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What documents do I need to travel to The Bahamas by boat?

Upon arrival, everyone on board will need proof of citizenship (passport) and a completed immigration card. All boats entering The Bahamas are required to pay an entry fee that covers a cruising permit, fishing permit, and departure tax for up to three people.



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Traveling to the Bahamas without a passport isn't possible in any case. Whether you cruising on a close loop cruise, via an airliner, or any other source, you'll need a passport for the Bahamas in all cases.

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All persons entering The Bahamas require a Bahamian visa except the following persons:
  • United States Citizens entering as a bona fide visitor for a stay not exceeding eight (8) months. ...
  • Canadian citizens. ...
  • United Kingdom citizens.
  • Citizens of Western Union.


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Anything except fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products can be brought into The Bahamas. All meats must be canned or frozen.

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Beyond needing a valid passport to travel, cruise ship passengers might also require a cruise visa. This happens when the countries they are exploring along the way have specialized entry requirements in place. A cruise visa provides the same credentials for a traveler as a traditional visa.

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There's no need to get your currency exchanged, US currency is accepted. You'll want to travel with cash and a major credit card though, because you'll probably need both during your stay. Tips are king. If someone helps you during your stay, tips are expected.

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If you are traveling from the US, there is no need to change your money. US dollars are used as readily as Bahamian Dollars in the bahamas and are equal in value. If you are coming from another country, it's wise to change your money before you get to the bahamas.

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Credit cards are accepted at many restaurants on the island, as well as at most grocery and liquor stores.

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First and foremost, if a United States citizen chooses to do a closed-loop cruise without a passport, they'll still be required to show a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license) and proof of citizenship (a certified copy of your birth certificate).

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More often than not, the answer is no. U.S. citizens don't need a passport if the cruise starts and ends in the same U.S. city. This is known as a closed-loop cruise. That said, some may require a passport if you want to disembark at ports in any Caribbean destination.

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Do I need a passport? We recommend that everyone taking a cruise from the United States have a passport book. Though some “closed-loop” cruises may not require a U.S. passport, we recommend bringing yours in case of an emergency, such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port.

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