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BahamasIntroduction TO THE BAHAMAS

The Bahamas, an archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, offers a dreamlike setting for cruising and sailing enthusiasts. Crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning beaches make it an unparalleled destination. This comprehensive guide will explore the islands section by section, providing detailed insights into the best routes, anchorages, and must-visit locations.

 The Northern Bahamas

The Abacos

Overview

  • The Abacos, often referred to as the “Sailing Capital of the Bahamas,” is a popular cruising ground known for its protected waters, charming settlements, and pristine beaches.

Marsh Harbour

  • Marsh Harbour is the main hub in the Abacos, offering full-service marinas, provisioning stores, and various dining options. It’s an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding cays.

Elbow Cay

  • Home to the famous Hope Town Lighthouse, Elbow Cay is a must-visit. The picturesque Hope Town, with its colorful cottages and narrow streets, offers a glimpse into Bahamian culture.

Great Guana Cay

  • Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant social scene, Great Guana Cay hosts the famous Nipper’s Beach Bar, a favorite among sailors.

Green Turtle Cay

  • Green Turtle Cay is renowned for its charming New Plymouth settlement, rich in history and Bahamian heritage. The island also offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Cruising Tips

  • The Sea of Abaco provides sheltered waters, making it ideal for novice sailors.
  • Always check the weather forecast, as the area can be prone to sudden squalls.
The Berry Islands

Overview

  • The Berry Islands are a collection of 30 cays and islets known for their unspoiled beauty and rich marine life.

Great Harbour Cay

  • Great Harbour Cay is the largest island in the group, featuring a full-service marina and several beautiful beaches. The island is perfect for those seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience.

Chub Cay

  • Chub Cay is famous for its world-class fishing and is often referred to as the “Billfish Capital of the Bahamas.” The marina here is well-equipped to cater to anglers and cruisers alike.

Cruising Tips

  • The Berry Islands offer excellent fishing, so ensure you have the necessary permits and gear.
  • Be mindful of the numerous coral heads in the area; accurate charts and careful navigation are essential.

 The Central Bahamas

Nassau and New Providence

Overview

  • Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, is located on New Providence Island. It serves as a vibrant gateway to the central and southern islands.

Nassau Harbour

  • Nassau Harbour is a bustling port with several marinas and anchorages. The city offers a wide range of amenities, including provisioning, dining, and entertainment.

Paradise Island

  • Just a short sail from Nassau, Paradise Island is home to the famous Atlantis Resort, offering luxurious accommodations, dining, and entertainment options.

Cruising Tips

  • Nassau can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so it’s advisable to book marina slips in advance.
  • Security can be a concern in some areas, so take standard precautions and stay informed about local advisories.
The Exumas

Overview

  • The Exumas are a stunning chain of 365 islands and cays, known for their clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life.

Staniel Cay

  • Staniel Cay is a popular stop in the Exumas, known for the Thunderball Grotto, an underwater cave featured in the James Bond film “Thunderball.” The island also has a well-equipped marina and charming local community.

Great Exuma and George Town

  • Great Exuma is the largest island in the Exumas, with George Town serving as its main settlement. George Town is a favorite among cruisers, offering excellent facilities and the beautiful Elizabeth Harbour.

Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park

  • This protected area is a highlight of any Exumas cruise, boasting stunning scenery, pristine beaches, and abundant marine life. The park is a no-take zone, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty.

Cruising Tips

  • The Exumas require careful navigation due to shallow waters and numerous coral heads.
  • Provisioning can be limited on the smaller cays, so stock up in George Town or Nassau before heading south.

The Southern Bahamas

Cat Island

Overview

  • Cat Island is known for its rolling hills, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage. It is less frequented by tourists, offering a more serene cruising experience.

The Hermitage

  • The Hermitage on Mount Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas, is a must-visit. This small stone monastery offers stunning views of the island and surrounding waters.

Arthur’s Town

  • Arthur’s Town is the birthplace of Sir Sidney Poitier and offers a glimpse into the island’s history and culture. The town has basic amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Cruising Tips

  • Anchorages can be exposed to prevailing winds, so choose your spots carefully and be prepared to move if the weather changes.
  • The island has limited facilities, so ensure you are well-provisioned before arrival.
Long Island

Overview

  • Long Island is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and friendly locals. It offers a mix of adventure and relaxation for cruisers.

