Hell-Ville (Nossi-Be) - Clearance

Nosy Be Clearance

This is a Port of Entry.

See the main Noonsite/Madagascar/formalities page for the full details of clearance.

Anchor off the main dock and call at the Port Captain's office (often close Saturdays and always on Sundays). He will ask for a fee (64,00 Ar, about $19) to issue a local cruising permit (a "Permis de Circulation"). No other port has such a permit and it is only issued to foreign yachts.

To clear in, it is necessary to visit the relevant offices (Port Captain, Police, Immigration, Customs and Health). 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$19). If you admit to officials that your yacht is there and not in the harbour (they cannot see the yachts from their offices), they may try and insist on you paying a fine.

First, call on the Immigration police in the portacabin inside the port about 20 yds from the slipway. A small fee is payable but asks 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 in advance 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. There is a stiff fine for not doing so.

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.

Emergencies:

In the event of an emergency, Channel 16 is monitored in office hours by APMF, and the Navy should be monitoring 24/7. You should be permitted a 24 hour stopover to effect repairs.