From our partners at Explorer Chartbooks, the following updates for Exuma Park fees. The 176 square mile Exuma Cays Land and Sea National Park, created in 1958, was the first land and sea park in the world and is one of the most successful marine parks.
With commercial airlines limiting and cancelling flights, Makers
Air is continuing to schedule flights with every safety precaution in mind. Growing from its initial operations servicing Staniel Cay, Makers Air is today’s premier air service to and from the Out Islands of the Bahamas. Staniel Cay Yacht Club, a longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is a favorite destination for cruisers in the Exumas.
Cruisers Net Team Member, Winston Fowler, took this photo of a dinghy from Highfield Boats, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, at Staniel Cay Yacht Club, also a CRUISERS NET SPONSOR!
Bahamas Chatter is published 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.
Staniel Cay Yacht Club, a longtime CRUISERS NET SPONSOR and a favorite destination for cruisers in the Exumas, is excited to announce the addition of 21 new moorings balls in the vicinity of their marina.
Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club is a premier yacht club in the Abacos and A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR! If you cruise to Abacos and Marsh Harbour area, you should consider joining this great group of like minded cruisers. See also Bahamas Chatter.
The following is an update on what’s happening in the Abacos. Evidence of rebuilding is everywhere and great progress has been made. Basically, there is no reason to stay away any longer.
Of course, everything is not open yet, but enough is open so you can be comfortable and well supplied. The vegetation is returning, the flowers are blooming, the birds are singing and the people are as friendly and welcoming as ever. If not for the Covid-19 pandemic, there would be more boats cruising around. The Bahamas Health Visa requirements are necessary for everyone’s well being, but very do-able.
Because of the current Covid-19 restrictions imposed on Great Abaco and Marsh Harbor, RMHYC members have not made their way there yet but hope to soon.
Below are some pictures showing evidence of the good work done by the various organizations to which the RMHYC made donations last year; it helped make a difference.
Water Mission water maker on the freight pier at Green Turtle Cay. Although the municipal water system is up and running via a pipe from mainland Abaco, this unit is kept in service for emergency use.
Another view of the unit. The smaller square tank is clean water to be dispensed into jugs or bottles for emergency use or for those not yet fully connected to the municipal system.
Samaritan’s Purse arrived in Hope Town soon after the hurricane and installed heavy blue tarps to close in buildings in the area. Not much of that remains since a lot has been repaired or rebuilt. It has been 18 months since the storm and this tarp remains tight as a drum, a testament to the quality of the materials and the commitment of the installers.
Another building in Hope Town showing a blue tarp by Samaritan’s Purse. Notice the black spray paint marking the building. This was done by emergency responders and is dated 8 Sept, just a few days after the storm subsided. These markings are still visible on quite a few buildings.
World Central Kitchen was on the scene early and provided many thousands of hot meals for anyone who needed them. This picture shows the label from something provided by WCK. The label is sitting on the bottom of the sea beside the Hope Town Sailing Club dinghy dock. The water is as clear as ever!
Cruisers Net is proud to support the Royal Marsh Harbour Yacht Club, whose members are willing to support, protect, and preserve the wonderful and beautiful islands of the Bahamas, especially in and around Marsh Harbour. They will be uploading pictures to the Club website RMHYC.com as time and internet connectivity allows. Look in the Photo Albums section. Newest pix will be at the top.
The Explorer Team has been hard at work on their newly designed website with new content and updated information for you, the Bahamas cruiser. The new platform means that you’ll need to sign up to continue access to their free Bahamas Chatter Forum. We invite you to visit and join for free!
Bahamas Chatter is published 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.
Our contacts in the Abacos have updated us on things our Bahamas Cruisers will want to know before they go. The Explorer Chartbook Near Bahamas 9th edition contains a more detailed update as of fall 2020. Since then, the able Abaconians have made amazing progress on restoring what was devastated by Hurricane Dorian. Please send us first-hand updates to share when you get them. Here’s the latest from locals:
Marsh Harbour
BANKS:
Commonwealth is open at Maxwells.
Royal Bank has a small office in town.
1st Caribbean CIBC is reopening soon.
ATMs are located in various places in town, including Rubis Gas Station and the airport.
BOAT RENTALS: Harbour View, Cruise Abaco.
CRUISERS’ NET: Tune in to Channel 16 for announcements of Cruisers’ Net time and VHF channel. Announcements are being made with daily updates for area services and facilities. Listen for the ever-changing updates.
