```html Caribbean Yacht Clearance Guide • Seastead Project
Caribbean Cruising 2025–2026

Customs & Immigration
for Yachts in the Caribbean

Practical guidance for your seastead project and future Caribbean testing.

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INTRODUCTION

What to Expect

Clearing customs and immigration in the Caribbean is generally straightforward for yachts, though requirements vary significantly between countries. Most islands treat your seastead as a private pleasure vessel (similar to a large trimaran or catamaran).

As a couple, you will typically need to clear in and out of each country. Many nations now offer online pre-arrival systems that significantly reduce time spent at the dock.

Online Clearance Services

SailClear

sailclear.com

Countries supported
Antigua & Barbuda St. Lucia Grenada St. Vincent
Time to complete
20–40 minutes
Processing time
Instant to 4 hours

eSeaClear & Local Portals

Various platforms

Many islands have their own systems (e.g., Grenada’s online portal, Antigua’s Yacht Clearance system). eSeaClear-style platforms are used in several French and Dutch territories.
Time to complete
15–35 minutes
Processing time
1–8 hours

Typical Time Requirements

1
Online Form Submission
15–45 minutes for a couple to complete all required fields (passports, vessel details, itinerary).
2
Processing by Authorities
Usually 30 minutes to 6 hours. Some islands approve instantly; others review during business hours.
3
In-Person Clearance
30 minutes to 2 hours at the customs/immigration office (varies greatly by island and time of day).

Typical Costs (Couple)

Entry / Clearance Fee
$40 – $120
Cruising Permit (1–3 months)
$80 – $250
Anchorage / Port Fees
$10 – $50
Typical Total per Island
$120 – $350
Costs are approximate in USD and vary by island. Larger vessels (like your seastead) may pay slightly higher boat fees.

Do You Still Need to Go In Person?

Yes, in most cases

Even with online pre-clearance, almost every Caribbean country still requires the captain and crew to appear in person at Customs and Immigration with passports and vessel documents.

Exceptions

A few islands (particularly in the French West Indies) allow full digital clearance for short stays under certain conditions. This is rare for new arrivals.

Best Practice

Complete online forms before arrival. This usually shortens your in-person visit from 2+ hours to 30–45 minutes.

Island Cruising Fees

Grenada
Cruising permit: ~$100–150 for 3 months. Can be paid online in many cases.
Antigua & Barbuda
National Park fee + cruising permit. Online payment available via SailClear.
St. Lucia
Marine park fees + entry. Most fees payable online before arrival.

Advice for Your Seastead

  • Pre-contact customs offices of your first 2–3 islands before arrival.
  • Provide detailed vessel dimensions and photos of the unique foil/leg design.
  • The 14ft RIB dinghy should be listed as a tender on all forms.
  • Carry printed copies of all online approvals.
  • Have crew lists ready with passport details.
  • Consider hiring a local agent for the first few clearances.
This guide is for informational purposes only. Regulations change frequently. Always verify with official government sources and local marinas before travel.
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