Half Moon sailing - an unique experience
Although it is far from the most popular way to reach Jamaica, intrepid sailors think nothing of climbing aboard a boat and sailing to and around the island. Chartered and personal boats can certainly be sailed into any number of harbors around Jamaica. While many sailors have their own boats, sailing to Jamaica is still possible even for those who don't. Jamaica lies within the Caribbean, which is known worldwide for its near-perfect sailing conditions, the water is always warm and there are plenty of beautiful islands to visit. Jamaica itself is not widely regarded as a top sailing spot, however, that should not deter interested travelers. Before you set sail, you may want to take into account a few safety issues. Unfavorable trade winds and coral reefs may pose some threat to travelers, but there are a few other things to be aware of as well: On Jamaica's northeastern coast you'll find the strongest currents and largest waves. This is because it is the side closest to the Atlantic Ocean. Travelers should watch for similar patterns throughout the Caribbean. Peak tourist season is also the best time for sailing: January through March. You'll find higher prices throughout the Caribbean when sailing to Jamaica during these months. Remember that, July through November, travelers will face summer rains and even hurricane season. This will cause choppy waters and possibly unpleasant conditions. Private sailing boats to Jamaica must enter the country through an official port of entry. Immigration and customs services are available at the following ports: Kingston's Port Royal, Montego Bay, Port Antonio, Ocho Rios, Port Kaiser, Port Esquivel, Discovery Bay, Bowden. Fly your "Q" flag when sailing into port. If you want to spend time cruising around Jamaica, the customs officers can issue you a "Coastwide Clearance" form. This form allows you to sail at will along the coast and must be presented when visiting other ports. You will need to clear customs when you arrive at your first port and also when you depart from Jamaica's territorial waters. Customs officers will indicate to the captain when they have inspected the ship and cleared it through customs. You will need to fill out several forms at customs, including the following: Crew list and declaration, departure permission forms from your last port of call, The ship's registrations, a list of the ship's stores. There may also be a standard form to be completed in triplicate. This form replaces the crew list and requires details of the ship's flag, registration, last port of call and information about each person onboard including full name, date of birth, passport number, nationality, and position on the ship. The Quarantine Officer will tell you when the "Q" flag may be lowered. He will also require a few items as well.
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Half Moon Vacations site
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