Caribbean Island Hopping

[mtjewell81]

Good afternoon all!
What are your opinions, comments and/or suggestions when it comes to island hopping through the Caribbean with regards to islands that require proof of an onward/return ticket when coming on to the island? Is there a way around it?

[atoll]

normally a credit card is enough to satisfy the immigration that you have funds availablle to buy an onward ticket if from a 1st world country

[Wrong]

Originally Posted by atoll

normally a credit card is enough to satisfy the immigration that you have funds availablle to buy an onward ticket if from a 1st world country

Expect the unexpected in Trinidad. I know, I know - some of you have had very good experiences there.

But beware, the crew you deal with once will not necessarily be the same crew you deal with the following day - so resolving a problem runs up against a brick wall immediately.

The crews rotate monthly, so if you manage to arrive at the cusp of a change you may get a bad group.

Also, be aware there is only one person who is authorized to deal with your passport who can be problematic.

Worst immigration experience I've ever had. And that's saying a lot since I've nearly completed two circumnavigations.

Good luck.

[atoll]

trinidad is probably the exception rather than the rule,not being a major tourist destination unlike islands to the north

[Teknav]

Hi! French Polynesia (South Pacific) requires you to have proof of a home-bound airline return ticket; very strict about it, unless you're fluent in French or in Tahitian (little known fact). In the Caribbean, not all islands have such requirement; check individual island's website. Just make it known to their Immigration/Entry, that you will neither conduct business while vacationing nor carry cash in excess of $10K USD. Sail away!

Mauritz

[Matt sachs]

I was asked if I had a return ticket when I cleared into St. Kitts, but that was at the airport. Why would they ask you if you had a return ticket if you sail into port? Am I missing something?

[Wrong]

Originally Posted by Matt sachs

I was asked if I had a return ticket when I cleared into St. Kitts, but that was at the airport. Why would they ask you if you had a return ticket if you sail into port? Am I missing something?

I could be mistaken, but it makes a difference if you are crew as opposed to an owner/captain of the vessel.

So, if you had not made clear which of them you are they may have assumed you were crew.

[Matt sachs]

Oh, my bad, I had just got off the plane. If I sailed in would they assume I was sailing out?

[Wrong]

Originally Posted by Teknav

Hi! French Polynesia (South Pacific) requires you to have proof of a home-bound airline return ticket; very strict about it, unless you're fluent in French or in Tahitian (little known fact). In the Caribbean, not all islands have such requirement; check individual island's website. Just make it known to their Immigration/Entry, that you will neither conduct business while vacationing nor carry cash in excess of $10K USD. Sail away!

Mauritz

My experience entering French Polynesia through Tahiti is you have two choices. Either show proof you have a return ticket or pay a bond. The bond is equal to the amount of an airline ticket if you fall afoul of the rules, are deemed persona non grata, etc., and are told to leave. Essentially you've deposited with the French authorities money they'll use to buy your ticket to the nearest possession or territory necessary to repatriate you.

Thanks to the Pacific Puddle jump, organized by Latitude 38 - people who join the function are entitled to enter French Polynesia without depositing the bond. As long as people keep their nose clean, this will be an option. Otherwise,...

[Hud3]

Originally Posted by Matt sachs

Oh, my bad, I had just got off the plane. If I sailed in would they assume I was sailing out?

Yes, they would. No need for airline tickets, unless you have crew who will be leaving your boat.

[Sandero]

I never experienced this when sailing in the 90s in the windwards.

[atoll]

i normally just smile,and ask the immigration if they know what the cricket score is,as they stamp me in

[Teknav]

By far the most relaxed immigration/entry/exit is that of the French Antilles. Speak French with them, and you become one of them; never ever had any issues with a French territory or while visiting France (CDG Airport).

Mauritz

[mtjewell81]

Thanks everyone for the replies. All good stuff to think about. I really think I need to take some lessons in French and study the game of cricket.

[Zanshin]

Originally Posted by Teknav

Hi! French Polynesia (South Pacific) requires you to have proof of a home-bound airline return ticket; very strict about it, unless you're fluent in French or in Tahitian (little known fact). In the Caribbean, not all islands have such requirement; check individual island's website. Just make it known to their Immigration/Entry, that you will neither conduct business while vacationing nor carry cash in excess of $10K USD. Sail away!

Mauritz

Mauritz - that is not correct, it applies only to non-EU visitors to French Polynesia. And one doesn't necessarily need a ticket but can post a cash bond instead.

None of Caribbean islands require an airline ticket when clearing in via boat.