Entry Fee to Bahamas

[Sailcat]

Can someone clarify what Bahamian customs charges for entry? I've read on noon site that it's $300 for >40'. Is that right? Would that include weekend visits?
Thanks

[skipmac]

I could be wrong but thought it was $300 for over 30'. Either way yes, you pay it even if you check in for a hour to go fishing and leave. On the other hand, I believe it is good for an extended period (6-12 months?) so you can go back and check in again without paying again.

[FSMike]

Originally Posted by skipmac

I could be wrong but thought it was $300 for over 30'. Either way yes, you pay it even if you check in for a hour to go fishing and leave. On the other hand, I believe it is good for an extended period (6-12 months?) so you can go back and check in again without paying again.

Last I heard you could go back only once on the same entrance fee. Bahamas govt. has been changing their minds about this a time or two trying to keep the islands close to the USA happy. Probably best to call ahead just before departure from the states (or elsewhere).

[teneicm]

We just checked in last week. It was $300 for the boat, plus an additional $20 for one extra crew over the limit of three (so we have 4 onboard the boat). We are a 48 foot boat. The cruising permit is good for one year.

The return policies are tricky. The cruising permit DOES NOT give you unlimited "in and out" privileges. You are allowed ONE return within the first 90 days of the permit. So if you come back to the Bahamas 91 days after the permit was issued, you pay again. If you come back within the 90 day period, but this is now your third visit, you pay again.

Cheers- Matt

[Sailcat]

Thanks, all.

[AnchorageGuy]

It really depends on where you check in. In Bimini we paid, and others reported paying, the $150.00 for under 35 feet. In others Ports of Entry boats have been charged $300.00 for 30 feet and over. So check ahead with other boaters, not Customs, to find out where the best deal is. Chuck

[Sailcat]

Thanks

[nautical62]

I'll just add that everyplace I've cleared in has been cash only - no credit cards.

[Ita]

Been at Bimini in October , 150$ cash for a 34 sailboat, crew of three .

[Horror Hotel]

March of 2013 West End I was charged $300 for a 32'. Seems to be random but the $150 charge is becoming less common.

[the_alpine]

I've often considered not checking in at all. Ya ya, it's illegal and BAD....

Have you ever been asked for your papers while in the bahamas?

[CSY Man]

You could loose yer boat, and go to jail.

[AnchorageGuy]

The BDF is now randomly checking boats. It just ain't worth it. Chuck

[Vasco]

Originally Posted by the_alpine

I've often considered not checking in at all. Ya ya, it's illegal and BAD....

Have you ever been asked for your papers while in the bahamas?

Yes, not often but it happens. And if I see an Oday 302 I'll have a chat with the RBDF. Why would you even think like this. If you don't want to pay don't go to the Bahamas. It's their country and they have every right to levy whatever fees they wish. If you feel it's too much don't go.

[the_alpine]

Originally Posted by Vasco

Yes, not often but it happens. And if I see an Oday 302 I'll have a chat with the RBDF. Why would you even think like this. If you don't want to pay don't go to the Bahamas. It's their country and they have every right to levy whatever fees they wish. If you feel it's too much don't go.

Jesus bro, relax. Nobody likes a tattle tail. I just said I've thought about it. I pay my dues like everyone else.