NAVOPLAN Country Brief

SUMMARY

Executive Summary

Anguilla is operationally straightforward for a properly prepared foreign private yacht, but the captain should not confuse the island's informal cruising character with an informal border. Current official Anguilla Tourist Board guidance states that persons travelling by private boat must contact and clear Customs and Immigration at Sandy Ground. The statutory Customs Ports Regulations formally designate Road Bay and Blowing Point as Customs ports, but the current public visitor guidance specifically directs private boats to Sandy Ground. For an independent yacht, NAVOPLAN therefore treats Road Bay / Sandy Ground as the normal first-entry and clearance interface unless Customs and Immigration give different instructions. See Anguilla Tourist Board — Entry Requirements and the Customs Ports and Airports Regulations.

Anguilla participates in SailClear, but SailClear itself describes the service as an optional way for yacht and pleasure-craft operators to submit pre-arrival Customs notifications. No current Anguilla Government source reviewed says SailClear replaces physical Customs and Immigration clearance at Sandy Ground. Captains may use SailClear to reduce transcription and pre-position voyage information, but should still plan to report and clear in person as directed by the authorities.

The most important unresolved yacht-specific issue is the cruising-permit framework. The current published Cruising Permit Act makes the express prohibition on cruising without a permit applicable to a “charter boat.” The Cruising Permit Regulations, however, allow any person to apply for a cruising permit and publish a tonnage- and duration-based fee schedule. The public law material does not clearly resolve how Customs applies this framework in July 2026 to a privately owned, non-commercial foreign yacht. The captain should identify the vessel expressly as private and non-commercial and obtain Customs' permit decision, fee basis and receipt before leaving Road Bay for other Anguilla anchorages or offshore cays.

Marine protection and fisheries are separate operating gates. Anguilla's official law repository includes the Marine Parks Act and Marine Parks Regulations, and the Department of Natural Resources maintains the marine-park planning framework. Fisheries regulations define sport fishing narrowly as rod-and-line fishing for pelagic species for pleasure or recreation and require both the fisher and a vessel used for sport fishing to be licensed. Non-residents are also prohibited from using or possessing a spear gun while swimming or boating. Captains should not fish, spear fish or assume a mooring is unrestricted until current Department of Natural Resources requirements are confirmed.

Current security posture is generally favourable. The U.S. Department of State reissued Anguilla at Level 1 — Exercise Normal Precautions on May 22, 2026 and describes the island as generally safe. Canadian guidance also says to take normal security precautions, although it notes that violent crime remains rare but has increased, petty crime occurs, water shortages recur and demonstrations can disrupt traffic. No current authoritative source reviewed identifies a Territory-wide pattern of piracy or armed attacks on visiting recreational yachts. Routine dinghy, outboard, cash and portable-equipment security remains appropriate.

NAVOPLAN operational interpretation: Clear the private yacht at Sandy Ground / Road Bay, treat SailClear as optional pre-arrival assistance rather than completed clearance, and ask Customs one precise question before normal cruising: “This is a privately owned, non-commercial foreign pleasure yacht. Does C165 require a cruising permit for our intended movement, and if so, what fee schedule and currency apply?” Retain the written permit or receipted answer.

Priority	Recommendation	Operational reason
1	Plan first arrival and clearance at Sandy Ground / Road Bay.	Current official entry guidance specifically directs private boats to contact and clear Customs and Immigration at Sandy Ground.
2	Use SailClear only as an optional pre-arrival tool unless Anguilla Customs gives a different current instruction.	SailClear describes its service as optional; physical border clearance remains required.
3	State clearly that the yacht is private and non-commercial and resolve the C165 cruising-permit question before leaving Road Bay.	The Act's mandatory language is charter-boat focused, while the Regulations allow any person to apply and contain a fee schedule.
4	Verify current marine-park mooring and anchoring instructions with the Department of Natural Resources.	The published marine-management framework contains overlapping legacy provisions and protected areas.
5	Do not fish without the required sport-fishing and sport-fishing-vessel licences.	The Fisheries Protection Regulations license both the person and a vessel used for sport fishing.
6	Do not carry or use a spear gun for fishing as a non-resident.	Current published Fisheries Protection Regulations prohibit a non-resident from using a spear gun or possessing one while swimming or boating.
7	Do not import, launch or operate a jet ski / PWC without current written confirmation.	The public law repository still lists prohibition measures, while a 2023 Executive Council policy approved a replacement framework that NAVOPLAN did not confirm as enacted.

CONTENTS

Country Overview

Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory with a small but formal Customs, Immigration, ports and natural-resources framework. For a foreign private yacht, administrative complexity is low to medium. The largest sources of uncertainty are not basic passport clearance; they are the current application of the charter-oriented cruising-permit law to a private non-commercial yacht, the exact current port office hours, and marine-park / fishing permissions after entry.

Private boats clear Sandy Ground SailClear optional Cruising-permit application uncertain Marine parks Fishing licences Level 1 security posture

Agency / system	Role	Operational meaning for the captain
Anguilla Customs Department	Vessel report, Customs clearance, goods, restricted items and administration of Customs legislation.	Report the yacht at Sandy Ground / Road Bay and resolve the vessel's Customs and cruising-permit status before domestic movement.
Immigration Department	Entry, visas, landing permission and extension of stay.	Carry valid passports; verify visa status by nationality and check the actual stay granted to each person.
Anguilla Air & Sea Ports Authority (AASPA)	Port facilities and seaport control.	Follow port movement, anchoring, mooring and berth directions. Seaports Regulations require ships to await pratique and clearance before normal shore communication.
SailClear	Optional electronic pre-arrival Customs notification for yachts and pleasure craft.	Useful for pre-positioning information, but not a substitute for Sandy Ground physical clearance.
Department of Natural Resources (DNaR)	Fisheries, marine resources, pets, plants and natural-resource management.	Verify marine-park, fishing, spear-gun, pet and agricultural requirements before use or landing.
Royal Anguilla Police Force	Law enforcement and incident reporting.	Use the island's normal low-risk security posture but report theft, assault or suspicious activity and document losses for insurance.

Typical timeline: Several days before departure, verify Sandy Ground Customs/Immigration hours and visa or pet issues; optionally submit SailClear; arrive at Road Bay / Sandy Ground and await clearance instructions; complete Immigration and Customs; resolve cruising-permit status; then verify marine-park, mooring and fisheries permissions before moving to offshore cays or fishing.

Primary legal ambiguity: The current public Cruising Permit Act expressly prohibits charter boats from cruising without a permit. The Regulations allow any person to apply and publish fees. NAVOPLAN did not find a current primary-source statement that unambiguously says every privately owned, non-commercial foreign yacht must pay that schedule. Obtain Customs' current decision for the actual vessel category before leaving Road Bay.

National requirements versus local practice: Passport control, Customs reporting, fisheries law and protected-area law are Territory-wide. The current Tourism Board instruction that private boats clear at Sandy Ground is operational public guidance for visiting yachts. Marina, mooring-provider, restaurant or local boat-operator practice cannot replace Customs, Immigration or DNaR permission.

2

Ports of Entry / Exit

The statutory Customs Ports Regulations appoint Road Bay and Blowing Point as Customs ports. Current official visitor guidance, however, makes a more specific distinction: travellers by private boat must contact and clear Customs and Immigration at Sandy Ground. Blowing Point is the principal ferry passenger terminal. A captain should therefore use Road Bay / Sandy Ground for routine private-yacht entry and exit unless the authorities direct the vessel elsewhere.

A. Port Capability Summary Table

Port / Area	District	Region	Approx. GPS	Entry	Exit	Immigration	Customs	Port Authority	Health	Fuel	Marina	Best Use	Primary Caution
Road Bay / Sandy Ground	Road North / Sandy Ground	Northwest coast	18°12.1'N, 63°05.9'W	Yes — normal private-boat clearance	Yes — verify office attendance	Sandy Ground office	Road Bay / Marine Base	AASPA	Verify if illness, quarantine issue or pet aboard	Local delivery / dock arrangements; verify	No full-service transient marina confirmed	Private yacht international arrival and departure	Open roadstead exposure; current permit and office-hour questions
Blowing Point Ferry Terminal	Blowing Point	South coast	18°10.1'N, 63°05.7'W	Statutory Customs port; not the published normal private-boat clearance point	Verify for yacht	Yes — ferry border operation	Yes	AASPA	Verify	Not a routine yacht-fuel stop	No	Ferry passenger traffic	Do not assume a private yacht may clear here merely because it is a Customs port
Road Bay Cargo Port / commercial pier	Sandy Ground	Road Bay	Within Road Bay	Not a separate recreational arrival procedure	Verify	Private-boat Immigration interface is Sandy Ground	Commercial Customs operations	AASPA	Verify	Commercial logistics; verify yacht access	No	Cargo and port operations	Commercial pier activity and 2026 upland port works; follow AASPA directions

B. Individual Port Operating Profiles

Road Bay / Sandy Ground

District: Sandy Ground / Road North · Region: Northwest coast · GPS: approximately 18°12.1'N, 63°05.9'W

Entry: Yes. Current official Anguilla Tourist Board entry guidance specifically directs persons travelling by private boat to contact and clear Customs and Immigration at Sandy Ground. · Exit: Use for private-yacht international departure unless Customs and Immigration direct otherwise.

