Cartagena: Fees and Info. Update

Created by sue. Last modified on 2009-12-02 17:48:02
Countries: Colombia

Subject: New Fees in Cartagena

Message:
A group of 30 plus sailors attended a meeting with the Coast Guard in Cartagena yesterday (Friday November 27, 2009).

A representative of the Port Captain's office was there and fees for checking in and remaining in Cartagena were discussed.

It appears that a new 75 dollar fee will be charged for a new "certificate", in addition to the current 25 dollar importation charge and the 70 dollar check-in charge. The agents fee for this "certificate" is not yet determined.

This certificate is being termed a "Cruising Permit" and will last for 2 months, issued by the local Port Captain. However, it only really allows access to this area and the Rosario Islands. After 2 months this fee will be levied again (in addition to a visa extension every 30 days), but the Cruising Permit will be vaild for 6 months. The second time around it is issued by the Federal Government.

We were reminded that per Columbian law, an agent is required to perform all paperwork with the Port Captain's office.

Dinghy thefts were also discussed as 5 dinghys, not locked to the boat, have been stolen in the past 2 months.

I am pretty confused as there is a lot of overlapping of regulations. In addition I am sure that many in the Coast Guard and some of the agents are not in agreement as to the enforcement of these regulations and what papers really need to be applied for.

Michael Rosner