I would like to hear from sailors reference the carrying of firearms onboard sailing vessels in the caribbean. Once my wife and I start to travel and island hop I want to carry a pistol and possibly a rifle or riot shotgun. I find it very unnerving to sail alone without some sort of protection. Does anyone know what the maritime laws are for carrying firearms aboard a boat and what other countries(islands)in and around the caribbean do or say about the possession of firearms on your yacht? Thanks Morris
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Answering the question and _only_ the question
The question here is about _laws_ regarding firearms in the Carribean. Fair warning that the first rant about the wisdom or politics of carrying firearms will be the end of the thread. Thanks for your restraint!
The question here is about _laws_ regarding firearms in the Carribean. Fair warning that the first rant about the wisdom or politics of carrying firearms will be the end of the thread. Thanks for your restraint!
Morris, The law is different from location to location. The maritime law is specific and gives various rules/laws and like all other laws applies to cirtain areas. I can tell you that each country has it's own laws and they enforce them in the confines of that country. So in short you should check with the country that you will visit or travel in that countries waters. If you are doing the islands and you get boarded by that country Customs or Military I would advise tham of the weapons prior to them stepping on your vessel. The weapons should be under lock and key as well as unloaded at that time. You should also show the agent of that country where the firearms ate stowed. If you don't and they search you and they find them you might be in a real bad spot and could even loose your vessel and your freedom. Before you set out from the states you should contact Customs and Border Protection and register your firearms. They should give you a form that has the numbers of the weapon on it and it should be signed by one of the Custom and Border Protection Officers. You could show this to the country that you visit and above all when you return to the USA and when you clear either by phone or at a CBP facility make sure you tell them of the weapons and show them the regs paperwork that they gave you before you departed. What might be better than a weapon is a real good working radio that you might contact the authorities if you need help. I know it is a lot to think about but the bad guys have guns as well and they likely use them more often unless you have had real good weapons training. Think about this could you bust a cap on someone...it's not as easy as you might think! Have a good trip, watch your back and have fun! K9piper
Funny you should ask
As K9piper said ...the law is different from location to location. I just replied to another post and here it is again..Most foreign countries DO NOT PERMIT FIREARMS or AMMUNITION. Every so often, on 60 Mins or 20-20, they show an American couple that has been in jail in some island nation in the Carribbean (dont remember which one). To make a long story short, they had no gun, but when cleaning the boat prior to the trip, a few (i believe only 2) bullets were missed and rolled out of view. When boarded, customs found it. They let their daughter return to the US, but the parents were put in jail and i think they are still there. Foreign nations dont play around. I dont know the law and i dont intend to act like i do, so to be safe, i would contact the countries you intend to visit and also the ones you pass by, in case of an emergency, you may have to pull into their port. But contact these countries NOW while you are in the US. When customs boards you...its too late, and most island nations and S. American nations are not very understanding of your problems.
As K9piper said ...the law is different from location to location. I just replied to another post and here it is again..Most foreign countries DO NOT PERMIT FIREARMS or AMMUNITION. Every so often, on 60 Mins or 20-20, they show an American couple that has been in jail in some island nation in the Carribbean (dont remember which one). To make a long story short, they had no gun, but when cleaning the boat prior to the trip, a few (i believe only 2) bullets were missed and rolled out of view. When boarded, customs found it. They let their daughter return to the US, but the parents were put in jail and i think they are still there. Foreign nations dont play around. I dont know the law and i dont intend to act like i do, so to be safe, i would contact the countries you intend to visit and also the ones you pass by, in case of an emergency, you may have to pull into their port. But contact these countries NOW while you are in the US. When customs boards you...its too late, and most island nations and S. American nations are not very understanding of your problems.
