – a must-try Bahamian delicacy. Wash it down with an ice-cold local Kalik beer or a fruity Goombay Punch soda for the kids, and maybe grab some conch fritters to go. Back on board, your private chef will delight your palate with a gourmet dinner served on the aft deck as you watch the sun sink below the horizon. Relax with a glass of champagne under the stars, while the yacht remains safely moored for the night – the gentle rocking of the ocean will lull you into a blissful sleep.
Day 2: Exploring Bimini – Reefs, Resorts & Relaxation
Awake to a spectacular sunrise over the Bahamian sea and enjoy breakfast al fresco. Today is devoted to Bimini’s signature attractions. In the morning, cruise a short distance south to the S.S. Sapona shipwreck, Bimini’s famous concrete wreck partly protruding from the sea. Don mask and fins for an unforgettable snorkel adventure through the wreck’s coral-encrusted remains. You’ll find the Sapona buzzing with marine life – sergeant majors, angelfish, maybe even a shy reef shark circling in the blue. After exploring this underwater playground, rinse off and relax on the yacht’s sun deck as the crew prepares a light lunch. You could anchor at a calm anchorage like Three Sisters or near a secluded beach for a swim and picnic, enjoying complete privacy. By afternoon, you have multiple options to tailor the day. Fishing enthusiasts might troll the deep waters off Bimini’s drop-off for mahi-mahi or wahoo (spring and summer are prime for game fish ), while those looking to unwind can visit one of Bimini’s luxury resorts. Your captain can arrange a stop at Resorts World Bimini, where the marina puts you steps away from indulgences like the infinity pool, beachfront daybeds, and the casino if you’re feeling lucky.
Alternatively, you can experience wildlife by joining a guided tour to Gun Cay's Honeymoon Harbour where you can swim with friendly stingrays in shallow waters or participate in a snorkel safari to encounter Bimini's wild dolphins in open ocean waters. Under the right conditions you can enter the water to swim with these gentle animals when dolphins are spotted during your experience which many people call pure magic. Your crew will organize a guided tour to explore Bimini's landmarks during the late afternoon so you can visit the Dolphin House and the Bimini Museum and the limestone “Healing Hole” lagoon in the mangroves which locals recommend. The evening of Day 2 offers two options for you to enjoy either a cocktail at Hemingway's restaurant or the Beach Club 360 at Resorts World or simply watch the sunset from your yacht's flybridge. You have the freedom to choose between dining at an upscale island restaurant or having a private beach barbecue on an empty shore. After dinner you can watch movies under the stars or gaze at the stars from the jacuzzi while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere that Bimini offers during the day.
Day 3: Bimini Morning & Return to Miami
Savor your final morning in Bimini with a leisurely breakfast of tropical fruits and fresh pastries prepared by your chef. There’s time for one last dip in the turquoise sea or a quick run into town for souvenirs (perhaps some Bimini bread or local straw crafts) before bidding farewell to the islands. By late morning, you’ll get underway for the cruise back to Miami. Lounge on the sun deck or in the air-conditioned salon as your yacht glides across the strait; you might even be escorted part of the way by playful dolphins riding the bow wave. A sumptuous lunch is served on board during the voyage, allowing you to dine with an endless ocean view. After a smooth 2–3 hour passage, the Miami skyline comes into view and your captain guides the yacht back into port by mid-to-late afternoon. Once stateside formalities are handled, it’s time to disembark – feeling relaxed, recharged, and filled with incredible memories. This isn’t goodbye, but “see you next time” – many guests find that a taste of Bimini leaves them dreaming about their next yacht charter adventure as soon as they step off the boat.
This sample itinerary is just one example. Every charter is personalized, and with Boatcrowd’s expert planners, your 3-day Bimini itinerary can be adjusted to your preferences. Whether you want more diving, more beach time, or a longer voyage exploring other Bahamian cays, we’ll ensure each day is perfectly tailored. Start planning with Boatcrowd to craft a Bimini yacht charter itinerary that fulfills your yachting dreams.
