30 Oct 2024
SET SAIL FOR THE CARIBBEAN: YOUR GO-TO GUIDE
Yacht Itineraries
As the Caribbean season approaches, captains and crew are finalizing plans for their winter destinations. This guide is here to support you through every logistical and operational aspect of the season. From selecting the ideal homeport to navigating formalities across the islands, we’ve compiled all the essentials to make your season as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
Choosing your hub: Antigua vs. Sint Maarten
When it comes to choosing a homeport for the Caribbean season, captains and crew tend to favor either Antigua or Sint Maarten, the two main yachting hubs. Both islands are ideally suited for yachts, offering excellent marinas, comprehensive services, and facilities, along with easy access to nearby islands for itinerary planning. These hubs simplify logistics and crew life, providing ample technical support and established yacht agencies.
Each island has its own unique vibe: Antigua exudes British charm with its iconic harbors, Falmouth and English Harbour, while Sint Maarten is celebrated for its nightlife, abundant bars and clubs, and lively marina scene on both the Dutch and French sides.
While locations like St. Thomas and St. Barths are emerging as viable alternatives for cruising, no other island matches the extensive base-port services offered by Sint Maarten and Antigua. Beyond these two, only St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands is occasionally selected as a logistical base by superyachts, thanks to its well-equipped IGY marina and good onshore amenities, along with a well-connected airport. However, St. Thomas tends to be favored primarily by American yacht owners, as the airport links are more efficient with the U.S. than with Europe, making it less convenient for European visitors. Additionally, despite the appeal of the marina in Charlotte Amalie, the town’s safety concerns can be a drawback.
Aside from Antigua, with its beautiful bays and reliable anchorages, the most popular cruising grounds for charters in the Caribbean include St. Barths, the British Virgin Islands, and the Grenadines, with around 90% of superyachts gravitating toward these islands due to their attractive anchorages and vibrant sailing culture.
No matter where you choose to base your yacht, your crew will be enchanted by the diverse cultures, stunning anchorages, and unforgettable winter experience in the Caribbean.
Marina Options for your port base
Antigua and Sint Maarten boast some of the best marina facilities as homeport in the Caribbean, with secure and well-equipped berths.
In Antigua, Falmouth Harbour and English Harbour provide safe and secure berths with all necessary services.
On Sint Maarten, most berths are located on the Dutch side, within the Simpson Bay Lagoon, which offers excellent protection and security. A new marina in Philipsburg, Dock Maarten, is equipped for mega yachts and offers the advantage of being within walking distance from the town center, providing a great alternative to the lagoon.
Other islands like Grenada, St Kitts, the USVI, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, and Martinique also offer big marinas, but Antigua and Sint Maarten remain the top choices for their combination of location, services, and yacht support.
Shipping Goods: Customs and Logistics
Shipping goods to the Caribbean can be a tricky process, as each island has its own government and customs procedures, which can be lengthy and frustrating if not handled correctly. However, Sint Maarten stands out as the easiest port for shipping, with no import taxes and straightforward customs processes. The busy airport and efficient customs officers ensure a smooth flow of goods, making it the best option for shipping yacht supplies and personal items. We're here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring seamless coordination for all your logistics needs.
Provisioning in the Caribbean
One of the main challenges of provisioning in the Caribbean lies in sourcing top-quality products quickly, especially when yachts are located in more remote areas along their itineraries. The majority of goods are imported from countries like France, the Netherlands, the United States, and Italy, typically arriving first at key 'hub' islands such as Sint Maarten and Antigua.
Coordinating deliveries on time is crucial to ensuring smooth operations. Our team has years of experience managing the logistics to deliver fresh and dry products to any destination in the Caribbean within the required timeframes. It is essential to plan your orders and logistics in advance due to the challenges of getting goods to remote locations. Sint Maarten and Antigua are the only points where cargo arrives via direct flights, so it’s advisable to avoid smaller airports, which often have handlers without refrigerated facilities. Additionally, we have the expertise to source and import premium products from Sardinia and Italy, bringing the best flavors to your table, no matter where you are.
Formalities and Taxes in the main islands
SINT MAARTEN
When traveling to Sint Maarten from surrounding islands such as French St. Martin, St. Barths, Anguilla, or Saba, it is essential to clear in, even if you plan to stay at anchor. Similarly, you must clear out when departing to any surrounding islands.
For your inbound arrival to St. Maarten, please ensure you have the following documents:
a copy of your Certificate of Registration
a Crew/Guest List
your last port clearance, which is mandatory with no exceptions.