Dean’s Blue Hole

  • Dean’s Blue Hole is the world’s second deepest blue hole and a popular spot for diving and snorkeling. The nearby beach is also a great place to relax.

Salt Pond

  • Salt Pond is a popular stop for cruisers, offering a protected anchorage and several amenities. The annual Long Island Regatta, held here, is a major event in the Bahamian sailing calendar.

Cruising Tips

  • Long Island’s east coast is exposed to the Atlantic, while the west coast offers more protected waters and anchorages.
  • The island is long and narrow, so plan your stops carefully to make the most of your visit.

 The Out Islands

The Ragged Islands

Overview

  • The Ragged Islands are a remote chain of islands known for their untouched beauty and abundant marine life. They offer a true off-the-grid cruising experience.

Duncan Town

  • Duncan Town is the only settlement in the Ragged Islands. It is a small, close-knit community with basic amenities.

Jumentos Cays

  • The Jumentos Cays, part of the Ragged Islands chain, are a favorite among experienced sailors looking for solitude and excellent fishing.

Cruising Tips

  • The Ragged Islands are remote, so ensure you are fully provisioned and self-sufficient before setting sail.
  • Navigation can be challenging, with many shallow areas and coral heads, so accurate charts and careful planning are essential.
The Inagua Islands

Overview

  • The Inagua Islands consist of Great Inagua and Little Inagua. They are known for their wildlife, particularly the large population of flamingos.

Matthew Town

  • Matthew Town on Great Inagua is the main settlement and offers basic facilities. The island is home to the Inagua National Park, a haven for birdwatchers.

Little Inagua

  • Little Inagua is an uninhabited island and a protected national park. It offers a pristine environment for those looking to explore nature undisturbed.

Cruising Tips

  • The Inagua Islands are remote, so thorough preparation is essential.
  • Be aware of the weather, as the islands can be affected by hurricanes during the season.

Conclusion

Cruising and sailing through the Bahamas is an unforgettable experience, offering a diverse range of islands and activities for every type of sailor. Whether you’re exploring the bustling hubs of the Abacos and Nassau, the serene beauty of the Exumas, or the remote outposts of the Ragged and Inagua Islands, the Bahamas promises adventure, relaxation, and unparalleled natural beauty. Proper planning, respect for local regulations, and a spirit of adventure will ensure a successful and enjoyable voyage through this stunning archipelago.

BAHAMAS MARINAS

### ELEUTHERA & HARBOUR ISLAND

### EXUMA & EXUMA CAYS

### GRAND BAHAMA

### LONG ISLAND

### NEW PROVIDENCE & NASSAU


ABACO | BIMINI | CAT ISLAND

PORTS OF ENTRY

  1. Nassau, New Providence
  2. Freeport, Grand Bahama
  3. West End, Grand Bahama
  4. Port Lucaya, Grand Bahama
  5. Spanish Wells, Eleuthera
  6. Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera
  7. Harbour Island, Eleuthera
  8. Rock Sound, Eleuthera
  9. Georgetown, Exuma
  10. Staniel Cay, Exuma
  11. Grand Cay, Abaco
  12. Green Turtle Cay, Abaco
  13. Marsh Harbour, Abaco
  14. Sandy Point, Abaco
  15. Walker’s Cay, Abaco
  16. Chub Cay, Berry Islands
  17. Great Harbour Cay, Berry Islands
  18. Clarence Town, Long Island
  19. Deadman’s Cay, Long Island
  20. Matthew Town, Inagua
  21. Duncan Town, Ragged Island
  22. Alice Town, Bimini
  23. Cat Cay, Bimini
  24. Cay Sal Bank, Bimini
  25. Mangrove Cay, Andros
  26. Morgan’s Bluff, Andros
  27. Fresh Creek, Andros
  28. Nicholls Town, Andros
  29. Cockburn Town, San Salvador
  30. Cockburn Harbour, South Caicos
  31. Abraham’s Bay, Mayaguana
  32. West Bay, New Providence

PLEASE NOTE ANY GOVT. OFFICIALS WHO CHARGE OVERTIME FEES IN CASH ARE CORRUPT The Bahamas has several official ports of entry where vessels can clear customs and immigration. These ports are distributed across various islands, providing convenient access points for boats arriving from different directions. Here is a list of the main ports of entry in the Bahamas: Abaco Islands

 

 

DOCUMENTS

UPDATE 2024-11-20

The government has not restricted tourist stays in The Bahamas to 30 days, Immigration Director William Pratt said yesterday.

