Bahamas Chatter is produced by Explorer Chartbooks, A CRUISERS NET PARTNER, which has long been the standard navigational supplement for enjoyable, informative, and safe cruising through the beautiful Bahamian waters and island visits.

Bahamas Chatter: Bahamas Immigration Update
Bahamas Immigration Update

Posted: 27 Mar 2020 10:55 AM PDT

OFFICIAL REPORT FROM BIMINI IMMIGRATION

March 27, 20

We just spoke with an officer at the Bahamas Office of Immigration in Bimini. He told us, “The entire Bahamas is in LOCKDOWN.” Here is the policy for cruising yachts:

UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE:

STAY HOME AND STAY SAFE. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY.

ON A BOAT IN BAHAMAS NOW: If you are in the Bahamas with a cruising permit, you are allowed to stay in the country until your visa expires. However, in a community such as Bimini, you are encouraged to stay on your boat except for going ashore for necessities like food and fuel or medical assistance. If you are out after the 9 p.m. all-Bahamas curfew, the police can arrest you.

ON A BOAT DESIRING TO GO TO THE BAHAMAS: You will not be allowed to clear Customs and Immigration, nor will you be allowed ashore. You will be refused entry into the country. You will be given the opportunity to get fuel and food and will be turned back to the U.S.

CLOSED: Bars, liquor stores, some marinas, some restaurants (call ahead). The official said it is “almost martial law.”

OPEN: Essential government services such as hospitals, clinics, police, customs/immigration offices.

For the latest updates, Please check with Bahamas.gov or search the Internet for articles in the Nassau Guardian or Tribune.

Wishing you safe and healthy cruising,

Sara and Monty Lewis

Explorer Chartbooks