DINGHY LANDING: Union Jack dock has been repaired as a dinghy dock in the harbour.
FERRY SERVICE: Two services are now operational with service to Hope Town, Man o War, Guana Cay. The former Albury’s Ferry is now “The Ferry.” G&L also offers a full schedule of trips.
FUEL: Boat Harbour Marina.
GROCERIES:
Maxwells is fully open, also offering an ATM machine.
Abaco Groceries is also open, with a liquor store as well.
HARDWARE: National Hardware open. Also Yamaha has a new building . The Outboard Shop now services Suzuki, Evinrude and Yamaha (no sales).
LODGING: The Island Breeze Motel on the harbour is open. They also have car rentals.
MARINAS: Harbour View Marina and Cruise Abaco have some rentals available.
Harbour View Marina is working hard to get their docks fully functional. Docks have been stabilized and new wiring is being installed now. The reception area buildings will be next.
The Conch Inn docks are gone. Reconstruction has begun with expectations of reopening in 2022. The Moorings charter companies are still operational, keeping their boats at anchor. Snappa’s will be rebuilt on the Conch Inn site with a summer 2021 opening planned.
Marsh Harbour Marina has one dock open. Work is being done to restore the Jib Room Restaurant and boutique.
Boat Harbour at Abaco Beach Resort offers full services with dockage and fuel. The reception area and restaurant areas are still under tents, but reconstruction is ongoing. The marina plans three fishing tournaments for the spring.
MEDICAL SERVICES: Hospital was used for refugee shelter and is being renovated. Integrated Medical Services mobile medical unit offering assistance and treatment.
PROPANE: Abaco Gas will fill your propane tank on the spot.
RESTAURANTS:Wally’s will be opening soon. Snappa’s will be coming to the Conch Inn property. The Jib Room is being rebuilt. Stay tuned for opening dates. Several takeouts are available in walking distance from the harbour. A waterside cabana, located at the old site of Long’s Seafood, is serving food.
TELEPHONE: Some land lines have been restored by BTC, but not all telephones are connected. The local land line exchange is 365. Cable Bahamas phones are more reliable with 699 numbers. Also ALIV with 559 and 801 exchanges are reliable. Many folks switched to ALIV, which generously gave free phones and phone cards at the outset of Hurricane Dorian. Since there is no directory, we are slow to get new phone numbers listed for these customers.
CAUTION: Although progress has been made, there is still much debris in the water, particularly in the inner anchorage area of Marsh Harbour. Some obstructions are buoyed; some are not. Proceed with great caution. Also, locals warn of increased crime ashore. Because most streetlights are still not working, it is unwise to wander ashore at night.
HOPE TOWN
Mostly cleaned up with businesses in various stages of reopening. Lighthouse Marina has fuel at the dock. Hope Town Inn and Marina is yet to be fully opened.
MAN O WAR
Harbour cleaned up. Marina docks are gone with no current progress on reconstruction. Hibiscus Restaurant is open.
TREASURE CAY: Treasure Cay Marina is under reconstruction with a few slips available. Moorings are available as well. The fuel dock is open.
GUANA CAY
Progress continues with waterfront businesses beginning to reopen. A new grocery is coming on the harbour. Orchid Bay Marina has some services and is making progress.
GREEN TURTLE CAY
Green Turtle Cay, as a community, has made great strides to getting the cay back to normal. The Green Turtle Club is fully operational and welcoming visitors. Bluff House Marina is still undergoing repairs before reopening.
Bahamas Chatter is published 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.
I’ve got a question that I’m hoping you might be able to help with, and the internet so far has been less-than-helpful. I notice in the Explorer charts and many other guides the use of the term “sand bore.” Explorer defines this on several charts as a “fluid, shifting, live sand bar.”
Can anyone shed some light on the origins of the term, or perhaps point me towards some reference materials? How exactly is a bore different than a “shifting sand bar,” a term often used on the same chart near the same feature? I know there are several geographic places where the term is used, but my question is mostly academic. What exactly is a sand bore?
This advisory is from Tripadvisor and the US Embassy in the Bahamas.