Immigration: Sandy Ground office. The Government Immigration service page publishes +1 264 497-3611 for Sandy Ground. · Customs: Road Bay Customs / Marine Base. · Port Captain / Maritime Authority: Anguilla Air & Sea Ports Authority.

Health: Verify before arrival if illness, quarantine, a pet or controlled agricultural item is aboard. · Fuel: Local marine fuel arrangements may be available; verify supplier, delivery and payment before arrival. · Marina: No full-service transient yacht marina was confirmed in the primary official sources reviewed; Road Bay is primarily an anchorage and port interface.

VHF: Verify before arrival. Maintain Channel 16 watch and obtain current Customs / AASPA contact instructions. · Office Hours: Verify before arrival. The current Customs website lists general department hours of 08:00–16:00 daily with Saturday and Sunday closed, while the still-published Customs Overtime Fees Regulations define older Road Bay and Marine Base “usual hours” differently. · Weekend Availability: Verify and arrange officer attendance before arrival.

Website: Anguilla Customs Department and AASPA · Telephone: Customs +1 264 497-2513; Immigration Sandy Ground +1 264 497-3611; AASPA +1 264 497-5816.

Typical Processing Time: Variable. Document completeness, officer attendance, a pet inspection and cruising-permit classification can extend the process.

Advantages: The public private-boat clearance point; direct access to Customs and Immigration; central operating base for resolving vessel-status and permit questions.

Disadvantages: Road Bay is an open-roadstead environment rather than a protected full-service marina. Swell and weather can affect tender and boarding logistics.

Security / Local Risk Notes: Current national advisories support normal precautions. Secure the tender and portable equipment and avoid leaving passports or electronics unattended ashore.

Operational Notes: Arrive with enough daylight and weather margin to anchor or follow port directions safely. Do not send the crew ashore before pratique and border clearance unless Customs/Immigration authorize it. Before leaving Road Bay, resolve whether the private non-commercial yacht needs a C165 cruising permit for the intended itinerary.

Blowing Point Ferry Terminal

District: Blowing Point · Region: South coast / Anguilla Channel · GPS: approximately 18°10.1'N, 63°05.7'W

Entry: A statutory Customs port and international ferry border facility. Current official Tourism Board guidance does not identify it as the normal private-boat clearance point; private boats are directed to Sandy Ground. · Exit: Verify before using for a private yacht.

Immigration: Ferry terminal border operation; Government publishes +1 264 497-6665 for Blowing Point Immigration. · Customs: Customs office associated with the ferry port. · Port Captain / Maritime Authority: AASPA.

Health: Verify if special inspection is required. · Fuel: Not a routine recreational-yacht fueling interface. · Marina: No.

VHF: Verify before arrival. · Office Hours: Verify. The older Customs Overtime Fees Regulations publish Blowing Point Customs hours, but captains should obtain current operational hours from Customs and Immigration. · Weekend Availability: Ferry border services operate beyond ordinary Government office patterns; yacht acceptance still requires confirmation.

Website: AASPA Ports · Telephone: Immigration Blowing Point +1 264 497-6665; AASPA +1 264 497-5816.

Typical Processing Time: Not established for private yachts because the published private-boat entry procedure directs yachts to Sandy Ground.

Advantages: Established international passenger border facility and ferry terminal.

Disadvantages: Ferry traffic and passenger-terminal operations; not the public normal yacht-clearance instruction.

Security / Local Risk Notes: Normal precautions. Maintain separation from ferry manoeuvring and controlled terminal areas.

Operational Notes: Do not divert a yacht here simply because the Customs Ports Regulations list Blowing Point as a Customs port. Use Sandy Ground unless Customs and Immigration specifically approve Blowing Point for the vessel.

3

Before You Leave Home

Preparation item	Captain action	Operational note
Clearance port	Plan Road Bay / Sandy Ground as first international arrival.	Current official Tourism Board guidance specifically directs private boats there.
Advance contact	Confirm Customs and Immigration attendance and current hours before departure.	Public Customs and statutory hours are not perfectly aligned; verify actual port-office service.
SailClear	Optionally create a pre-arrival notification.	SailClear says its service is optional. Save the submission but do not treat it as clearance.
Cruising permit	Prepare to ask Customs whether C165 applies to the private non-commercial yacht and intended itinerary.	Do not assume charter-boat law or fees automatically apply.
Marine parks	Download current DNaR park information and confirm mooring / anchoring rules.	Legacy law and management material overlap; use current DNaR instructions.
Fishing	Obtain sport-fishing and sport-fishing-vessel licensing instructions before fishing.	Published regulations license both the person and vessel.
Passports	Carry a valid passport for every person.	Verify nationality-specific validity requirements; U.S. official guidance says a U.S. passport must be valid at entry.
Visas	Check every nationality through Anguilla Immigration or the eVisa portal.	Anguilla's eVisa portal says valid UK, U.S. or Canadian visas or residence permits may be used for entry; verify individual eligibility.
Vessel documents	Carry original registration/documentation and ownership/operating authority.	Prepare paper and offline digital copies.
Crew documents	Prepare a typed crew list matching passports.	Carry several signed copies.
Prior-port clearance	Carry the previous country's outward international clearance.	Keep it with ship's papers.
Insurance	Confirm Anguilla navigation, open-roadstead anchoring, coral/grounding, hurricane and medical evacuation cover.	Check named-storm clauses.
Pets	Submit the DNaR pet import permit application at least two weeks before travel with required documents.	The published pet application states the permit is valid for one month and sets veterinary-document requirements.
Firearms / ammunition	Remove unless current import and possession authorizations have been obtained.	The U.S. advisory specifically warns travellers to check for loose ammunition or forgotten weapons.
Jet ski / PWC	Do not assume yacht-carried PWC may be imported or operated.	Current law repository still lists prohibition measures; a 2023 replacement policy was approved but enacted replacement was not confirmed.
Medications	Carry prescriptions in original packaging and documentation for controlled medicines.	Verify unusual controlled drugs before arrival.
Drones	Verify current aviation, protected-area and property restrictions.	Do not fly near port operations or sensitive sites without current confirmation.
Communications	Test VHF, satellite/cellular backup and shore-side contact procedures.	Maintain Channel 16 watch on approach.
Digital backups	Store encrypted offline copies of passports, vessel papers, insurance and permits.	Back up Customs and Immigration evidence immediately after clearance.
Security research	Review current U.S., Canadian, UK and RAPF information.	Focus on current local theft, demonstrations and night-shore guidance.
Dinghy / outboard	Carry real locking equipment and record serial numbers.	Routine low-risk security still matters.
Water reserve	Arrive with adequate potable-water reserve.	Canadian guidance says water shortages occur regularly and are more frequent January through April.
Shore transport	Identify taxi contacts and agree fare before travel.	Canada notes there is no public transportation; road conditions and driver behaviour vary.

4

Arrival Procedures

Anguilla's current public private-boat instruction is simple: contact and clear Customs and Immigration at Sandy Ground. The detailed seaport legal framework adds two operational controls: a foreign ship should await pratique before normal communication with shore, and no person should leave before Customs and Immigration clearance unless permission is granted. The exact yacht desk sequence and current office attendance should be confirmed before arrival.

Step	Captain action	Operational note / proof
1	Reconfirm Sandy Ground Customs and Immigration attendance before final approach.	Record the contact name, current hours and any after-hours arrangement.
2	Update any optional SailClear pre-arrival notification with final ETA and crew information.	Retain the submission reference.
3	Approach Road Bay / Sandy Ground and maintain VHF watch.	Follow AASPA, Customs or port directions for anchoring, mooring or the commercial-port area.
4	Await pratique and clearance instructions before normal communication with shore.	Anguilla Seaports Regulations require foreign ships to await pratique and restrict shore communication before clearance.
5	Keep crew aboard unless Customs or Immigration authorizes a person to leave.	Do not send crew ashore for restaurants, provisioning or permit errands before border clearance.
6	Present passports, typed crew list, vessel registration/documentation and prior-port clearance.	Carry originals and paper copies.
7	Complete Immigration processing for every person.	Confirm visa status and the landing period actually granted.
8	Complete Customs report and declarations.	Declare weapons, ammunition, controlled medicines, animals, plants, dutiable goods and relevant monetary instruments accurately.
9	Identify the yacht as privately owned and non-commercial.	Ask Customs whether C165 cruising-permit requirements apply to the planned itinerary.
10	If Customs requires a cruising permit, obtain the permit and an official receipt showing the fee basis.	Verify tonnage band, duration, currency and operating conditions.
11	Coordinate DNaR inspection or documentation if a pet or controlled agricultural item is aboard.	Do not land the animal or controlled material before authorization.
12	Before fishing, obtain the required sport-fishing and sport-fishing-vessel licences.	Border clearance does not authorize fishing.
13	Before using park moorings or anchoring near protected reefs/cays, verify current DNaR instructions.	Keep permit or mooring evidence where issued.
14	Photograph all clearance, permit and payment evidence.	Back up documents to the vessel's records system.

