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Old 30-08-2014, 12:33   #1
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Non-US citizen wanting to export a boat from Florida to Bahamas

Hi
I plan on buying a 22' motor boat in Florida. I want to take it back to the Bahamas where I am currently based and where the boat will stay. Couple of questions.

What documents will I have to show US customs when clearing out?

Do I need to change registration of boat or anything else when I buy it?

Can I arrive in the US on a one way ticket from the Bahamas since my return trip will be via boat? I am an Irish passport holder and a US B1/B2 visa.

Thanks for your help!
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Old 30-08-2014, 17:14   #2
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Re: Non-US citizen wanting to export a boat from Florida to Bahamas

Assuming the boat is not documented (unusual for a small boat), then exporting a 22ft boat is probably similar to exporting a car. I would guess that all you need to worry about is import requirements (ie custom duties/taxes) in the Bahamas. I would check with the Bahamas end rather than worry about the US. I also assume you are shipping the vessel -- 22ft is a bit small to make the run over from Florida.
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Old 30-08-2014, 18:47   #3
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Re: Non-US citizen wanting to export a boat from Florida to Bahamas

I bought my boat in the Seattle area and brought it back to BC.
No issues at all, in fact I didn't even talk to the americans, and all Canada cared about was that I paid the duty!
Totally painless, hopefully your experience goes as well as mine.
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Old 31-08-2014, 05:49   #4
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Re: Non-US citizen wanting to export a boat from Florida to Bahamas

I am not sure what the actual procedure for importing is, but there is a 10% duty on boats in the Bahamas. Since you are planning on the Abacos, you will probably need to go to the port in Marsh Harbour to pay the duty and register the boat. Registration is $20 a year. I am a US citizen and I own a 17' Boston Whaler that is Bahamian registered.

If you purchase the boat in Florida you will have a certain amount of time to remove it from the state before paying taxes and registering the boat.
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Old 06-09-2014, 19:48   #5
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Re: Non-US citizen wanting to export a boat from Florida to Bahamas

here is what you have to do
unless you are willing to pay the sales tax in Florida. you cannot register the boat on Florida. You probably can enter The Bahamas with only a notarized bill of sale and the Florida title. But better check in person with Bahamas.
you will need to mail your I94 to the London Kentucky office of US CBP with proof that you arrived in The Bahamas. Otherwise you might have a problem re entering the US next tome you visit.

https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/det...l-have-my-i-94

probably easier to enter The Bahamas om a cruising permit and take your time paying the duty and importing.
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