21 Apr Why Travelers Are Choosing NSB Over BIM for Their Bimini Getaway?
Bimini is a jewel of the Bahamas, just a short flight from South Florida but a world away in experience. Known for its turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and rich history, Bimini offers an unforgettable tropical escape. But if you’ve ever searched “flights to Bimini,” chances are you were shown options for South Bimini Airport (BIM) by default.
What many travelers don’t realize is that there’s another—and better—option: North Bimini Seaplane Base (NSB). In this guide, we’ll explain why more travelers are choosing to land at NSB, the advantages it offers, and how it connects seamlessly with the island’s top destinations and experiences.
What Is the Difference Between BIM and NSB?
South Bimini Airport (BIM) is the island’s commercial airport, located on South Bimini. Flights to BIM require a taxi and ferry ride to reach North Bimini—the island’s true hotspot for resorts, beach clubs, dining, and nightlife.
North Bimini Seaplane Base (NSB), located in central Bimini, is a dedicated seaplane landing point for Tropic Ocean Airways. Unlike BIM, NSB drops you right where the action is—no water taxi or added ground transfer is necessary.
Location Matters: Why NSB Gets You Closer
Most of Bimini’s top attractions are located in North Bimini, not South Bimini. This includes:
- Resorts World Bimini
- Bimini Big Game Club
- Neal Watson’s Bimini Scuba Center
- Bonito Beach Club
- Radio Beach and Shadow’s Bar
- The Dolphin House Museum
The Tropic Ocean Airways Experience
Tropic Ocean Airways offers direct flights into NSB, with scheduled flights from Fort Lauderdale Sheltair (FLL) and private charter flights from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Palm Beach, Naples, Tampa, or anywhere else in Florida.
Here is what sets us apart:
- Arrive just 30 minutes before departure
- Complimentary valet and lounge service
- Low-altitude scenic flights
- No ferry or ground transfers
- Private or scheduled flight options
Tropic’s late-model amphibious aircraft are flown by a two-pilot, FAA-certified crew with ARGUS Gold safety ratings, making your trip smooth, secure, and scenic.
Skip the Ferry from BIM to North Bimini
Flying into BIM often means you’re not “there” yet. After you land at South Bimini, you must:
- Wait for bags and clear customs
- Take a bumpy taxi ride to the ferry dock
- Board a public ferry
- Travel across the channel to North Bimini
- Then take another ride to your hotel or resort
When you choose NSB, you arrive in North Bimini directly—a seamless option for those who want to start their vacation as soon as they land.
Resorts World Bimini & Bonito Beach Club
NSB is the closest air arrival point to Bimini’s newest and most exclusive destinations.
Resorts World Bimini
This renowned resort is just minutes from NSB. Enjoy:
- A 10,000 square-foot beachfront casino
- Multiple pools and restaurants
- Full-service marina
- Bimini Beach Day Club
No need for an extra ferry when your destination is only a few minutes away from the seaplane dock.
Bonito Beach Club
Brought to you by the creators of Bonito Saint Barth, this elevated beach club offers:
- Two Padel Courts & Tennis Court
- Cold Plunge and Wellness programming
- American Riviera cuisine
- Kids Play Club
- Private Beach Cabanas & Lounge Chairs
Whether you’re coming for a day trip or an overnight escape, flying into NSB makes it easy to reach Bonito Beach Club for a standout Bimini experience.
Better for Day-Trippers & Weekend Warriors
If you’re planning a quick getaway to Bimini, NSB saves precious time. Tropic Ocean Airways flights from Fort Lauderdale Sheltair get you from tarmac to turquoise waters in 25 minutes, with no need for inter-island transfers or long delays.
This is especially helpful for:
- Couples planning a one-night romantic escape
- Families with kids who want smooth arrivals
- Groups organizing wellness retreats or parties
- Boaters and yacht owners docking at Resorts World or Big Game Club
NSB vs BIM: What Google Flights Doesn’t Tell You
If you’re searching “flights to Bimini” on Google Flights, you’ll often see South Bimini Airport (BIM) by default. That’s because BIM appears first alphabetically and is used by larger commercial airlines.
Unfortunately, NSB (North Bimini Seaplane Base) often doesn’t appear unless you manually select it or book directly with Tropic Ocean Airways. This leads to confusion, especially for first-time travelers who don’t realize they’ll have to take a ferry after landing.
Why NSB Wins:
- No ferry required
- You’re already on the “main side” of the island
- Better for quick trips
- Saves time and hassle
Who Should Fly into NSB?
Flying into NSB is ideal for everyone, including:
- Travelers staying at Resorts World or Bimini Big Game
- Day trippers looking to party at Bonito Beach Club
- Event attendees for destination weddings or retreats
- Boaters looking to dock nearby and access the town easily
- Divers and anglers joining charters out of the Big Game Club or Neal Watson’s
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended island escape, NSB provides a more convenient arrival and departure experience.
Book Your Flight to NSB with Tropic Ocean Airways
With scheduled flights from Fort Lauderdale Sheltair (FLL) to North Bimini Seaplane Base (NSB), Tropic Ocean Airways makes it easy to get to Bimini in comfort and style.
- Direct arrival in North Bimini
- Skip the ferry
- Arrive closer to the action
- Save time and simplify your trip
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a romantic escape, or a wellness retreat, NSB is the best way to start your Bimini adventure.
Ready to upgrade your Bimini getaway?
While BIM may be the more well-known airport for Bimini, NSB is quickly becoming the preferred choice for travelers seeking convenience, speed, and proximity to the island’s top attractions.
Flying into North Bimini Seaplane Base (NSB) with Tropic Ocean Airways isn’t just about skipping a ferry—it’s about starting your island escape in style, without the delays and transfers. Book your flight to Bimini today!