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Best One Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas 2025

The Best One-Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas 2025

Introduction

If you’re looking for the best one-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas in 2025, you’re in the right place. Whether you need a quick escape from freezing cold weather.  Are planning a special event, or just want a vacation getaway.  Florida offers several short cruises to the sub-tropical islands of the Bahamas.

The Bahamas is a beautiful travel destination known for its turquoise waters, beautiful beaches, and duty-free shopping. But what if you don’t have time for a long vacation? Luckily, there are multiple one-day cruise options that let you enjoy the entire island experience in just a few hours.

Departing from Port Everglades, Port of Palm Beach, and Port of Miami.  These cruises give you access to wide range of duty-free shopping, pristine waters, championship golf courses, and incredible water activities without a major time commitment.

Panoramic aerial view of Fort Lauderdale skyline, Florida.

All the Cruises from Florida to the Bahamas

There are several ways to reach the Bahamas on a day cruise or short cruise from South Florida. Below are the best options for a quick getaway cruise in 2025.

1. Balearia Caribbean – Bahamas Shuttle Boat (Fast Ferry from Fort Lauderdale)

One of the most convenient one-day cruises from Fort Lauderdale is the Balearia Caribbean fast ferry, which departs from Port Everglades, Fort lauderdale cruise early in the morning and returns in the evening. This high-speed Bahamas shuttle boat offers the quickest option for reaching the Bahamas in just 3.5 hours. Perfect for a day trip from Ft. Lauderdale to the Bahamas

Nassau, Bahamas 12 03 2023: Four large cruise passenger ships observed from a wooden pier in Nassau harbour in the Bahamas, one of the Caribbean islands during sunny winter day.

How Cruisers Get to Port Everglades for This Cruise

  • Shuttle Services: Many Fort Lauderdale hotels offer a free 954-969-0069 shuttle to Port Everglades for cruise passengers.
  • Public Transportation: The Sun Trolley and Broward County Transit (BCT) buses provide affordable options for travelers staying near Las Olas Boulevard, Hollywood Boulevard, Dania’s Antique Row, or Fort Lauderdale Beach.
  • Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are widely available, with short ride times from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and nearby hotels.  You can also take the hotels cruise port shuttle van to the Ferry terminal.
  • Parking: The cruise terminal has parking available for those driving from Miami, West Palm Beach, or Orlando.  Arriving fresh ready for your Bahamas vacation.

Once aboard, passengers can relax in the ferry’s air-conditioned seating areas or enjoy the outdoor deck views. The journey is smooth on most days, but for those prone to seasickness, it’s a good idea to check the weather conditions in advance.

Upon arrival in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, passengers have plenty of time to explore, shop, and enjoy local excursions before the return trip.

Marina and Water Front at Free Port, Grand Bahama

2. Margaritaville at Sea – Night Cruises from Port of Palm Beach

If you prefer to experience a cruise with entertainment, fine dining, and nightlife, the Margaritaville at Sea is a fantastic choice. Departing from the Port of Palm Beach, this night cruise sails to Freeport, Grand Bahama Island and allows guests to enjoy a great hotel room onboard before waking up in the Bahamas.  Offering great vacation packages Margaritaville as Sea one of the most fun cruise lines.

How Cruisers Get to Port of Palm Beach for This Cruise

  • Shuttle Services: There are shuttle options from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach that provide direct transportation to the Port of Palm Beach.
  • Driving & Parking: Parking is available at the cruise terminal for those who wish to drive to their departure point- fort lauderdale.  You can stay in a Fort Lauderdale hotel that includes parking in the costs making sure you are fresh for your Grand Bahama Island Cruise.  
  • Train & Bus: Travelers from Miami and Fort Lauderdale can take the Brightline Train to West Palm Beach and transfer to a local taxi or rideshare service.  If no driving is preferred for your getaway cruises.  

Once onboard, guests can enjoy the ship’s casino, live music, comedy shows, and bars before arriving in the Bahamas the next morning.