Dear traveler, Are you considering an international trip? If so, read on. The CDC has issued a COVID-19 order that may impact your plans for re-entering the United States. Effective January 26, 2021 travelers arriving in the U.S. must: 1) Get tested for COVID-19 no more than 3 days before departing to the United States and show a negative test result to the airline before boarding OR 2) show documentation of recent recovery from COVID-19 to the airline before boarding. This new order applies to all air passengers — including U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents — aged 2 years and older. It also applies regardless of the length of time spent outside of the United States. Acceptable documentation of recovery from COVID-19 includes both a positive viral test result within 3 months of travel (or the time period specified in current CDC guidance) AND a letter from a healthcare provider or public health official stating that the passenger is cleared to end isolation. Passengers who have tested positive for COVID-19 will need to delay their travel until they meet the criteria to end isolation; learn more here. Need more information? Visit this FAQ page at CDC.gov.
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
Here are some responses we got back from a query to update you on what is going on in the Abacos. PLEASE SEND US ANY FIRST-HAND INFORMATION YOU HAVE TO SHARE WITH FELLOW CRUISERS.
GREEN TURTLE CAY: Many repairs going on in Abaco. Green Turtle Cay is doing well all things considered. You can purchase diesel and unleaded gasoline at Green Turtle Club Marina or at Sunset Marine both on Green Turtle Cay
Bluff House Marina 242-824-6231(cell) and restaurant and pool were destroyed but are currently being rebuilt. Beach Bar restaurant (Tranquil Turtle Beach Bar) will be open by the 1st of March, rooms and villas are projected to be available for rent by the 1st of May (maybe a few of the villas in advance of that date. Email frontdesk@bluffhouse.com for more info on availability).
Many restaurants and bars and stores are open, freight boats arriving several times a week bringing in building materials for businesses and home owners that are fixing their homes for rental.
Green Turtle Club Resort & Marina is open.
Regarding COVID: Keep checking the Bahamas.com website for updates. There is no quarantining currently unless you test positive while here. We have had no confirmed cases on Green Turtle Cay. We are a port of entry; cruisers should call to arrange clearing and regarding the 5 day Rapid antigen test if staying more than 4 nights. Call Green Turtle Club for more information.
From Bluff House: We thank all of the Cruisers that have helped people on Green Turtle Cay since Hurricane Dorian and want them to know how hard we are working to be able to welcome them back and are in fact welcoming guests back on Green Turtle Cay already. There are volunteers on the island and volunteers from the island that are currently helping to rebuild homes and to provide drinking water, etc. Things are being built back better than ever. Most people are either back in their homes or close to being back after 18 months of living in other people’s homes.
GUANA CAY: Orchid Bay Marina is presently open from Monday – Saturday from 7:00 – 1:00 pm for fuel and boats coming in. Our restaurant is not open at this time. We have gas, diesel, ice, electricity, water and gift shop items. Orchid Bay’s land line 242-365-5175 is working.
Grocery store is rebuilding on the front street. The original Guana Harbour grocery is not reopening.
Grabbers Bar and Restaurant has reopened; Mama’s Takeaway has reopened; Guana Lumber and dive Guana too.
At present, a negative COVID test is required upon entering the Bahamas. After being here 5 days you must have the rapid test done. They apparently have done away with the quarantine. It appears that the cases in Abaco have decreased.
LITTLE HARBOUR, ABACO: At Pete’s Pub & Gallery, the Johnstons are overjoyed to be able to welcome everyone back. Please don’t hesitate to contact them with any questions or concerns. They hope to see you soon. Greg & Heather Johnston 242-357-6648 242-577-5487
From a cruiser in Spanish Wells, we had this up-to-date report on real-time experience:
Generally, Store owners are requiring people to wear masks inside their businesses.
Yachtsmen are cooperating with wearing masks in public.
“With the Bahamas policy we feel pretty sure that most newly arrived cruisers are negative (especially after the second test) but most cruisers are not socializing with each other.”
The concern among the cruising community is being careful not to get COVID from the locals.
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.
Just talked to a captain returning from a Christmas/New Years trip to the Bahamas. Come for the sunshine….go home with Covid. 4 people have already tested positive and others are having symptoms. Damn it…wear a mask and be careful everyone or we’ll never get to travel
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Comments from Cruisers (2)
Perry- January 22, 2021 - 1:18 pm
Since you have to COVID free to receive the shots I would hope they would accept us.
I have been following the continuously changing policies for entry into the Bahamas. My wife and I just got our first of two vaccines for Covid (we got Moderna). Is anyone hearing that proof of vaccination may in the future suffice for entry into the Bahamas?
