… hope all is well. In my paragraph THREE I say I simply fax or scan a copy of the Cruising Permit to the vendor, and have them tape it to the box ! Anything I have shipped over I always have the shipper tape a copy of the Permit to the box. I've had a number of things shipped into Staniel. I think there the Cruising Permit probably really doesn't matter, I think they are lax there, I don't even know if there is a Customs agent there ?? I don't think you can clear in at Staniel ? I don't think Customs pays any attention at Staniel. The stuff just shows up at the Yacht Club door. When I had one of my laptops shipped in, I sailed from GT up to Staniel because I was pretty sure I would not have a problem there, and was certain I would in GT. Probably saved me hundreds of dollars and lots of hassle. In GT, Marsh, Eleuthera … another matter as stuff always goes through the Customs Office and these guys can be pricks, some of them try very hard to be unfortunately.

A lot of folks don't realize you also need to get a Fishing Permit when you get your Cruising Permit, it is free. Without, you really aren't supposed to fish. If you or a guest flies out of the Bahamas, showing the Cruising Permit will avoid the airport tax. And if you are flying into the Bahamas one way, you will need to show a Cruising Permit, as that will be their proof you have a means to leave … so inbound guests who plan to sail back to Florida with you should have a copy as well.

Cheers, John