Most serious arrival mistake: Do not arrive from Saint Martin, St. Barthélemy, the BVI or another foreign territory and proceed directly to a beach, offshore cay or restaurant before clearing at Sandy Ground. The current official entry instruction for private boats requires Customs and Immigration clearance there.

Proof to retain: Prior-port clearance, optional SailClear record, crew list, Immigration entry evidence, Customs report/clearance, any C165 cruising permit and receipt, DNaR pet authorization, fisheries licences, marine-park or mooring permissions, overtime receipt and the name/contact of officers who gave special movement instructions.

5

Immigration

Official requirement	Operational meaning	Verification source
All private-boat arrivals must clear Immigration at Sandy Ground under current public entry guidance.	A sea arrival is not exempt because the yacht is private or arriving from nearby Saint Martin.	Anguilla Tourist Board — Entry Requirements
A valid passport is required.	Carry the original passport for every crew member and verify nationality-specific validity standards.	Anguilla Immigration / official country-entry guidance
Visa requirements depend on nationality and existing visa/residence status.	Check every person individually before departure.	Anguilla eVisa Portal
The eVisa portal states valid UK, U.S. or Canadian visas or residence permits may be used to enter Anguilla.	Do not infer eligibility from another crew member; retain proof of the qualifying visa or residence permit.	Anguilla eVisa Portal
Anguilla publishes single-entry and multiple-entry visa services and an online eVisa process.	Allow published processing time and print the approved electronic visa.	Government Visa & Travel Services
An approved eVisa establishes travel eligibility but does not guarantee admission.	Immigration retains the entry decision at the border.	Anguilla eVisa application guidance
Extension-of-stay services are administered by Immigration.	Apply before the authorized stay expires; do not solve an overstay at clearance out.	Anguilla Immigration Services

Crew versus passengers

Describe each person's real role and keep the crew list, passport details and optional SailClear submission consistent.

Private vessel versus commercial carrier

Commercial-carrier boarding systems do not apply to the yacht, but the same underlying Immigration authority controls entry. Current public guidance directs private boats to Sandy Ground.

Length of stay

A universal stay period for every nationality and maritime arrival was not confirmed in a current primary-source public yacht procedure. Check the permission actually granted at entry.

Extensions

Use Immigration's Extension of Stay service before the landing permission expires. Keep the extension with ship's papers if the person remains aboard.

Crew changes

Coordinate a person joining or leaving the yacht with both Immigration and Customs and update the crew list before the next international departure.

Flying crew in or out

An airport entry or departure does not automatically reconcile the maritime crew list. Retain the person's travel evidence and notify the border authorities as directed.

Overstays

Contact Immigration before expiry. Do not assume the vessel's permit status or intended departure date extends a person's lawful stay.

Captain's operating note

Immigration publishes a Sandy Ground telephone number of +1 264 497-3611. Confirm attendance before an arrival outside ordinary Government-office patterns.

6

Customs & Temporary Importation

Anguilla's Customs Act expressly recognizes a “pleasure craft” arriving from abroad and allows regulations governing the arrival, report and departure of such craft. The public law framework reviewed does not present a separate modern yacht “temporary import permit” as the primary visiting-vessel document. The practical Customs controls are the vessel report/clearance, declarations, any required C165 cruising permit, and direct Customs approval for unusual long-term storage, sale or imported repair parts.

Issue	Operational treatment	Captain action
Vessel entry	A private recreational vessel arriving from abroad is a pleasure craft under the Customs Act framework and must report/clear.	Use Sandy Ground / Road Bay under current private-boat guidance.
SailClear	Optional electronic pre-arrival Customs notification.	Use if helpful, but still complete physical clearance.
Temporary import	No separate routine foreign-yacht TIP was confirmed as the normal public procedure.	Ask Customs to state the yacht's lawful visiting status and any duration or movement restriction.
Cruising permit	Legal framework is expressly mandatory for charter boats; application of the fee framework to a private non-commercial foreign yacht is not unambiguously stated in current public primary-source guidance.	Declare actual private use and obtain Customs' decision before leaving Road Bay.
Length of vessel stay	No universal private-yacht maximum was confirmed in the public procedure reviewed.	Ask Customs during entry and calendar any stated deadline.
Extensions	Verify with Customs before a permit or authorized vessel stay expires.	Do not assume Immigration extension changes vessel status.
Domestic movement	Subject to Customs decision on cruising permit plus AASPA and protected-area controls.	Keep clearance and permit evidence aboard.
Repairs	Routine work may be performed, but imported parts and major equipment can create Customs issues.	Ask Customs before shipping high-value parts.
Spare parts	Imports are subject to Customs entry and potential duty/service charges.	Identify consignee and declaration procedure before dispatch.
Dutiable goods	Goods intended to remain in Anguilla must be declared.	Keep invoices and separate ship's equipment from gifts or goods for shore transfer.
Alcohol / tobacco	Customs declaration and allowance rules apply.	Maintain an accurate stores inventory and declare as directed.
Cash / monetary instruments	U.S. country information lists no general currency restriction, but Anguilla has Customs Currency Report Regulations.	Verify reporting thresholds before carrying significant cash, cheques or monetary instruments.
Vessel sale	Sale or transfer in Anguilla changes the Customs and ownership context.	Obtain written Customs and legal guidance before sale.
Long-term storage	Can affect Customs, insurance and hurricane planning.	Do not leave the yacht long-term without written Customs status and secure custody arrangements.
Dinghy / outboard	Normally vessel equipment while retained with the yacht; sale or transfer is different.	Record serial numbers and declare accurately if asked.
Personal property	Personal effects and goods transferred ashore may receive different Customs treatment.	Do not sell or give away vessel equipment without checking Customs requirements.

Frequently misunderstood Customs issue: The published statutory cruising-permit fee schedule should not be treated as an automatic private-yacht invoice without first resolving vessel category. The Act's express no-permit prohibition is written for charter boats; the Regulations allow any person to apply. Ask Customs to classify the actual private, non-commercial yacht and issue the permit or written/receipted answer before coastwise movement.

Published Cruising Permit Schedule — Verify Current Application

The Government's current public law repository includes Schedule 2 of the Cruising Permit Regulations, amended by R.A. 18/2010. The schedule displays dollar figures but the extracted statutory table does not label the currency beyond “$”. The table below is a legal-reference baseline, not a representation that every private yacht must pay these amounts in July 2026.

Period	Up to 5 tons	5 tons to 20 tons	Over 20 tons
One day	$75	$150	$375
One week	$275	$750	$1,500
One month	$700	$2,250	$3,000
Three months	$1,400	$6,000	$8,500

Fee verification: Verify whether the vessel requires this permit, which tonnage measurement Customs uses, the current amended amount, and whether the charged currency is XCD or USD before payment. Obtain an official receipt showing the basis.

7

Cruising Within the Country

Domestic movement

Resolve Customs' cruising-permit decision before leaving Road Bay. Carry entry and permit evidence aboard and comply with AASPA directions in port areas.

Anchoring

Do not anchor on coral or in a prohibited area. The Cruising Permit Regulations and Marine Parks framework contain location-specific restrictions. Use current DNaR information rather than an old cruising-guide map alone.

Marine parks

Official Government management material identifies marine park areas at Dog Island, Prickly Pear / Seal Island reefs, Little Bay, Shoal Bay / Island Harbour, Sandy Island, Junks Hole and Sombrero Island. The older framework also addresses Rendezvous Bay. Verify the current legal boundary and use rule for the intended location.

Moorings

Use only a mooring appropriate to the yacht's size and current DNaR rules. Older Government planning material describes colour- and vessel-size-based buoy systems, but current load, permit and day-use rules should be verified before reliance.

Fishing

Published regulations define sport fishing as rod-and-line fishing for pelagic species for pleasure or recreation by a licensed person. A vessel used for sport fishing also requires the appropriate vessel licence.