Pratt was asked to respond to concerns raised by winter residents and other visitors who said that they were only allowed in the country for 30 days when normally they’d be allowed to stay for several months.

In September, the Immigration Department implemented a new $200 non-refundable fee for visitors wishing to extend their stay in the country. It also said that all visitors will be granted a minimum stay of 30 days.

Some visitors took to social media and complained that they were only stamped for 30 days and afterwards they’d have to pay a $200 fee to apply for an extension.

Pratt said the department’s new policy has not changed the maximum amount of time visitors can stay in the country.

“Prior to the date of this extension processing fee coming into being immigration had the discretion,” he said.

“They could land visitors for three days or five days.

“If a visitor spends two days, immigration gives them five days or whatever the case may be. Now with this new initiative all visitors would be admitted for a minimum of 30 days. We never said anything about maximum. We said a minimum of 30 days.

“So if you want to stay three days, you automatically get 30 days. If you want to stay a week you automatically get 30 days.”

He reiterated that winter residents and boaters can still come into the country for prolonged visits.

“They are still allowed to receive their three months or four months at the port of entry when they arrive,” he said.

“We also make special provisions for boaters, so those people coming in to cruise The Bahamas, when the officers go at the marina, if they say they are going to be cruising for four months, five months, they get their four months of five months.

“Then we have elderly persons coming in to spend several months with their sons and daughters in The Bahamas, they can still get whichever, three, four, five months, they want at the port of entry. Also, we have summer students who may be coming in to spend the summer with their parents who are on work permit in The Bahamas. We will still be landing them for the summer period at the port of entry. Nothing has changed. All we say is that everybody now would get a minimum of 30 days at the port of entry.”

Pratt said that some immigration officers misinterpreted the new policy.

“Some of the officers did not fully understand when we sent out the circular,” he said.

“I don’t know. They misinterpreted it. We said minimum stay of 30 days. We never said limited or you can’t land them longer than 30 days. We said a minimum. A few officers did make an error and some tourists who normally come down and get their time at the airport, one or two of them complained and were told they could only get 30 days at the port. That is not so.

“We’ve already sent the information back out to those officers at the port to tell them, ‘Please, understand what we are saying. All we are saying is you must land nobody for less than 30 days. Persons who qualify to be landed for more than 30 days, if they request it, they are to be landed.’”

 

U.S. Embassy Nassau
42 Queen St.
Nassau, The Bahamas
Phone: 242-322-1181
Fax: 242-356-7174

 

CRUISING PERMITS

ARRIVING BY BOAT

To enter The Islands Of The Bahamas, private vessels need the following:

  1. One (1) copy of The Bahamas Customs Clearance Form

  2. One (1) Bahamas Immigration Card per person

  3. Proof of Citizenship—Passport

Downloadable Forms can all be found on Bahamas SeaZ Pass Page.

Visiting boaters must clear Customs and Immigration at the nearest designated Port of Entry. As you enter each port, fly the yellow quarantine flag and notify Customs of your arrival. Only the captain is permitted to leave the boat until your vessel has been cleared.

Customs and Immigration officials will come to your vessel. Everyone on board must have proof of citizenship and fill out an immigration card. US citizens must present a passport. Before leaving The Islands Of The Bahamas, be sure to surrender your copy of the immigration card at the last Bahamian port you visit.

If you have a firearm on board (shotguns and handguns only) you must declare it with Bahamian Customs. You must provide the serial number, name of the manufacturer, plus an exact count of ammunition. While you are allowed to have a firearm on your boat, you cannot remove it. Weapons must be under lock and key at all times. In cases of emergencies, which require your departure by air, you must notify Bahamian Police or Customs. They will accompany you to retrieve the firearm and present you with a receipt. Upon your return to the island, Bahamian Police or Customs will escort you to your vessel and return your firearm. Any infraction of this law will be dealt with severely.

