Bahamas Customs and Immigration: There are fees for entry to the Bahamas – $150 for vessels up to 35 feet and $300 for vessels larger than 35 feet. Fishing license and departure tax for four people are included in the fee. You'll be asked to declare your stores and general itinerary.

Yes, you can take your own boat to the Bahamas, but you must follow strict Customs and Immigration protocols. Upon entering Bahamian waters, you must fly a yellow "Q" (Quarantine) flag and head directly to a designated Port of Entry. In 2026, the process is streamlined through the "Click 2 Clear" digital portal, where you must submit your manifest and pay for a cruising permit in advance. Fees depend on the size of the boat; for example, boats under 34 feet typically pay $150 for a 3-month permit. Only the captain is allowed to leave the vessel until the boat is cleared by an officer. You must carry a valid passport for everyone on board and declare any firearms, which must remain locked in a safe on the boat at all times. The Bahamas is a world-class boating destination, but navigating the shallow "flats" and coral heads requires careful planning and updated charts. Travelers often depart from Florida (like Miami or Fort Lauderdale) for the 50-mile crossing to Bimini, which serves as the most popular first stop for private vessels entering the archipelago.