Spearfishing

Non-residents may not use a spear gun to take marine products or possess a spear gun while swimming or boating under the published Fisheries Protection Regulations.

Species and closed seasons

Legal sizes, close seasons, prohibited areas and lobster/conch restrictions exist. Verify the current schedules before retaining any catch.

Diving

Respect marine-park and mooring rules. Do not use coral as an anchor point. Independent diving at offshore cays should include a vessel-based rescue and communications plan.

Discharge / holding tanks

Use conservative zero-discharge practice in Road Bay, marine parks, anchorages and near swimming beaches. Marine-management material identifies sewage and grey-water pollution as a concern in high-use yacht areas.

Fuel

Verify marine-fuel delivery or dock access before relying on Anguilla as a fuel stop. Do not assume the Road Bay commercial pier can receive a recreational yacht without AASPA direction.

Water

Carry a reserve. Canadian official guidance says water shortages occur regularly and are more frequent from January through April.

Marinas

No full-service transient visiting-yacht marina network comparable with the BVI was confirmed in the primary sources reviewed. Plan around anchoring, moorings and local shore-service arrangements.

Local authorities

Maintain Customs, Sandy Ground Immigration, AASPA and DNaR contacts. Port movement and natural-resource questions are handled by different agencies.

VHF practice

Maintain Channel 16 watch and follow AASPA / port instructions. Verify the current working channel for Road Bay before arrival.

Weather

Use Anguilla's Department of Disaster Management and regional tropical-weather products. Road Bay's open-roadstead exposure and offshore-cay operations require swell and wind attention beyond hurricane forecasting.

Jet skis / PWC

Do not import, launch or operate a PWC until current written rules are confirmed. The public law repository retains prohibition measures, while 2023 Executive Council policy approved a replacement framework and two proposed authorized areas.

8

Safety, Security & Local Risk Environment

A. Operational Safety Summary

Anguilla currently presents a generally low security risk for visiting recreational yacht crews. The U.S. Department of State's May 22, 2026 advisory is Level 1 — Exercise Normal Precautions and describes Anguilla as generally safe. The Government of Canada also advises normal security precautions. Canada notes that violent crime, including gun violence, remains rare but has increased, violent and drug-related crime occurs occasionally, and petty theft such as pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs sometimes.

No current authoritative source reviewed identifies a Territory-wide pattern of piracy, armed yacht boarding or systematic attacks on visiting recreational vessels. NAVOPLAN therefore does not recommend a high-threat vessel posture. The practical security focus is ordinary control of passports, phones, cash, tender, outboard, fuel cans and portable deck equipment; avoiding deserted beaches or streets after dark; and using normal caution around late-night dinghy operation.

Operational disruption deserves equal attention. Canadian guidance says water shortages occur regularly, especially January through April, demonstrations may disrupt traffic, coastal waters can be dangerous, there is no public transportation, and some roads or driving practices create risk. Anguilla's 2026 Comprehensive Disaster Management Strategy says a Joint Emergency Services Centre Room has been co-located with the 911 Call Centre since December 2024. The 2025–2030 Royal Anguilla Police Force plan also describes expansion of integrated emergency response, coastal surveillance and the 911 control function.

B. Risk Matrix

Risk	Where / When It Matters	Likelihood / Severity	Operational Guidance	Source Type	Confidence
General violent crime	Shore visits	Rare but increased / potentially severe	Exercise normal precautions; avoid involvement in local disputes or drug activity.	U.S. and Canadian official advisories	High
Petty theft	Beaches, restaurants, busy shore areas	Occasional / moderate	Secure passports, phones and cash; do not leave valuables unattended.	Canadian official advisory	High
Dinghy / outboard theft	Road Bay and shore landings	Current national yacht-specific rate not established	Lock tender and outboard, record serial numbers and ask local operators about recent incidents.	Local verification required	Medium
Deserted shore area after dark	Beaches and lightly travelled roads	Low to moderate / potentially severe	Avoid deserted beaches and streets after dark; travel with a communication and return plan.	Canadian official advisory	High
Road / taxi incident	Parts runs, provisioning, airport transfer	Meaningful / potentially severe	Use a reputable taxi; agree the fare; use care if renting because road quality and driving behaviour vary.	Canadian official advisory	High
Water shortage	Extended anchoring, repair delay, provisioning	Recurring / moderate	Maintain potable-water reserve and confirm local supply before tank levels become critical.	Canadian official advisory	High
Demonstration / traffic disruption	The Valley and road travel	Occasional / moderate	Avoid demonstrations and reroute or postpone shore tasks when roads are affected.	Canadian official advisory	High
Open-roadstead swell / weather	Road Bay anchorage and tender operations	Weather dependent / potentially severe	Assess wind and swell before committing; keep a departure option and avoid schedule-driven tender trips.	Port geography and official coastal-water caution	High
Reef / coral damage	Marine parks, offshore cays and shallow anchorages	Location dependent / severe	Use current charts, daylight where appropriate, legal moorings and sand anchoring only where permitted.	Government marine-management and law sources	High
Hurricane / tropical storm	June–November	Seasonal / severe	Maintain insurer-compliant storm plan and offshore or secure-storage strategy.	Official travel / disaster guidance	High

C. Practical Security Measures

Arrival and clearance

Arrive with daylight margin, keep the vessel ready to move and carry only required originals ashore. Await pratique and Customs/Immigration permission before normal shore communication.

At anchor

Lock the tender at night, secure outboard and fuel cans, stow portable electronics and maintain enough weather awareness to leave an exposed anchorage before conditions deteriorate.

In marinas

A conventional full-service visiting-yacht marina network was not confirmed. At any private dock or facility, use its access controls but continue normal vessel locking and equipment inventory practices.

Dinghy and outboard

Use a real cable or chain lock, keep serial numbers and photographs, and avoid impaired night operation after shore visits.

Shore visits

Carry limited cash, secure passports and phones, and avoid deserted beaches or streets after dark. Do not leave a bag unattended on a beach.

Transportation and cash

There is no public transportation system identified in current Canadian guidance. Use reputable taxis, agree the fare and avoid carrying unnecessary large amounts of cash.

Remote cruising

Offshore cays increase the consequence of injury, grounding, communications loss and weather change. Carry water, communications and a vessel-based recovery plan.

Reporting incidents

Use 911 for an emergency. Notify the Royal Anguilla Police Force and any port or facility operator after theft, assault or suspicious activity. Preserve photographs, serial numbers and receipts and obtain an incident report for insurance where appropriate.

D. Areas Requiring Additional Verification

Area / Issue	Why It Matters	What To Verify	Who To Verify With
Recent Road Bay theft pattern	National advisories do not provide anchorage-level yacht statistics.	Recent tender, outboard or cockpit theft reports.	RAPF, Customs, local marine operators
Road Bay swell / tender conditions	Open-roadstead exposure can change the practical safety of clearance and shore trips.	Current swell, landing conditions and local anchoring advice.	AASPA, Customs, local marine operator
Demonstrations / road closures	Can delay provisioning, airport transfers or parts retrieval.	Current routes and police advice.	RAPF / local media
Marine-park moorings	Buoy condition and size limits can change.	Current colour, size, permit and day-use rules.	DNaR
Offshore-cay weather	Exposure and rescue delay increase consequence.	Wind, swell, anchorage viability and communications.	Weather sources / local operator
Jet ski / PWC rules	Published law and 2023 policy direction do not clearly align in the material reviewed.	Whether import and operation are currently legal; approved areas and permits.	Customs, DNaR, AASPA and relevant Ministry

Source quality note: The overall personal-security assessment relies on current 2026 U.S. and Canadian official travel advisories and UK guidance. Emergency-response context uses current Government disaster and RAPF planning documents. Yacht-specific theft patterns were not inferred from dated cruiser anecdotes; captains should obtain current Road Bay information locally.

