Can my boat make it to the Bahamas?
The western islands of the Bahamas are only 50 miles from Florida’s east coast. With a bit of prep and planning, you can get there even in a modest-sized boat. Used to be, when cruising the Bahamas, you would mostly see cruising sailboats, trawlers, and large yachts.
What is the best month to buy a used boat?
Well, the best time tends to be in the off-season, which roughly runs through October, November, and December. If you’re looking to enjoy a wide range of options and lower prices, looking for a boat during these months can help.
How much does it cost to anchor in the Bahamas?
The price (as of April 2019) is $300 for boats over 35′. This includes your fishing and cruising permit as well as clearance for the Captain and two “crew members”. Additional passengers cost $20.
How big of a boat do you need for the Bahamas?
To make your crossing safely, you need a motorboat or a sailboat that is at least 30 ft long to go from Florida to the Bahamas.
Do you need a boating license in the Bahamas?
A cruising permit is required for all foreign, private, non-commercial pleasure boats (and occupants) to sail in Bahamian waters.
How long of a boat ride from Florida to the Bahamas?
The ferry sailings from Florida to the Bahamas takes between 3 hours (Florida – Bimni route) to 4 hours (Florida – Gran Bahama route). Each week there will be 1 frequency to and from Grand Bahama and three frequencies (also roundtrip) to connect Bimini with Florida.
Can I take a boat to Nassau?
If you take a cruise to Nassau, you’ll have options like 3 to 6-night trips for about $115 per person / per night from various cruise lines, as a starting point. Nassau is usually a one-day stop for cruises and some of the other stops in The Bahamas can include Freeport, Coco Cay, Half Moon Cay, and Grand Turk.
How long can you keep a boat in the Bahamas?
If you plan to stay longer than 12 months, special arrangements must be made with Bahamas Customs and Immigration. Bahamas Customs and Immigration office hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Officers are on call during holidays and weekends. There is no overtime charge.
Where do you anchor in Nassau?
Nassau on New Providence is the next port of call. If you don’t need provisions or have already cleared in, we recommend anchoring at Rose Island located northeast of New Providence. It’s far away from everything but a good place to stage to head south into the Exumas.