Berry Islands Customs & Immigration Guide for Private Pilots and Boaters
INTRODUCTION
For many travelers arriving in The Bahamas by private boat or aircraft, the Berry Islands provide one of the most convenient gateways into the country's Out Islands. Positioned on the northeastern edge of the Great Bahama Bank between Florida, Nassau, and the Exuma island chain, the islands offer designated ports of entry that simplify the arrival process before visitors continue exploring nearby destinations.
Whether you are sailing aboard a private yacht, cruising in a recreational vessel, or flying your own aircraft, understanding Bahamas Customs and Immigration procedures helps ensure a smooth arrival. Clearing entry correctly is not only a legal requirement but also helps avoid unnecessary delays while allowing visitors to begin their island adventure with confidence.
The primary ports of entry within the Berry Islands are Chub Cay and Great Harbour Cay, both equipped to process eligible international arrivals by sea and air. These locations serve recreational boaters, sportfishing enthusiasts, yacht owners, and private aviation travelers entering Bahamian territory. Official procedures include presenting travel documents, completing immigration forms, and clearing Customs at the nearest designated port of entry.
For a broader overview of the island chain, attractions, accommodations, and travel planning, readers should also explore the Ultimate Berry Island Travel Guide.
WHY THE BERRY ISLANDS ARE A POPULAR PORT OF ENTRY
Unlike many larger destinations where international arrivals may involve busy terminals and extended processing times, the Berry Islands provide a quieter entry experience while still offering full Customs and Immigration services at designated facilities.
Located approximately halfway between South Florida and Nassau, the islands are especially popular among:
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Private yacht owners crossing the Gulf Stream
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Recreational boaters exploring the Out Islands
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Sportfishing vessels
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Private pilots flying from Florida
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Travelers continuing to nearby destinations such as the Exuma Cays or Nassau
Because of this strategic location, many visitors choose to complete entry formalities in the Berry Islands before continuing their Bahamian itinerary. Chub Cay, in particular, is frequently used as a first stop for vessels and aircraft arriving from the United States due to its marina, international airport, and Customs services.
OFFICIAL PORTS OF ENTRY IN THE BERRY ISLANDS
The Government of The Bahamas designates specific locations where international travelers may legally clear Customs and Immigration.
Within the Berry Islands, the recognized ports of entry include:
Chub Cay
Visitors arriving by private vessel may clear through Chub Cay Club Marina, while private aircraft can use Chub Cay Airport, where Customs and Immigration officers process eligible international arrivals. Chub Cay also serves as an important aviation gateway for travelers continuing toward Staniel Cay, the northern Exuma Cays, and other nearby islands.
Great Harbour Cay
Great Harbour Cay provides additional entry options through:
These facilities offer another official point of entry for visitors arriving by sea or air before exploring the Berry Islands or continuing elsewhere in The Bahamas.
ARRIVING BY PRIVATE BOAT
Foreign recreational vessels entering Bahamian waters must report directly to the nearest designated Port of Entry before passengers begin normal travel activities.
Upon arrival, boaters should:
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Fly the yellow quarantine flag before clearance.
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Notify Customs of the vessel's arrival.
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Keep everyone aboard until permission is granted.
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Allow only the vessel captain to disembark initially unless instructed otherwise.
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Complete Customs and Immigration procedures before cruising elsewhere in The Bahamas.
Visitors entering by boat should also be aware that cruising permits and applicable fees may apply depending on vessel type and length under current Bahamian regulations.
ARRIVING BY PRIVATE AIRCRAFT
Private pilots flying directly into the Berry Islands follow a similar clearance process after landing at an approved international airport.
Typical arrival procedures include:
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Present passports for all passengers.
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Complete Immigration arrival documentation.
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Present aircraft registration and required documentation.
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Complete Customs declarations if applicable.
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Receive clearance before continuing domestic flights within The Bahamas.
Chub Cay International Airport is widely used by private pilots due to its convenient location for flights originating from South Florida and its ability to process international arrivals efficiently.
