Santa Marta - Clearance

Full details on the formalities required for clearing into and out of Colombia can be found at Colombia Formalities.

General Clearance in Santa Marta:

Colombian law normally requires all visiting yachts to engage an agent to handle port clearances on arrival. Marina Santa Marta has the authorisation to act as a clearance agent.

Do not attempt to contact the Port Captain except through your nominated clearing agent (Agencia Maritima) on arrival.

The marina will organise all clearance on behalf of the yacht owner.

The following documents must be sent prior to arrival to make the marina reservation and appoint the marina as an agent:

• Crew passports
• Departure zarpe from last port (mentioning that Santa Marta is your next destination)
• Vessel Registration
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination for all crew
• Covid vaccination certificates for all crew (currently confirming if this is still a requirement - was in Nov,23).

Once all the above is received, the marina can start the process with the Colombian authorities. Expect clearance to take several days.

The only cost for clearing into Colombia at this marina is the cruising permit charge - however, it does mean 5+ days berthed in the marina. On your 5th day in the marina, the agent will contact the officer from Customs-DIAN, who will inspect the boat and give the TIP. This process takes 48 hours.

Yachts at anchor cannot use the services of the marina for clearance, however, there are a number of shipping agents in town who offer this service for approx. US$150.

Go alongside the eastern dock or anchor south of the dock. Officials for clearance prefer to board at the dock.

Ensure that your zarpe lists Santa Marta as your next port of call, otherwise you may find yourself in severe difficulties and/or paying a stiff fine.

For a list of agents see Clearance Agents.

Last updated:  November 2023