Cruising taxes in the Carribean

[Hunter34]

Currently in Bermuda waiting for the wind to ease a bit before we head south to the BVIs.From there the plan is pretty much open ended - just cruise south through the Carribean.
I have just been reading something about the cruising tax charged in the BVIs which I think applies to charter boats and private cruisers of $4 per person per day plus an extra few dollars for the boat.As far as I can make out some other islands have their own version too.
Is this common in the Carribean?
I know alot is talked about the cruising tax in the Greek Isles but when we were there nobody asked for it so I never offered.
Is it the same deal in the Carribean or should we expect to get hit with some sort of tax bill where ever we go?

Anyone any experience of this?

Thanks

Andrew

 

[ChrisE]

From memory (1996/7) we paid $30 for a 3(?) month crusing permit for the Bahamas, something in the BVIs and nothing anywhere else and we cruised the full length of the Caribbean from Tobago to St. Kitts/Nevis.

 

[michael_w]

Bahamas in 2004 was $150 if less than 40' $300 if more than 40' That was per visit.

No wonder all the good ole boys from Miami go down the Keys rather than Bimini.

Check on noonsite.com for the latest info.

 

[catch22]

the cruising permit is valid for one year with one return within 90 days of initial landing.
$150. to 35 feet
$300. over 35 feet.

 

[jeremyshaw]

Be good to get yourself the Doyle Guides in advance and then you can see what all the entry fees are etc.

Generally the fees are pretty reasonable but some people hate them on principle. Basically I reckon they are there to provide a bit of local employment.

If you go to noonsite.com and look at the countries section you'll find a fees tab and you can check the fees for each country and decide who you want to give your money to!

 

[SQUIRRELS]

The BVI cruising tax is around $4 per person per day of cruising. There may be a boat charge also and a cruising permit (certificate) is issued accordingly, (we chartered just a few weeks ago).

The BVI National Parks Trust also charge a fee. For boats not exceeding 4 people it is $25 per week; up to 6 $35 pw and so on.

'Mooring balls' as they are referred to are currently $25 per night, except at Peter Island which is about $60 (didn't personally go there to see!) Guess it best to anchor - where you can!

Recommend Cooper Island beach bar/restuarant/bbq - good & bit cheaper than most.