Arriving in Harbour Island by private boat is a scenic and enjoyable experience, but it requires following strict customs and immigration procedures to ensure you’re in compliance with Bahamian regulations. Understanding these steps ahead of time will make your arrival smoother and stress-free.
Harbour Island is an official Port of Entry in The Bahamas, which means you can clear customs at several designated locations including Romora Bay Marina, Valentines Marina, and the Harbour Island Public Dock. As per Boat Customs Harbour Island protocols, the moment your vessel enters Bahamian waters, the captain should hoist the yellow “Q” quarantine flag to signal that the boat has not yet cleared customs. It's important to note that only the captain is allowed to disembark and begin the clearance process, while all other crew members and passengers must remain aboard until the vessel is officially cleared by authorities.
Upon docking, the captain must promptly notify Bahamian Customs and Immigration. If arriving at a marina, the marina staff will usually assist in initiating contact with the appropriate officials. The documents required include a completed Bahamas Customs Clearance Form (C2A), Bahamas Immigration Cards for each passenger, proof of citizenship such as valid passports, vessel registration papers, and a Maritime Declaration of Health if needed. A cruising permit is also required and can be issued upon arrival or completed in advance using the Click2Clear online system, which is recommended for efficiency.
Fees are determined based on the length of your vessel and the intended duration of stay. These cover your cruising permit, a fishing permit, and departure tax for up to three passengers, with additional individuals incurring a small extra charge. Boats under 34 feet pay $150 for a stay of up to three months, while vessels over 200 feet can expect to pay up to $1,000 for the same duration. These fees are consistent with the standard rates listed under Boat Customs Harbour Island regulations and help fund marine services and compliance efforts throughout The Bahamas.
As highlighted in many Harbour Island Guide resources, special considerations apply if you're carrying firearms or pets. Firearms, limited to handguns or shotguns, must be declared with full details including serial number and ammunition count. These must remain secured onboard and cannot be brought onto the island. Pets, meanwhile, require an import permit acquired in advance, along with health certificates and proof of rabies vaccination. The fishing permit included with your cruising fee allows recreational fishing, but you must observe local catch limits and conservation rules.
For a smooth sailing experience, make sure you review all entry requirements before your journey. Most Harbour Island Guide recommendations stress the importance of preparing documents in advance and staying informed about the latest customs regulations. With everything in order, your arrival by boat will be a seamless and memorable introduction to one of The Bahamas' most charming destinations.
