Nossi-Be (Hell-Ville) : Profile

Location

Nossi (or Nosy) Be is a small island on the west coast of Madagascar, close to its northern tip.

Clearance

Anchor off the main dock and call the port captain on Channel 16. Hell Ville authorities now have a boat which carries the officials checking yacht documents and clearing papers between Nosy Mitsio and Baramahany Bay/Nosy Irania. Stiff fines can be expected if one is caught without having cleared in and obtained a visa.

Latest report are that officials no longer come to the yacht and one must visit the relevant offices (Port Captain, Police, Immigration, Customs and Health) for clearance. They are based in the building next to the catholic church. Speaking French may be an advantage.

It may be possible to anchor in Crater Bay and take a taxi into Hell Ville (cost about US$7).

First call on the immigration police in the portacabin inside the port about 20 yds from the slipway. A small fee is payable but ask for a receipt before handing over any money. Then go to the Port Captain's office. This is outside the port, 100 yds up the road on the corner of the 1st RH bend (closed 1200-1500). He requires a copy of boat registration and will try and get you to pay your port fees at the port cashiers (office 50 yds away). Insist that you will pay your port fees on check-out. GET A RECEIPT.

You need to check in/out each province visited. This involves getting a crew list stamped by the Immigration police, then taking it to the Port Captain to get clearance.

Do not pay the Immigration police a fee on check out. It is not required and the Hellville police can confirm this.

If a visa on arrival is required, you will be directed to a government office near the Champion supermarket.

Last updated October 2009.

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