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: “Oil exploration to begin in the Santaran Channel” plus 1 more
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: “News from Recent Survey” plus 1 more
In our December 15 survey of various Bahamas marinas for Fuel and Dockage Updates, we discovered a new trend among several Bahamas marinas.
With more and more large yachts coming to The Bahamas, it is evident that they are being favored over smaller cruising boats.
Here are some of our findings:
Increased tie-up fees to stop and clear Customs–Cat Cay Yacht Club $500.
Added fees to go ashore and walk about–Chub Cay Club $59 weekdays and $95 weekends per person.
Extra fee to get fuel–Lyford Cay $1/ft.
Members Only–Albany Marina, Chub Cay Club. Lyford Cay provides transient dockage with a written sponsorship from a member.
Refusing to give dockage rates on phone—Browns Marina, Bimini.
Some good news to share: The folks at Harbour View Marina n Marsh Harbour are working hard to rebuild after Hurricane Dorian and are targeting a spring 2021 reopening. Marsh Harbour Marina and Hope Town Marina are also working on rebuilding to reopen as soon as possible.
A note on fuel availability: Stella Maris Marina has some small amounts of fuel available onsite but can call a delivery truck for larger quantities.
We love it when you share what you see as you cruise The Bahamas. Feel free to post any news you find as you travel!
Planning to sail from Miami to the Abacos this week probably anchoring at Great Sale or beyond.. Where is the most user friendly port to ”clear in”in the ”Hub” area, between there and Hopetown. Will probably arrive over the weekend….are there any facilities open over the weekend (as there used to be in Marsh Harbor)?
The Bahamas government has entered into an official agreement with the United States for search and rescue missions. Our thanks to Greg Allard for this article.
Minister of Tourism and Aviation Dionisio D’Aguilar (left) and US Embassy Charge d’Affaires John McNamara sign the agreement.
Whether you’ve found yourself in Florida after a trip down the ICW or you call the Sunshine State your home, when you’re boating in Florida, the Bahamas beckons. A great article from our friends at DOCKWA.
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.
PRIME MINISTER STATEMENT ON EXUMA: INTRODUCED MEASURES TO REDUCE SPREAD OF COVID-19 IN EXUMA Prime Minister, Dr. Hubert Minnis announced the following restrictive measures for Exuma, effective Thursday, November 12:
1. There will be a 24-hour weekend curfew from 6pm Friday until 5am Mondays; businesses will not be allowed to operate during this time;
2. Weekday curfew will be from 6pm to 5am;
3. Commercial activity can continue through the week can continue save for fish frys, bars, and restaurants connected to bars;
4. Funerals are allowed at the graveside only and can have 10 people excluding the officiant; the same number of people is applicable to weddings – there will also be no repasts or receptions;
5. Church services are to be held virtually;6. Schools must be held virtually;
7. Effective tomorrow, domestic travel by air or sea is prohibited into and out of Exuma except in the case of emergency;
8. Anyone travelling from Exuma to any other island, must have a negative RT-PCR COVID-19 test;
9. No public or social gatherings are allowed.Dr. Minnis said these measures do not apply to the Exuma Cays.“I know this is short notice but this is essential after seeing what has happened on several past occasions,” he said.
The prime minister further explained that Exuma has recorded over 30 new cases in the past week.There are 79 positive cases from the island of Exuma – 28 are active, two are hospitalized and there has been one COVID-19 related death, according to Dr. Minnis. The prime minister also announced that the number of health care professionals on the island have been “boosted.”
“The measures on New Providence and Abaco have helped to decrease the spread of the virus on these islands,” the prime minister said earlier. “I assure you that we can continue to make progress if we continue to work together and wear our masks and avoid large gatherings.”He also said all positive cases are in isolation in Eleuthera and all contacts are being monitored.
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: “New 9th edition Explorer Chartbook Near Bahamas” plus 1 more
Lewis Offshore Ltd. is announcing the publication of the latest edition in the Explorer stable of chartbooks for the Bahamas: The EXPLORER CHARTBOOK NEAR BAHAMAS 9TH EDITION, which covers Biminis, Berrys, Abacos, Grand Bahamas, Andros and New Providence.
There are 80 charts in the new book. All charts have been updated with variation on compass roses for 2020, plus much new hydrographic data.
