Thread: Grand Bahama Overview

Driving

British rules apply, so please drive on the left and watch those roundabouts! Visitors may use their home license for up to three months and may also apply for an international driver's license. Pedestrians should remember to look right before crossing streets.

Electricity

Electricity is normally 120 volts AC. American appliances are fully compatible.

Fishing and Diving

To protect the marine environment, spear fishing using scuba gear and possession of spearguns are illegal in The Bahamas. Cruising boats must clear customs at the nearest port of entry before beginning any diving or fishing activities. A permit is required for visiting vessels to engage in sports fishing at a cost of $20 per trip or $150 per year for vessels on which not more than six reels will be used. (Refer to the Yachtsman's Guide to the Bahamas 1995.)

Language

The official language of The Bahamas is English, more British than American, and generally intertwined with a special Bahamian dialect. Some Indian words like cassava and guava have been retained in the language.

Shopping


Effective January 1, 1992, the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas abolished all import duties on 11 categories of items. Perfumes and Fragrances, Crystal, Leather Goods, Jewelry, Fine Linens and Tablecloths, Watches and Clocks, Photographic Equipment, China, Binoculars, and Telescopes are all duty free. Savings on these items are between 25% - 50% below US prices. It's easy to see why people often return from The Bahamas with more than nice tans.

The best shopping is concentrated in Nassau, Cable Beach, Paradise Island and Freeport/Lucaya; boutiques and gift shops are also found in most major resorts. Everything from duty-free products to local arts and crafts, wood, straw, shell and clothing creations are readily available.


Spring Break Season

Spring break season runs February 28 - April 10. This is important information, whether you're aiming to avoid the spring break season altogether or intent upon landing right in the middle of this month-long youthfest. Beach parties, sports meets, and musical entertainment lead off the packed Spring Break calendar. The front desk of your Bahamas hotel will surely be updated on the most detailed spring break info--or telephone the Ministry of Tourism at (242)322-7500.

Time

Eastern Standard Time is used on all islands. April to October is Eastern Daylight Time, in conjunction with US summer hours.

Tipping

Tip according to quality of service. Bellboys and porters usually receive $1 per bag, while most other servers (waiters, taxis, etc.) receive 15%. Some establishments include the gratuity in their bills.

Originally Posted by PagodaSwan

Fishing and Diving

To protect the marine environment, spear fishing using scuba gear and possession of spearguns are illegal in The Bahamas. Cruising boats must clear customs at the nearest port of entry before beginning any diving or fishing activities. A permit is required for visiting vessels to engage in sports fishing at a cost of $20 per trip or $150 per year for vessels on which not more than six reels will be used. (Refer to the Yachtsman's Guide to the Bahamas 1995.)

This is out of date-Current info below
Boats:
If entering The Bahamas by boat, there is a flat fee to clear Customs and Immigration, which is $150.00 for boats 35 feet and under and $300.00 for boats 36 ft and over. This will cover a vessel with four persons or less. Also included is the cruising permit, fishing permit, Customs and Immigration charges and the $15.00 Departure Tax for up to four persons. Each additional person above four will be charged $15.00 Departure Tax. If you plan to stay longer than 12 months, special arrangement must be made with Bahamas Customs and Immigration.
http://www.bahamas.com/bahamas/about...toplevel=59196

Thanks for the update, thats what these overviews are for, to be read and updated as they go along. They can also have tips and experiences from those who have been aswell.