Best Time to Visit Bimini and Other FAQ
After learning about Bimini’s delights and a sample itinerary, you may have some practical questions. Below, we answer common queries to help you plan your Bimini yacht adventure:
When is the best time to charter a yacht in Bimini?
The peak season for Bimini yacht charters runs from winter through spring (December to April) when the weather is at its finest. During these months, days are sunny and warm but not too hot (mid-70s to low 80s °F), rainfall is minimal, and the ocean is generally calm – ideal for sport fishing, beachgoing, and island events. (Bimini’s social calendar peaks in these months too, with events like sailing regattas and fishing tournaments often scheduled.) Summer (May through August) is also a wonderful time to visit Bimini, with even warmer temperatures and delightfully warm sea water for swimming. However, summer is more humid and brings more frequent rain showers, but also features very warm ocean temperatures excellent for snorkeling and diving. If you’re a diver aiming to see Bimini’s famous great hammerhead sharks, note that they congregate off Bimini in the cooler months (roughly January to March), whereas summer waters are better for coral reef exploration. Overall, Bimini enjoys balmy conditions year-round, so there’s really no bad time – but most charter guests prefer the November–April window for the best mix of weather and activities.
Is it safe to charter during hurricane season?
Hurricane season in The Bahamas (including Bimini) lasts from June 1 to November 30, with the highest likelihood of storms in August, September, and October. Bimini often escapes major hurricanes, but there is always some risk during these months. The good news is that even in hurricane season, much of the time the weather is beautiful – rain showers tend to be brief, and direct hits are infrequent. Charter companies and captains closely monitor weather forecasts; if a storm does threaten, they will adjust routes, alter the itinerary, or reschedule the charter dates to ensure safety. In practice, this might mean staying docked in a secure marina or moving the yacht to a different island out of the storm’s path. Your safety and comfort are the top priority. If you plan a charter in late summer or fall, it’s wise to have a bit of date flexibility or consider travel insurance, just in case. Many travelers do enjoy charters in July or early August when the water is clearest for diving – just stay informed and trust your captain’s guidance.
What are the entry requirements for a yacht charter to Bimini?
If you’re sailing from the U.S. to The Bahamas, you will need to clear Bahamian Customs and Immigration upon arrival. Bimini is a designated Port of Entry. Protocol is that your captain will fly a yellow quarantine flag as you enter port, then you’ll dock while the captain visits the customs office to clear in. (Bimini’s main Customs & Immigration office is by the government dock in Alice Town, though officers also service the marinas when needed.) All guests should have a valid passport (U.S. citizens don’t need a Bahamas visa for short stays). The Bahamas charges an entry fee which covers a cruising permit and fishing permit – for yachts around 35–100 feet, this is approximately $300 (flat fee) for up to 3 months. Your Boatcrowd crew will typically handle the clearance process on your behalf, making it quick and easy. Upon returning to Florida, you’ll likewise need to clear U.S. Customs (often done conveniently via the CBP ROAM app or in-person at a marina with customs facilities). In summary, the formalities are straightforward – just bring your passport, and your crew and Boatcrowd will take care of the rest.
Are there good marinas and facilities in Bimini for my yacht?
Yes. Despite its laid-back vibe, Bimini is well-equipped to host luxury yachts. The primary facility is Resorts World Bimini Marina, a modern marina with over 200 slips, capable of accommodating mega-yachts up to about 180 feet in length. Guests docking here have access to all resort amenities – including pools, a beach club, tennis courts, and a children’s center. A gym, grocery and liquor store, laundry, bait and tackle shop, and manned security are part of the marina. There’s also the Bimini Big Game Club Resort & Marina in Alice Town, which is smaller (ideal for yachts in the 50–100 ft range) but rich in history and fishing lore. Additionally, marinas like Brown’s Marina and Blue Water Marina offer fuel, water, and provisioning services for mid-sized yachts. Need to refuel or re-stock supplies? The marinas can assist with arranging fuel truck deliveries and sourcing fresh provisions – whether it’s extra bags of ice or locally caught lobster for dinner. In the unlikely event your yacht needs technical assistance, basic maintenance support is available on-island, and major yachting hubs like Nassau or Fort Lauderdale are not far away. It’s recommended to have your charter broker reserve slips in advance during peak periods or holiday weekends, as space can fill up. Otherwise, your captain can always anchor off Bimini’s beautiful reefs or islands – the holding ground is good and you may enjoy even more privacy at anchor under the stars.
