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Bahamas COVID Travel Guidelines For The Holidays

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FATIGUE FROM BEING HOUSEBOUND?

Looking for a change of scenery?  We get it.  “Pandemic fatigue” is starting to set in for most of us.  Indeed, the idea of escaping the “Covid blues” sounds better and better every day. Covid travel restrictions are important to know.

 

COVID-19 GUIDELINES BELOW

For many affluent travelers, a holiday luxury yacht charter is very appealing.   After all, if you have to practice social-distancing, why not set up camp on a private yacht?

 

MUCH OF CARIBBEAN HAS TOUGH RESTRICTIONS

Unfortunately, much of the Caribbean is still imposing harsh restrictions on tourism.  For example, mandatory tourist quarantines are in place in the British Virgin Islands. It is the most popular yacht charter destination in the world.   We anticipate these restrictions will still be in effect for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

 

BAHAMAS IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Thankfully, there is one tropical destination open for business. That is the Bahamas.

Photograph of a family enjoying a charter on a catamaran sailboat at anchor. They are playing in the water and sunbathing on the deck. The water is clear and turquoise. There is an island in the background. The sailboat is all white. There are 6 people on the boat. The boat is facing the upper right side of the photograph

Travel restrictions in the Bahamas have relaxed significantly compared to the start of the year.  Still, there are strict guidelines for Bahamas yacht charter guests.

 

THE COVID-19 GUIDELINES FOR THE BAHAMAS

Below are guidelines in effect as of November 20, 2020, for the holiday season.

 

GET TESTED BEFORE ARRIVAL

These rules apply to every guest over 10 years old.  Each passenger on your yacht must get an RT PCR nasal swab Covid-19 test 5 days or less before arrival.  Test results from any other type of COVID-19 test are unacceptable.  Passengers under the age of 10 do not need to be tested.   All tests must be negative for entering the Bahamas.

 

SUBMIT A HEALTH VISA

Each guest must complete a travel health visa, along with submitting a negative Covid-19 test,.  The application is available online.  First, go to www.travel.gov.bs.  Second, select “International,” and create an account.  Fill out your visa information, upload your negative test results, and submit your application.  Allow up to 72 hours to receive an approval confirmation.  IMPORTANT TO NOTE, you need to print the approval document and bring it with you.  You must present the document to Bahamian officials when entering the country.

 

5 Little Known Facts About The Bahamas

 

PURCHASE COVID-19 HEALTH INSURANCE

You must opt-in for health insurance when you complete your health visa application.  Specifically, you will be covered for any Covid-19 health issues during your time in the Bahamas.  For example, the cost of a mandatory rapid antigen test (required on day 5 of your visit) will be covered.  You’ll also be covered if you require quarantine (up to $7000) or medical evacuation (up to $50,000).  Charter guests staying 4 days or less pay $40 for coverage. Visitors staying more than four days pay $60.

 

TAKE A RAPID ANTIGEN TEST ON DAY 5

You are required to take this test if you stay in the Bahamas for 5 or more days.   You must quarantine aboard your charter yacht while you await the results of the test.  Don’t worry, results are typically texted or emailed within 60 minutes. IMPORTANT NOTE, a rapid antigen test is not required if you have no plans to go ashore during your charter.

 

SUBMIT A DAILY ONLINE HEALTH SURVEY

Charter guests are required to answer an online health questionnaire each day. This survey is used to identify potential Covid-19 symptoms. Any guests who exhibit Covid-19 symptoms during their charter will be required to take a rapid antigen test. Any positive results will require a Covid-19 RT-PCR swab test.

 

FOLLOW ONSHORE SAFETY PROTOCOLS

There are rules and requirements to follow when onshore.  For example, wearing a face mask is mandatory in public places, except on the beaches.  Additionally, social distancing is expected wherever possible in public areas. Finally, be aware that some of the individual islands have evening curfews.

 

IT’S BETTER IN THE BAHAMAS, RIGHT?

It’s nice to know we can escape to the Bahamas during the holidays.  Specifically, since so many restrictions are still in place in our hometowns.  As they say, “It’s Better in the Bahamas.”  Test it out!  Everyone can enjoy a Bahamas yacht charter vacation IF we follow the guidelines listed above.

 

COMPANY PRESIDENT COMMENTS

Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, stands on superyacht deck at yacht show

Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters

Jana Sheeder, President and Co-owner of 1-800 Yacht Charters says,

This has been an unsettling year for everyone. You owe it to yourself,  friends, and loved ones to appreciate and enjoy the holidays.  Relax and reflect upon all that we have, and do.  Take time to smell the roses and to express gratitude.  Show yourself some love and plan a well-earned vacation.  Push away the stress,k and leave the fatigue behind.  Welcome mindfulness and wellness.  Make memories and celebrate another year of togetherness.  Please stay safe, follow the rules, and take Covid-19 prevention seriously.  Regardless, please have a WONDERFUL holiday.  Love, Jana

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