International Voyage

    Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas Yacht Charter

    Depart from the yachting capital of the world and arrive in the Bahamas in under 3 hours. Grand Bahama Island is just 55 miles east, making Fort Lauderdale the ideal launchpad for Bahamas adventures.

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    Sample Itinerary

    Day 1

    Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama

    • Morning departure from Fort Lauderdale
    • Gulf Stream crossing (2-3 hours)
    • Customs at Freeport Harbor
    • Afternoon at Gold Rock Beach
    • Dinner at Port Lucaya Marketplace
    Day 2

    Grand Bahama Exploration

    • Lucayan National Park caves
    • Snorkeling at Peterson Cay
    • Swim with dolphins at UNEXSO
    • Bonefishing on the east end flats
    • Sunset anchorage
    Day 3

    Optional: Abacos or Return

    • Continue to Abacos (4-5 hours)
    • Or return crossing to Fort Lauderdale
    • Great Guana Cay beaches
    • Hope Town lighthouse & village
    • Relaxed marina evening

    Why Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas

    Fort Lauderdale is the largest yachting hub on Earth, and its proximity to Grand Bahama Island makes it an ideal departure point for Bahamas charters. The 55-mile crossing to Freeport is one of the shortest international yacht routes available, putting you in Bahamian waters before lunch.

    Grand Bahama offers a different experience than the more touristy Nassau or the remote Exumas. It is a nature-lover's paradise with Lucayan National Park, one of the world's longest underwater cave systems, pristine Gold Rock Beach, and some of the best bonefishing flats in the Bahamas. The pace is slower, the crowds are smaller, and the natural beauty is stunning.

    For extended charters, Fort Lauderdale also provides easy access to the Abacos -- a chain of islands in the northern Bahamas known as the "sailing capital of the Bahamas." Hope Town, Green Turtle Cay, and Great Guana Cay offer colonial charm, empty beaches, and world-class cruising grounds.

    FAQs

    How far is Fort Lauderdale from the Bahamas?
    Grand Bahama Island (Freeport) is approximately 55 nautical miles east of Fort Lauderdale, reachable in 2-3 hours by yacht. Bimini is about 75 nautical miles southeast. The crossing is comparable in distance to the Miami-Bimini route.
    How much does a Fort Lauderdale to Bahamas yacht charter cost?
    A 2-day Grand Bahama trip starts at $6,000-$15,000 for a 55-75ft yacht. A 4-5 day itinerary including Nassau or Abacos runs $20,000-$50,000+. Fort Lauderdale offers a wide selection of ocean-certified vessels at competitive pricing.
    Why depart from Fort Lauderdale instead of Miami?
    Fort Lauderdale offers the largest concentration of charter yachts in the world, often at lower prices than Miami. Grand Bahama Island is directly east, making it a shorter crossing than Miami to Bimini. The departure experience from Fort Lauderdale's marinas is also typically less congested.
    What can you do in Grand Bahama Island?
    Grand Bahama offers Lucayan National Park (underwater caves), Gold Rock Beach, swimming with dolphins at UNEXSO, world-class bonefishing, the Port Lucaya Marketplace, and some of the best diving in the Bahamas. The island is less developed and more affordable than Nassau.
    Can I continue from Grand Bahama to other islands?
    Yes. From Grand Bahama, you can continue south to the Abacos (a boating paradise), Berry Islands, Nassau, or even the Exumas. A 5-7 day charter opens up extensive island-hopping options throughout the northern Bahamas.
    Do I need a passport?
    Yes, all passengers need a valid passport for entry into the Bahamas. Your captain handles customs clearance at the port of entry. Customs fees are typically $150-$300 per vessel.

    Plan Your Bahamas Voyage from Fort Lauderdale

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