Kevin and Annabella are working to provide a full range of support services to Yachts visiting the Marquesas. Based in Nuku Hiva, they provide assistance with entry formalities, parts importation, equipment problems, inboard & outboard mechanical repair, RIB repair, sail repair, as well as laundry, provisioning, internet access, telephone/fax, taxi service, car rental, excursions both guided and non-guided as well as party planning.
Annabella was born on the island and is a local artist. Kevin is a former IS Manager, cruiser & yacht racer from the USA.
Their website has a lot of useful local information including their fees for clearance, bond exemption letter and duty free fuel formalities.
Contact on either: YSNukuHiva@outlook.com or YSNukuHiva@gmail.com
New Online System
Here is Kevin's update on the new online system for checking into French Polynesia.
"When using the online system, you must have on the same device, usable scans of the following documents, all passports, Ship's Papers, Zarpe, & Flight Tickets. The tickets would be for anyone leaving the boat at the time of check-in, which is common.
We have done a couple of entries with the new system and if you are from a non-EU country, the system is useless. Useless because, 1) you still need to go to the Gendarmerie to get your passport stamped, 2) the officers at the Gendarmerie have no documentation on this system and are not aware of how it works, 3) so you have to complete the paperwork manually again if you did it online already, and, 4) it takes at least 3 business days to get your entry reviewed and accepted. This leaves you in a state of limbo not knowing if you have completed your formalities or not for three days.
If you complete your formalities on paper and present them to the Gendarme, once stamped and returned, the process is complete as they will require any other supporting documentation you need. Like departing airline tickets or Bond Exemption letter or Repatriation Bond, or a valid visa for those from countries where a visa is required to enter French Polynesia.
However, other than the 3 days of limbo part, if you and all your crew are EU citizens, this could be a viable alternative.
Now this has been in place for only a few weeks, I would like to believe with time some of the issues will be addressed and corrected.
I hope this is helpful and informative."
Cheers, Kevin Ellis
