Abacos, Bahamas, Marsh Harbour – Essential Holiday Information
Sunsail Bahamas
PO Box AB20469
Marsh Harbour
Abacos, Bahamas
Tel: 1 242 367 4000
Base Manager: Samantha Cornish
LANGUAGE
• The Language of the Bahamas is English
• The Bahamas are Eastern Standard Time (GMT – 5hrs)
PASSPORTS AND VISAS
• A passport and onward/return ticket are required for entry. Please ensure your passport is valid for the period of travel and for six months after you return.
• Your passport name must match the name on the flight ticket otherwise you may not be able to travel and insurance may be invalid.
• It is the responsibility of each individual to ensure relevant visas are obtained where necessary. Sunsail cannot be held responsible for refusal of entry or travel due to lack of visas. If you are in any doubt please contact your Embassy for full details.
CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATION
• Upon entering The Bahamas, everyone must fill out and sign an Immigration form, keeping a portion of the card in hand until departing.
• When departing, all visitors are required to pay a $15.00 departure tax ($18.00 from Grand Bahama); children six years and under are exempt.
TRANSFERS
Please, send your travel arrangements to us so we can assist with transfer details where required.
PLEASE NOTE:Guests arriving separately should bring a copy of the charter contract / invoice.
VACCINATIONS
• The Bahamas are generally risk-free of contagious disease. At time of publication, an International Vaccination Certificate is not mandatory in the Bahamas.
• Please refer to the Department of Health’s ‘EHIC and health advice for travelers web page at www.dh.gov.uk or consult your family GP for further details.
TAXI TRANSFERS
The Sunsail marina is a 5 minute taxi drive from Marsh Harbour Airport (3.5 miles).
Car Rental Companies:
* K&S Rentals - tel: 242-367-2655
* Cornish Car Rental - tel: 242-365-8623
* Sea Star rentals - tel: 242-367-2840
* T.C. Airport car rentals - tel: 242-365-8961
* Carls - tel: 242-367-5196
* Rental Wheels - tel: 242-367-4643
When driving, British rules apply, so please drive on the left. Newly paved roads make it possible to take day trips to:
Little Abaco Island (1 hour drive)
Treasure Cay (30 minute drive) and other surrounding areas.
Dolphin Research station (2 hours drive)
CURRENCY
• Local currency is the Bahamian Dollar. U.S. currency is accepted by all vendors. Visa and Master Card are accepted, American Express accepted at some locations.
• Banks and Money Exchange generally open between 9:30 am to 3 pm (4:30 pm Fridays). Cash machines dispense Bahamian dollars.
PROVISIONING
• You can order provisioning packages from the Sunsail sales team ahead, we offer Last Orders and Early Riser and for those who would like snacks on arrival and/or breakfast the next morning, the Get Going package which includes your basic goods and dairy products, and also full Dine Ashore and Dine Afloat provisioning packages.
• If you prefer to put together your own shopping list you can order from our online single item provisioning list before you depart. The provisioning pages will confirm the latest order date for your chosen destination.
• Your Sunsail provisioning will be delivered to your yacht after it arrives on the dock.
• We would highly recommend provisioning at least for the first night of arrival just in case you arrive at the base after the store and restaurant have closed.
• There are alternative stores to provision nearby. (Please note that self-provisioning in the Bahamas is very expensive)
Soloman's Wholesale
Large supermarket
10 minutes walk
Open Mon-Sat 8 am - 7 pm; Sun 8 am - 2 pm.
Sawyers Market
Wholesale / Retail Store
3 minutes by taxi
Open: Mon - Sat 8am - 7 pm; Sun 8 am - 2 pm
Price Right
Large supermarket (will accept credit cards)
10 minutes walk from the base
Open Mon - Sat 8 am - 7 pm; Sun 9 am - 3 pm
BOARDING/DEPARTURE
Charters start at 6pm and end at 11 am
SAFETY
• All yachts are equipped with adult life jackets harnesses we leave it up to you to decide when personal safety equipment should be worn.