9

Fees & Costs

Fee / cost	Published or expected treatment	Captain note
Normal Customs / Immigration clearance	Verify current vessel and border charges.	Request official receipt for any Government or port payment.
Customs overtime	The still-published Customs Overtime Fees Regulations state $30 per hour or part-hour for each officer engaged outside usual hours or in specified public-holiday circumstances.	The regulation is an older revised schedule. Verify current amount, charged currency and number of officers before arranging overtime.
Cruising permit	Published Schedule 2 contains tonnage- and duration-based dollar figures.	First verify whether C165 applies to the private non-commercial yacht, then verify current fee and currency.
Temporary import	No separate routine visiting-yacht TIP fee was confirmed.	Verify long-stay, sale or storage treatment with Customs.
Port / AASPA charges	May depend on use of port facilities and vessel category.	Verify current Seaports / port dues and request receipt.
Immigration visa — single entry	Government Visa & Travel service currently publishes US$140.	Applies only when a visa is required; verify before application.
Immigration visa — multiple entry	Government Visa & Travel service currently publishes US$250.	Verify current fee and eligibility.
Marine park / mooring	Permit or mooring charges may apply.	Verify current DNaR permit and buoy-use fee; do not infer from older brochures.
Sport fishing licence	Required for sport fishing under published fisheries regulations.	Verify current licence category, term and fee with DNaR.
Sport fishing vessel licence	Required when the vessel is used for sport fishing.	Verify current fee and processing before fishing.
Pet import permit	Current Government pet application publishes EC$35 / US$13.02, with a US$15 card-payment amount stated on the form.	Verify the current form and fee before submission.
Temporary dog licence	Published pet conditions require visitors to obtain a temporary dog licence for a period not exceeding three months.	Verify current fee and issue process with DNaR.
Agent	Private commercial fee.	Routine private-yacht clearance may not require an agent. Separate agent charges from official fees.
Fuel / water / tender landing	Supplier- and facility-specific.	Verify local arrangements before relying on Road Bay for a service stop.

Fee caution: Do not budget the published cruising-permit Schedule 2 as an automatic fee for every private yacht. The legal applicability to a private non-commercial foreign yacht is not clearly resolved in the public primary-source material reviewed. Customs should first classify the vessel's actual use.

10

Controlled & Restricted Items

Item	Status / Risk	Operational Guidance	Verification Source
Firearms	Strict licensing / import risk	Remove before departure unless current Anguilla firearm possession and import authority has been obtained. Declare immediately.	Firearms Act / Customs / RAPF
Ammunition	Serious legal risk	Search bags, lockers and old gear for loose rounds. The U.S. advisory specifically warns travellers to check for ammunition.	U.S. Anguilla Travel Advisory / Customs
Knives / defensive weapons	Item- and circumstance-specific	Do not carry a defensive weapon ashore without confirming local law.	RAPF / Customs; verify
Jet ski / PWC	Current legal status requires direct verification	Do not import, launch or operate until written current rules are confirmed.	Jet Ski Prohibition Act listing; 2023 Executive Council policy; Customs
Drones	Aviation and protected-area controls may apply	Verify current aviation and site restrictions before flight.	Relevant Anguilla aviation / DNaR authorities
Prescription medication	Personal use; controlled medicine requires care	Carry original packaging and prescription documentation.	Customs / health authority; verify
Controlled drugs	Criminal risk	Do not import illegal drugs; verify unusual controlled prescriptions.	Customs / RAPF
Alcohol	Customs declaration / allowances	Inventory and declare as directed.	Anguilla Customs
Tobacco	Customs declaration / allowances	Inventory and declare as directed.	Anguilla Customs
Food / meat / animal products	Biosecurity and animal-health controls	Declare and obtain import permission where required before landing.	DNaR / Customs
Plants / fresh produce	Plant-protection controls may apply	Declare and verify import permission before landing plants or produce.	DNaR / Plant Protection framework
Pets	Import permit and veterinary conditions	Apply at least two weeks before travel and carry the original health documentation.	Government Pet Import Permit
Cash / monetary instruments	Currency-reporting regulations exist	Verify reporting threshold before carrying a large amount of cash, cheques or monetary instruments.	Customs Currency Report Regulations
Satellite communications	No blanket visiting-yacht prohibition confirmed	Carry equipment documentation and verify specialized licensing concerns.	Verify with telecommunications / Customs authorities
Spearguns	Prohibited possession/use by non-residents while swimming or boating for marine-product taking	Do not use a spear gun and do not have one in possession while swimming or boating as a non-resident.	Fisheries Protection Regulations section 10

11

Pets

Anguilla's Department of Natural Resources publishes a specific pet import permit application for dogs and cats. The current form tells applicants to submit the completed application and supporting documents at least two weeks before travel. The permit is valid for one month, and detailed veterinary and identification conditions apply.

Preparation item	Requirement / risk	Captain action
Dog or cat import permit	Required under the published Government process.	Use the current DNaR Pet Import Permit application.
Application timing	Published application says submit at least two weeks before travel.	Apply earlier when passage dates or veterinary appointments may move.
Minimum age	Published conditions state dogs and cats must be at least 13 weeks old.	Do not depart with a younger animal without written DNaR direction.
Health certificate	Original International Health Certificate from an accredited veterinarian and endorsed by the Government Veterinarian in the country of origin is required by the published form.	Carry the original and copies; translate to English where required.
Identification	Health documentation must include identification / tag information.	Use permanent identification where available and keep the same number on all records.
Rabies vaccination	Published form states rabies vaccination must be administered at least one month before travel and accepts a three-year rabies vaccine.	Check vaccination date and validity before scheduling departure.
Other vaccinations	Species-specific vaccination requirements are listed on the Government form.	Have the veterinarian complete the current condition set exactly.
Parasite control	Published conditions require freedom from internal/external parasites and veterinary documentation.	Carry treatment and examination details.
Disease exposure	Published conditions include infectious/contagious disease and 60-day contact requirements.	Review the certificate wording with the veterinarian before endorsement.
Permit validity	Published permit conditions state the permit is valid for one month.	Time the application to the actual yacht arrival window.
Temporary dog licence	Visitors must obtain a temporary dog licence for a period not exceeding three months under the published form.	Ask DNaR how the licence is issued on arrival.
Restricted / ferocious dogs	The Government form references the Dogs Act and pit bull terrier or other ferocious-dog restrictions.	Obtain written Chief Veterinary Officer guidance before departure if the dog could fall within the definition.
Arrival inspection	Customs and DNaR may review the permit and veterinary documents.	Keep the animal aboard until landing is authorized.
Quarantine risk	Non-compliance can create detention or refusal issues.	Do not depart until the import permit and certificate package are complete.

Captain's pet note: The one-month permit validity matters to a cruising yacht because weather can move the arrival date. Apply early enough to solve document problems but not so early that the permit expires before landfall. Confirm the planned Road Bay / Sandy Ground arrival with DNaR if inspection attendance is needed.

12

Yacht Agents & Clearance Services

A routine private yacht with valid passports, clean vessel documents and a daytime Sandy Ground arrival should generally be capable of contacting Customs and Immigration directly. An agent or local representative becomes more useful when officer attendance, vessel-category classification, imported parts, pets or unusual equipment complicate the call.

Situation	Agent value	What to ask before hiring
Routine private yacht; daytime arrival	Low	Can the captain clear directly at Sandy Ground with Customs and Immigration?
After-hours arrival	Moderate	Have both Customs and Immigration attendance been arranged and are overtime fees itemized?
Cruising-permit classification dispute	Moderate	Can the representative obtain Customs' written classification for a private non-commercial yacht?
Pet aboard	Moderate	Has DNaR confirmed permit validity and any arrival inspection?
High-value spare part	High	Who is consignee/import declarant and what duty or service charge applies?
Crew change	Moderate	How will Immigration and Customs records be reconciled?
Firearm or ammunition aboard	High legal complexity	What actual written import and possession authorizations exist? Agent assurance is not a licence.
Jet ski / PWC aboard	High regulatory uncertainty	Can the representative obtain written current Customs and operating instructions before import or launch?
Marine-park / fisheries question	Low to moderate	Why not obtain the requirement directly from DNaR?

Official requirement versus convenience: No primary source reviewed requires a yacht agent for routine private-boat entry. Ask for an itemized quote separating Customs overtime, port charges, permits, courier/transport and the agent's own fee. A local contact can solve logistics without becoming the source of legal authority.

13

Departure Procedures

A yacht leaving Anguilla for Saint Martin, St. Barthélemy, the BVI or any other foreign destination should complete outward Customs and Immigration clearance. The public law framework controls departure of pleasure craft and the current private-boat clearance interface is Sandy Ground. Verify current office attendance and after-hours arrangements before the planned sailing time.

Step	Captain action	Retain / verify
1	Contact Sandy Ground Customs and Immigration and confirm the planned departure time.	Current office attendance and overtime arrangement.
2	Update optional SailClear departure information if the system is being used.	Submission record.
3	Finalize the crew list and resolve every crew change.	Actual persons aboard must match border records.
4	Present vessel registration, passports, entry documents and any cruising permit.	Keep originals aboard after processing.
5	Complete Immigration departure processing.	Evidence all persons lawfully departed.
6	Complete Customs outward clearance.	International clearance proof for the next country.
7	Resolve pet, fish catch, imported spare-part or restricted-item issues.	Export or release evidence where applicable.
8	Pay verified port, Customs or overtime charges and obtain receipts.	Separate official charges from private services.
9	Review next-country private-yacht arrival, visa and pre-notification requirements.	Saint Martin / Sint Maarten are foreign jurisdictions despite geographic proximity.
10	Review weather and Road Bay swell before tender recovery and final departure.	Avoid schedule-driven departure in unsafe tender or sea conditions.
11	Secure tender, outboard, fuel cans and all portable deck gear.	Sea-going configuration.
12	Photograph the outward clearance and transmit a backup.	Store with the passage and next-port package.