ENTRY FEES

Bahamas Cruising Permit Fees as of January 1, 2020:

ahamas Cruising Permit Fees as of January 1, 2020:

 

The following fees will be applied to boats staying in The Bahamas for up to 3 months:

  • Boats up to 34 feet: $150

  • Boats 35-99 feet: $300

  • Boats 100-149 feet: $500

  • Boats 150-200 feet: $800

  • Boats over 200 feet: $1,000

The fees cover both a cruising permit and fishing permit, as well as the departure tax for up to three people. Each additional person will be charged a $20 departure tax. The fee is good for a second re-entry within a 90-day period.

For stays longer than 3 months:

  • Boats up to 34 feet: $300 annually

  • Boats 35-99 feet: $600 annually

  • Boats 100-149 feet: $1,000 annually

  • Boats 150–200 feet: $1,600 annually

  • Boats over 200 feet: $2,000 annually

The fees cover both a cruising permit and fishing permit, as well as the departure tax for up to three people. Each additional person will be charged a $20 departure tax. The fee is good for a second re-entry within a 90-day period.

For a stay longer than 12 months, special arrangements must be made with Bahamas Customs and Immigration.

 

 

Please note that Attendance Fees, Fishing Permit, Transportation and Overtime fees are all included in the price of the cruising permit. The only additional fees would be for additional departure tax if there are more than 3 persons at a cost of $20 per additional person.

It is illegal to tip government employees.
Boaters are asked to report if they are ever asked for these types of payments to the local marina manger or dockmaster
Report Govt corruption here >>

 

ENTRY FORMALITIES

ARRIVING BY AIR/RETURNING BY BOAT

Travelers are advised to purchase return tickets (and seek reimbursement upon returning home for the unused ticket) even when they are confirmed to return via private boat. However, if the traveler arrives at Bahamas Immigration on a single ticket, the owner/operator of the boat must present himself/herself and the vessel’s cruising permit. A copy of the cruising permit will be permitted for crew members who may be arriving by plane and returning by boat as their names will appear on the manifest. A letter will not suffice.

 

Upon your arrival to The Bahamas, you will be asked to fill out an Immigration Arrival/Departure Card, which you will keep until your departure. All visitors are required to be in possession of a return ticket.

 

US CITIZENS

A valid passport is required. A visa is required for stays exceeding eight months.

 

US RESIDENTS (NON-CITIZENS)

An Alien Registration Card (Green Card) AND a valid passport from their country of citizenship are required.

 

For visits EXCEEDING 30 days, a valid passport AND a Bahamas visa are required.

 

CANADIAN CITIZENS

A valid passport is required for proof of citizenship. Voter registration cards, birth certificates and photo identifications are no longer accepted as proof of citizenship.

 

A Bahamas visa is required for stays exceeding three months.

 

UNITED KINGDOM CITIZENS

Citizens of the United Kingdom and colonies require a valid passport.

 

A visa is required for stays exceeding eight months.

 

ALL OTHER COUNTRIES

For entry formalities, please contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Bahamas Embassy, Consulate or High Commission.

BAHAMAS MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, BAHAMAS EMBASSY, CONSULATE AND HIGH COMMISSION OFFICES

THE BAHAMAS

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Consular Section
Norfolk House, Frederick Street
P.O. Box N-3746
Nassau, Bahamas
Phone: (242) 323.5578/5565
Fax: (242) 326.6186

WASHINGTON, D.C. | USA

Embassy of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas
2220 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20008
Phone: (202) 319.2660/7
Fax: (202) 319.2668
bahemb@aol.com

MIAMI | USA

Bahamas Consulate General
25 S.E. Second Avenue
Ingraham Bldg., Suite 600
Miami, FL 33131
Phone: (305) 373.6295
Fax: (305) 373.6312
bcgmia@bellsouth.net

NEW YORK | USA

Bahamas Consulate General
Bahama House
231 East 46th Street
New York, NY 10017
Phone: (212) 688.5926
Fax: (212) 688.5926
bahamasconsulate@bahamasny.com

CANADA

Bahamas High Commission
Metropolitan Life Centre
50 O’Connor, Suite 1313
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1 6L2
Phone: (613) 232.1724
Fax: (613) 232.0097
ottawa-mission@bahighco.com

UNITED KINGDOM

Bahamas High Commission
10 Chesterfield Street
London, W1J 5JL
England
Phone: (011) 44 207.408.4488
Fax: (011) 44 207.499.9937
information@bahamashclondon.net

EXITING POLICIES

As of July 1, 2020 all pleasure vessels must now clear outbound before leaving. Upon leaving the Master of the Vessel will be granted a Certificate of Clearance. Please clear outwards at the last Port of Entry before you exit The Bahamas. There are NO fees required for the clearance certificate.