I'm taking my CG Captain's course and
did a little research on this topic. I called the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms on the recommendation of our local PD. I was told that there is no such thing as a federal gun license to carry weapons, only to sell them such as a gun shop. So, not only does every country have their own rules & regs but so does each and every state. For example, here in Vermont we don't require a license to carry any kind of a weapon, and I mean any kind, but if I go into NY, I'd need to get a permit (if possible) for NY, and so on for each State down the coast if I was taking a boat south. You really need to do your research before taking off with weapons on your boat. George
did a little research on this topic. I called the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms on the recommendation of our local PD. I was told that there is no such thing as a federal gun license to carry weapons, only to sell them such as a gun shop. So, not only does every country have their own rules & regs but so does each and every state. For example, here in Vermont we don't require a license to carry any kind of a weapon, and I mean any kind, but if I go into NY, I'd need to get a permit (if possible) for NY, and so on for each State down the coast if I was taking a boat south. You really need to do your research before taking off with weapons on your boat. George
There is just too much of a mish mash of different laws down that way to take a chance. Remember, in some countries, ( Mexico a prime example) you are guilty till proven innocent, there is no such thing as bail and it can take a long time to even get to trial. Personally I would rather risk pirates than a Mexican jail.
A flare gone shot between the eyes...
unless there is a law against flare guns. If I ever were to travel abroad I would carry a few loaded ones. Morris, I know how you feel. I have a CCW in California to carry a concealed weapon. I feel very naked without it, but the thought of living in a Mexican or Carribean jail scares me even more. You may also want to carry a harpoon...don't forget the fishing liscence.
unless there is a law against flare guns. If I ever were to travel abroad I would carry a few loaded ones. Morris, I know how you feel. I have a CCW in California to carry a concealed weapon. I feel very naked without it, but the thought of living in a Mexican or Carribean jail scares me even more. You may also want to carry a harpoon...don't forget the fishing liscence.
Some countries requires you to check it in,
when you arrive in their country at customs. Then you have to check it back out when you leave. And, you might not be able to get them back when you leave. Some will also require you to pay a fee. Way too much problem to have a gun onboard.
when you arrive in their country at customs. Then you have to check it back out when you leave. And, you might not be able to get them back when you leave. Some will also require you to pay a fee. Way too much problem to have a gun onboard.
Weapons not worth the effort
I started out carrying a stainless steel shotgun. Every Island in the Bahmas was a pain. I sent the gun home when I got to Georgetown. Jamacia takes your gun and from other sailors say you might not get the gun you gave them back. The Caymans take your fishing gear besides your guns. Cuba don't even bother to ask they take some type of food also. Protect yourself with with Flare Guns and radios.
I started out carrying a stainless steel shotgun. Every Island in the Bahmas was a pain. I sent the gun home when I got to Georgetown. Jamacia takes your gun and from other sailors say you might not get the gun you gave them back. The Caymans take your fishing gear besides your guns. Cuba don't even bother to ask they take some type of food also. Protect yourself with with Flare Guns and radios.
Agree with K9Piper
I have to agree with K9piper. You don't want to end up in a foreign jail! If you've never carries a firearm before it is difficult to comprehend the reposnibility that goes along with it. Legaility aside, you must CONSTANTLY be aware of where that weapon is, who is around it, who knows that it's there, etc. (I carry a gun for a living and am permitted to carry one 24/7, anywhere inthe US, and I rarely do because it's presence is always on my mind!) Most people believe that it is just "point it and shoot it" but when you are stressed, you are most likely not going to be accurate and if you have not trained with the weapon, and it's use is not second nature to you, you will have alot of difficulty with malfunctions and retention of the weapon if the bad guy wants it! If you are dead-set on carrying a weapon to defend yourself and your crew, which is a decision that either way I would never criticize, PLEASE get with a gun club or firearms instructor for some "real-life training". In most cases it will be your DECISION MAKING SKILLS rather than the FIREARM that saves your life! Also, check local laws! Some states and foreign countries take this stuff VERY seriously! Good luck.
