A short introduction to this course:

• Overview
• Join the Facebook Group
• Bahamas Photo Album
• 15 Things to Know About Cruising the Bahamas
• Ciguatera
• The Bahamian Economy and COVID

The Bahamas reopened June 15, 2020 for private boats, but with new COVID regulations that must be followed or you'll be denied entry. Get the latest (August 9, 2021) here.

BE SURE to read the new COVID requirements for entry to the Bahamas! If they conflict with anything in this section, you must follow them.

Seven items to make your entry to the Bahamas smooth and enjoyable:

• Pre-Departure Checklist to be sure you've got all the documents and other items you need
• Insurance
• Completing Click2Clear
• How to get a Pet Import Permit if you are taking a pet
• The Q Flag: how to fly it
• Checking in: how to do it with the least amount of fuss
• Money in the Bahamas
• Checking out: it's now required
• US CBP ROAM app for checking back into the US, regardless of your nationality

Deciding where you want to go:

• Planning a fast, safe and comfortable Gulf Stream crossing
• Getting the best charts, electronic and paper
• Up-to-date information on anchorages, marinas and ashore through cruising guides

Two important keys for staying safe:

• Getting good weather information
• Accurate tide and current data

A step-by-step plan to have exactly what you need:

• Provisioning Realities
• Calculating What and How Much to Buy
• Have a Tiny Refrigerator? Don't Despair
• Prescription Medicines
• Fuel, Water, Propane

Staying connected in every way possible:

• Internet Options
• VPNs
• Phone Calls
• Communication Apps
• inReach Satellite Communications

Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. Few people have serious problems on a trip to the Bahamas, but being prepared dramatically boosts the chances of a good resolution:

• Overview
• Float Plan
• Your Emergency Contacts
• Your Ditch Bag
• Medical Assistance/Evacuation

Congratulations! You've completed Get Ready to Cruise the Bahamas!