Snkr
We are currently cruising the
west coast of
Costa Rica...
It is very simple and requires no real advanced preparation. Visas and
boat import permits are issued at your Port of Entry (About $200 US). 90 days is the
rule, but you can get the
import permit for your
boat extended to 2 years. You on he other hand have to leave the country every 90 days.
While cruising here you are issued a "National Zarpe", which has to be re-issued when you check in with Port Captains along your various stops, although not every Port has a Port
Captain and no more
fees are involved.
The only shocker to use was the difference in prices goiing from
Mexico, El Salvador,
Nicaragua and then moving into the higher priced Costa Rica...
If you use
marinas, expect to pay about $2-4 US a foot.
Fuel is currently about $4.50 per gallon, which compared to the US is reasonable, but to
Mexico is very high.
There are a number of
cruising guides on the subject, including Pat Raines's Central American Cruising Guide and an online guide made by Eric and Sherell of
www.SVSarana.com. There are a number of others, but these seem to have the most up to date infomration.
The other information I would point you to is the "Southbound" Yahoo Group, which focuses on Mexico and Central Amercia. With over 1200 members, these are the answer people for all things on the Pacific Coast of Mexico and Central Amercia
Good Luck