Marina Papagayo - Clearance

See Costa Rica Formalities for full details on clearing into and out of Costa Rica.

Clearance and Immigration facilities are available here. The Harbourmaster uses the agent, Paramares SA (see Related Businesses below), to clear boats in. This agent can also be used to secure an extended cruising permit.

Many cruisers choose to clear into Costa Rica beforehand at Playa de Coco, where clearance is straightforward, simple and free.

To clear in at the Marina [Papagayo] all boats must use a clearing agent. Arrangements for clearance need to be made a minimum of 48 hours in advance of arrival in order for the agent to set up the logistics for clearing on site. The agent fees range from $450 to $550 depending on size of boat and if arrival is at the weekend (overtime).

It is important to note the decision to use or not use an agent cannot be done once you arrive at the Marina. If a boat arrives at the marina docks and then decides they do not want to use an agent (i.e. stay at the marina) technically it is not permitted to sail back to Coco because it has no paperwork. If a boat arrives at the marina without advance notification then the vessel is subject to quarantine until the agent can arrange clearance. In some cases, this may be between 24 and 48 hours.

All official Marinas in Costa Rica were given the benefit of offering duty exoneration, or what is called a two-year MOPT permit, in order to populate the marinas. This exoneration process has a cost and Marina Papagayo offer a dockage credit on the cost depending on how long the boat stays.

Bonding can only be done in Golfito at Banana Bay and Fish Hook marinas.

Marina Papagayo cannot provide goods or services to a vessel that has not cleared in. This includes fuel.

Last updated:  January 2020