• We have a limited supply of children’s life jackets (age 4+ only) if you have your own children’s life jacket we would encourage you to bring it along.
• Children under the age of 16yrs should not operate an outboard engine and should be supervised at all times when in the dinghy.
ILLNESS OR INJURY
• If you are taken sick and visit the doctor or hospital during your trip please have a member of your party contact the Sunsail base manager as soon as possible.
• If you will need to make a travel insurance claim please contact your claim insurer’s emergency medical service immediately.
• Obtain receipts for any medication, treatment or transport you have to pay for and submit with your claim.
• Emergency Numbers
Marsh Harbour Clinic tel: 242 367 2510
Sandy Point Clinic tel: 242 366 4010
Treasure Cay Clinic tel: 242 365 8288
Green Turtle Cay Clinic tel: 242 365 4028
Medical personnel on call 24 hours/7 days
THE MARINA
Conch Inn Marina is full service with showers, toilets, laundry, restaurant, fuel, ice, and water.
• The laundry is open 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Mini market - open 7 days
• The reception is located at the base of the dock and is open 7:30 am - 6:00 pm.
• Security personnel are available to assist from 6:00 pm - 12:00 am.
• After midnight Conch Inn Security can be contacted on V.H.F channel 16.
ELECTRICITY
• Current is 110V, 60 cycle, 2 prong US type outlets.
• The dock is equipped with 110V. outlets.
• All of our yachts are equipped with power lines, battery charger and 110V. plugs.
There is a 12V. cigar lighter and several 110V sockets by the chart table on the majority of our yachts. In order to use electronic equipment that is 220v you will need an inverter suitable for use in a cigarette lighter. You may rent an inverter from Renport before arrival www.renport.com
EQUIPMENT ON THE YACHTS
Sunsail yachts are equipped with just about everything you will need for a safe and enjoyable holiday.
• You will be given a checklist on arrival to make sure you have all the items listed on the inventory.
• Please inform the base manager before you leave the base if anything is missing as it is not always possible to replace or exchange items once you have departed on your cruise. Stolen items must be immediately reported to Sunsail management and the local police. An incident report will be completed for insurance purposes
• Any problems with, or damage to, your yacht must be reported to the local staff immediately. If not we cannot be held responsible.
• Each yacht is equipped with two pairs of snorkeling equipment, linen and bath towels and navigation equipment. Please bring beach towels with you or you can purchase them at the base.
• Clothing – In Sunsail locations dress is informal, but we ask you to respect local etiquette. Wet weather gear and fleeces are advisable for early and late season.
• All the charts and pilot books you will need for the sailing area are on board the yacht. Charts and pilot books can be purchased in advance from www.imray.com or www.kelvinhughes.com
EATING OUT
Note most restaurants close at 9pm
• Curly Tails
Location: On site
Cuisine: Bahamian and American
Tel: 242-367-4000
• Sappodilly's Island Bar and Lookout
Tel: 242 367 3498
Location: Marsh Harbour, Abaco
Cuisine: Bahamian and American
• Wally's Restaurant Tel:
Tel: 242 367 2074
Cuisine: Bahamian and seafood - Reservations suggested
• Jib Room Restaurant
Tel: 242 367 2700
Cuisine: Grill
• Mangoe's Restaurant
Tel: 242 367 2366
Cuisine: Bahamian and Seafood
• Golden Grouper
Tel: 242 367 2301
Cuisine: Bahamian and American
• Anglers Restaurant
Tel: 242 367 2158
Cuisine: Bahamian and American
TIPPING
• Tip according to quality of service.
• Bellboys and porters usually receive US$1 per bag, while most other servers (waiters, taxis, etc.) receive 15%.
• Some establishments include the gratuity in their bills.
ACTIVITIES
• Snorkeling: We have a range of snorkeling gear which you may wish to use. We are limited on children’s sizes so if you have your own you may wish to pack your own, as children may be more comfortable with what is familiar to them.