Passengers on dancing party during cruise. Dance evenings are typical entertainment during sea cruises

Things to Do on This Cruise

  • Onboard Entertainment: The ship has a nightclub, themed restaurants, and bars that offer a tropical island vibe.
  • Resort Day Passes: Upon arrival in Freeport, guests can opt for a resort day pass that gives them access to beautiful beaches, pools, and restaurants.
  • Island Excursions: Tours include snorkeling, boat trips, and visits to the Lucayan National Park caves.

This cruise is ideal for those who want a quick island escape with a luxurious feel, especially for a special event or romantic getaway.

3. Royal Caribbean’s Short Cruises from Port of Miami

For travelers looking for a luxury cruise experience, Royal Caribbean’s short cruises from Port of Miami are a great choice. These cruises visit Nassau and CocoCay, a private island with world-class amenities.   

Royal Caribbean International cruise ship Icon of the Seas, which is the largest in the world

How Cruisers Get to Port of Miami for This Cruise

  • Shuttle Services: Many Miami and Fort Lauderdale hotels provide shuttle services to Port of Miami.
  • Public Transportation: The Metrorail, Brightline Train, and Miami Trolley offer budget-friendly ways to reach the cruise terminal.
  • Rideshare & Taxis: Uber and Lyft provide convenient transportation options from Miami International Airport (MIA) or nearby hotels.
  • Parking: The cruise port has ample parking for those driving from other parts of Florida.

Things to Do on This Cruise

  • Visit Nassau: Spend the day in the capital of the Bahamas, known for its duty-free shopping, historic sites, and local markets.  Download your FREE Nassau Cruise port map with shopping coupons by clicking on this link.
  • Explore CocoCay: This private island resort features water slides, private cabanas, and jet skiing.
  • Dining & Bars: Enjoy world-class restaurants and bars onboard.

This cruise is perfect for those looking for a more upscale experience with island adventure activities.

"Welcome to Nassau" gate welcomes tourists from the cruise terminal into downtown Nassau and New Providence island, Bahamas

What to Do in the Bahamas on a One-Day Cruise

1. Explore Port Lucaya – The Heart of Freeport

Located in Grand Bahama Island, Port Lucaya is the island’s entertainment and shopping hub.

Shopping at Port Lucaya Marketplace

  • Duty-free shopping on jewelry, watches, perfumes, and designer brands.
  • Souvenir shops with authentic Bahamian handicrafts and rare books.
  • Boutiques and local markets offering serious bargains.

Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas - Shops at the colorful Port Lucaya by the marina, an international-style marketplace focused on tourists

Dining & Nightlife at Port Lucaya

  • Al fresco dining at waterfront restaurants with fresh seafood.
  • Live music, beach bars, and local turf joints.
  • Club Illusions, a top nightlife spot.

Water Activities at Port Lucaya

  • Snorkeling and diving trips in the pristine waters.
  • Jet skiing, parasailing, and boat tours.
  • Private shore excursions to nearby islands.

Getting to Port Lucaya from Freeport, Grand Bahama Island

Once you arrive in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island via your one-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, or Palm Beach, getting to Port Lucaya is easy and convenient. Located about 10-15 minutes from the Freeport cruise terminal, Port Lucaya is the island’s main entertainment, shopping, and dining hub. Here’s how to get there:

Beautiful view of Port Lucaya in Freeport on Grand Bahama Island in the Bahamas

1. Taxi Services from Freeport Cruise Terminal

  • Taxis are the quickest and most convenient way to reach Port Lucaya.
  • The cost typically ranges from $10 to $15 per person (cash preferred).
  • Many taxis operate as shared rides, so expect to travel with other visitors unless you request a private taxi.
  • Taxi dispatchers are available at the port to organize rides, and drivers often double as tour guides if you want a more customized experience.

2. Freeport Public Bus (Jitney Service)

  • Jitneys (minibus taxis) are an affordable option for getting to Port Lucaya.
  • Fares cost approximately $1.50 to $2 per person (cash only).
  • Look for Route #10 from the Freeport cruise terminal to Port Lucaya.
  • Buses run every 15-30 minutes, but service can be less frequent on weekends.

3. Pre-Arranged Shuttle Services

  • Some one-day cruise packages include a free shuttle from the Freeport terminal to Port Lucaya.
  • Check with Balearia Caribbean, Margaritaville at Sea, or your cruise line to see if transportation is included.
  • Many Freeport hotels also offer shuttle vans that transport visitors to Port Lucaya as part of their resort day passes.

