The Gulf Stream Crossing: Miami to the Bahamas
The passage from Miami to the Bahamas represents one of yachting's great transitions — from the urban sophistication of South Florida to the crystalline isolation of the Bahamian archipelago, separated by just 48 nautical miles of Gulf Stream current. This crossing, while relatively short in distance, demands respect and preparation.
The Gulf Stream flows northward between Florida and the Bahamas at speeds of 2-4 knots, creating conditions that can transform a calm day into a challenging passage. When northerly winds oppose the current, seas can build rapidly to 6-8 feet with short, steep wave periods. Experienced captains time their crossings to coincide with favorable wind and current conditions, typically departing in the early morning hours when winds are lightest.
Departure Points and Routes
Government Cut to Bimini: The most common crossing route, departing from Miami Beach Marina or Island Gardens through Government Cut and heading east-southeast to Bimini. Distance: approximately 48 nautical miles. Transit time: 3-5 hours depending on vessel speed and conditions. This route crosses the deepest section of the Gulf Stream, with depths exceeding 2,000 feet.
Key Biscayne to Cat Cay: An alternative route that reduces Gulf Stream exposure by departing from the southern end of Key Biscayne. Distance: approximately 55 nautical miles to Cat Cay, a private island with a well-maintained marina. This route is favored by vessels heading to the southern Bahamas.
Fort Lauderdale to West End: Departing from Port Everglades, this route targets West End on Grand Bahama Island. Distance: approximately 56 nautical miles. The crossing angle is slightly more favorable relative to the Gulf Stream current.
Bimini: The First Stop
Bimini — actually two main islands, North Bimini and South Bimini — serves as the traditional first landfall for vessels crossing from Florida. The islands offer a remarkable contrast to Miami: a laid-back Bahamian atmosphere, world-class bone fishing, and the legendary Bimini Road (a submerged rock formation that some attribute to Atlantis).
Bimini Bay Resort & Marina on North Bimini provides modern docking facilities for vessels up to 200 feet, with fuel, water, electricity, and customs clearance. The resort includes restaurants, a casino, and beach access.
Brown's Marina on North Bimini is a more traditional facility, popular with fishing vessels and smaller yachts. The adjacent restaurants serve fresh conch salad and Bahamian seafood.
Anchorage: The western shore of North Bimini offers protected anchorage in 8-15 feet of water over sand. The holding is generally good, though scope should be generous due to tidal current.
Nassau and Paradise Island
Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, lies approximately 130 nautical miles southeast of Miami — typically a full day's passage or an overnight crossing. The city offers the most comprehensive provisioning, fuel, and marine services in the Bahamas.
Nassau Harbour is a well-protected natural harbor with several marina options. Palm Cay Marina on the eastern end of New Providence offers modern facilities in a resort setting. Nassau Yacht Haven provides centrally located dockage within walking distance of downtown Nassau.
Paradise Island is connected to Nassau by two bridges and offers the Atlantis resort complex, which includes a marina accommodating vessels up to 240 feet. The marina's location provides easy access to the resort's restaurants, casino, and marine habitat.
Provisioning in Nassau: The city offers the best provisioning in the Bahamas. Solomon's SuperCenter and other grocery stores stock imported goods, and specialty provisioners can source premium items. Fuel is available at multiple locations, though prices are typically 30-50% higher than in Florida.
The Exumas: The Crown Jewel
The Exumas chain — a 120-mile string of 365 cays stretching southeast from Nassau — represents the pinnacle of Bahamas yacht chartering. The waters here are legendary: visibility exceeding 100 feet, every shade of blue and green imaginable, and a marine environment that remains remarkably pristine.
Highbourne Cay: The northern gateway to the Exumas, with a well-maintained marina and fuel dock. The cay is privately owned and offers hiking trails, a beach, and excellent snorkeling.
Warderick Wells: The headquarters of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, a 176-square-mile marine protected area. Anchoring is on moorings only (no anchoring permitted to protect the seabed). The park's waters teem with marine life, and the hiking trails on Warderick Wells offer panoramic views.
Staniel Cay: Perhaps the most famous stop in the Exumas, known for Thunderball Grotto (a sea cave featured in the James Bond film), the swimming pigs of Big Major Cay, and the Staniel Cay Yacht Club — a charming, unpretentious facility that has hosted yachtsmen for decades.
The Swimming Pigs: Located at Big Major Cay near Staniel Cay, the swimming pigs have become one of the Bahamas' most photographed attractions. These feral pigs swim out to visiting boats in hopes of food. Early morning visits (before 9 AM) avoid the crowds from day-trip boats.
Compass Cay: Known for its nurse shark encounters. The marina's dock area is home to a population of nurse sharks that have become accustomed to human presence, allowing for remarkable close encounters.
Customs and Immigration
Clearing into the Bahamas: All vessels must clear customs and immigration at a designated port of entry. Bimini, Nassau, and several other locations are official ports of entry. The captain must present the vessel's documentation, crew list, and passenger manifest. A cruising permit is issued upon clearance, valid for the duration of the stay.
Clearing back into the United States: Upon return to Florida, vessels must report to US Customs and Border Protection. The ROAM (Reporting Offsite Arrival-Mobile) app allows advance notification. Designated reporting locations include Miami Beach Marina and Government Cut.
Fishing permits: A Bahamas fishing permit is required for any fishing activity. Spearfishing with scuba equipment is prohibited, and there are strict regulations on catch limits and protected species.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cross from Miami to the Bahamas?
The crossing to Bimini takes 3-5 hours depending on vessel speed and sea conditions. Nassau is approximately 8-12 hours from Miami. The Exumas require an additional day from Nassau.
What is the best time of year for a Bahamas yacht charter from Miami?
November through May offers the best weather conditions — lower humidity, reduced rainfall, and more predictable Gulf Stream crossings. Water visibility peaks in winter months.
Do I need a passport for the Bahamas?
Yes. All passengers require valid passports for entry into the Bahamas. US citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.
What provisioning should I arrange before leaving Miami?
Stock all specialty items, premium wines, and specific dietary requirements in Miami, where selection is vastly superior. Basic provisions are available in Nassau but limited elsewhere in the Bahamas.
For bespoke Bahamas yacht charter itineraries departing from Miami, the Azul Privé maritime team crafts personalized voyages tailored to your preferences and timeline.