I have to agree with K9piper. You don't want to end up in a foreign jail! If you've never carries a firearm before it is difficult to comprehend the reposnibility that goes along with it. Legaility aside, you must CONSTANTLY be aware of where that weapon is, who is around it, who knows that it's there, etc. (I carry a gun for a living and am permitted to carry one 24/7, anywhere inthe US, and I rarely do because it's presence is always on my mind!) Most people believe that it is just "point it and shoot it" but when you are stressed, you are most likely not going to be accurate and if you have not trained with the weapon, and it's use is not second nature to you, you will have alot of difficulty with malfunctions and retention of the weapon if the bad guy wants it! If you are dead-set on carrying a weapon to defend yourself and your crew, which is a decision that either way I would never criticize, PLEASE get with a gun club or firearms instructor for some "real-life training". In most cases it will be your DECISION MAKING SKILLS rather than the FIREARM that saves your life! Also, check local laws! Some states and foreign countries take this stuff VERY seriously! Good luck.
Jack Manning, you said....
"(I carry a gun for a living and am permitted to carry one 24/7, anywhere inthe US," What permit did you get to allow you to carry 24/7 anywhere in the U.S.????? And, if you don't mind, where does one apply for it? Thanks for your help. George
"(I carry a gun for a living and am permitted to carry one 24/7, anywhere inthe US," What permit did you get to allow you to carry 24/7 anywhere in the U.S.????? And, if you don't mind, where does one apply for it? Thanks for your help. George
Jack Manning, you said....
"(I carry a gun for a living and am permitted to carry one 24/7, anywhere inthe US," What permit did you obtain to carry 24/7 and how/where did you get it. Thanks. George
"(I carry a gun for a living and am permitted to carry one 24/7, anywhere inthe US," What permit did you obtain to carry 24/7 and how/where did you get it. Thanks. George
I am an LEO
HR 218, passed in 7-04 allows sworn LEO's to carry their off duty firearm anywhere in the US provided their department and state permit it. SOrry, I should have elaborated further.
HR 218, passed in 7-04 allows sworn LEO's to carry their off duty firearm anywhere in the US provided their department and state permit it. SOrry, I should have elaborated further.
LEO?
Just what exactly is an LEO?Law Enforcement Officer perhaps?Either way that ends at the border.Even our friends across the border to the north aren't as understanding as they used to be.
Just what exactly is an LEO?Law Enforcement Officer perhaps?Either way that ends at the border.Even our friends across the border to the north aren't as understanding as they used to be.
Doesnt Matter If...
Doesnt matter if you are a LEO,FBI, CIA or M.A.F.I A., most foreign govt's are not impressed with our acronyms. If you have a firearm in a country where you are not allowed to.....go directly to jail and do not pass go. P.S. when in jail, have your family send you a sandwich every so often, feeding prisoners is usually not a priority in most countries.
Doesnt matter if you are a LEO,FBI, CIA or M.A.F.I A., most foreign govt's are not impressed with our acronyms. If you have a firearm in a country where you are not allowed to.....go directly to jail and do not pass go. P.S. when in jail, have your family send you a sandwich every so often, feeding prisoners is usually not a priority in most countries.
I know the question regarded the caribbean, but
...just an FYI to those who travel on Canada's side of the Great Lakes or in Canadian waters; gun laws here are VERY STRICT. If you have a weapon onboard or plan to travel in Canadian waters with one, make sure you advise Canada Customs FIRST. They will let you know what is, and what isn't allowed, and basically if its easy to conceal on your person, or can is automatic or is a pistol or has a barrell shorter then 22" (I BELEIVE) it is prohibited. Just an FYI, and of course, check with the laws of the country you plan to visit, most if not all countries, but one, do not consider owning or possesing a fireaem to be a right.
