Harbour Island Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Most travelers reach Harbour Island by first flying into North Eleuthera Airport (ELH), followed by a quick water taxi ride to the island. From Nassau, flights to North Eleuthera take approximately 20 minutes, while international visitors often connect through Miami or Fort Lauderdale with flights lasting about an hour. Upon arrival at North Eleuthera, water taxis operate regularly from the dock just outside the airport, with the ferry crossing taking only about 10 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the airport to transport you to the ferry dock, and no advance reservations are typically needed for the water taxi service.

Harbour Island, affectionately known as 'Briland' by locals, is a small but stunning jewel in the Bahamian archipelago. This three-mile-long haven boasts world-famous pink sand beaches, created by crushed red shells of foraminifera mixed with white sand. As one of the oldest settlements in The Bahamas, the island blends colonial charm with laid-back Caribbean vibes, making it a perfect escape accessible by a short ferry journey from Eleuthera.

The prime season for visiting Harbour Island runs from December through April, when temperatures hover comfortably between 70-80°F (21-27°C) with minimal rainfall and gentle breezes. March and April offer particularly perfect conditions with warm waters and consistent sunshine. The summer months (June-September) bring higher humidity and occasional brief showers, but also fewer tourists and reduced rates at many accommodations. Hurricane season technically spans June through November, with September and October presenting the highest risk of storms. Ferry services maintain regular schedules year-round but may adjust during severe weather events.

Harbour Island serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring nearby Bahamian treasures. Regular ferry services connect to mainland Eleuthera, just minutes away, where you can explore pineapple plantations, the Glass Window Bridge, and secluded beaches along its 110-mile coastline. Spanish Wells, a picturesque fishing community with pristine beaches, is accessible by a 20-minute ferry ride and offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. For the adventurous, day trips to the Exumas can be arranged, where you might swim with the famous swimming pigs at Big Major Cay. The waters surrounding Harbour Island are dotted with small cays perfect for a day of island-hopping and snorkeling.

Pink Sands Beach stretches for three miles along the eastern shore, offering perfect swimming conditions and stunning sunrise views that shouldn't be missed. Dunmore Town, with its pastel-colored cottages and picket fences, reveals the island's British colonial heritage and houses charming boutiques selling local crafts and resort wear. Foodies will delight in the island's exceptional dining scene, from fresh conch salad at beachside shacks to sophisticated fare at places like The Landing or Rock House. Water enthusiasts can arrange bonefishing expeditions, snorkeling trips to coral reefs, or diving excursions to explore underwater caves. Horse riding along the pink sands provides a magical way to experience the beach, especially during sunset hours.

Despite its small size, Harbour Island was once the capital of The Bahamas during the early colonial period before Nassau claimed the title. The island's unique transportation consists almost entirely of golf carts, as there are virtually no cars, creating a charming, pollution-free environment. Harbour Island's pink sand isn't just pretty, it stays cool even under the hot sun due to its coral composition, making barefoot beach walks comfortable all day long. The island has attracted numerous celebrities and royalty over the years, yet maintains its unpretentious character where locals and visitors mingle freely in the small community.