12/18/2025  Jomerglo

Clearing Customs & Immigration in Bimini: What Travelers Need to Know Before You Arrive

INTRODUCTION

Bimini is one of the closest Bahamian islands to Florida, making it a popular first port of entry for private boaters, yacht owners, ferry passengers, private pilots, and international visitors. Regardless of how you arrive, all travelers entering The Bahamas must complete Customs and Immigration formalities before beginning their stay.

For private vessels, Bimini serves as an official Port of Entry, with Customs and Immigration facilities available at major marinas such as Resorts World Bimini Marina. Travelers arriving by commercial ferry or scheduled airline complete immigration procedures through the designated passenger terminal, while private aircraft clear at the airport's Customs facilities. Following the correct arrival process helps ensure a smooth start to your Bimini vacation while complying with Bahamian regulations. 

For a complete overview of accommodations, beaches, boating, attractions, and travel planning, continue to the Ultimate Bimini Travel Guide.

WHO MUST CLEAR CUSTOMS & IMMIGRATION?

All international visitors entering The Bahamas must complete Customs and Immigration procedures.

This includes travelers arriving by:

  • Private boats

  • Yachts

  • Sportfishing vessels

  • Commercial ferry

  • Scheduled airline

  • Private aircraft

Every visitor should complete entry formalities before beginning any recreational activities or traveling elsewhere within The Bahamas. 

ARRIVING BY PRIVATE BOAT

Many visitors enter Bimini from South Florida aboard private recreational vessels.

The general arrival process includes:

  • Submit vessel information through the Click2Clear (C2C) online system before arrival (recommended).

  • Fly the yellow quarantine ("Q") flag as you enter the port.

  • Proceed directly to a designated Port of Entry.

  • Only the captain may leave the vessel until Customs authorizes clearance.

  • Present passports and required vessel documentation.

  • Receive Customs and Immigration clearance before anyone else disembarks. 

CLICK2CLEAR ONLINE PRE-ARRIVAL SYSTEM

The Bahamas now recommends that private boat captains complete their vessel declaration online through the Click2Clear (C2C) system before arriving.

Typical information includes:

  • Vessel registration

  • Captain information

  • Passenger list

  • Passport details

  • Maritime declaration

  • Cruising permit application

  • Applicable fees

Using the online system often speeds up the arrival process once you reach Bimini. 

ARRIVING BY FERRY OR COMMERCIAL AIR

Visitors arriving by scheduled ferry or commercial airline generally complete Customs and Immigration inside the passenger terminal.

You should have:

  • Valid passport

  • Completed immigration card (if required)

  • Return or onward travel information if requested

  • Accommodation details

  • Any documents supporting the purpose of your visit

Once processed, visitors are free to begin their stay in Bimini. 

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Depending on your method of arrival, officials may request:

  • Valid passport

  • Vessel registration (for boaters)

  • Crew and passenger list

  • Cruising permit application

  • Immigration arrival card

  • Return or onward travel details

  • Customs declaration (if applicable)

Requirements can vary based on nationality and travel method, so checking official guidance before departure is recommended. 

CUSTOMS FEES & CRUISING PERMITS

Private recreational vessels entering Bahamian waters must obtain a temporary cruising permit.

Permit costs depend on:

  • Vessel length

  • Permit duration

  • Number of passengers

  • Applicable passenger taxes

Current fees are published by the Bahamian government and may change periodically, so visitors should review the latest schedule before departure. 

AFTER CLEARING CUSTOMS

Once officially cleared, visitors may:

  • Travel freely around Bimini

  • Check into accommodations

  • Visit North or South Bimini

  • Rent golf carts

  • Join fishing charters

  • Take snorkeling excursions

  • Explore beaches and attractions

Boaters may also continue cruising throughout The Bahamas under the terms of their cruising permit. 

TRAVEL TIPS FOR A SMOOTH ARRIVAL

For the easiest arrival:

  • Complete online paperwork before departure.

  • Ensure passports are valid.

  • Keep printed or digital copies of important documents.

  • Arrive during normal Customs operating hours whenever possible.

  • Follow instructions from Customs and Immigration officers.

  • Do not allow passengers to leave the vessel before clearance if arriving by private boat. 

TRAVELER PLANNING INFORMATION

Ports of Entry

  • Resorts World Bimini Marina

  • Other designated Customs facilities in Bimini

Transportation After Arrival

  • Golf cart rentals

  • Taxi services

  • Walking (North Bimini)

  • Water taxis between North and South Bimini

Best For

  • Private boaters

  • Yacht owners

  • Ferry passengers

  • Sportfishing visitors

  • Vacation travelers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do you need a passport to enter Bimini?

Yes. Most international visitors, including U.S. citizens, must present a valid passport when entering The Bahamas. 

Where do private boats clear Customs in Bimini?

Private vessels clear at an official Port of Entry, including facilities at Resorts World Bimini Marina. 

What is Click2Clear?

Click2Clear is The Bahamas' online Customs system that allows private boat captains to submit entry information before arrival. 

Can passengers leave the boat before Customs clearance?

No. Generally, only the captain may leave the vessel until Customs and Immigration have completed clearance. 

Are cruising permits required?

Yes. Foreign private pleasure vessels entering Bahamian waters require a cruising permit. 

How long does Customs clearance usually take?

Processing times vary depending on arrival traffic, documentation, and time of day.

Can you continue to other Bahamian islands after clearing in Bimini?

Yes. Once cleared and issued the appropriate cruising permit, private vessels may continue to other islands according to permit conditions. 

EXPLORE MORE BIMINI GUIDES

LOCAL & DESTINATION CONTEXT

As one of the closest Bahamian islands to the United States, Bimini serves as a major gateway into The Bahamas for recreational boaters, sportfishing vessels, ferry passengers, and private aircraft. After clearing Customs and Immigration, visitors can easily explore North Bimini, South Bimini, Honeymoon Harbour, Gun Cay, and numerous marine attractions before continuing to other Bahamian destinations under the appropriate travel permissions. 

CONCLUSION

Clearing Customs and Immigration in Bimini is a straightforward process when travelers arrive prepared with the correct documentation and follow official entry procedures. Whether arriving by private boat, ferry, or aircraft, completing entry requirements promptly allows visitors to begin exploring one of The Bahamas' most accessible island destinations. Continue with the Ultimate Bimini Travel Guide to plan the rest of your stay, including beaches, boating, fishing, diving, accommodations, and local attractions.

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