Bahamas Raises Cruising Permit Fees

Created by doina. Last modified on 2003-07-22 11:48:31
Countries: Bahamas, USA

As of 1 July 2003 the costs of a cruising permit for the Bahamas have risen. The new charges are as follows: - $150 for all vessels under 35 feet - $300 for vessels over 35 feet. - $150 for dinghys/tenders over 18 feet.

A cruising permit is issued for 12 months. If you leave the Bahamas during that period you cannot return on the same cruising permit but must obtain a new cruising permit for the above fees.

This new ruling has proved especially unpopular with US sailors intending to make the short trip over from Florida, coinciding as it does with the law that requires sailors who are arriving in the US from the Bahamas to clear U.S. Customs by telephone and then show up in person within 24 hours to be cleared by an immigration officer. The new law comes as part of a general tightening of security in the wake of 9/11.

The cruising permit fees cover the Captain and 3 crew members. Any additional crew members over 6 years old must pay $15 per person. Included in the cruising permit fee is a 3 month fishing license. Extensions to this cost an additional $150 for 12 months. Also included is a $15 exit/departure fee for four individuals.

The fee for extending the cruising permit remains unchanged, at $500 per year for a maximum of two years, at the end of which time you must either leave the Bahamas or pay duty.

Customs Officers will also now require the original of the Yacht's Registration to be submitted with the application as well as a copy. The original will be returned but they will keep the copy for their records, therefore it is recommended to have several copies onboard.

There are no overtime charges for weekend Customs clearance, however transportation fees might be levied at the discretion of the officer clearing you in if he uses his personal vehicle and travels to your location.

For more information on Bahamas Formalities, see http://www.noonsite.com/Countries/Bahamas/?rc=Formalities