Bahamas clearance regulations

[mikeneuhoff]

Hi there,

I'm planning to take a boat from Miami to Barbados next week, having to fuel up in the Bahamas without going ashore. Would I still have to clear with their Customs and Immigration, only being in transit.

Any information on that would be greatly appreciated - thanks!

[Ram]

I dont think so-but dropping anchor or even fishing you need to check in

[mikeneuhoff]

thanks Ram! Can anybody else confirm that?

[chrisjs]

I hope you do not need to pay the $300 cruising fee if you are just "passing through".
It makes fuel kind of expensive!!

[Hannah on 'Rita T']

Bahamas regs say as soon as you are in Bahamian waters you have to check in.

[missnmountains]

You cannot fuel without checking in. We go over all of the time. Numerous times to Bimini where we fuel and Blue Water. The fuel guys will not let you get one drop of fuel until you have checked in.

The only way to avoid this is to cheat. But I would not take the risk.

Ken

[Amapola]

You are required to check in.

[hellosailor]

Taking on fuel would seem to be a commercial transaction, you're not just "passing through". So I'd rashly guess they're going to want your money.

Can $300 buy you a blivet tank big enough to skip that? <G>

[AnchorageGuy]

Under Bahamas law, you are required to check in at the nearest Port of Entry when you enter Bahamian waters. It doesn't matter whether you plan to buy fuel, take a walk or shop for vegetables.

[Tingum]

Why fuel in the Bahamas? It is much more expensive, (Currently$5.60). Yes you must clear in. If you are a sailboat, unless you plan on motoring all the way, it would be easier to get your easting by sailing around the north of the Bahamas.

[Vasco]

It's going to cost you $300. Can't get around it. Skip the Bahamas and go to
T&C.

[Travis McGee]

Fuel bladder. Done deal.

[SaltHeart]

Oh yes you have to check in. Like most governments they want your money.