The Bahamas are Back!
Lifted Covid Restrictions Take the Hassle Out of Bahamas Cruising
For more than two years, the pandemic has served up one hassle after another. Looking past and by no means minimizing the obvious health related issues that have affected many that we know and love. There have been plenty of everyday inconveniences. Did you remember to bring your mask? Will my flight be delayed or cancelled? What are the restrictions for International travel? Where can I get a test and how much will it cost?
The Bahamas announced Covid-19 restrictions that began in early 2020 that have varied slightly since inception. The most onerous was a period where the following steps were necessary to enter the country while traveling on a private boat:
- All passengers must have a negative Covid-19 PCR test within 3 days of arrival
- All passengers must have a Bahamas Travel Health Visa
- Visitors must complete a daily health survey while staying in the Bahamas
- Traveling from Island to Island required retesting at an approved Bahamian testing site
- All vessels had to clear customs outbound before departing the Bahamas
Add the new mandatory Click to Clear system for Bahamian Customs and you are starting to cook up a recipe where boaters find the pleasure isn’t worth the pain.
Great News!
All Covid-19 related travel restrictions have been lifted beginning September 20, 2022! Testing, Travel Health Visas, surveys, retesting and outbound clearance restrictions are all a thing of the past. Unrelated to Covid-19, it appears that the new Click to Clear customs system is here to stay. We have experienced patient and knowledgeable guidance from customs officials in several entry ports. Once you complete this process a few times it becomes less daunting.
Bimini and West End are a relatively short hop from the Southeast Florida coast but you will feel like you are in another world when you arrive. The prevailing calm weather during the summer and early Fall months makes it the perfect time to cross the Gulfstream and enjoy a long weekend or more in the crystal clear waters that abound in the Bahamas. Your Unlimited or Unlimited Gold BoatU.S. membership covers tows back to the U.S. from Bimini and West End should you have a mechanical failure that leaves the boat disabled. Membership starts at just $165.00 per year and will provide peace of mind when traveling longer distances offshore. Have fun and be safe!