Free shuttle bus

4. Car Rentals & Scooters

  • If you prefer independent exploration, you can rent a car or scooter at the cruise terminal.
  • Driving is on the left side of the road, as in the UK.
  • Car rentals cost around $50 per day, while scooters cost $25-$35 per day.

5. Free Water Taxi (Limited Service)

  • During high season, a free water trolley operates between the Freeport cruise terminal and Port Lucaya.
  • This is a scenic and relaxing way to reach the marketplace while enjoying views of the island’s mansion-lined canals and pristine waters.
  • Availability is limited, so check with local tour operators upon arrival.

What to Do in Port Lucaya

Port Lucaya is the beating heart of Freeport, offering shopping, dining, nightlife, and entertainment. Whether you want to browse duty-free shops, enjoy authentic Bahamian cuisine, or relax by the waterfront, this is the place to be.  In order to making this the Best One Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas definitely head to Port Lucaya.

Shopping at Port Lucaya Marketplace

  • Duty-Free Shopping: Get discounts on jewelry, watches, perfumes, liquor, and designer goods.
  • Local Handicrafts: Browse souvenir shops selling handmade Bahamian crafts, conch shell art, and tropical clothing.
  • Boutiques and Specialty Shops: Explore unique stores offering rare books, beachwear, and Caribbean artwork.

Shopping ashore is so much fun you find loads of one of a kind items. Savings are huge with Tax & Duty Free goods.

Dining & Nightlife in Port Lucaya

  • Al Fresco Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood and Caribbean flavors at waterfront restaurants.
  • Beach Bars & Lounges: Sip on tropical cocktails at lively bars with ocean views.
  • Live Music & Clubs: Dance the night away at Club Illusions, one of the top nightlife spots in Freeport.

Water Activities at Port Lucaya

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the pristine waters and coral reefs near the marketplace.
  • Jet Skiing & Parasailing: Rent jet skis or take a parasailing adventure over the turquoise waters.
  • Private Shore Excursions: Book a personalized boat tour to hidden beaches or nearby cays.

Best Way to Get to Port Lucaya

For most travelers, the fastest and easiest option is to take a taxi or pre-arranged shuttle. If you’re on a budget and have extra time, the jitney bus is an affordable choice. For a unique experience, try the free water taxi if available.

NASSAU, BAHAMAS—Back view of a jitney, a medium-sized bus that serves as public transportation in Nassau, Bahamas.

Regardless of how you get there, Port Lucaya is a must-visit destination in Freeport for shopping, dining, and exploring Bahamian culture before heading back to your cruise ship.

2. Visit Lucayan National Park – Best One Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamasa spent at the Park is worth it.

Nature lovers should visit Lucayan National Park, home to:

  • The world’s largest underwater cave systems.
  • Exotic wildlife and native birds.
  • Scenic hiking trails and picnic areas.

This national park is ideal for adventure seekers and photographers.

3. Championship Golf Courses & Outdoor Fun

If you’re a sports lover, Grand Bahama Island features world-class golf courses with stunning ocean views.  If you love Gold and Outdoor Fun this is definitely the Best One Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas

Other adventure options include:

  • Swamp buggy tours through the island’s small settlements.
  • Kayaking in the mangroves.
  • Deep-sea fishing excursions.

Beautiful Golf Course - Freeport, Bahamas

4. Explore Freeport’s Main Tourist Areas

After shopping and dining at Port Lucaya, visitors can explore Freeport’s entertainment districts, which include:

  • Upscale shopping areas.
  • Beachfront bars and restaurants.
  • Local markets and cultural centers.

Final Thoughts: Is this Best One Day Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas worth it?

Absolutely. Whether you choose a fast ferry, a luxury cruise, or a night cruise, you’ll experience turquoise waters, beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and exciting excursions all in one quick getaway.

For an unforgettable experience, book your one-day cruise today and set sail for the Bahamas.

Related Blogs:

  1. How to Get into Downtown Nassau from the Cruise Port.

  2. Nassau, Bahamas Free Port Shopping Map and Coupons.

  3. How far is the Straw Market from the Port in Nassau?

 
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