This revision includes four brand new charts:
Victory Cays to South Riding Rock
Great Isaac
Mangrove Cay
Carter Bank (larger scale)
Plus Walkers Cay (new drawing of the marina basin)
Also, you will find the most recent Post-Dorian updates on the Abacos and Grand Bahama facilities and services.
All Need-to-Know Info for each community has been updated, including many new cell phone numbers for local businesses. Land lines are still down in many areas hit by Hurricane Dorian.
Tide Tables are updated for 2021-2022.
The Table of Marinas (spreadsheet of current status of marinas) has been revised as well.
Our new Print on Demand protocol will allow us to make more frequent changes in the future.
The Islands of The Bahamas are currently open and looking forward to welcoming visitors from all countries. There are no restrictions on commercial international travel from any jurisdiction, nor are there restrictions on private planes or boats.
It is recommended that all travellers interested in visiting The Bahamas review requirements applicable to each member of their party at Bahamas.com/travelupdatesbefore booking a trip, to determine what steps need to be taken to be granted entry.
Those who booked travel under the former protocols that required an RT PCR test taken seven (7) days prior to travel will be permitted to enter The Bahamas with their Bahamas Health Travel Visa and negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result, through November 6, 2020 only.
Travellers planning to visit The Bahamas should also be prepared to:
Monitor business websites (airlines, hotels, attractions, etc.) for changes in protocols.
Avoid travelling when they feel ill.
Follow The Bahamas’ “Healthy Traveller Campaign” which includes the ongoing practice of:
Physical distancing measures
Regularly washing hands
Wearing PPE such as face masks when appropriate
Frequently Asked Questions as of 10.31.20
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: TESTING, INSURANCE AND HEALTH VISA
PRE-TRAVEL TESTING:
Is a COVID-19 RT-PCR Negative (Swab) Test required to enter The Bahamas?
Yes. All persons travelling to The Bahamas must first obtain a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR (swab) test taken no more than five (5) days prior to the date of arrival. The name and address of the lab where the test was performed must be clearly displayed on the test result.
Upon arrival, any person presenting a test older than five (5) days will notbe allowed entry into The Bahamas.
Children age ten (10) and under, as well as pilots and crew of commercial airlines who remain overnight in The Bahamas, are exempt from obtaining the RT-PCR test.
Is this also true for domestic inter-island travellers?
Persons travelling inter-island from New Providence to other islands are required to undergo a RT-PCR test no more than five (5) days prior to travel and produce a negative result.
Persons travelling from a Family Island to New Providence do not need to take a RT-PCR prior to travel; however, will need to undergo a RT-PCR before returning to the Family Island from New Providence.
Where can I get a COVID-19 RT-PCR (swab) test prior to travel?
Contact your health care professional to receive a COVID-19 RT-PCR Test.
Can I use my Antigen or Antibody Test to enter the Country?
No, only a negative RT-PCR (swab) test from a referenced lab will be considered a VALID test to be granted entry into The Bahamas.
COVID HEALTH INSURANCE
Does The Bahamas require separate COVID Health Insurance?
Beginning November 14, all visitors entering The Bahamas will be required to opt into the Health Insurance coverage when applying for their Bahamas Health Visa (More details on Bahamas Health Visa below).
The COVID Health Insurance will cover visitors for the duration of their stay in the event they become ill with COVID-19 while in The Bahamas.
What is included as part of the COVID Health Insurance?
Coverage includes:
Medical expenses incurred on-island due to COVID-19, up to $50,000 (USD)
Trip interruption/delay for necessary quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19, up to $500 (USD) per day/$7,000 (USD) max
Medical evacuation and/or repatriation of remains due to COVID-19, and subject to medical necessity, up to $100,000 (USD)
How much does the COVID Health Insurance cost?
The cost of the required COVID Health Insurance is included in the Bahamas Health Visa and paid in advance of travel.
HEALTH VISA
Who needs to complete an electronic Bahamas Travel Health Visa?
All travellers arriving via commercial flights, as well as by private planes, private boats, yachts or pleasure craft, are required to apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa at travel.gov.bs by selecting the International option and completing all required fields.
It is mandatory that a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result be uploaded to complete the Health Visa application.
Beginning November 14, travellers must also opt in for Health Insurance coverage.
Name of applicant must exactly match name on applicant’s valid passport.