If you are carrying over USD 10,000 or the equivalent in Euros, a Cash Declaration form must be completed along with a copy of the signer’s passport.
Additionally, a Weapons Declaration detailing make, model, and rounds is required.
If your vessel is over 500 tons, you must complete and return the Maritime Health Declaration Form at least 48 hours before arrival. If you have crew members on the visa waiver list, an Agent Appointment Letter is necessary.
Regarding taxes, in Sint Maarten a local tax of 5% is applied to most goods and services.
ANTIGUA
Every pleasure vessel arriving in Antigua must complete a Customs Inbound declaration form and clear Customs within 24 hours of arrival. Similarly, vessels clearing out must prepare a Customs Outbound declaration form and depart within 24 hours of completing clearance.
All crew and guests must remain on the vessel until clearance is completed.
Any restricted or prohibited goods must be declared and secured onboard until Customs allows their disembarkation. Goods imported that are consumed or left in Antigua are subject to duties and taxes.
Serious fines and penalties apply for non-compliance with Customs regulations, which may lead to forfeiture of the vessel and arrests of the master and crew.
If anyone intends to stay in Antigua after the vessel departs, or if new individuals join the vessel, they must be presented to the Duty Customs/Immigration Officer.
Crew Stamps and Passport Procedures across the Caribbean
SINT MAARTEN
As you prepare for your arrival in St. Maarten, please take note of important immigration procedures.
It’s also crucial to understand the protocols for disembarking crew, guests, and technicians. None of these individuals may disembark without being officially signed off your manifests along with their passports and one of the approved sign-off methods:
an airline ticket for a departure within one week, proof of hotel or rental for the stay, a plane ticket for Visa Restricted Crew (valid for the same day or within 24 hours of vessel departure)
a private jet manifest, or a signed document from another yacht confirming the crew's transition.
Temporary crew members signed on from St. Maarten or St. Barths cannot be signed off without an outbound ticket unless they possess a St. Maarten or St. Martin resident card or are French passport holders with proof of residency.
Please remember that a Dutch passport is not recognized as a resident card by Immigration, and proof of residency on the island is essential.
ANTIGUA
Captains, owners and crew can receive up to a three month ‘visitor’ permit (90 days). You will be asked how long you expect to stay. If you want more than 3 months, be sure to request this upon entering and it’s possible on entry you will be issued with a longer stay (normally up to a maximum of six months). Otherwise, permit extensions should be requested several weeks before the expiration of your current one. No visas are required by nationals of most European countries, USA, many South American, Caribbean, or Commonwealth countries, nationals of Bangladesh, Cameroon, Gambia, Ghana, India, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, and Sri Lanka who do require a visa. In the case of crew members arriving by air or joining a vessel that is leaving for a foreign destination, a signed letter from the yacht’s captain or from a local agent will be accepted in lieu of a return ticket. This documentation must be presented in advance of, or at the time of, the individual’s arrival at the airport.
For more information on crew stamps and passport procedures across other Caribbean islands, including St. Barths, Anguilla, the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, and St. Kitts & Nevis, feel free to contact us at caribbean@nayacht.com.
Nautica Assistance: Your Central Agency in the Caribbean
Starting from November 2024 through mid-April 2024, Nautica Assistance will be at your service from our established hub at Marina Isle De Sol in Sint Maarten, right by the Simpson Bay Bridge. This premier IGY marina, renowned for catering to superyachts, offers a range of high-end facilities, including a pool, gym, tennis courts, and lively social spots like bars and entertainment areas.
Our team will be on hand 24/7, ready to assist with everything from logistics to local guidance. Partnering with a network of local experts, we’re here to ensure that your Caribbean season runs smoothly, providing the same level of impeccable service you've come to expect from us in the Mediterranean.
By selecting Nautica Assistance as your primary agency in the Caribbean, you can leave the logistics to us, allowing your crew to focus entirely on delivering an exceptional experience to your guests. Here are some key benefits of working with us:
Learn More About Our Pricing and Services
Get in touch with our team at the Sint Maarten office to explore our service packages and receive a tailored proposal for your yachting season in the Caribbean. Whether you prefer an in-person meeting, a call, or an email, we’re here to assist. You can count on us for 24/7 support throughout your journey.
Contact us at caribbean@nayacht.com for more details or to schedule a consultation.
We're looking forward to making this season one to remember!
Choosing your hub: Antigua vs. Sint Maarten
When it comes to choosing a homeport for the Caribbean season, captains and crew tend to favor either Antigua or Sint Maarten, the two main yachting hubs. Both islands are ideally suited for yachts, offering excellent marinas, comprehensive services, and facilities, along with easy access to nearby islands for itinerary planning. These hubs simplify logistics and crew life, providing ample technical support and established yacht agencies.