When a private vessel arrives at a port of call in the United States, the Master or Captain of the vessel must report their arrival immediately upon first landfall to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) by calling the following toll free number or visiting the following website:

The Captain will be directed to the nearest Port of Entry and must physically present him/herself and their passengers for admission to the US.

Please visit www.dhs.gov for admission requirements.

When you call for clearance, have the following information available:

  1. Vessel name and registration/document number

  2. Vessel owner name and citizenship

  3. Vessel commander/master name, date of birth and citizenship

  4. Passengers’ names and dates of birth

  5. Foreign ports or places visited and duration of stay

  6. Total value of all acquisitions and purchases made

More About Boating in The Bahamas.

We recommend all pleasure and charter vessels download the following letter from the Comptroller of Customs outlining the all required Customs fees and service charges to have with you when checking into customs. If you receive any differing information upon entry into The Bahamas please inform a Senior Customs Official or the local dockmaster.

BAHAMAS CUSTOMS & IMMIGRATION FORMS

Maritime Declaration of Health

Bahamas Customs Clearance Form – boaters print and fill out prior to arrival

Charter Vessels will need to complete the following form for Bahamas Customs

Bahamas Immigration Card

Bahamas Import and Pets Information and Form

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MUST SEE

Historical and Cultural Sites1. Nassau: The Capital’s HeritageFort Charlotte

  • Overview: Fort Charlotte is the largest fort in Nassau, offering panoramic views of the harbor. Built in 1788 by Lord Dunmore, it features dungeons, underground passageways, and a moat.
  • Must-See Features: The fort’s ramparts and cannons, as well as the underground tunnels and the waterless moat, are highlights.
  • Visitor Information: Guided tours are available, providing historical context and insights into the fort’s construction and use.

Queen’s Staircase

  • Overview: The Queen’s Staircase, also known as the 66 Steps, was carved out of solid limestone by enslaved Africans in the late 18th century. It honors Queen Victoria’s long reign.
  • Must-See Features: The 66 steps are a testament to the craftsmanship and labor of the enslaved workers. The surrounding gardens and water features add to its charm.
  • Visitor Information: The staircase is located near Fort Fincastle and is easily accessible from downtown Nassau.

Pirates of Nassau Museum

  • Overview: This interactive museum provides a glimpse into the Golden Age of Piracy, which thrived in the Bahamas during the 17th and 18th centuries.
  • Must-See Features: Exhibits include life-sized models of pirate ships, artifacts, and dioramas depicting pirate life.
  • Visitor Information: The museum offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

2. Exumas: Natural and Historical WondersExuma Cays Land and Sea Park

  • Overview: Established in 1958, this 176-square-mile park is a no-take marine reserve, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
  • Must-See Features: The park offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, with abundant marine species and well-preserved coral formations.
  • Visitor Information: Accessible only by boat, the park has several designated anchorages and mooring buoys. Visitors are encouraged to follow conservation guidelines to protect the delicate ecosystem.

Staniel Cay and Thunderball Grotto

  • Overview: Staniel Cay is a popular destination in the Exumas, known for the Thunderball Grotto, an underwater cave featured in the James Bond film “Thunderball.”
  • Must-See Features: The grotto offers a unique snorkeling experience, with sunlight filtering through the cave’s openings, illuminating the underwater scenery.
  • Visitor Information: The grotto is accessible during low tide. Visitors should bring snorkeling gear and be cautious of the currents.

3. Eleuthera and Harbour Island: Colonial Heritage and Pink SandsHarbour Island

  • Overview: Known for its pink sand beaches and charming colonial architecture, Harbour Island offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
  • Must-See Features: The Pink Sands Beach, with its unique rosy hue, and the historic Dunmore Town, with its pastel-colored houses and narrow streets, are highlights.
  • Visitor Information: The island is accessible by ferry from North Eleuthera. Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on the island.