Households are encouraged to use one email address per family/household to receive responses. Groups may opt to use the same method of collecting responses through one email facility.
Is a Health Visa required for domestic inter-island travellers?
Yes, all those travelling inter-island – both residents and visitors – will be required to complete an electronic Travel Health Visa, via the domestic or international sections, as appropriate.
Is there a fee for the Bahamas Travel Health Visa?
Yes, there is a fee for the Travel Health Visa, which will be dependent on length of stay. Fees include costs for required COVID insurance, as well as the rapid antigen tests for those staying more than four (4) nights, five (5) days. (More details on rapid testing below)
$40 – Visitors staying up to four (4) nights and five (5) days
$40 – Citizens and returning residents
$60 – Visitors staying more than four (4) nights
Free – Children ten (10) years and under
How do I upload my COVID-19 RT-PCR test results to my electronic Travel Health Visa?
Each applicant will be required to upload their individual negative test results. Please ensure each application is submitted with the corresponding test result.
Travellers should upload ALL pages of the test results report, even if there are multiple pages.
Please ensure your test results state clearly the following information:
Name of Applicant (must match the name used on the application form)
Confirmation of a negative result
Type of test – RT- PCR (not an antigen test nor an antibody test)
Date the test was administered (collection date of swab), not to exceed five (5) days prior to the date of arrival
Name and address of the accredited lab where test was performed
For travellers from other countries, labs that have been accredited by the local medical health officials should be used.
Children age ten (10) and under are exempt from requiring a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test; they will, however, be required to have their application submitted by a parent/guardian.
Proof of age must be uploaded (applicable passport page, birth certificate and/or other government-issued ID).
When will I receive a response about my Bahamas Travel Health Visa?
Health Visa applications take up to 72 hours to process so they should be completed with adequate lead time.
Applicants will receive an automated response within 1 hour of submission indicating the application is being processed. Travellers should not apply again unless they do not receive the automated response within the hour.
An approved Health Visa will receive a green code, and proof of confirmation should be presented at check-in and upon arrival in the destination.
If a Health Visa application is pending, visitor will receive a yellow code which means it requires additional review.
If a Health Visa application is denied, visitor will receive a red color code and will not be permitted entry to The Bahamas.
Travellers shouldnotsubmit more than one application per person travelling (per trip). Do NOT submit multiple applications.
For all questions regarding the Travel Health Visa process, or to check on the status of your application, contact healthvisa@bahamas.com.
Is a print version of my electronic Travel Health Visa required?
Yes, please ensure you print your Approved (Green) Bahamas Travel Health Visa Response issued electronically by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism and the Bahamas Ministry of Health.
What if I do not complete the electronic Travel Health Visa application form?
Travellers who fail to complete an electronic Travel Health Visa application form or provide a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR Negative (Swab) Test from an accredited lab will be denied entry to The Bahamas and are subject to fines and possible imprisonment.
How long are Health Visas valid for? Will visitors and residents be required to get a new Health Visa each time they travel?
Travel Health Visas are valid for the duration of each individual traveller’s trip. Because a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test result be uploaded to complete the Health Visa application with test date no more than five (5) days prior to the date of arrival, it is necessary for all travellers to apply for a new Health Visa with each trip.
POTENTIAL FOR CHANGES TO REQUIREMENTS
What is the plan for the tourism industry should The Bahamas see a dramatic rise in cases?
Due to fluidity of the COVID-19 situation, both in The Bahamas and worldwide, protocols are subject to change.
The Bahamas is an archipelago with more than 700 islands and cays, spread over 100,000 square miles, which means conditions and instances of the virus can be different on each of the 16 islands available to welcome visitors.
Travellers should check the status of their island destination before travelling by visiting Bahamas.com/travelupdates.
Will persons wishing to travel from an island with a higher number of cases be permitted to enter an island with a low number of cases?
All travellers must follow appropriate testing, visa and insurance protocols to be granted entry to any island.
Per the current Emergency Orders, there are restrictions for persons travelling from an island with mandatory lockdown orders in place.
A person should not be permitted to travel from an island for which notice has been given of an impending lockdown order or for which additional measures and restrictions have been imposed.
Travellers should check the status of their island destination before travelling, by visiting Bahamas.com/travelupdates.
