If the Bahamas is on your cruising itinerary, pay attention: Starting July 1, 2025, a sweeping new law goes into effect that could change the way you sail, anchor, and check in to the island paradise. The Port Authorities (Amendment) Bill brings updated rules and new fees aimed at improving safety, protecting marine environments, and streamlining how visiting boats are tracked and processed. Here’s what you need to know before casting off.
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AIS Now Required - Always
The biggest universal change? All foreign vessels must have their AIS (Automated Identification System) on at all times while in Bahamian waters. That includes when you’re docked, underway, or just passing through. Miss this requirement and you could be looking at a $1,000 fine. So, double-check that your AIS is installed, working, and transmitting before you enter Bahamian territory. Owners without AIS equipment will have to retrofit vessels to comply.
Cruise the Bahamas Often? The New FDCC Might Be for You
Regulation 89B has been inserted into the principal regulations in the new bill, stating that the comptroller may issue a Frequent Digital Cruising Card (FDCC) when an application is submitted and processed under regulations 90, 91(3), (5) and (6), 91B and 92. Think of it as a fast pass for pleasure vessels. Once approved, the FDCC allows unlimited entries over a two-year period. You’ll still need to report to Customs on arrival, but you’ll be issued a Pleasure Craft Request (PCR) number to streamline future visits.
FDCC Fees (valid for 2 years):
- Boats not exceeding 34 feet: $1,500
- Boats exceeding 34 feet but not exceeding 100 feet: $2,500
- Exceeding 100 feet: $8,000
These fees cover customs officer travel and attendance.
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Here’s the New Permit Breakdown for Shorter Stays
If you’re only visiting once or twice a year, the traditional temporary cruising permit is still available, but Regulation 91 of the principal Regulation is amended in the new bill, with higher fees as follows:
- Boats not exceeding 34 feet: $500 (12 months)
- Boats exceeding 34 feet but not exceeding 100 feet: $1,000
- Exceeding 100 feet: $3,000
Each permit now covers two entries within 30 days. If you’re towing a large tender (over 25 feet), there’s an additional $500 fee. And if you’re carrying more than three non-resident passengers over age 6, there’s a $30 tax per person.
Fishing in Bahamian waters? Those permits now cost:
- Boats not exceeding 34 feet: $100
- Boats exceeding 34 feet: $300
Also Read:
Increased Cruising Permit Fees – Bahamas’ New Rules Take Effect July 1
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Fees for Anchoring Outside a Marina
If you like to drop anchor off a quiet cay instead of paying for a marina slip, be aware of new anchorage fees:
- Boats not exceeding 34 feet: $200
- Boats exceeding 34 feet but not exceeding 100 feet: $350
- Exceeding 100 feet: $1,500
These apply if you’re not moored at a licensed marina, and they’re meant to help fund infrastructure and environmental protection efforts.
Cruising to The Bahamas: Bottom Line
The Bahamas is making big moves to modernize and protect its waters, resulting in more paperwork—and fees—for boaters. Whether you’re a seasonal cruiser or just planning a one-time adventure, make sure you’re up to date before you head south. And don’t forget to turn on your AIS.
You can read the full Port Authorities (Amendment) Bill, 2025, here.
You can also read the bill which includes the fee schedule for cruising permit fees, here.