Preacher’s Cave

  • Overview: Located on the northern tip of Eleuthera, Preacher’s Cave is a significant historical site where English Puritans, shipwrecked in 1647, took refuge and held religious services.
  • Must-See Features: The cave’s natural formations and the commemorative plaque detailing the Puritans’ story are points of interest.
  • Visitor Information: The site is accessible by car, and there are picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

4. Grand Bahama: Natural Reserves and Cultural SitesLucayan National Park

  • Overview: This 40-acre national park is home to one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world, as well as diverse ecosystems including mangroves, pine forests, and beaches.
  • Must-See Features: The underwater caves, accessible for diving with proper permits, and Gold Rock Beach, known for its pristine sands and clear waters, are highlights.
  • Visitor Information: The park offers walking trails, boardwalks, and informative signage about the local flora and fauna.

Rand Nature Centre

  • Overview: Located in Freeport, the Rand Nature Centre is a 100-acre preserve dedicated to the conservation of Bahamian flora and fauna.
  • Must-See Features: The park features walking trails, a visitor center with educational exhibits, and a variety of native plant species.
  • Visitor Information: Guided tours are available, and the park is a popular spot for birdwatching.

5. Andros: Natural Beauty and Cultural HeritageAndros Barrier Reef

  • Overview: The Andros Barrier Reef is the third-largest barrier reef in the world, stretching over 190 miles along the east coast of Andros Island.
  • Must-See Features: The reef is renowned for its vibrant coral formations, diverse marine life, and excellent diving and snorkeling spots.
  • Visitor Information: Several dive operators on Andros offer guided tours and diving excursions to explore the reef.

Red Bays Village

  • Overview: Red Bays is a historic settlement on Andros, home to a community of descendants of African slaves and Seminole Indians who settled here in the 19th century.
  • Must-See Features: The village is known for its traditional basket weaving and craftwork. Visitors can learn about the cultural heritage and purchase handmade items.
  • Visitor Information: The village is accessible by car, and local guides offer tours to learn more about the history and traditions of the community.

6. Cat Island: Historical Landmarks and Natural BeautyThe Hermitage on Mount Alvernia

  • Overview: The Hermitage, built by Father Jerome in the early 20th century, is a small stone monastery located on the highest point in the Bahamas, Mount Alvernia.
  • Must-See Features: The climb to the Hermitage offers stunning views of the island. The stone buildings and religious artifacts provide a glimpse into Father Jerome’s life and work.
  • Visitor Information: The site is accessible by foot, with a short but steep hike to the top of Mount Alvernia.

Port Howe

  • Overview: Port Howe is a historic village on Cat Island, known for its colonial ruins and ties to the American Loyalists who settled here in the 18th century.
  • Must-See Features: The ruins of plantation houses and historic buildings offer insights into the island’s colonial past.
  • Visitor Information: The village is accessible by car, and local guides can provide historical context and tours.

7. Bimini: Gateway to the BahamasBimini Road

  • Overview: Also known as the Bimini Wall, this underwater rock formation off the coast of North Bimini has sparked theories about ancient civilizations and Atlantis.
  • Must-See Features: The rectangular blocks and linear arrangement of the rocks are a subject of intrigue and speculation among archaeologists and historians.
  • Visitor Information: Several dive operators on Bimini offer snorkeling and diving trips to explore the Bimini Road.

Ernest Hemingway’s House

  • Overview: Ernest Hemingway spent several years in Bimini, and his house has been preserved as a historical site.
  • Must-See Features: The house contains memorabilia and artifacts from Hemingway’s time on the island, offering insights into his life and work.
  • Visitor Information: The house is accessible by foot or golf cart from the main town of Alice Town.

8. San Salvador: Columbus’ First LandfallLandfall Park

  • Overview: Landfall Park commemorates the spot where Christopher Columbus is believed to have made his first landfall in the New World on October 12, 1492.
  • Must-See Features: The park features a monument and a plaque marking the historic event. The nearby beach offers stunning views and a tranquil setting.
  • Visitor Information: The park is accessible by car, and there are picnic areas and informational signage for visitors.

Watling’s Castle

  • Overview: Watling’s Castle is a historic plantation house on San Salvador, offering a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.
  • Must-See Features: The ruins of the main house, kitchen, and slave quarters are points of interest. The site also offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Visitor Information: The site is accessible by car, and local guides can provide historical context and tours.

