Originally published March 27, 2018. Updated September 2026.
Imagine you’ve just taken ownership of your new (or new-to-you) catamaran in South Florida. What better way to put your yacht to the test than a crossing of the Gulf Stream to the Bahamas?
For many Leopard owners, Bimini is the very first stop. At just 50 nautical miles from South Florida, it’s a manageable crossing that delivers everything cruisers dream about: crystal-clear water, world-class fishing, incredible snorkeling and diving, secluded anchorages, and a laid-back island atmosphere that feels worlds away from Miami.
With insights from Leopard Brokerage Sales Agent and accomplished Bahamas cruiser Michelle Ropiza, along with experiences from Leopard owners and multiple Leopard Catamarans visits to the islands, this article is the first in our Bahamas cruising series. Be sure to explore our complete Bahamas Cruising Guide for additional destination inspiration throughout the islands.
While Bimini is often the first stop for many cruisers, those continuing farther into the islands often go on to explore the Abacos, Eleuthera, the Exumas, and the more remote Out Islands, each offering a unique cruising experience.
Why Bimini Is the Perfect First Bahamas Destination
For first-time Bahamas cruisers, Bimini checks every box.
Not only is it the closest Bahamian island chain to Florida, but the crossing itself provides a great introduction to offshore cruising. The islands are easy to navigate, well-equipped for visiting yachts, and packed with activities both on and off the water.
Bimini also delivers some of the most spectacular water colors anywhere in the Bahamas. The vibrant shades of turquoise and deep blue often surprise even experienced cruisers. It’s easy to understand why so many owners arrive for a few days and end up staying much longer.
Preparing for the Crossing from South Florida
One lesson veteran cruisers quickly learn is to provision before departure. While Bimini offers restaurants, marinas, and basic supplies, grocery options remain limited compared to South Florida.
Many boaters choose to stock up on food, beverages, and cruising essentials before leaving Fort Lauderdale or Miami. This allows more time to enjoy the islands and less time searching for provisions once you arrive.
Weather planning is equally important. The Gulf Stream crossing is often straightforward when conditions align, but proper weather windows are essential. Once you arrive, however, you’ll quickly discover why so many owners make Bimini their annual first stop in the Bahamas.
Clearing Customs in Bimini
Bimini offers a convenient first port of entry for vessels arriving from Florida.
You can clear customs on either North Bimini or South Bimini.
If you clear on North Bimini, a visit to the historic Bimini Big Game Club is highly recommended. Originally established in 1936, the club became famous as a destination for sportfishing enthusiasts from around the world and remains one of the island’s most recognizable landmarks.
If you choose to clear through South Bimini, Bimini Sands Marina is an excellent option. The marina offers floating docks, fuel, water, a restaurant, beach access, and a beautiful infinity pool. The nearby airport also makes it easy for friends and family to join your cruising adventure.
As with all international cruising destinations, customs fees and procedures may change over time, so check the latest Bahamas customs requirements before your departure.
Where to Stay in Bimini
Bimini Big Game Club
Rich in history and conveniently located on North Bimini, the Big Game Club offers dockage, dining, and easy access to local attractions. For owners interested in fishing, diving, or simply exploring the island, it’s an excellent starting point.
Bimini Sands Marina
Located on South Bimini, Bimini Sands remains one of the most popular marina options for cruising catamarans. In addition to customs clearance facilities, you’ll find fuel, water, resort amenities, and accommodations for visiting guests.
Anchorages Around Bimini
While the marinas are excellent, many cruisers prefer spending their time at anchor.
Bimini offers numerous protected anchorages where you can enjoy the quiet side of the islands while remaining close to restaurants, beaches, and attractions. Depending on weather conditions, options near Gun Cay, Cat Cay, and South Bimini can provide beautiful settings and easy access to the best parts of the island chain.
Bimini’s Best Diving and Snorkeling Spots
If there’s one thing that sets Bimini apart, it’s the water.
The visibility, colors, and marine life make the islands a paradise for divers, snorkelers, paddleboarders, and swimmers.
Sapona Wreck
One of Bimini’s most famous attractions is the Sapona Wreck.
Originally a concrete cargo ship, the Sapona ran aground during a hurricane in 1926 and remains partially above water today. The wreck provides excellent snorkeling opportunities, fascinating history, and fantastic photo opportunities. It’s one of the most popular stops for visiting cruisers.
Honeymoon Harbour
Honeymoon Harbour has become a favorite destination for Leopard owners visiting Bimini.
Known for shallow turquoise water and friendly Southern Stingrays, it’s one of the most memorable experiences in the area. Whether you’re swimming, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing aboard, Honeymoon Harbour delivers the kind of postcard-perfect Bahamas experience many cruisers envision before they arrive.
Cat Cay
The waters around Cat Cay offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and simply enjoying the extraordinary water clarity that has made Bimini famous among boaters.
Beaches and Anchorages Worth Exploring
Blue Lagoon Beach
Located on North Bimini, Blue Lagoon Beach remains one of the area’s hidden gems.
This stunning stretch of shoreline offers beautiful beach walks, shell collecting, and endless views of the surrounding turquoise water. The beach feels wonderfully remote despite being only a short distance from the island’s more developed areas.
It’s also one of the most photogenic locations in Bimini and a favorite stop for Leopard owners, photographers, and cruising families alike.
South Cat Cay
If you’re searching for a quiet anchorage away from the crowds, South Cat Cay offers an ideal escape. The area provides excellent opportunities to unwind, enjoy the scenery, and experience the slower pace that makes cruising the Bahamas so appealing.
Gun Cay
Gun Cay offers another excellent stop for cruising yachts and provides easy access to clear water, snorkeling opportunities, and beautiful views throughout the area. It’s a wonderful place to spend an afternoon swimming, paddleboarding, or relaxing at anchor.
A Cruising Lifestyle Designed for Bimini
One reason Bimini works so well for catamaran owners is that the islands naturally encourage life outdoors.
Days often begin with coffee in the cockpit as the sun rises over calm turquoise water. Afternoons are spent snorkeling, diving, fishing, swimming, paddleboarding, or exploring nearby beaches. Evenings often end with a sunset anchorage and dinner aboard.
Whether you’re visiting aboard a sailing catamaran or a powercat, Bimini offers countless opportunities to enjoy the cruising lifestyle at its best.
During multiple Leopard visits to Bimini over the years, crews have experienced everything from glassy calm mornings and unforgettable snorkeling sessions to colorful sunsets, beach bonfires, stingray encounters, and incredible days spent cruising between anchorages. Time and again, the same conclusion emerges: Bimini is one of the most rewarding destinations in the Bahamas.
Why Cruisers Return Year After Year
When you combine the proximity to South Florida, easy customs clearance, exceptional diving, fishing, stunning beaches, and world-famous water colors, it’s easy to understand Bimini’s appeal.
For some, it’s a quick weekend escape.
For others, it’s the first stop on a months-long Bahamas cruising adventure.
Either way, Bimini consistently delivers unforgettable experiences and serves as the perfect introduction to cruising the islands.
Whether you’re new to the cruising lifestyle or you’ve explored the Bahamas for years, Bimini deserves a place on your itinerary.
Continue Exploring the Bahamas
Ready to cruise beyond Bimini? Continue planning your Bahamas adventure with our Bahamas destination guides covering the Exumas, Abacos, Eleuthera, and more.