Printable Departure Clearance Checklist

Sandy Ground Customs departure attendance confirmed.
Sandy Ground Immigration departure attendance confirmed.
After-hours arrangement and fee verified if applicable.
Optional SailClear departure information updated if used.
Final crew list reconciled.
All passports aboard.
Vessel registration/documentation aboard.
Entry documents and cruising permit available.
Immigration departure completed.
Customs outward clearance completed.
Pet / fish catch / restricted-item issues resolved.
Official fees paid and receipted.
International outward-clearance evidence obtained.
Next-country entry and visa requirements verified.
Road Bay swell and offshore weather reviewed.
Tender, outboard and portable deck gear secured.
Police or incident reports retained for insurance if applicable.
Departure documents photographed and backed up.

14

Reality Check

Reality	Why it surprises captains	Operational response
The private-yacht border is Sandy Ground even though Blowing Point is a Customs port.	Captains equate statutory port status with the routine yacht procedure.	Follow the current public private-boat instruction and clear at Sandy Ground unless directed otherwise.
SailClear is optional, not completed Anguilla clearance.	Electronic pre-arrival systems often replace paper processes elsewhere.	Use it as a pre-notification tool and still complete physical Customs and Immigration clearance.
The cruising-permit statute is written around charter boats.	Older cruising information often presents a simple universal yacht fee table.	Declare the vessel's private non-commercial status and get Customs' current classification.
The published permit fee table does not resolve its own private-yacht applicability or currency question.	The table looks definitive.	Verify requirement, tonnage basis, current amount and currency before payment.
Road Bay is an operating harbour and open roadstead, not a full-service marina.	“Main yacht clearance point” sounds like a marina destination.	Plan anchoring, tender landing, swell and service logistics independently.
Fishing means rod and line for pelagic species under the sport-fishing definition.	Cruisers use “recreational fishing” broadly.	Read the licence conditions before taking reef species or using other gear.
A non-resident cannot simply carry a spear gun in the dinghy.	The equipment may be legal on the yacht's previous route.	Do not possess it while swimming or boating as a non-resident under the published regulation.
The jet-ski legal picture has a policy-versus-law gap.	2023 policy approved authorized areas and a replacement framework.	Do not operate until current enacted rules are confirmed in writing.
Low crime does not eliminate tender-security or cash discipline.	Level 1 encourages a relaxed posture.	Use normal locks, serial-number records and limited-cash practices.
Water supply can become an operational issue on a sophisticated yacht visit.	Anguilla is a high-end tourism destination.	Maintain onboard reserve and verify local water service before tank levels are low.

15

Common Cruiser Mistakes

Mistake	Why it happens	Consequences	How to avoid it
Going directly to Sandy Island or a beach after an international passage.	The destination is visible and close to the clearance harbour.	Non-compliant entry.	Clear Customs and Immigration at Sandy Ground first.
Treating SailClear submission as clearance.	The electronic platform looks like a full border system.	Vessel and crew have not completed physical entry.	Use SailClear only as pre-arrival assistance.
Assuming every yacht owes the old published cruising-permit schedule.	Older cruiser guidance simplifies the legal framework.	Possible wrong vessel classification or unexplained fee.	State private non-commercial use and ask Customs to identify the legal basis.
Leaving Road Bay before resolving the cruising-permit question.	The captain intends only a short local move.	Permit or enforcement dispute later.	Resolve the question at entry and retain the answer.
Fishing with a rod but no vessel licence.	Captain assumes only the person needs a fishing licence.	Fisheries violation.	Verify and obtain both sport-fishing and sport-fishing-vessel licences.
Carrying a spear gun in the dinghy.	Equipment is stored routinely from another country.	Non-resident possession violation while boating.	Do not possess it while boating or swimming.
Launching a yacht-carried jet ski based on the 2023 policy announcement.	Policy approval is mistaken for enacted operating law.	Import or operating enforcement risk.	Obtain current written Customs and marine-authority instructions.
Using an old marine-park map as the entire current rule set.	Anguilla's legacy marine legislation overlaps.	Illegal anchoring, mooring or fishing.	Verify current DNaR boundaries and use rules.
Leaving the dinghy unlocked ashore.	Low overall crime creates complacency.	Theft and insurance complications.	Lock tender and outboard and retain serial numbers.
Running potable water low before trying to refill.	Captain assumes resort infrastructure means unlimited marine supply.	Operational delay during a shortage.	Refill early and maintain reserve.

16

Captain’s Notes

Ask one permit question exactly

“Privately owned, non-commercial foreign pleasure yacht; no charter activity. Do we require a C165 cruising permit for this itinerary?” The exact description helps prevent a charter-vessel fee assumption.

Do not use the fee table to argue at the counter

Carry the law reference, but ask for classification and fee basis calmly. The useful output is a permit or receipt that explains what Customs actually applied.

Road Bay weather is part of clearance

Border paperwork can be routine while tender landing is unpleasant. Build a swell and daylight gate into the arrival plan rather than treating Sandy Ground as a marina berth.

Separate Customs from Natural Resources

Customs clearance does not answer whether the yacht may fish, use a park mooring, carry a spear gun or land a pet. Keep DNaR tasks on a separate checklist.

Keep the spear gun off the tender

The non-resident possession language applies while swimming or boating. “We weren't using it” is not the operating plan to test.

Treat the PWC as cargo until proven otherwise

Do not lower it from the deck. Ask Customs what may be imported and the marine authority where it may be operated under current enacted rules.

Refill water while you still have options

On an island where official guidance acknowledges recurring shortages, a captain should not wait for a near-empty tank before verifying supply.

Photograph the paperwork

Save the Customs receipt, permit decision, fishery licences and pet documents immediately. Anguilla's most confusing issues are category and permission questions, so the issued record matters.

Captain's judgment: The highest-value question in Anguilla is not “What did another cruiser pay?” It is “How did Customs classify this vessel today?” A private owner/operator should build the operating plan around the vessel's actual legal use, not a charter-boat anecdote.

17

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does a private yacht clear into Anguilla?

Current official Anguilla Tourist Board entry guidance says persons travelling by private boat must contact and clear Customs and Immigration at Sandy Ground. NAVOPLAN treats Road Bay / Sandy Ground as the normal yacht entry point.

Can I clear at Blowing Point?

Blowing Point is a statutory Customs port and international ferry terminal, but current private-boat guidance directs yachts to Sandy Ground. Use Blowing Point only if Customs and Immigration specifically authorize it for the yacht.

Is SailClear mandatory?

No current Anguilla primary source reviewed says it is mandatory. SailClear describes itself as an optional pre-arrival service. It does not replace physical Customs and Immigration clearance.

Does my private yacht need a cruising permit?

The public law is not as simple as older cruising summaries suggest. The Act's express prohibition targets charter boats; the Regulations allow any person to apply and contain fees. Ask Customs to classify the private non-commercial yacht before leaving Road Bay.

What does the cruising permit cost?

The published statutory schedule contains tonnage- and duration-based dollar figures, but the captain should first confirm that the permit applies, then verify the current amount and currency with Customs.

Can I fish from the yacht?

Not without the applicable licences. Published Fisheries Protection Regulations require a sport-fishing licence for the person and a licence for a vessel used for sport fishing.

Can I spear fish?

A non-resident may not use a spear gun to take marine products or possess a spear gun while swimming or boating under the published regulations.

Can I use my jet ski?

Do not assume so. The current law repository still lists prohibition measures, while Executive Council approved a replacement policy in 2023. NAVOPLAN did not confirm the replacement as enacted in the current material reviewed. Obtain written current instructions first.

Can I anchor at Sandy Island or Prickly Pear?

Protected-area and anchoring controls apply. Verify the current DNaR mooring and anchoring instructions and do not anchor on coral.

Is Anguilla safe for a yacht crew?

Current U.S. guidance is Level 1 and describes Anguilla as generally safe. Canada recommends normal precautions but notes rare increased violent crime and occasional petty crime. Use normal tender, valuables and after-dark precautions.

Can I bring a dog or cat?

Yes, with the Government pet import permit and veterinary documentation. The current form says submit at least two weeks before travel and the permit is valid for one month.

Is Road Bay a marina?

No conventional full-service transient marina was confirmed in the official sources reviewed. Plan for an anchorage / port interface, tender logistics and local service arrangements.