ARRIVAL PROCESS: TESTING PROCEDURES (AS OF NOVEMBER 1)
INSURANCE, CONTACT TRACING AND RAPID ANTIBODY TESTS (NOV 14 AND LATER)
Do I need to quarantine upon arrival in The Bahamas?
Beginning November 1, The Islands of The Bahamas will have streamlined entry protocols that will remove the Vacation-in-Place requirement and enable visitors to better and more seamlessly enjoy The Bahamas vacation experience.
What are the updated travel and entry protocols?
Specifics of the new protocols, which go into effect on November 1, are as follows:
·
Prior to Travel:
o COVID-19 RT-PCR Test: All persons travelling to The Bahamas must obtain a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR (swab) test taken no more thanfive (5) daysprior to the date of arrival. The name and address of the lab, where the test was performed, must be clearly displayed on the test result.
· Children age ten (10) and under, as well as pilots and crew of commercial airlines, who remain overnight in The Bahamas, are exempt from obtaining the RT-PCR test.
o Travel Health Visa: Once in possession of a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test, all travellers will then be required to apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa at travel.gov.bs (click on the International Tab) where the required test must be uploaded.
· Beginning November 14, all visitors will be required to opt in to mandatory COVID-19 health insurance when applying for their Health Visa.
o The insurance will cover travellers for the duration of their stay in The Bahamas.
· A fee for the visa will be dependent on length of stay (ranging from $40-60 USD) and includes expenses for COVID Health Insurance and rapid antigen testing as appropriate.
o Children age ten (10) and under will be covered at no extra charge and are exempt from taking a rapid antigen test. (more on visa pricing above)
· Upon Arrival
o Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Testing (if applicable): all persons who are staying in The Bahamas longer than four (4) nights and five (5) days will be required to take a rapid COVID-19 antigen test.
· All visitors departing on or before five days will not be required to obtain this test.
· The rapid tests are easy, quick and will yield results in 60 minutes or less with results being provided electronically via SMS text message and email.
· Many hotel properties will provide relevant information on testing arrangements, while others will facilitate the required rapid test for their guests.
· All persons on yachts and other pleasure craft will be able to make arrangements for their required rapid tests at the port of entry or via the relevant website.
· All other visitors, returning residents and citizens – those staying or returning to private residences or rental properties such as Airbnb – will be able to make arrangements for their required rapid tests at the port of entry or via the relevant website.
o Any visitor who exhibits COVID symptoms upon arrival or at any time during their stay will be required to take a Rapid Antigen Test and receive a negative result before being permitted to continue with their vacation.
· If a person tests positive they will be required to follow up with a COVID-19 RT-PCR swab test.
Who has to take a rapid antigen test?
All persons who are staying in The Bahamas longer than four (4) nights and five (5) days will be required to take a rapid COVID-19 antigen test.
Children age ten (10) and under are exempt from taking rapid antigen tests.
Where can I make arrangements to take a rapid test if I’m staying longer than four (4) nights and five (5) days?
Many hotel properties will provide relevant information on testing arrangements, while others will facilitate the required rapid test for their guests.
All persons on yachts and other pleasure craft will be able to make arrangements for their required rapid tests at the port of entry or via the relevant website.
All other visitors, returning residents and citizens – those staying or returning to private residences or rental properties such as Airbnb – will be able to make arrangements for their required rapid tests at the port of entry or via the relevant website.
How much does the rapid test cost?
The cost of the rapid antigen test is included in the Bahamas Health Visa and paid in advance of travel.
How long until rapid test results are ready?
The rapid tests are easy, quick and will yield results in 60 minutes or less with results being provided electronically by SMS text message and email.
What if I have a positive result on my rapid antigen test?
All positive test results are reported to the Ministry of Health who will conduct additional clinical screening per their own mandates.
If an on-island rapid test returns positive, that person will be required to follow up with a COVID-19 RT-PCR swab test.
With a positive result, the traveller may either:
Leave the destination via approved medical transportation (using either insurance or personal resources)
Quarantine at their booked place of stay
There is no mandatory government facility where visitors will be sent.
How will the Ministry combat the risk of asymptomatic persons?
The Ministry is implementing these new protocols to mitigate the risk by ensuring multiple testing touch points which include testing prior to arrival as well as tracking, monitoring and an additional test 5 days upon arrival.
ON ISLAND EXPERIENCE: TOURISM PROTOCOLS
Restaurants, Businesses and Attractions
Are on-island businesses, restaurants and attractions operating normally?