...just an FYI to those who travel on Canada's side of the Great Lakes or in Canadian waters; gun laws here are VERY STRICT. If you have a weapon onboard or plan to travel in Canadian waters with one, make sure you advise Canada Customs FIRST. They will let you know what is, and what isn't allowed, and basically if its easy to conceal on your person, or can is automatic or is a pistol or has a barrell shorter then 22" (I BELEIVE) it is prohibited. Just an FYI, and of course, check with the laws of the country you plan to visit, most if not all countries, but one, do not consider owning or possesing a fireaem to be a right.
Dwayne, you forgot to mention
sling shots, pea shooters, bows and arrows, crossbows, mace, spit wads, potato guns, and the like. Canada is the land of draft dodgers and socialists, so don't ever threaten them with your potato gun or potatoes either. You will live to regret it unless they shoot and kill you. Oh wait, their border guards are unarmed and take the day off if they feel threatened. Maybe they will scold you to death. If you look at all suspicious, they will take your boat apart to find anything they suspect might be there. It can take half a day or more to repack everything. You can also get put on a list and they will remember you next time. Note that bear spray is ok in Canada. So are 25 MM flare guns. Returning to the US don't forget the drug laws. They will confiscate the entire boat for some drugs which Canadas wacko government will give you for free.
sling shots, pea shooters, bows and arrows, crossbows, mace, spit wads, potato guns, and the like. Canada is the land of draft dodgers and socialists, so don't ever threaten them with your potato gun or potatoes either. You will live to regret it unless they shoot and kill you. Oh wait, their border guards are unarmed and take the day off if they feel threatened. Maybe they will scold you to death. If you look at all suspicious, they will take your boat apart to find anything they suspect might be there. It can take half a day or more to repack everything. You can also get put on a list and they will remember you next time. Note that bear spray is ok in Canada. So are 25 MM flare guns. Returning to the US don't forget the drug laws. They will confiscate the entire boat for some drugs which Canadas wacko government will give you for free.
Firearms Regulations by Country
Goto “Firearms Regulations by Country” on the CruisersForum.com, under ‘Red Tape & Paperwork’ at: http://www.cruisersforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1641 It’s all there. For those too lazy to link, here's an exerpt: The Bahamas: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...is/cis_989.html Tourists who arrive by private boat are required to declare firearms (and every round of ammunition) to Bahamian Customs, and leave firearms on the boat (in a secure compartment) while in The Bahamas. In the event of your being boarded by Customs or the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, the information on your cruising permit will be checked carefully against your actual supply. Ammo’ must match cruising permit exactly. The Turks and Caicos: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1048.html The importation of all firearms (including those charged with compressed air) to the Turks and Caicos is strictly forbidden without prior approval in writing from the Commissioner of Police. U.S. citizens may contact the Turks and Caicos Customs Department at (649) 946-2867 for specific information regarding customs requirements. In practice, your guns will be confiscated for the duration of your stay, and returned immediately prior to your departure. Once you’ve retrieved your firearms, you’ll be expected to depart immediately. Spear guns, Hawaiian slings, controlled drugs, and pornography are also illegal. The Dominican Republic: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1103.html The DR is one of those places that confiscates your weapons, requires you to check in and out of every port, and allows cruising yachts to stop at only a few ports. U.S. Virgin Islands: Firearms must be declared and need a permit. For further information on firearms write to the Commissioner of Public Safety, St Thomas, USVI. British Virgin Islands: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1079.html Firearms must be bonded and are held by the proper authorities until time of departure. Contact BVI Customs & Immigration at (1)(284) 494-3475, the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Washington, D.C. or one of the UK''s consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. Anguilla: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1107.html You need a permit to own any gun on Anguilla. Firearms should be licensed and must be securely locked on board, under the captain's control only. Antigua & Barbuda: Antigua and Barbuda customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Antigua and Barbuda of items such as firearms. Fire arms must be declared and if customs are satisfied that they are safely secured, you may be allowed to keep them on board. St. Kitts & Nevis: Firearms must be declared and usually are bonded on board. Guadelupe: Non-French nationals on a tourist visit to Guadeloupe for less than 185 days can import two hunting guns and 100 cartridges for each. Other firearms are not permitted. All weapons should be declared. Dominica: It is illegal to take firearms into or out of Dominica. Don't even think of it - Dominican jails are very basic! ‘Noonsite’ says “Firearms must be declared.” Martinique: Firearms and ammunition are a heavily restricted item Prior approval required from the French Ministry of Defense to import firearms. (Import permit issued by Directorate General of Customs, bureau D 3.) ‘Noonsite says “Firearms must be declared.” St. Lucia: Licensed firearms must be declared and are subject to immigration and police regulations. Firearms must be declared, but no action is taken if staying less than three days, after which they must be sealed on board by a customs officer. Yachts temporarily imported will have weapons held by customs in Castries or possibly by police if a longer permit is obtained. Undeclared and unlicenced firearms will be seized by the authorities. St. Vincent & The Grenadines: Licensed firearms must be declared and are subject to immigration and police regulations. An application must be made to the Commissioner of Police for a local licence. Undeclared and unlicenced firearms will be seized by the authorities. Firearms must be declared on arrival, and can be sealed on board, but if a yacht has no suitable locker, the firearms will be held in the custody of customs or police until departure. Grenada: Firearms must be declared to customs and will be sealed on board in a proper locker or kept ashore in custody until departure. A receipt will be issued by the police. Barbados: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1022.html Firearms must be licensed and declared immediately to customs on arrival. They will be kept in custody until departure. Penalties for non-declaration or possessing an unlicensed firearm are severe. Trinidad & Tobago: Firearms and ammunition must be declared on arrival and will be taken by the customs boarding officer and placed in custody at the central police station. Requests for their return prior to departure must be made to customs at least 48 hours before clearance; failure to do so may result in a delay to departure or departure without the firearms. To keep firearms in your possession during the stay, it is necessary to apply to the Commissioner of Police for a licence. Venezuela: Columbia: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1090.html Colombian law prohibits tourists and business travelers from bringing firearms into Colombia. The penalty for illegal importation and/or possession of firearms is three to ten years in prison. Mexico: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...is/cis_970.html Vessels entering Mexican waters with firearms or ammunition on board must have a permit previously issued by the Mexican Embassy, or a Mexican consulate. Mariners do NOT avoid prosecution by declaring their weapons at the port of entry. Before traveling, mariners who have obtained a Mexican firearms permit should contact Mexican port officials to receive guidance on the specific procedures used to report and secure weapons and ammunition. Entering Mexico with a firearm, some kinds of knives or even a single round of ammunition is illegal, even if the firearm or ammunition is taken into Mexico unintentionally. The Mexican government strictly enforces its laws restricting the entry of firearms and ammunition along all land borders and at air and seaports. Violations have resulted in arrests, convictions, and long prison sentences for U.S. citizens. Cuba: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1097.html If a yacht is staying a long time in one of the marinas, firearms will be impounded by the Coast Guard (Guarda Frontera). If the yacht is cruising along the coast, firearms must be declared every time the boat checks in at a new port, and may be confiscated until departure, or alternatively sealed on board, placed under the responsibility of the captain. The seals and arms will be inspected when clearing out. American vessels seeking to travel to Cuba must obtain a temporary sojourn license from the Department of Commerce. Temporary sojourn licenses are NOT available for pleasure boaters. Cayman Islands: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1084.html Firearms are held by customs for the duration of the yacht's stay, unless a yacht is fitted with a proper safe, which can be sealed. Spearguns and their parts are prohibited, and possession of spearguns or pole spears or Hawaiian slings, are illegal. These must be declared to customs at the first port of arrival, and will normally be taken off the boat and put under bond until departure. Jamaica: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1147.html The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against taking any type of firearm or ammunition into Jamaica without authorization from the Ministry of National Security. Entering Jamaica