Each island has its own unique vibe: Antigua exudes British charm with its iconic harbors, Falmouth and English Harbour, while Sint Maarten is celebrated for its nightlife, abundant bars and clubs, and lively marina scene on both the Dutch and French sides.
While locations like St. Thomas and St. Barths are emerging as viable alternatives for cruising, no other island matches the extensive base-port services offered by Sint Maarten and Antigua. Beyond these two, only St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands is occasionally selected as a logistical base by superyachts, thanks to its well-equipped IGY marina and good onshore amenities, along with a well-connected airport. However, St. Thomas tends to be favored primarily by American yacht owners, as the airport links are more efficient with the U.S. than with Europe, making it less convenient for European visitors. Additionally, despite the appeal of the marina in Charlotte Amalie, the town’s safety concerns can be a drawback.
Aside from Antigua, with its beautiful bays and reliable anchorages, the most popular cruising grounds for charters in the Caribbean include St. Barths, the British Virgin Islands, and the Grenadines, with around 90% of superyachts gravitating toward these islands due to their attractive anchorages and vibrant sailing culture.
No matter where you choose to base your yacht, your crew will be enchanted by the diverse cultures, stunning anchorages, and unforgettable winter experience in the Caribbean.
Marina Options for your port base
Antigua and Sint Maarten boast some of the best marina facilities as homeport in the Caribbean, with secure and well-equipped berths.
In Antigua, Falmouth Harbour and English Harbour provide safe and secure berths with all necessary services.
On Sint Maarten, most berths are located on the Dutch side, within the Simpson Bay Lagoon, which offers excellent protection and security. A new marina in Philipsburg, Dock Maarten, is equipped for mega yachts and offers the advantage of being within walking distance from the town center, providing a great alternative to the lagoon.
Other islands like Grenada, St Kitts, the USVI, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, and Martinique also offer big marinas, but Antigua and Sint Maarten remain the top choices for their combination of location, services, and yacht support.
Shipping Goods: Customs and Logistics
Shipping goods to the Caribbean can be a tricky process, as each island has its own government and customs procedures, which can be lengthy and frustrating if not handled correctly. However, Sint Maarten stands out as the easiest port for shipping, with no import taxes and straightforward customs processes. The busy airport and efficient customs officers ensure a smooth flow of goods, making it the best option for shipping yacht supplies and personal items. We're here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring seamless coordination for all your logistics needs.
Provisioning in the Caribbean
One of the main challenges of provisioning in the Caribbean lies in sourcing top-quality products quickly, especially when yachts are located in more remote areas along their itineraries. The majority of goods are imported from countries like France, the Netherlands, the United States, and Italy, typically arriving first at key 'hub' islands such as Sint Maarten and Antigua.
Coordinating deliveries on time is crucial to ensuring smooth operations. Our team has years of experience managing the logistics to deliver fresh and dry products to any destination in the Caribbean within the required timeframes. It is essential to plan your orders and logistics in advance due to the challenges of getting goods to remote locations. Sint Maarten and Antigua are the only points where cargo arrives via direct flights, so it’s advisable to avoid smaller airports, which often have handlers without refrigerated facilities. Additionally, we have the expertise to source and import premium products from Sardinia and Italy, bringing the best flavors to your table, no matter where you are.
Formalities and Taxes in the main islands
SINT MAARTEN
When traveling to Sint Maarten from surrounding islands such as French St. Martin, St. Barths, Anguilla, or Saba, it is essential to clear in, even if you plan to stay at anchor. Similarly, you must clear out when departing to any surrounding islands.
For your inbound arrival to St. Maarten, please ensure you have the following documents:
a copy of your Certificate of Registration
a Crew/Guest List
your last port clearance, which is mandatory with no exceptions.
If you are carrying over USD 10,000 or the equivalent in Euros, a Cash Declaration form must be completed along with a copy of the signer’s passport.
Additionally, a Weapons Declaration detailing make, model, and rounds is required.
If your vessel is over 500 tons, you must complete and return the Maritime Health Declaration Form at least 48 hours before arrival. If you have crew members on the visa waiver list, an Agent Appointment Letter is necessary.
Regarding taxes, in Sint Maarten a local tax of 5% is applied to most goods and services.
ANTIGUA
Every pleasure vessel arriving in Antigua must complete a Customs Inbound declaration form and clear Customs within 24 hours of arrival. Similarly, vessels clearing out must prepare a Customs Outbound declaration form and depart within 24 hours of completing clearance.
