April (was October) Trip to the Bahamas

[Dave62]

Hello Kirk,

We just completed a trip to the Bahamas....not in an RV....but we fly an old RV....a Swift. Much the same type of aircraft.
A few things I learned.....
Fort Pierce is the best place to go and return from the trip. Very general aviation friendly and great with help. They rent rafts and vest...a little expensive but good equipment. They also help you with all of the paperwork...both for the Bahamas and for Customs when you return. Very expensive...$5....for all of the paper.
We flew into Marsh Harbor on Abaco....great stop...gas about $5.35 and very easy/friendly customs. You can get your island flying permit there.
I would suggest the book on flying the Bahamas...published yearly that has all airports and things to see, stay, and do. Cost is about $60. I am in Brazil now so I do not have the info on how to order.
This book also contains check list for things you need both going and comming from the Bahamas. Very complete.
The Bahamas official requirement is for you to have a radio station license and operators permit for you aircraft radio....cost is about $160....I have found that no one is ever ask for these..and most people do not have. I spent the money...but would not do it again.
In general...with just a little planning the trip is VERY easy. I had a lot of aprehension before the trip....but it was based on not ever doing it. It is super simple and very enjoyable. I hope to do it yearly.
I hope this info helps.

Dave62

[tonyjohnson]

I'm in for the 2009 trip. I should have my 8A finished by then.

[donahuedc]

http://www.pilotpub.com/

[KirkGrovesRV8]

Thanks Guys for all the info, I really do appreciate it As of now I have called and gotten info on a couple of different hotel and when I get a chance will post up what I find.
I really think this could be a great trip for anyone thinking of going(plus makes me feel better to have some other RVs to fly along with )
Like I said anyone who thinks they would like to go just post here and then we can figure out a date that would suit. And as far as I am concerned we could meet in FPR fly over together and when we hit the Islands My wife and I are heading to Treasure Cay, and everyone else is welcome to go with us or head to their own Island of choice
But I did call and got some info on a RVers only fishing trip, so might be neat to meet up and do that. Anyway I will keep people posted and if anyone has any other ideas I am all ears!!
Thanks!!

[339A]

You might want to give some thought to Hurricane season. It will be in full swing and could ruin your trip. We lived in Florida for 8 years and dealt with many.

We flew to Grand Turk this spring with a Gaggle of RV's and had a blast. It took a fair amount of planning. The point being that with everyone trying to schedule time off for a specific time period, then to get nixed by a big one well....You would then lose deposits on hotel rooms and any extra activities you might have set up. (Diving/fishing etc.) You might be fine and have no problems but it is worth considering.

Remember that insurance requires you to MOVE your plane out of a hurricane's path. I love that one. Afterall why should they pay for and act of "nature"

[roadrunner20]

End of October, early November should be not be a problem with hurricanes. Very few form at that time of year unless we get into a very active year. Peak time for hurricanes are Aug/Sept.

[roadrunner20]

Anything new on a RV Bahamas group flyout in October?
I'm off the 2nd week of Oct.

[KirkGrovesRV8]

Sorry Guys things got busy and it did not work out for Oct, BUT my wife and I are still ready to go! We were thinking of trying again this early spring before it gets too hot. So stay tuned or feel free to offer up a suggestion for date we are flexible MON

[Wallbangar]

Originally Posted by KirkGrovesRV8

Hi guys and gals!
I am planning a trip to the Bahamas in Oct(dates are flexible) and was wondering if anyone might be interested in making the crossing together?
My thinking is meet in Ft. Pierce or West Palm and make the crossing to Freeport(roughly 70nm) clear customs and then be free to go where you like.
My wife and I will most likely spend a night or twoat Treasure Cay and might do some day trips Island hopping. And meet back up at Freeport and cross back to the USA together, Have the comfort of other people to cross with but still have your own vacation
What do you guys think?

Looks like a go for me too. Pfantom....RV-7 Galore

[Mark]

Kirk,

Put me on the list. We had a trip planned for late April 2008 but the other RV'ers had to back out for one reason or the other and I didn't want to go it alone. We were planning on Grand Turk as a final destination.

Ordered the 2008 Bahamas & Caribbean Guide for Pilots this morning.

Mark
Austin, TX
RV-10/N410MR