• Diving: Dive Abaco (www.diveabaco.com) is located at the base and is the most easily accessed dive shop. Tanks and equipment can be rented. Rendezvous dives available.
Mermaid reef, Johnny's Cay, Manjack Cay, No name Cay and Walkers Cay reef are all protected underwater preserves.
• Fishing: Fishing is allowed and a license is not required for charterers. To protect the marine environment, spear fishing using scuba gear and possession of spear guns are illegal in The Bahamas. Some fishing charters are available; some fishing equipment rental from Sunsail or Rich’s Rental. Lobster season: Aug. 1st- Mar. 31st. Bone fishing at Cassavina. Two areas are protected and fishing is not permitted: Pelican Cays Land & Sea Park Fowl Cay Preserve.
• Kayaking: Kayaks may be available at the base. Please ask us to book one for you.
• Golf: One 18-hole course available at Treasure Cay, 20 miles (32km) away.
• Tennis: Available at Great Abaco Beach Hotel (One must be a guest or a member of the club to have access to the tennis courts), 5 minute walk; Treasure Cay tennis courts are available at $15 p/hr, about 30 minute drive.
MOBILE PHONES
• Your mobile phone may work when in the Bahamas, please check with your service provider for coverage details and call costs. You will need to activate international roaming on your contract.
• Clients also have the option of renting a cellular phone. The base will help make arrangements when the guests arrive at the base.
LUGGAGE
• We would highly recommend packing prescription medicine and essential clothing (swimsuit, t-shirt and shorts) in your hand luggage in case of luggage delays.
• Please pack using soft-sided bags, as these are easier to store on your yacht. Sunsail has no facilities for holding luggage.
MUSIC / IPODS
• All boats are fitted with a radio and CD player. If you wish to listen to your IPOD whilst sailing you will need to bring along an I-trip or FM radio transmitter.
NIGHT SAILING
• Night Sailing is not permitted; you must be moored at least one hour before sunset at all of our locations.
WEATHER
• The trade winds that blow almost continually throughout The Bahamas give the islands a warm agreeable climate, which varies little year round. The coolest time is between December through February when the temperature averages 70-75F (21-24C) degrees. The rest of the year is warmer with temperatures between 80-85F (27-29C) degrees. Bahamas weather for the most part is sunny with some clouds and showers are usually short. Dress for sun and sand but bring a light jacket for the evenings when it's cooler.
• Weather Forecasts: The base provides daily weather forecasts. You can also consult
The Cruiser Net: VHF channel 68, daily at 0815 hrs. Radio Abaco: FM radio 93.5, daily at 0800 and 1800 hrs.
• Prevailing winds in winter: NE 5 - 20 knots. Occasional cold fronts pass through bringing stronger winds from the West. These fronts pass quickly and the wind clocks back to the NE when they have passed. Prevailing winds in Summer: SE 5 - 20 knots. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms bring stronger winds and brief showers.
TIDES
• The tidal range in The Bahamas is up to 3.5 feet.
• A copy of the tidal charts is provided in the client’s charter folder at the base.
• Due to the shallow nature of these waters it is important that close attention is paid to the tide while underway as well as entering and departing harbours
PLEASE NOTE
• If you feel that a problem may adversely affect your vacation, you must give our staff the opportunity to resolve it for you. If the problem is not resolved to your satisfaction, please ensure that you inform the base manager and it is essential that you complete a holiday report form.
• Unfortunately, claims made for problems not reported first to the base staff and then to the manager locally, cannot be considered.
SUNSAIL – RESPECTING DESTINATIONS
Sunsail remain committed to looking after the environment and supporting the cultures where we operate and over many years you have helped us to ensure that our presence does not negatively impact these areas. Please continue to assist us to leave these areas ‘As good or better than we found them’
Times, prices and information is correct at the time of publication, but are subject to change without prior notice.
