Can Private Cayman Flagged Yachts Carry Firearms In Bahamas?

In the past, firearms were allowed to be locked on board after declaration and ammo accounting. However, in the Bahamas, firearms are not allowed over.308 caliber, max of 3, and are not permitted on center console boats. This rule has been confirmed to have changed, and it is not possible to apply for a special permit to carry firearms on private yachts in the Bahamas.

Tourists who plan to arrive by private boat may seek permission to declare firearms to Bahamian Customs and leave them securely on the boat for the duration of their stay. Bringing a firearm on a private boat to the Bahamas requires compliance with Bahamian laws and regulations, as yachtsmen remain an easy target for attacks due to their low risk to pirates and potential for high ransoms as hostages. The flag state of the yacht also governs the use and possession of on-board weapons, such as shotguns.

In the Bahamas, if you have a firearm or ammunition onboard a boat entering Bahamian waters, you must declare it with Bahamian Customs at the first point of entry. Only declared shotguns and handguns are allowed in Bahamian waters. If you have a firearm on board, you cannot take it off the vessel unless you obtain a permit from the Bahamian police ahead of time.

A UK-flagged yacht is entitled to carry a shotgun as part of the ship’s equipment, but other firearms must be purchased outside the country. The Cayman Islands Merchant Shipping Act does not specifically prohibit the carriage of firearms or Privately Contracted Security.

In conclusion, it is illegal to take firearms into or out of the Bahamas, as Dominican jails are very basic and require declaration.