All crew and guests must remain on the vessel until clearance is completed.
Any restricted or prohibited goods must be declared and secured onboard until Customs allows their disembarkation. Goods imported that are consumed or left in Antigua are subject to duties and taxes.
Serious fines and penalties apply for non-compliance with Customs regulations, which may lead to forfeiture of the vessel and arrests of the master and crew.
If anyone intends to stay in Antigua after the vessel departs, or if new individuals join the vessel, they must be presented to the Duty Customs/Immigration Officer.
Crew Stamps and Passport Procedures across the Caribbean
SINT MAARTEN
As you prepare for your arrival in St. Maarten, please take note of important immigration procedures.
It’s also crucial to understand the protocols for disembarking crew, guests, and technicians. None of these individuals may disembark without being officially signed off your manifests along with their passports and one of the approved sign-off methods:
an airline ticket for a departure within one week, proof of hotel or rental for the stay, a plane ticket for Visa Restricted Crew (valid for the same day or within 24 hours of vessel departure)
a private jet manifest, or a signed document from another yacht confirming the crew's transition.
Temporary crew members signed on from St. Maarten or St. Barths cannot be signed off without an outbound ticket unless they possess a St. Maarten or St. Martin resident card or are French passport holders with proof of residency.
Please remember that a Dutch passport is not recognized as a resident card by Immigration, and proof of residency on the island is essential.
ANTIGUA
Captains, owners and crew can receive up to a three month ‘visitor’ permit (90 days). You will be asked how long you expect to stay. If you want more than 3 months, be sure to request this upon entering and it’s possible on entry you will be issued with a longer stay (normally up to a maximum of six months). Otherwise, permit extensions should be requested several weeks before the expiration of your current one. No visas are required by nationals of most European countries, USA, many South American, Caribbean, or Commonwealth countries, nationals of Bangladesh, Cameroon, Gambia, Ghana, India, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, and Sri Lanka who do require a visa. In the case of crew members arriving by air or joining a vessel that is leaving for a foreign destination, a signed letter from the yacht’s captain or from a local agent will be accepted in lieu of a return ticket. This documentation must be presented in advance of, or at the time of, the individual’s arrival at the airport.
For more information on crew stamps and passport procedures across other Caribbean islands, including St. Barths, Anguilla, the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, and St. Kitts & Nevis, feel free to contact us at caribbean@nayacht.com.
Nautica Assistance: Your Central Agency in the Caribbean
Starting from November 2024 through mid-April 2024, Nautica Assistance will be at your service from our established hub at Marina Isle De Sol in Sint Maarten, right by the Simpson Bay Bridge. This premier IGY marina, renowned for catering to superyachts, offers a range of high-end facilities, including a pool, gym, tennis courts, and lively social spots like bars and entertainment areas.
Our team will be on hand 24/7, ready to assist with everything from logistics to local guidance. Partnering with a network of local experts, we’re here to ensure that your Caribbean season runs smoothly, providing the same level of impeccable service you've come to expect from us in the Mediterranean.
By selecting Nautica Assistance as your primary agency in the Caribbean, you can leave the logistics to us, allowing your crew to focus entirely on delivering an exceptional experience to your guests. Here are some key benefits of working with us:
- Itinerary Planning: Let us take care of the entire itinerary for your Caribbean season, managing all the details so that you don’t have to worry about a thing.
- Simplified Finances: We manage all yacht-related payments at each destination, offering you the convenience of consolidating your accounts through a single, trusted agency. This makes financial management smoother and more secure.
- One Dedicated Contact: You'll have a single point of contact for all your needs. Whether it's managing logistics, arranging provisions, or coordinating local services, we ensure everything runs seamlessly, as if we were right there with you.
- Provisions Support: We oversee all aspects of provisioning, working with local suppliers to ensure your yacht is always fully stocked according to your preferences. From Sint Maarten to any island on your itinerary, we ensure that your supply needs are met efficiently, no matter where your route takes you.
- Concierge Services: Our team provides comprehensive concierge support, offering valuable local insights and assistance to make your Caribbean yachting experience as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible.
Learn More About Our Pricing and Services
Get in touch with our team at the Sint Maarten office to explore our service packages and receive a tailored proposal for your yachting season in the Caribbean. Whether you prefer an in-person meeting, a call, or an email, we’re here to assist. You can count on us for 24/7 support throughout your journey.
Contact us at caribbean@nayacht.com for more details or to schedule a consultation.
We're looking forward to making this season one to remember!