with a firearm or even a single round of ammunition is serious crime that can result in a long prison sentence. Noonsite says: Firearms must be declared and will be kept in the custody of customs until departure. Steve Pavlidis (author of ‘Exuma Cruising Guide’ and others says: “...You are permitted to bring guns into Jamaica and if the Customs officer feels that the locker you keep them in is secure, you will be allowed to keep them aboard. If he feels the locker is not secure, he will take your weapons, give you a receipt, and deposit said weapons with the local police until you leave. The only problem you have here is when you DON'T declare your firearms and they find them.” For more information on Steve’s excellent cruising guide series, and more, goto: http://www.islandhopping.com/ Bermuda: All firearms and ammunition must be declared on arrival to the customs officer, who will either impound them until departure or seal them on board. Firearms include spear guns, Verey pistols and flare guns. MORRIS C: Are you the noted polygraph examiner ? E. & O. E. Gord May
Goto “Firearms Regulations by Country” on the CruisersForum.com, under ‘Red Tape & Paperwork’ at: http://www.cruisersforum.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1641 It’s all there. For those too lazy to link, here's an exerpt: The Bahamas: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...is/cis_989.html Tourists who arrive by private boat are required to declare firearms (and every round of ammunition) to Bahamian Customs, and leave firearms on the boat (in a secure compartment) while in The Bahamas. In the event of your being boarded by Customs or the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, the information on your cruising permit will be checked carefully against your actual supply. Ammo’ must match cruising permit exactly. The Turks and Caicos: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1048.html The importation of all firearms (including those charged with compressed air) to the Turks and Caicos is strictly forbidden without prior approval in writing from the Commissioner of Police. U.S. citizens may contact the Turks and Caicos Customs Department at (649) 946-2867 for specific information regarding customs requirements. In practice, your guns will be confiscated for the duration of your stay, and returned immediately prior to your departure. Once you’ve retrieved your firearms, you’ll be expected to depart immediately. Spear guns, Hawaiian slings, controlled drugs, and pornography are also illegal. The Dominican Republic: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1103.html The DR is one of those places that confiscates your weapons, requires you to check in and out of every port, and allows cruising yachts to stop at only a few ports. U.S. Virgin Islands: Firearms must be declared and need a permit. For further information on firearms write to the Commissioner of Public Safety, St Thomas, USVI. British Virgin Islands: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1079.html Firearms must be bonded and are held by the proper authorities until time of departure. Contact BVI Customs & Immigration at (1)(284) 494-3475, the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Washington, D.C. or one of the UK''s consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. Anguilla: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1107.html You need a permit to own any gun on Anguilla. Firearms should be licensed and must be securely locked on board, under the captain's control only. Antigua & Barbuda: Antigua and Barbuda customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Antigua and Barbuda of items such as firearms. Fire arms must be declared and if customs are satisfied that they are safely secured, you may be allowed to keep them on board. St. Kitts & Nevis: Firearms must be declared and usually are bonded on board. Guadelupe: Non-French nationals on a tourist visit to Guadeloupe for less than 185 days can import two hunting guns and 100 cartridges for each. Other firearms are not permitted. All weapons should be declared. Dominica: It is illegal to take firearms into or out of Dominica. Don't even think of it - Dominican jails are very basic! ‘Noonsite’ says “Firearms must be declared.” Martinique: Firearms and ammunition are a heavily restricted item Prior approval required from the French Ministry of Defense to import firearms. (Import permit issued by Directorate General of Customs, bureau D 3.) ‘Noonsite says “Firearms must be declared.” St. Lucia: Licensed firearms must be declared and are subject to immigration and police regulations. Firearms must be declared, but no action is taken if staying less than three days, after which they must be sealed on board by a customs officer. Yachts temporarily imported will have weapons held by customs in Castries or possibly by police if a longer permit is obtained. Undeclared and unlicenced firearms will be seized by the authorities. St. Vincent & The Grenadines: Licensed firearms must be declared and are subject to immigration and police regulations. An application must be made