Cayman Islands - Clearance

Cayman Islands Pre-Arrival Procedures for Yachts

Advance Notification

Initiate a radio call to Port Security on VHF Channel 16 upon entering Cayman Islands waters or when you are 8-10nm from the port of entry and raise your Q flag. Channel 16 is monitored 24 hours a day. The authorities are reportedly professional and friendly. They will coordinate entry procedures and direct you to a mooring or terminal for Clearance. They will keep you informed regarding Clearance procedures.

The SailClear advance web notification service for clearance is operational here. For a full explanation of this service and other web clearance services in the Caribbean see this useful report.

Note: While SailClear is available for the Cayman Islands, cruiser feedback is that the officials do NOT actually use SailClear when clearing in yachts.

Ports of Entry

All vessels arriving in the Cayman Islands must first proceed to the George Town Port in Grand Cayman or the Cayman Brac Port in Cayman Brac for Customs Clearance.

Cayman Islands Arrival Procedures for Yachts

General Procedure

Upon arrival to the port of entry, inform Port Security with another VHF call. The authorities will assist you with how they want you to proceed. You will need to be cleared by Immigration, Customs and the Port Officer. No one may leave the boat (even for a swim) and no one may come aboard prior to completing clearance formalities.

Officials may board your vessel or they may not. Ensure that you follow their procedures and directions as visiting boats have been fined for minor infringements, including not flying their Q flag.

Cayman Islands Departure Procedures for Yachts

Domestic Clearance

Cruisers may stop at any of the islands during their stay but must clear between them. When leaving one island for another you will need to clear your boat with Customs (although not Immigration) and clear in when you arrive.

International Clearance

You can clear out at either Grand Cayman or Cayman Brac to an international destination. On departure, contact Customs up to 24 hours in advance. You will need to give a copy of your exit zarpe to the fuel dock if you want duty-free fuel before leaving, so be sure to get a copy when it is granted. Finally, Immigration clearance should be completed in person by all aboard not more than 5 hours before departure.

Last updated:  January 2025