Sunsail Bahamas
PO Box AB20469
Marsh Harbour
Abacos, Bahamas
Tel: 1 242 367 4000
Base Manager: Samantha Cornish
LANGUAGE
• The Language of the Bahamas is English
• The Bahamas are Eastern Standard Time (GMT – 5hrs)
PASSPORTS AND VISAS
• A passport and onward/return ticket are required for entry. Please ensure your passport is valid for the period of travel and for six months after you return.
• Your passport name must match the name on the flight ticket otherwise you may not be able to travel and insurance may be invalid.
• It is the responsibility of each individual to ensure relevant visas are obtained where necessary. Sunsail cannot be held responsible for refusal of entry or travel due to lack of visas. If you are in any doubt please contact your Embassy for full details.
CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATION
• Upon entering The Bahamas, everyone must fill out and sign an Immigration form, keeping a portion of the card in hand until departing.
• When departing, all visitors are required to pay a $15.00 departure tax ($18.00 from Grand Bahama); children six years and under are exempt.
TRANSFERS
Please, send your travel arrangements to us so we can assist with transfer details where required.
PLEASE NOTE:Guests arriving separately should bring a copy of the charter contract / invoice.
VACCINATIONS
• The Bahamas are generally risk-free of contagious disease. At time of publication, an International Vaccination Certificate is not mandatory in the Bahamas.
• Please refer to the Department of Health’s ‘EHIC and health advice for travelers web page at www.dh.gov.uk or consult your family GP for further details.
TAXI TRANSFERS
The Sunsail marina is a 5 minute taxi drive from Marsh Harbour Airport (3.5 miles).
Car Rental Companies:
* K&S Rentals - tel: 242-367-2655
* Cornish Car Rental - tel: 242-365-8623
* Sea Star rentals - tel: 242-367-2840
* T.C. Airport car rentals - tel: 242-365-8961
* Carls - tel: 242-367-5196
* Rental Wheels - tel: 242-367-4643
When driving, British rules apply, so please drive on the left. Newly paved roads make it possible to take day trips to:
Little Abaco Island (1 hour drive)
Treasure Cay (30 minute drive) and other surrounding areas.
Dolphin Research station (2 hours drive)
CURRENCY
• Local currency is the Bahamian Dollar. U.S. currency is accepted by all vendors. Visa and Master Card are accepted, American Express accepted at some locations.
• Banks and Money Exchange generally open between 9:30 am to 3 pm (4:30 pm Fridays). Cash machines dispense Bahamian dollars.
PROVISIONING
• You can order provisioning packages from the Sunsail sales team ahead, we offer Last Orders and Early Riser and for those who would like snacks on arrival and/or breakfast the next morning, the Get Going package which includes your basic goods and dairy products, and also full Dine Ashore and Dine Afloat provisioning packages.
• If you prefer to put together your own shopping list you can order from our online single item provisioning list before you depart. The provisioning pages will confirm the latest order date for your chosen destination.
• Your Sunsail provisioning will be delivered to your yacht after it arrives on the dock.
• We would highly recommend provisioning at least for the first night of arrival just in case you arrive at the base after the store and restaurant have closed.
• There are alternative stores to provision nearby. (Please note that self-provisioning in the Bahamas is very expensive)
Soloman's Wholesale
Large supermarket
10 minutes walk
Open Mon-Sat 8 am - 7 pm; Sun 8 am - 2 pm.
Sawyers Market
Wholesale / Retail Store
3 minutes by taxi
Open: Mon - Sat 8am - 7 pm; Sun 8 am - 2 pm
Price Right
Large supermarket (will accept credit cards)
10 minutes walk from the base
Open Mon - Sat 8 am - 7 pm; Sun 9 am - 3 pm
BOARDING/DEPARTURE
Charters start at 6pm and end at 11 am
SAFETY
• All yachts are equipped with adult life jackets harnesses we leave it up to you to decide when personal safety equipment should be worn.