REQUIRED TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Before departing for the Berry Islands, travelers should confirm they have all required documentation for entry into The Bahamas. Requirements may vary depending on nationality, but private boaters and pilots are generally expected to carry documentation for both the vessel or aircraft and every person on board.
For All Travelers
Bring:
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A valid passport for every passenger
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Completed Bahamas Immigration Arrival Card (issued upon arrival where applicable)
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Return or onward travel information if requested
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Any required travel authorization applicable at the time of travel
Visitors should retain the immigration portion of their arrival card throughout their stay, as it is surrendered when departing The Bahamas.
For Private Boats
Captains should also have:
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Vessel registration or proof of ownership
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Bahamas Customs Clearance Form
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Crew and passenger manifest
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Cruising Permit (obtained online before arrival or issued at the Port of Entry)
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Documentation for pets, if applicable
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Declaration for firearms and ammunition, when carried legally aboard
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AIS equipment operating for foreign pleasure vessels over 50 feet, as required by Bahamian regulations.
For Private Aircraft
Pilots should be prepared to present:
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Aircraft registration
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Pilot certificate and identification
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Passenger manifest
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Passports for all occupants
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Customs and Immigration documentation upon arrival
Having all paperwork completed before departure helps reduce processing time after landing.
CLEARING CUSTOMS STEP BY STEP
Although individual circumstances vary, the arrival process in the Berry Islands generally follows the same sequence.
Arriving by Boat
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Enter the nearest designated Port of Entry.
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Hoist the yellow quarantine ("Q") flag before entering port.
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Contact Customs to report your arrival.
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Keep all passengers aboard.
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Only the captain should leave the vessel unless instructed otherwise.
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Present passports, vessel documents, and declarations.
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Complete Immigration processing.
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Obtain or validate the cruising permit.
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Receive clearance before continuing to other Bahamian islands.
Arriving by Aircraft
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Land at an approved international airport.
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Taxi to the designated Customs area.
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Present passports and aircraft documentation.
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Complete Immigration formalities.
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Submit Customs declarations when required.
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Receive official clearance before departing the airport for domestic travel.
CRUISING PERMITS AND ENTRY FEES
Foreign, private, non-commercial pleasure vessels require a Bahamas Cruising Permit to operate legally in Bahamian waters.
Travelers have two primary options:
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Complete an electronic declaration and apply online through the official government-approved system before departure.
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Apply in person with Bahamas Customs and Immigration after arriving at a designated Port of Entry.
Even when pre-registering online, captains must still report to Customs and Immigration upon arrival to complete the clearance process. Digital payment options continue to expand, although cash and other approved payment methods remain available.
TIPS FOR A SMOOTHER ARRIVAL
A little preparation can make clearing Customs and Immigration much more efficient.
Before leaving for the Berry Islands:
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Verify that your chosen airport or marina is an official Port of Entry.
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Complete electronic declarations in advance whenever possible.
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Ensure every traveler has a valid passport.
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Organize vessel or aircraft documentation in one folder.
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Check current cruising permit requirements before departure.
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Arrive during published Customs operating hours whenever practical.
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Declare all regulated items, including firearms, pets, and applicable fishing equipment.
These steps help minimize delays and allow visitors to begin exploring the Berry Islands soon after arrival.
WHY MANY TRAVELERS CHOOSE THE BERRY ISLANDS
For travelers arriving from Florida or other nearby international gateways, the Berry Islands combine practical entry facilities with immediate access to one of The Bahamas' most popular boating regions.
After completing Customs and Immigration at Chub Cay or Great Harbour Cay, visitors can continue toward:
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Great Harbour Cay beaches
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Chub Cay sportfishing grounds
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The northern Exuma Cays
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Nassau and New Providence
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Other Out Islands accessible by private boat or aircraft
This combination of efficient entry procedures and convenient geographic location makes the Berry Islands an attractive first stop for many cruising and aviation itineraries throughout The Bahamas.
TRAVELER PLANNING INFORMATION
Understanding a few practical details before departure can help ensure your arrival in the Berry Islands is efficient and compliant with Bahamian entry requirements.