Is a Bimini yacht charter family-friendly?
Absolutely. The short distance from the U.S. to Bimini allows for quick travel while the island provides endless natural recreational opportunities for both children and adults. The shallow waters of Bimini beaches provide endless hours of safe exploration for children to splash and search for shells. The charters provide child-oriented water equipment including snorkeling gear and float mats and paddleboards and jet skis for teenagers which prevent any moment of boredom. The family-friendly activities at Honeymoon Harbour let children feed stingrays and see dolphins in the wild while making unforgettable memories together. Your professional crew on board will handle all responsibilities so parents can unwind during the trip. The chefs will prepare special meals for finicky eaters while organizing a beachside BBQ with s'mores for the children. The crew ensures safety first by providing child-sized life vests and conducting a friendly boat rules briefing and planning shorter trips to maintain comfort levels. A Bimini yacht charter offers families an effortless vacation experience because they can explore at their own pace while the dedicated crew provides personalized service.
How long does it take to reach Bimini from Miami by yacht?
Not long at all – Bimini is roughly 50 nautical miles from Miami, so it’s one of the shortest international yacht trips you can make. On a typical motor yacht (say 80–100 ft) cruising at 18–25 knots, the crossing is usually about 2 to 3 hours. (Captains will plan the trip to avoid any rough weather – for example, in winter they’ll wait for a calm day if a strong north wind is blowing, since that wind against the Gulf Stream can make conditions choppy.) Even slower trawler-style yachts or superyachts that cruise around 12–14 knots can make the passage in 4–5 hours. In calm weather, some fast sportfishing yachts have reached Bimini in just 1.5 hours! Of course, exact timing depends on your vessel’s speed and sea conditions, but generally you can depart Miami after breakfast and be clearing customs in Bimini by lunchtime. The short distance is a huge plus for first-time charterers and families – you get a full tropical getaway without a long open-ocean voyage.
How much does a Bimini yacht charter cost?
Charter rates vary widely depending on the yacht. As a general starting point, a newer 78 ft crewed motor yacht may average around $6,000 per day (plus expenses) in the low season, while superyachts 100 ft+ with premium amenities can range from $10,000 up to $30,000+ per day, plus expenses. Prices tend to be higher in the winter holiday period and slightly lower in summer. Apart from the base rate, anticipate additional costs such as fuel, provisions (food and beverages), dockage fees, and crew gratuity (usually billed separately). Bahamas VAT (14%) is also applicable on the charter fee. Most luxury charters operate on a “plus expenses” basis: you pay a base rate for the yacht and crew, then an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) upfront to cover variable expenses (the captain keeps receipts and any unused APA is refunded). Some smaller charters may offer fully inclusive rates, but generally the APA system ensures you only pay for what you use. It’s also customary to leave a crew gratuity (typically 10–20% of the base rate, at your discretion) at the charter’s end to thank the crew for exceptional service. Boatcrowd will provide a transparent quote inclusive of all these details before you book. In many cases, only a 10% deposit is required to reserve your dates, with the balance due closer to departure. Boatcrowd prides itself on offering some of the best rates in the industry and can often secure special extras or value-adds for our clients. Don’t hesitate to inquire now for a personalized quote – our team will help you find the perfect yacht that fits your budget and expectations.
Bimini stands as a Bahamian gem which offers both stunning natural landscapes and exciting pursuits and high-end relaxation opportunities that are accessible from the United States. A yacht charter Bimini provides the ultimate exclusive experience of this tropical paradise through personalized attention to every detail. Boatcrowd provides flawless luxury charter experiences through their dedication to service and their expertise from the moment you board until you depart reluctantly. It’s time to turn your daydreams into reality – inquire now to start planning your Bimini yacht charter with Boatcrowd today, and let us craft a bespoke journey you’ll cherish forever.
