Guatemala Rio Dulce Cruising permits

[Triumphant]

The following was posted recently on one of the forums on the riodulcechime.com web site

Guatemala Cruising permits

Today, Friday March 28, there was a meeting at Nana Juana that was hosted by the Guatemala Ministry of Tourism (INGUAT) where it was announced that the rule regarding vessels having to leave the country for three months when their permits expired has been rescinded and the old system will be implemented. This is very good news for all.

The rule that will take effect April 1 2014 s as follows:

1. Boats when initially entering Guatemala from abroad will receive a cruising permit valid for three (3) months. The cost for this permit will be $50.00 US dollars (about Q390) plus Q60.00 (about $7.80 US).

2. Boats who wish to remain longer have the option to obtain an additional nine (9) month permit at a cost of $150.00 US Dollars (about Q1170) .

3. Boats who wish to remain after the first 12 months as described above may obtain a permit to remain an additional 12 months at a cost of $150.00 US Dollars (about Q1170)

4. The extension described above for periods beyond the initial 12 month period may be renewed each 12 months thereafter indefinitely for a fee of $150.00 US Dollars.

These extensions also require that the vessel be located in an INGUATE registered marina and there must be a contract with the marina.

There is no requirement that vessels leave the country for three (3) months or any other period to qualify for these extensions.

The fees stated above are SAT (Guatemalan Customs) fees and do not include fees that may be charged by immigration or an agent.