What You Need To Know

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How long can I keep my boat in The Bahamas & how much is the fee?
Owners of foreign registered boats (including the US) may keep their vessels in The Bahamas for one year without paying duty and may extend this one-year stay for up to three years by paying a fee of $500 per year after the first.

Can I bring my pet?
An Import Permit is required for all animals being brought into The Islands Of The Bahamas. Import permits are available in advance for a $10 fee for each animal and an additional 12% VAT also needs to be accounted for. Dogs and cats must be six months of age and have current proof of vaccination and a health certificate. Here are some helpful links:

Bringing Pets to The Bahamas
Application to Import Domestic Animals

Is there a fee to import parts to repair my vessel?
Spare parts and replacement boat parts may be brought in duty free as long as they are intended for installation on vessels that have a transire (cruising permit). You must show your cruising permit to qualify for this. If spare parts are imported as cargo, a 7% stamp duty is charged.

Items should be marked: FOR MARINE USE ONLY.

For information visit: www.bahamas.gov.bs/customs

Can I bring firearms to The Bahamas on my boat?
If you have a firearm on board (shotguns and handguns only) you must declare it with Bahamian Customs. You must provide the serial number, name of the manufacturer, plus an exact count of ammunition. While you are allowed to have a firearm on your boat, you cannot remove it. Weapons must be under lock and key at all times. In cases of emergencies, which require your departure by air, you must notify Bahamian Police or Customs. They will accompany you to retrieve the firearm and present you with a receipt. Upon your return to the island, Bahamian Police or Customs will escort you to your vessel and return your firearm. Any infraction of this law will be dealt with severely.

How much fish can I have on my vessel and carry home?

  • No more than eighteen (18) migratory species such as Kingfish, Dolphin, Tuna or Wahoo

  • No more than six (6) conchs

  • No more than ten (10) crawfish; minimum size limits are 3-3/8 inch carapace or six inches tail length. Egg-bearing female crawfish are protected

  • No more than twenty (20) demersal fish species (Yellowtail, Snapper, etc.) or not in excess of 60 lbs

  • Marine turtles are prohibited aboard any vessel and are protected species. Click here for more details

Can I use tanks to spearfish?
No. You must free dive and only use a Hawaiian sling.

For additional information, please visit www.bahamas.gov.bs.

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