Notwithstanding any public health restrictions that may be implemented from time to time, all travellers abiding by these new protocols will be permitted to move about and explore the beauty and vibrant culture of The Bahamas beyond the confines of their hotel or other accommodations.
Conditions and instances of the virus can be different on each of the 16 islands available to welcome visitors.
The current situation in Grand Bahama Island,Nassau & Paradise Island and Abaco requires increased restrictions.
Travellers should check the status of their island destination before travelling by visiting Bahamas.com/travelupdates.
What are the requirements for travellers who are staying on an island that has curfew or lockdown measures in place?
Visitors will be required to adhere to all island restrictions, including curfew and lockdown measures, applicable to the island where they are staying .
Hotel guests must stay within hotel grounds for the duration of the lockdown or curfew period, however, are permitted to move about the property and access all available amenities.
What is the status of beaches?
Beaches are operating normally, with a few exceptions:
New Providence and Abaco are abiding by weekend lockdown orders, and so beaches and parks on these islands will be closed for the weekend, from 8 p.m. on Friday until 5 a.m. Monday (excluding Green Turtle Cay, Grand Cay, Man-O-War Cay and Elbow Cay).
When do I have to wear a face mask?
All travellers must wear a face mask in any situation where it is necessary to enforce physical distancing guidelines, such as:
When entering and transiting air and sea terminals
During security and customs screenings
At baggage claim
When checking in and boarding aircraft, vessel or other form of transportation
When travelling in a taxi
When standing in lines
When entering any establishment
While checking into a hotel
Do I have to wear a face mask at the beach?
Face masks are not mandatory on the beach but must be worn in all other public spaces that surround the beach and while entering and exiting the beach.
Social distancing is mandatory on the beach
What if I don’t wear a face mask?
All persons, including Bahamian residents and visitors are subject to a new fine of $200 or a penalty of one month imprisonment, or both, if they are found not wearing face masks in areas where it is required.
What is the “Clean & Pristine”Certification?
A Certification Agency has been established – representing a collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism & Aviation, Ministry of Health, and other regulatory agencies – to enforce a “Clean & Pristine” Certification Program.
All tourism related, customer-facing entities in The Bahamas must verify they have in place and are adhering to the Government approved health and safety guidelines to receive Clean & Pristine certification. Adequate signage outlining policies will be clearly displayed at all locations, helping to guide staff and visitors.
What are the safety measures in place for front line staff and those that work in the tourism industry at all points of entry?
All tourism related, customer-facing entities in The Bahamas must verify they have in place and are adhering to the Government approved health and safety guidelines outlined by the Clean & Pristine certification (more on Clean & Pristine certification below).
All visitors, staff and residents are required to practice social distancing and adhere to mandatory mask wearing in public places.
What does this mean for Taxis and Independent Cars?
Passengers to wear masks at all times throughout journey
Passengers should not ride in front seat
Vehicles to reduce the maximum number of people by 50%:
Sedans = 2 persons or a family travelling together
SUVs = 4 persons
What does this mean for Hotels, Resorts and Vacation Rentals?
Extensive health and safety protocols enforced; details will be clearly stated by specific institutions
Enhanced cleaning for guest rooms
Hand sanitizer and disinfectant readily available
Employee health monitoring
Limiting guests in elevators
What does this mean for Restaurants, Food & Beverage Services?
Buffets discontinued until further notice
All meals must be served at individual tables where social distance is adhered to, or meals must be prepackaged
Disposable menus offered or displayed on monitors or chalkboards
Seating to accommodate for physical distancing of guests; limiting number of guests
What does this mean for Excursions, Tours, Local Attractions and Shopping?
Maximum number of guests and duration of guest visit limited
Guests to use personal gear (such as snorkeling gear) as appropriate
Guests will not be allowed to touch products unless purchasing
Cashless sales encouraged
Beach chairs to allow 6ft. physical distancing between family units; gatherings limited to 5 persons
Cleaning timetable / checklist to be maintained
What does this mean for Vessel and Ferry Operations?
Maximum passengers onboard reduced by 50%
Passenger seating assigned to ensure proper distancing
Vessel sanitizing:
Before any passenger embarks
Between all passenger exchanges
On high touch surfaces consistently during passage
Comments from Cruisers (1)
Shame that the cruising fees have double , Don't mind the park fees.