• We have a limited supply of children’s life jackets (age 4+ only) if you have your own children’s life jacket we would encourage you to bring it along.
• Children under the age of 16yrs should not operate an outboard engine and should be supervised at all times when in the dinghy.
ILLNESS OR INJURY
• If you are taken sick and visit the doctor or hospital during your trip please have a member of your party contact the Sunsail base manager as soon as possible.
• If you will need to make a travel insurance claim please contact your claim insurer’s emergency medical service immediately.
• Obtain receipts for any medication, treatment or transport you have to pay for and submit with your claim.
• Emergency Numbers
Marsh Harbour Clinic tel: 242 367 2510
Sandy Point Clinic tel: 242 366 4010
Treasure Cay Clinic tel: 242 365 8288
Green Turtle Cay Clinic tel: 242 365 4028
Medical personnel on call 24 hours/7 days
THE MARINA
Conch Inn Marina is full service with showers, toilets, laundry, restaurant, fuel, ice, and water.
• The laundry is open 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Mini market - open 7 days
• The reception is located at the base of the dock and is open 7:30 am - 6:00 pm.
• Security personnel are available to assist from 6:00 pm - 12:00 am.
• After midnight Conch Inn Security can be contacted on V.H.F channel 16.
ELECTRICITY
• Current is 110V, 60 cycle, 2 prong US type outlets.
• The dock is equipped with 110V. outlets.
• All of our yachts are equipped with power lines, battery charger and 110V. plugs.
There is a 12V. cigar lighter and several 110V sockets by the chart table on the majority of our yachts. In order to use electronic equipment that is 220v you will need an inverter suitable for use in a cigarette lighter. You may rent an inverter from Renport before arrival www.renport.com
EQUIPMENT ON THE YACHTS
Sunsail yachts are equipped with just about everything you will need for a safe and enjoyable holiday.
• You will be given a checklist on arrival to make sure you have all the items listed on the inventory.
• Please inform the base manager before you leave the base if anything is missing as it is not always possible to replace or exchange items once you have departed on your cruise. Stolen items must be immediately reported to Sunsail management and the local police. An incident report will be completed for insurance purposes
• Any problems with, or damage to, your yacht must be reported to the local staff immediately. If not we cannot be held responsible.
• Each yacht is equipped with two pairs of snorkeling equipment, linen and bath towels and navigation equipment. Please bring beach towels with you or you can purchase them at the base.
• Clothing – In Sunsail locations dress is informal, but we ask you to respect local etiquette. Wet weather gear and fleeces are advisable for early and late season.
• All the charts and pilot books you will need for the sailing area are on board the yacht. Charts and pilot books can be purchased in advance from www.imray.com or www.kelvinhughes.com
EATING OUT
Note most restaurants close at 9pm
• Curly Tails
Location: On site
Cuisine: Bahamian and American
Tel: 242-367-4000
• Sappodilly's Island Bar and Lookout
Tel: 242 367 3498
Location: Marsh Harbour, Abaco
Cuisine: Bahamian and American
• Wally's Restaurant Tel:
Tel: 242 367 2074
Cuisine: Bahamian and seafood - Reservations suggested
• Jib Room Restaurant
Tel: 242 367 2700
Cuisine: Grill
• Mangoe's Restaurant
Tel: 242 367 2366
Cuisine: Bahamian and Seafood
• Golden Grouper
Tel: 242 367 2301
Cuisine: Bahamian and American
• Anglers Restaurant
Tel: 242 367 2158
Cuisine: Bahamian and American
TIPPING
• Tip according to quality of service.
• Bellboys and porters usually receive US$1 per bag, while most other servers (waiters, taxis, etc.) receive 15%.
• Some establishments include the gratuity in their bills.
ACTIVITIES
• Snorkeling: We have a range of snorkeling gear which you may wish to use. We are limited on children’s sizes so if you have your own you may wish to pack your own, as children may be more comfortable with what is familiar to them.