Transportation
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Private boat: Enter The Bahamas through an official Port of Entry such as Chub Cay Club Marina, Great Harbour Cay Marina, or Bullock's Harbour Public Dock.
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Private aircraft: Land at Chub Cay Airport or Great Harbour Cay Airport, where Customs and Immigration services are available for eligible international arrivals.
Accessibility
The Berry Islands are well suited for:
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Recreational boaters crossing from South Florida
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Yacht owners cruising the Out Islands
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Private pilots flying from Florida or nearby Bahamian islands
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Sportfishing travelers beginning multi-island itineraries
Most visitors continue onward to destinations such as Nassau, the Exuma Cays, Andros, or other Out Islands after completing entry formalities.
Best Time to Arrive
Although Customs and Immigration operate year-round, travelers should:
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Confirm office hours before departure.
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Avoid arriving after normal operating hours unless prior arrangements have been made.
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Monitor weather forecasts, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season (June–November), which may affect boating and flight schedules.
Family Suitability
The arrival process is straightforward for families provided:
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Every traveler carries a valid passport.
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Required declarations are completed accurately.
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Children are included on the passenger manifest where applicable.
Estimated Costs
Costs vary depending on:
Private boaters should review the latest government fee schedules before departure, as permit structures and payment options may change.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Chub Cay an official Port of Entry?
Yes. Chub Cay is an official Bahamian Port of Entry with Customs and Immigration services available through both its marina and airport for eligible international arrivals.
What documents do I need to enter the Berry Islands by boat?
Most travelers need valid passports, vessel registration documents, Bahamas Customs forms, Immigration cards, and any applicable cruising permit documentation. Additional declarations may be required for pets or firearms.
Where can private aircraft clear Customs in the Berry Islands?
Private international flights may clear Customs and Immigration at Chub Cay Airport or Great Harbour Cay Airport, both designated Ports of Entry.
Can I travel directly to another Bahamian island before clearing Customs?
No. International arrivals must report to the nearest designated Port of Entry and complete Customs and Immigration procedures before continuing to other islands within The Bahamas.
Are cruising permits required for private boats?
Yes. Foreign, private, non-commercial pleasure vessels require a valid Bahamas Cruising Permit before cruising between islands. Permits can be obtained online before arrival or at the Port of Entry.
How long does Customs clearance usually take?
Processing times vary depending on arrival traffic, documentation, and staffing, but travelers who complete electronic declarations in advance and arrive with all required paperwork generally experience a faster clearance process.
Why do boaters fly a yellow quarantine flag?
The yellow "Q" flag signals that a vessel has arrived from another country and has not yet completed Customs and Immigration clearance. It must remain displayed until officials grant permission to enter The Bahamas.
EXPLORE MORE BERRY ISLANDS GUIDES
LOCAL & DESTINATION CONTEXT
The Berry Islands occupy a strategic position between South Florida, Nassau, and the Exuma island chain, making them one of the principal entry points for private vessels and aircraft traveling to The Bahamas. Designated ports of entry at Chub Cay and Great Harbour Cay allow international visitors to complete Customs and Immigration formalities before continuing to nearby destinations such as New Providence, Andros, Bimini, and the Exuma Cays. Beyond their role as an arrival gateway, the Berry Islands are known for world-class sportfishing, protected marine habitats, cruising routes across the Great Bahama Bank, and easy access to other Out Islands, reinforcing their importance within the country's boating and aviation network.
CONCLUSION
For private boaters and pilots, understanding the Customs and Immigration process is an essential first step when visiting the Berry Islands. Clearing entry at Chub Cay or Great Harbour Cay ensures compliance with Bahamian regulations while providing a smooth transition into one of the country's most accessible Out Island destinations.
Whether your itinerary includes sportfishing, island hopping, or exploring nearby destinations such as Nassau and the Exuma Cays, arriving with the proper documents and understanding the entry procedures helps make your journey more efficient and enjoyable.
For comprehensive trip planning—including beaches, accommodations, boating, attractions, dining, and transportation—continue with the Ultimate Berry Island Travel Guide, your complete resource for exploring the Berry Islands and the wider Bahamas.
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Updated as of July 2026.