CLEARING IN GUIDANCE:
The process to check into the Bahamas by boat is straightforward. You have two options:
- Clearing in and obtaining a cruising permit digitally: Use the Click 2 Clear System at www.bahamascustoms.gov.bs. You will have digitally upload all your documentation. The website suggests noting your PCR number for tracking the application.
- Clear in person. Check into the West End, which simplifies the process by locating all necessary agencies in the marina. A customs broker we have used many times is Warren Hepburn. He can be reached at whepburn@zalemaritime.com or 242-820-9251.
Nordhavn owner Larry Holley who recently completed the clearing process in-person at the West End, offered this advice: After docking, we immediately went to the customs and immigration offices where we filled out paperwork and paid our fees. They did accept credit cards there but we have heard other locations only accept cash, so I would suggest having enough cash on hand just in case. The bad news is that the fees had a dramatic increase this year. We opted for the two-year permit, which cost just under $3,000. The fishing permit is an additional $300 per month if you choose that option. The advantage of the two-year permit is that it allows you (your boat) to leave and re-enter as many times as you like. The one-year permit only allows you to leave and re-enter one time in 12 months. Immigration allows up to 120 days on your visa for each person. We have heard of people getting as little as 90 days, and we think it depends on the individual waiting on you and perhaps what you ask for. At the end of your visa time allotment, you will have to leave the country (by plane is OK while leaving the boat in the country), then fly back into the Bahamas to “reset” your visa. For us, it was a really simple process and the people were very friendly and helpful. It took less than 45 minutes for everything.
For anyone flying down and staying in a hotel, check in with customs and immigration at the airport as usual with the address of your accommodations. Anyone staying on a boat will need to have a copy of the boat’s cruising permit to present. They will accept an e-mail copy but prefer a printed copy, so have that done ahead of time if possible.