to the Commissioner of Police for a local licence. Undeclared and unlicenced firearms will be seized by the authorities. Firearms must be declared on arrival, and can be sealed on board, but if a yacht has no suitable locker, the firearms will be held in the custody of customs or police until departure. Grenada: Firearms must be declared to customs and will be sealed on board in a proper locker or kept ashore in custody until departure. A receipt will be issued by the police. Barbados: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1022.html Firearms must be licensed and declared immediately to customs on arrival. They will be kept in custody until departure. Penalties for non-declaration or possessing an unlicensed firearm are severe. Trinidad & Tobago: Firearms and ammunition must be declared on arrival and will be taken by the customs boarding officer and placed in custody at the central police station. Requests for their return prior to departure must be made to customs at least 48 hours before clearance; failure to do so may result in a delay to departure or departure without the firearms. To keep firearms in your possession during the stay, it is necessary to apply to the Commissioner of Police for a licence. Venezuela: Columbia: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1090.html Colombian law prohibits tourists and business travelers from bringing firearms into Colombia. The penalty for illegal importation and/or possession of firearms is three to ten years in prison. Mexico: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...is/cis_970.html Vessels entering Mexican waters with firearms or ammunition on board must have a permit previously issued by the Mexican Embassy, or a Mexican consulate. Mariners do NOT avoid prosecution by declaring their weapons at the port of entry. Before traveling, mariners who have obtained a Mexican firearms permit should contact Mexican port officials to receive guidance on the specific procedures used to report and secure weapons and ammunition. Entering Mexico with a firearm, some kinds of knives or even a single round of ammunition is illegal, even if the firearm or ammunition is taken into Mexico unintentionally. The Mexican government strictly enforces its laws restricting the entry of firearms and ammunition along all land borders and at air and seaports. Violations have resulted in arrests, convictions, and long prison sentences for U.S. citizens. Cuba: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1097.html If a yacht is staying a long time in one of the marinas, firearms will be impounded by the Coast Guard (Guarda Frontera). If the yacht is cruising along the coast, firearms must be declared every time the boat checks in at a new port, and may be confiscated until departure, or alternatively sealed on board, placed under the responsibility of the captain. The seals and arms will be inspected when clearing out. American vessels seeking to travel to Cuba must obtain a temporary sojourn license from the Department of Commerce. Temporary sojourn licenses are NOT available for pleasure boaters. Cayman Islands: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1084.html Firearms are held by customs for the duration of the yacht's stay, unless a yacht is fitted with a proper safe, which can be sealed. Spearguns and their parts are prohibited, and possession of spearguns or pole spears or Hawaiian slings, are illegal. These must be declared to customs at the first port of arrival, and will normally be taken off the boat and put under bond until departure. Jamaica: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_...s/cis_1147.html The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against taking any type of firearm or ammunition into Jamaica without authorization from the Ministry of National Security. Entering Jamaica with a firearm or even a single round of ammunition is serious crime that can result in a long prison sentence. Noonsite says: Firearms must be declared and will be kept in the custody of customs until departure. Steve Pavlidis (author of ‘Exuma Cruising Guide’ and others says: “...You are permitted to bring guns into Jamaica and if the Customs officer feels that the locker you keep them in is secure, you will be allowed to keep them aboard. If he feels the locker is not secure, he will take your weapons, give you a receipt, and deposit said weapons with the local police until you leave. The only problem you have here is when you DON'T declare your firearms and they find them.” For more information on Steve’s excellent cruising guide series, and more, goto: http://www.islandhopping.com/ Bermuda: All firearms and ammunition must be declared on arrival to the customs officer, who will either impound them until departure or seal them on board. Firearms include spear guns, Verey pistols and flare guns. MORRIS C: Are you the noted polygraph examiner ? E. & O. E. Gord May
Ross...the spray bottle is a great idea...
it's akin to mace and would probably do a pretty good job in a 1/1 situation.
it's akin to mace and would probably do a pretty good job in a 1/1 situation.
- Status