Navigating the 2025 Maritime Policy: Safety, Sustainability, and Modernization

As of July 1, 2025, the Bahamian government has implemented a comprehensive update to its maritime fee structure and safety regulations under the Port Authorities (Amendment) Bill. These changes are designed to modernize the entry process, enhance vessel tracking through mandatory AIS for larger yachts, and generate revenue dedicated to the protection of the archipelago's fragile marine ecosystems. For visiting boaters, these updates shift many formerly bundled services (such as fishing permits) into separate, tiered categories based on vessel length. All processing and payments are now streamlined through the Click2Clear digital portal to ensure transparency and efficiency.

Cruising Permit Fees (12-Month Validity)

The standard cruising permit is valid for up to 12 months. This fee includes Customs and Immigration attendance and transportation charges.

• Vessels up to 34 feet: $500
• Vessels 34 feet to 100 feet: $1,000
• Vessels over 100 feet: $3,000

Note: The permit allows for two entries within a 30-day window under the same payment.

Frequent Digital Cruising Card (FDCC)

For vessels that visit Bahamian waters multiple times throughout the year, the FDCC serves as a two-year multi-entry permit.

• Vessels up to 34 feet: $1,500
• Vessels 34 feet to 100 feet: $2,500
• Vessels over 100 feet: $8,000

Fishing Permit Fees

Fishing permits are separate from the cruising permit and must be renewed every 30 days.

• Vessels under 50 feet: $100 per 30 days
• Vessels 50 feet and over: $300 per 30 days

Anchorage Fees

Vessels anchoring in Bahamian waters outside of a licensed marina or designated mooring field are subject to an anchorage fee. This fee is valid for the duration of the 12-month cruising permit.

• Vessels up to 34 feet: $200
• Vessels 34 feet to 100 feet: $350
• Vessels over 100 feet: $1,500

Passenger Arrival Tax

A tax applies to non-resident passengers (age six and older) beyond the first three people on board (typically the captain and two guests/crew).

• Per additional passenger: $30

Additional Requirements & Fees

• AIS (Automatic Identification System): Mandatory for all vessels 50 feet and larger while in Bahamian waters (including while anchored or docked). Non-compliance carries a $1,000 fine.
• Tenders: Tenders exceeding 25 feet require their own permit at a cost of $500.
• Departure Clearance: An official clearance certificate for the next port of call outside the Bahamas costs $75.
• Firearms: Must be declared upon arrival with serial numbers and ammunition counts. They must remain under lock and key while the vessel is in Bahamian territory.

Entry Process

1. Pre-Clearance: Submit vessel and crew details via the Click2Clear portal before arrival.
2. Arrival: Fly the yellow quarantine flag. Only the captain may go ashore to present documents to Customs and Immigration at a designated Port of Entry.
3. Courtesy: Once cleared, fly the Bahamian courtesy flag.

Summary of Key Compliance

To ensure a smooth visit under the 2025 regulations, captains should prioritize the following:

• Digital First: Register on Click2Clear before departure to minimize wait times at the Port of Entry.
• AIS Monitoring: If your vessel is 50ft+, ensure your AIS is broadcasting at all times to avoid significant fines.
• Permit Management: Verify whether your planned activities (like fishing) require secondary permits that are no longer included in the base cruising fee.
• Budgeting: Account for the new tiered anchorage fees if you plan to spend time away from marinas.

A New Era of Maritime Stewardship: Preserving the Bahamian Blue Economy

The 2025 updates represent a significant shift toward a more structured and environmentally conscious maritime policy in The Bahamas. While the increased fees and separate permit requirements for fishing and anchoring demand more rigorous trip planning and budgeting, they also reflect the nation's commitment to preserving its world-class marine resources for future generations. By embracing the digital Click2Clear system and adhering to safety mandates like AIS broadcasting, visiting mariners contribute directly to the safety and ecological health of the islands, ensuring that the "700 islands and cays" remain a premier, well-regulated destination for years to come.

Cover image by Source. Supplemental visuals via Source. All rights reserved to their respective creators.