NEW FAST FERRY BEGINS SERVICE FROM
FT. LAUDERDALE TO BAHAMAS
Ft. Lauderdale, FL – December 12, 2011 – A new fast ferry service between Fort Lauderdale and Grand Bahama Island has begun operation. The Bahamas Express is operating the 32-knot Pinar del Rio and makes the 76-mile trip in two and one-half hours. The 450 passenger vessel features various onboard services such as an eatery and bar, duty-free gift shop and economy and first-class accommodations.
The service will run daily except Wednesdays with a convenient schedule allowing passengers departing the U.S. to return the same day after enjoying several hours on Grand Bahama Island. The ship departs from Terminal One at Port Everglades at 10 a.m. and arrives Grand Bahama at 12:30 p.m. The return trip departs Grand Bahama at 7:30 p.m. and arrives in Port Everglades at 10 p.m.
“The Bahamas Express service provides an important link between South Florida and The Bahamas” said David Johnson, director general of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism. “It is an affordable and easily accessible option that appeals to a variety of travelers, particularly families and for those seeking a relaxing and hassle free route to The Bahamas. We look forward to treating guests to our Bahamian hospitality, whether coming for a day or staying for a week.”
"We are pleased to see this new maritime addition to the transportation infrastructure between South Florida and Grand Bahama, The Bahamas," said Gary Gilbert, CEO of Hutchison Port Holdings. "The ferry's short travel time and high level of comfort make it desirable for passengers wishing to travel to or from Grand Bahama Island, our popular resort and environmentally diverse island located only 76 miles from Fort Lauderdale. When visiting Grand Bahama, tourists can enjoy such diverse activities as a lazy day on the beach and diving with the dolphins."
The economy one-way fare for a one-day trip is $49 per person; the first-class one-day, one-way trip fare is $65 per person. For passengers staying overnight or longer in The Bahamas, the economy one-way fare is $75 per person and the one-way first class fare is $90 per person. Prices are applicable when roundtrip fares are purchased. In addition, there is a Bahamas departure tax of $18 and an operational charge (per crossing) of $12.50. Children up to six years of age only pay the operational charge. Passengers are allowed to take two items of hand luggage without cost provided they are able to carry it on board in one trip.
Reservations can be made at www.ferryexpress.com; the Bahamas Express ticket office at Port Everglades Terminal One in Fort Lauderdale; the Port Offices on Grand Bahama Island or by calling the U.S. Reservations Office at (305) 370-2323.
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Media Contact:
Janelle Thadhani/ Arlette Arrechavala
Cheryl Andrews Marketing
305.444.4033
janelle@cam-pr.com / arlette@cam-pr.com
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