18

Arrival Checklist

Plan Road Bay / Sandy Ground as the private-yacht clearance point.
Confirm current Sandy Ground Customs and Immigration attendance.
Confirm current office hours and after-hours arrangements.
Optionally create a SailClear pre-arrival notification.
Save any SailClear submission reference offline.
Prepare original vessel registration/documentation.
Prepare proof of ownership or operating authority.
Prepare prior-port international outward clearance.
Prepare multiple signed crew lists.
Verify passport validity for every person.
Verify visa or eVisa status for every nationality.
Prepare insurance and emergency-contact information.
Review the C165 cruising-permit ambiguity for a private non-commercial yacht.
Prepare to ask Customs for the vessel's actual permit classification.
Review current DNaR marine-park and mooring instructions.
Confirm sport-fishing and vessel-licence requirements before fishing.
Remove spear guns from swimming and boating activity for non-resident crew.
Confirm the pet import permit is valid for the planned arrival date.
Carry original veterinary documentation if a pet is aboard.
Conduct a complete firearm and ammunition audit.
Do not import, launch or operate a jet ski / PWC without current written confirmation.
Prepare accurate stores and restricted-item declarations.
Verify large-cash / monetary-instrument reporting requirements.
Test VHF Channel 16 and backup communications.
Review Road Bay wind, swell and tender conditions.
Plan daylight arrival when unfamiliar with Road Bay.
Maintain a potable-water reserve.
Approach Road Bay and follow AASPA / Customs directions.
Await pratique and permission before normal shore communication.
Keep crew aboard until Customs and Immigration authorize landing.
Complete Immigration clearance for every person.
Complete Customs vessel report and declarations.
State clearly that the yacht is private and non-commercial.
Resolve cruising-permit requirement, fee basis and currency before leaving Road Bay.
Retain all official receipts and permits.
Confirm pet landing authorization if applicable.
Confirm marine-park / mooring rules before visiting offshore cays.
Secure tender, outboard, fuel cans and portable equipment.
Photograph and back up all clearance documents.

19

Departure Checklist

Confirm Sandy Ground Customs departure attendance.
Confirm Sandy Ground Immigration departure attendance.
Verify after-hours or public-holiday arrangements if applicable.
Update optional SailClear departure information if used.
Finalize and reconcile the crew list.
Resolve all crew changes.
Confirm all passports are aboard.
Confirm vessel registration/documentation is aboard.
Present entry clearance and cruising permit as directed.
Complete Immigration departure processing.
Complete Customs outward clearance.
Resolve pet, fish catch, imported-part and restricted-item issues.
Pay verified Government, port or overtime charges.
Retain official receipts.
Obtain international outward-clearance evidence.
Verify next-country private-yacht pre-arrival requirements.
Verify next-country visa requirements for every person.
Review Road Bay swell and tender-recovery conditions.
Review offshore weather and hurricane guidance.
Secure tender, outboard, fuel cans and deck equipment.
Retain police or incident reports needed for insurance.
Photograph and back up the departure package.

20

Document Checklist

Document	Original	Copies	Digital	Notes
Vessel registration / documentation	Yes	2	Yes	Carry current original.
Proof of ownership / operating authority	Recommended	1	Yes	Especially for corporate, financed or recently purchased yachts.
Passports	Yes	2 each	Yes	Verify nationality-specific validity requirements.
Visa / eVisa / qualifying residence permit	If applicable	1 each	Yes	Retain proof used to establish entry eligibility.
Crew list	Signed master	6	Yes	Use exact passport details.
Prior-port outward clearance	Yes	2	Yes	Keep with ship's papers.
SailClear submission	Electronic	1	Yes	Optional pre-arrival record; not clearance.
Insurance certificate / contacts	Recommended	1	Yes	Include grounding, hurricane and medical contacts.
Customs entry evidence	Yes	2	Yes	Photograph immediately.
Immigration entry evidence	Yes	1 each	Yes	Check period granted.
Cruising permit	If required	2	Yes	Retain vessel classification, term and conditions.
Cruising-permit receipt	If issued	2	Yes	Keep fee basis and charged currency.
Customs / AASPA overtime or port receipts	If issued	1	Yes	Separate official charges from private services.
Marine-park / mooring permit	If applicable	1	Yes	Keep with route and anchoring notes.
Sport Fishing Licence	If fishing	1	Yes	Person's licence.
Sport Fishing Vessel Licence	If fishing	1	Yes	Vessel-use licence.
Pet Import Permit	If applicable	2	Yes	Published permit validity is one month.
International veterinary health certificate	If applicable	2	Yes	Carry endorsed original.
Pet vaccination / parasite records	If applicable	2	Yes	Match animal identification.
Temporary dog licence	If applicable	1	Yes	Visitors should verify issue process.
Prescription documentation	Recommended	1	Yes	For controlled or unusual medicines.
Firearm / ammunition authorization	If applicable	2	Yes	Do not rely on a foreign permit alone.
Jet ski / PWC written authorization	If applicable	2	Yes	Current import and operating rules must be verified.
Stores / restricted-item inventory	Signed master	2	Yes	Alcohol, tobacco, food and controlled items.
Equipment / serial-number inventory	No	1	Yes	Tender, outboard and portable electronics.
Police / incident report	If issued	2	Yes	Retain for insurer.
Port / facility incident record	If issued	1	Yes	Preserve chronology and photographs.
Anguilla outward clearance	Yes	2	Yes	Present at the next international port as required.

21

Document Examples

Crew List

Prepare a typed list showing vessel name, flag, registration number, master, full names, dates of birth, nationalities, passport numbers, passport expiry dates and crew positions. Carry multiple signed copies.

Optional SailClear Notification

Use SailClear to submit optional pleasure-craft pre-arrival information. Retain the record, but do not treat it as Anguilla Customs or Immigration clearance.

Cruising Permit

Review the Cruising Permit Act and Cruising Permit Regulations. A private non-commercial yacht should obtain Customs' current classification before leaving Road Bay.

Temporary Import

No routine separate visiting-yacht TIP form was confirmed as the primary private-yacht procedure. Ask Customs to state any vessel-stay, storage or movement restriction during entry clearance.

International Clearance

Carry the previous country's outward clearance and obtain Anguilla outward clearance before departure to another country or territory.

Domestic Zarpe

Not generally applicable terminology. No universal domestic zarpe for ordinary Anguilla recreational movement was confirmed. Carry Customs clearance and any required cruising permit.

Immigration / eVisa

Use the Anguilla eVisa Portal and Government Visa & Travel Services for current visa requirements.

Customs Forms and Law

The Anguilla Customs Department publishes legislation, policies and forms. The current private-boat public instruction remains clearance at Sandy Ground.

Fishing Licence Application

The published Fisheries Protection Regulations Form 5 is the application for a Sport Fishing Licence or Sport Fishing Vessel Licence. Verify the current submission process and fees with DNaR.

Pet Import Permit

Use the Government's Pet Import Permit Application and submit the supporting veterinary documents within the current timing requirements.

Official Marine Resources

The Department of Natural Resources publishes marine, fisheries, pet and biosecurity resources and contact information.

Police / Incident Documentation

Record date, time, location, officer or 911 contact, property serial numbers, witnesses and photographs. Obtain a police or facility incident record for an insurance claim where appropriate.

22

Recent Regulatory Changes

Date	Change	Operational Impact	Source
May 22, 2026	U.S. Department of State reissued Anguilla's Travel Advisory at Level 1 — Exercise Normal Precautions.	Supports a proportionate security posture. The advisory specifically reminds travellers to check for loose ammunition or forgotten weapons.	U.S. Department of State
2026 programme	Government's 2026 Budget states work will begin on Road Bay Port upland development, including warehousing, yard paving and port access roads.	Commercial-port construction and access activity may affect local Road Bay logistics. Verify current anchoring, tender and landside access instructions.	Government of Anguilla 2026 Budget Estimates / Address
2026 programme	Government continues expansion work at Blowing Point Ferry Terminal, including an additional finger pier, parking and traffic-flow improvements.	Confirms Blowing Point's passenger/ferry role and potential construction activity. It does not supersede current private-boat guidance directing yachts to Sandy Ground.	Government of Anguilla 2026 Budget
December 2024 onward	Anguilla's Joint Emergency Services Centre Room has been co-located with the 911 Call Centre; current Government planning expands integrated emergency and coastal-surveillance capability.	911 is the practical emergency contact. Yacht crews should still give exact coastal location, vessel details and communications method.	Anguilla Comprehensive Disaster Management Strategy 2026–2030
May 18, 2023 policy decision	Executive Council approved a Personal Water Craft policy, agreed to repeal and replace the Jet Ski Prohibition Act and approved two proposed authorized areas at Junks Hole / Savannah Bay and Forest Bay.	NAVOPLAN did not confirm the replacement enactment in the current public law repository, which still lists prohibition measures. Visiting yachts should obtain written current instructions before importing or operating a PWC.	Executive Council Minutes, May 2023
July 2026 research cycle	No major recent private-yacht Customs procedure amendment was confirmed that replaces the current official instruction for private boats to clear at Sandy Ground.	Continue to use Sandy Ground / Road Bay as the default private-yacht clearance interface and verify current hours before departure.	Anguilla Tourist Board Entry Requirements

