Lennydo wrote:
...Nassau is a short boatride to Eastern Florida and the Keys. It seems that most sport fishing boats make the trip uninterrupted by the Coast Guard.
This is true. But it's not just Nassau. Many of the islands are a short boat ride from Florida, including Grand Bahamas, the Abacos Islands, and many of the Eluthera and Exuma's are a stone's throw from Florida. And let's not even talk about CUBA !!!!
I run my boat over to many different Bahamian islands throughout the year, sometimes just partying and island hopping, and other times for fishing or tournaments. And it would be real easy to pick up a "passenger" and bring them back to the mainland. Upon return to Florida, all it takes is a simple phone call to the local customs/immigration office - give them some pertinent info, and they give me a clearance number over the phone - WITHOUT EVER COMING TO THE MARINA TO INSPECT MY VESSEL!!!
I've actually been asked (on several occasions) to take a bribe to bring people back to Florida from the islands. But I would NEVER take the chance. I've been boarded by the Coast Guard more than once, as well as the FMP (Florida Marine Patrol). And I'll tell you what....
these guys don't play!
If you want your favorita to fly to the Bahamas - and then meet her there and play with her for a while - that's fine. But bringing her back across - onto U.S. soil ? Ya might want to think twice about that one...
MG