The Definitive 2025 Bahamas Cruising Fee Guide
Updated for accuracy as of October 2025
Planning to cruise The Bahamas this season? The rules changed on July 1, 2025, and every yacht owner and charter operator needs to know what’s new.
This guide breaks down the latest fees, the new environmental and AIS requirements, and the optional two-year cruising permit (FDCC).
1. Current Fee Structure (Effective July 1, 2025)
| Category | Vessel Length | Cruising Permit (12 months) | Fishing Permit | Anchorage Fee | Passenger Tax |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Pleasure | Up to 50 ft | $500 | $100 | $200 | $30 per person over 3 |
| Mid Pleasure | 50 – 100 ft | $1,000 | $300 | $350 | $30 per person over 3 |
| Large / Superyacht | Over 100 ft | $3,000 | $300 | $1,500 | $30 per person over 3 |
Quick notes:
Cruising permit includes Customs and Immigration attendance and overtime.
Each permit allows two entries within 30 days under the same payment.
Tenders over 25 ft require an extra $500 permit.
Fishing permits are now separate and valid 30 days at a time.
Anchorage fee applies once per permit if anchoring outside a licensed marina.
Passenger tax applies to every non-Bahamian person beyond the first three.
AIS is mandatory for vessels 50 ft and larger, with fines up to $1,000 for non-compliance.
2. Key Changes from the Previous Rules
Permit fees roughly doubled across all size categories.
Fishing permit separated (must renew monthly).
Anchorage fee introduced for environmental support.
Passenger tax increased from $20 to $30 per additional person.
Short-term (3-month) permits removed — all visits now pay the full 12-month rate.
AIS now enforced for 50 ft + vessels.
No more 12-month extensions — you must apply for a new permit after expiry.
FDCC (Frequent Digital Cruising Card) introduced for two-year coverage.
3. How to Obtain Your Cruising Permit
Step 1 – Pre-Clear Online (Recommended)
Use the Bahamas Click2Clear portal to submit vessel and crew details and pre-pay fees.
Step 2 – Arrival at Port of Entry
Fly the yellow quarantine flag.
Only the captain may go ashore to meet Customs & Immigration with passports and ship’s papers.
Step 3 – Inspection & Documentation
Officers review forms, issue the cruising permit, and add any fishing, anchorage, or passenger taxes.
Step 4 – Payment
Pay in U.S. or Bahamian dollars or by card.
Keep your receipts and permit onboard.
Step 5 – During Your Cruise
Fly the Bahamian courtesy flag.
Keep AIS active (if ≥ 50 ft).
Follow fishing limits and sanctuary rules.
You can re-enter once within 30 days under the same permit.
Step 6 – Departure
Notify Customs at your last port.
Optional: request an official clearance certificate ($75 fee).
Surrender immigration cards on exit.
4. The Frequent Cruiser Digital Card (FDCC)
For frequent visitors, the FDCC acts as a two-year multi-entry permit. You still clear customs each trip but avoid paying a new cruising permit every time.
FDCC Fees (Valid 24 Months):
Up to 50 ft: $1,500
50 – 100 ft: $2,500
Over 100 ft: $8,000
Ideal for Florida-based yachts that visit several times per year.
5. Example Cost Scenarios
Up to 50 ft – Small Pleasure Boat
Cruising Permit $500
Fishing Permit $100
Anchorage Fee $200
Passenger Tax (2 extra × $30) = $60
Total: $860
50 – 100 ft – Mid-Size Yacht
Cruising Permit $1,000
Fishing Permit $300
Anchorage Fee $350
Passenger Tax (4 extra × $30) = $120
Total: $1,770
Over 100 ft – Superyacht
Cruising Permit $3,000
Fishing Permit $300
Anchorage Fee $1,500
Passenger Tax (6 extra × $30) = $180
Total: $4,980
6. Charter Vessel Fees
Foreign-flagged charter yachts now pay 14 percent of the gross charter rate, replacing the former 4 percent charter fee + 10 percent VAT.
The change simplifies compliance — but increases cost visibility.
7. Quick Tips
There are no discounted short-term permits — even brief trips pay the full annual rate.
Fishing permits expire every 30 days — renew as needed.
The anchorage fee applies once if you plan to anchor anywhere outside a marina.
Passenger taxes can add up quickly on larger yachts.
FDCC is worthwhile for frequent Bahamas runs.
AIS compliance is mandatory for ≥ 50 ft vessels.
Pre-clearance online will save you time at the dock.