23

Information to Verify Before Departure

Item	Why It Changes	Who to Verify With
Sandy Ground Customs hours	Public general Customs hours and older statutory Road Bay usual hours differ.	Anguilla Customs Department
Sandy Ground Immigration attendance	Small-port staffing and after-hours arrangements can change.	Immigration Sandy Ground
Road Bay arrival / anchoring directions	Commercial traffic, weather and 2026 port works can affect local operations.	AASPA / Customs
SailClear use	Electronic Customs workflows can change.	Anguilla Customs / SailClear
C165 application to private non-commercial yacht	Public Act and Regulations do not provide a simple private-yacht statement.	Comptroller of Customs
Cruising-permit fee and currency	Published statutory table does not by itself establish current private-yacht application or currency.	Anguilla Customs
Cruising-permit tonnage basis	Schedule uses tonnage bands; measurement basis must match the vessel document and Customs treatment.	Anguilla Customs
Port / Customs overtime fee	Published schedules are older and officer requirements vary.	Customs / AASPA
Visa eligibility	Nationality and qualifying visa/residence status vary.	Anguilla Immigration / eVisa portal
Immigration stay granted	Border permission is person-specific.	Immigration
Marine-park boundaries	Legacy laws and management plans overlap and can be amended.	DNaR
Mooring buoy condition and size rule	Buoys can be removed, damaged or reassigned.	DNaR / local marine operator
Anchoring restrictions	Protected areas and seabed conditions vary by location.	DNaR / AASPA
Sport-fishing licence	Current fee, conditions and issue procedure can change.	DNaR
Sport-fishing-vessel licence	Vessel licensing is separate from personal licence.	DNaR
Closed seasons / legal sizes	Fisheries rules can be amended.	DNaR
Jet ski / PWC import and operation	2023 policy approved replacement of prohibition framework; current enacted status remains unclear in reviewed public law material.	Customs, DNaR, AASPA and responsible Ministry
Pet import conditions	Animal-health rules can change.	DNaR / Chief Veterinary Officer
Firearm / ammunition authorization	Serious legal consequences.	Customs / RAPF
Currency-reporting threshold	Customs reporting law and forms can change.	Anguilla Customs
Recent Road Bay theft pattern	Local incidents are time-sensitive and not captured in national advisories.	RAPF / local marine operators
Demonstrations / road closures	Can develop with little notice.	RAPF / local media
Water availability	Shortages recur, particularly January–April.	Local supplier / shore contact
Road Bay swell / offshore-cay weather	Changes by forecast and exposure.	Current marine weather / local operator
Named-storm insurance obligations	Policy restrictions and insurer guidance change.	Vessel insurer

24

Research Confidence

Section / Issue	Confidence	Why
Private-yacht clearance at Sandy Ground	High	Current official Anguilla Tourist Board entry guidance explicitly directs private boats to Sandy Ground.
Statutory Customs ports	High	Current Government law repository identifies Road Bay and Blowing Point in the Customs Ports Regulations.
SailClear status	High	SailClear describes the pleasure-craft pre-arrival service as optional; Anguilla Customs links to SailClear.
Arrival / pratique controls	High	AASPA Seaports Regulations directly address foreign-ship pratique and shore communication before clearance.
Immigration passport / visa framework	High	Current Government Immigration and eVisa sources provide direct guidance.
Universal visitor stay period	Medium	A single current primary-source public yacht procedure specifying one period for all nationalities was not confirmed.
Cruising Permit Act scope for charter boats	High	Published Act text expressly frames the no-permit prohibition around charter boats.
Cruising permit requirement for a private non-commercial foreign yacht	Low	The public Act and Regulations do not unambiguously resolve application to this vessel category; direct Customs classification is required.
Published cruising-permit Schedule 2	High	Government law repository publishes the tonnage/duration schedule amended in 2010.
Current private-yacht permit fee / currency	Low	Applicability and charged currency are not made explicit by the published schedule alone.
Temporary import / long-term vessel status	Medium	Customs pleasure-craft controls are clear, but a concise modern visiting-yacht TIP guide was not confirmed.
Marine park framework	Medium	Official Acts, Regulations and Government management plans exist, but official management material itself documents overlapping legacy frameworks.
Fishing licence requirements	High	Published Fisheries Protection Regulations directly license sport fishing and vessels used for sport fishing.
Non-resident spear-gun restriction	High	Published Fisheries Protection Regulations section 10 is explicit.
Jet ski / PWC current operating status	Low	Current law repository retains prohibition measures; 2023 Executive Council approved a replacement policy, but enacted replacement was not confirmed.
Pets	High	DNaR publishes a current pet import application and detailed veterinary conditions.
Safety, Security & Local Risk Environment	High	Current 2026 U.S. and Canadian official advisories support normal precautions and provide current crime and infrastructure context.
Yacht-specific theft patterns	Medium	No authoritative current anchorage-level yacht incident data set was identified.
Road Bay office hours	Medium	Current general Customs website hours and older statutory location-specific hours are not identical.
Fees and costs	Medium	Several official schedules and service fees are published, but private-yacht cruising permit, port and current overtime application require confirmation.
Departure procedures	Medium	Customs pleasure-craft and border principles support formal outward clearance; a concise current yacht-specific departure checklist is not published.
Recent changes	High	May 2026 U.S. advisory and current Government 2026 budget, disaster strategy and 2023 Executive Council material were reviewed.

25

References

Government

Immigration

Customs

Maritime

Agriculture / Biosecurity

Health

Safety / Security / Travel Advisories

Port Authorities

Marinas

No full-service transient private-yacht marina network was confirmed in the primary official sources reviewed. Captains should verify current Road Bay mooring, tender landing, fuel and dock arrangements directly with AASPA, Customs and local marine providers.

Yacht Agents

No specific yacht agent is endorsed in this research cycle. Current official guidance allows direct private-boat contact with Customs and Immigration at Sandy Ground. Verify any agent's written scope and fee breakdown.

Cruising Organizations

Noonsite — Anguilla background cruising reports; used only for lower-confidence historical context, accessed July 2026

Cruiser Reports

Dated cruiser reports were not used to establish current cruising-permit applicability, current fees, port hours, anchorage safety or yacht-security patterns. Primary Government and official sources take precedence.

Executive Summary

Table of Contents

Country Overview

Ports of Entry / Exit

A. Port Capability Summary Table

B. Individual Port Operating Profiles

Road Bay / Sandy Ground

Blowing Point Ferry Terminal

Before You Leave Home

Arrival Procedures

Immigration

Crew versus passengers

Private vessel versus commercial carrier

Length of stay

Extensions

Crew changes

Flying crew in or out

Overstays

Captain's operating note

Customs & Temporary Importation

Published Cruising Permit Schedule — Verify Current Application

Cruising Within the Country

Domestic movement

Anchoring

Marine parks

Moorings

Fishing

Spearfishing

Species and closed seasons

Diving

Discharge / holding tanks

Fuel

Water

Marinas

Local authorities

VHF practice

Weather

Jet skis / PWC

Safety, Security & Local Risk Environment

A. Operational Safety Summary

B. Risk Matrix

C. Practical Security Measures

Arrival and clearance

At anchor

In marinas

Dinghy and outboard

Shore visits

Transportation and cash

Remote cruising

Reporting incidents

D. Areas Requiring Additional Verification

Fees & Costs

Controlled & Restricted Items

Pets

Yacht Agents & Clearance Services

Departure Procedures

Printable Departure Clearance Checklist

Reality Check

Common Cruiser Mistakes

Captain’s Notes

Ask one permit question exactly

Do not use the fee table to argue at the counter

Road Bay weather is part of clearance

Separate Customs from Natural Resources

Keep the spear gun off the tender

Treat the PWC as cargo until proven otherwise

Refill water while you still have options

Photograph the paperwork

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does a private yacht clear into Anguilla?

Can I clear at Blowing Point?

Is SailClear mandatory?

Does my private yacht need a cruising permit?

What does the cruising permit cost?

Can I fish from the yacht?

Can I spear fish?

Can I use my jet ski?

Can I anchor at Sandy Island or Prickly Pear?

Is Anguilla safe for a yacht crew?

Can I bring a dog or cat?