HOME - issue 3 2003- Cruisers Alert!
Effective July 1, 2003 the fees for a cruising permit for the Bahamas were increased as follows:
- $150 for vessels under 35'
- $300 for vessels over 35' (up to 4 persons aboard. An additional charge of $15 per person over 4. Children under 6 years of age - no charge.)
These fees are for the vessel's cruising permit which is good for one year - a single entry - if you leave and return with the vessel you must pay fees again to obtain a new cruising permit. Prior to this date, the cost of a cruising permit was $100, regardless of boat size and valid for multiple entry for one year.
The following incidents have been reported in the cruising groups.On July 2, a 33' sailboat towing a 14' Whaler cleared in either at Spanish Cay or Green Turtle Cay in the Abacos and was charged $300 for his vessel and $150 for the Whaler, a total of $450. The charge should have been $150. A double charge - the mother ship and the dinghy - was also reported in West End. There appears to be some inconsistency in charges.
Here's my two cents. I do not expect to visit a country for free. I expect to pay a permit fee and a fishing license. I have no problem with this. However, in a country which offers absolutely no navigational aids (one light house, no light bulb), nor any marine rescue or policing, what justifies such a vast increase in fees?
What can you do about this?
Send an email or call Keith Gomez at the Bahamas Tourist Office. 954-236-9292 or kgomez@bahamas.com. It may not do much, but if we all express our displeasure (and disgust) they may rethink things.
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