• Diving: Dive Abaco (www.diveabaco.com) is located at the base and is the most easily accessed dive shop. Tanks and equipment can be rented. Rendezvous dives available.
Mermaid reef, Johnny's Cay, Manjack Cay, No name Cay and Walkers Cay reef are all protected underwater preserves.
• Fishing: Fishing is allowed and a license is not required for charterers. To protect the marine environment, spear fishing using scuba gear and possession of spear guns are illegal in The Bahamas. Some fishing charters are available; some fishing equipment rental from Sunsail or Rich’s Rental. Lobster season: Aug. 1st- Mar. 31st. Bone fishing at Cassavina. Two areas are protected and fishing is not permitted: Pelican Cays Land & Sea Park Fowl Cay Preserve.
• Kayaking: Kayaks may be available at the base. Please ask us to book one for you.
• Golf: One 18-hole course available at Treasure Cay, 20 miles (32km) away.
• Tennis: Available at Great Abaco Beach Hotel (One must be a guest or a member of the club to have access to the tennis courts), 5 minute walk; Treasure Cay tennis courts are available at $15 p/hr, about 30 minute drive.
MOBILE PHONES
• Your mobile phone may work when in the Bahamas, please check with your service provider for coverage details and call costs. You will need to activate international roaming on your contract.
• Clients also have the option of renting a cellular phone. The base will help make arrangements when the guests arrive at the base.
LUGGAGE
• We would highly recommend packing prescription medicine and essential clothing (swimsuit, t-shirt and shorts) in your hand luggage in case of luggage delays.
• Please pack using soft-sided bags, as these are easier to store on your yacht. Sunsail has no facilities for holding luggage.
MUSIC / IPODS
• All boats are fitted with a radio and CD player. If you wish to listen to your IPOD whilst sailing you will need to bring along an I-trip or FM radio transmitter.
NIGHT SAILING
• Night Sailing is not permitted; you must be moored at least one hour before sunset at all of our locations.
WEATHER
• The trade winds that blow almost continually throughout The Bahamas give the islands a warm agreeable climate, which varies little year round. The coolest time is between December through February when the temperature averages 70-75F (21-24C) degrees. The rest of the year is warmer with temperatures between 80-85F (27-29C) degrees. Bahamas weather for the most part is sunny with some clouds and showers are usually short. Dress for sun and sand but bring a light jacket for the evenings when it's cooler.
• Weather Forecasts: The base provides daily weather forecasts. You can also consult
The Cruiser Net: VHF channel 68, daily at 0815 hrs. Radio Abaco: FM radio 93.5, daily at 0800 and 1800 hrs.
• Prevailing winds in winter: NE 5 - 20 knots. Occasional cold fronts pass through bringing stronger winds from the West. These fronts pass quickly and the wind clocks back to the NE when they have passed. Prevailing winds in Summer: SE 5 - 20 knots. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms bring stronger winds and brief showers.
TIDES
• The tidal range in The Bahamas is up to 3.5 feet.
• A copy of the tidal charts is provided in the client’s charter folder at the base.
• Due to the shallow nature of these waters it is important that close attention is paid to the tide while underway as well as entering and departing harbours
PLEASE NOTE
• If you feel that a problem may adversely affect your vacation, you must give our staff the opportunity to resolve it for you. If the problem is not resolved to your satisfaction, please ensure that you inform the base manager and it is essential that you complete a holiday report form.
• Unfortunately, claims made for problems not reported first to the base staff and then to the manager locally, cannot be considered.
SUNSAIL – RESPECTING DESTINATIONS
Sunsail remain committed to looking after the environment and supporting the cultures where we operate and over many years you have helped us to ensure that our presence does not negatively impact these areas. Please continue to assist us to leave these areas ‘As good or better than we found them’
Times, prices and information is correct at the time of publication, but are subject to change without prior notice.
Please use this form to get a quote.
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