9. Long Island: Historical Sites and Natural BeautyDean’s Blue Hole

  • Overview: Dean’s Blue Hole is the world’s second deepest blue hole, reaching depths of over 600 feet. It is a popular spot for free diving and snorkeling.
  • Must-See Features: The blue hole’s dramatic drop-off and clear waters make it a fascinating natural wonder. The surrounding beach is also a great place to relax.
  • Visitor Information: The site is accessible by car, and several local operators offer diving and snorkeling excursions.

Hamilton’s Cave

  • Overview: Hamilton’s Cave is one of the largest cave systems in the Bahamas, featuring extensive limestone formations and historical artifacts.
  • Must-See Features: The cave contains petroglyphs and artifacts from the Lucayan Indians, offering insights into the island’s pre-Columbian history.
  • Visitor Information: Guided tours are available, providing historical context and exploration of the cave system.

REPAIRS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS

1. Bay Street Marina & Service Yard

  • Latitude: 25.0781° N
  • Longitude: 77.3335° W
  • Description: Located in Nassau, Bay Street Marina offers a full-service yard with a 75-ton travel lift, repair services, and boat storage options. The facility caters to yachts and boats of all sizes, providing top-notch marine repairs, maintenance, and refits.
  • Contact Info:

2. Brunswick Marine Service

  • Latitude: 26.5173° N
  • Longitude: 78.6957° W
  • Description: Located in Freeport, Grand Bahama, Brunswick Marine offers comprehensive marine services including a 150-ton travel lift, dry storage, mechanical services, and fiberglass repairs. The facility is well-equipped for both routine maintenance and major repairs.
  • Contact Info:

3. Harbour View Marine

  • Latitude: 25.7415° N
  • Longitude: 79.2996° W
  • Description: Situated in Bimini, Harbour View Marine is a full-service boatyard offering haul-out services with a 50-ton travel lift. They specialize in boat repairs, painting, and maintenance, catering to both local and visiting yachts.
  • Contact Info:

4. Bradford Marine Bahamas

  • Latitude: 26.5273° N
  • Longitude: 78.6950° W
  • Description: Located in Freeport, Grand Bahama, Bradford Marine Bahamas provides extensive shipyard services, including a 1,200-ton floating dry dock, full-service repair facilities, and refit capabilities. They cater to yachts, superyachts, and commercial vessels.
  • Contact Info:

5. Emerald Bay Marina & Boatyard

  • Latitude: 23.6167° N
  • Longitude: 75.9245° W
  • Description: Located in the Exumas, Emerald Bay Marina features a full-service boatyard with a 65-ton travel lift, offering services such as bottom painting, mechanical repairs, and hull maintenance. The marina is well-equipped to handle yachts of various sizes.
  • Contact Info:

6. Marsh Harbour Boatyards

  • Latitude: 26.5438° N
  • Longitude: 77.0635° W
  • Description: Located in Abaco, Marsh Harbour Boatyards offers comprehensive marine services including a 50-ton travel lift, dry storage, and repair services. They cater to both sailboats and motor yachts, offering everything from routine maintenance to major overhauls.
  • Contact Info:

7. Albany Marina & Yacht Club

  • Latitude: 25.0200° N
  • Longitude: 77.5100° W
  • Description: Albany Marina, located in New Providence, offers a state-of-the-art service yard with a 70-ton travel lift, specializing in yacht maintenance, repairs, and refits. The facility provides high-end services for luxury yachts and superyachts.
  • Contact Info:

8. Exuma Dock Services

  • Latitude: 23.5056° N
  • Longitude: 75.7730° W
  • Description: Located in Georgetown, Exuma, this facility offers a 45-ton travel lift, full-service yard, and repair services. They specialize in providing maintenance and emergency repairs for both private and commercial vessels.
  • Contact Info:

9. Romora Bay Resort & Marina

  • Latitude: 25.5000° N
  • Longitude: 76.6398° W
  • Description: Located on Harbour Island, Romora Bay features a 30-ton travel lift and a service yard providing yacht maintenance, repairs, and storage. They cater to both small boats and large yachts, offering a range of marine services.
  • Contact Info:

10. Paradise Island Marina & Boatyard

 

EMERGENCIES AND SAR INFO

RCC Bahamas

Type: , Country: , SRR:
Latitude, Longitude:

(25.08329964,-77.34999847)

Telephone:

+1 242 362 3814 Royal Bahamas Defence Force Operations +1-242-362-3814 +1-242-362-3815 +1-242-362-1818 Ext. 1.

Fax:
Website:

Overview

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