Visit our Popular Forums

nautical62 · 24-02-2009, 15:48

Are sailing vessels over 30 feet, still required to register and get the decal prior to heading to the Bahamas? If so, is this required for documented vessels?

Scott730 · 26-02-2009, 10:53

The answer is yes, a decal is required to visit the bahamas or any country with a pleasure craft over 30 feet. The process can take almost 6 weeks to get the decal and you will need the number if you want to apply for a local boaters option when returning, the local boaters option is a must if you don't want to personnally go to the customs office to check in upon your return.
The decal cost $27.50 and is renewed once a year. Also note that if your boat is over 35 feet you will have to pay $300 when you enter the Bahamas.

Captain Bill · 26-02-2009, 11:44

To be clear the sticker is a US customs sticker. They have a web site and I had my sticker in less than a week when I ordered it from the web site. Definitely sign up for the local boaters option before you leave.

nautical62 · 26-02-2009, 12:09

Thanks guys - just what I needed to know.

Vasco · 26-02-2009, 13:57

The decal is for your return to the States after visiting a foreign country. The Bahamas doesn't care one one way or the other. With the decal you do not have to pay any custom fees on your return to the States. If in Florida make sure you register for the local boaters thing before you leave so you don't have to go through all the rigamarole when you return.