Samana - Clearance

See DR Formalities for detailed clearance information and fees.

The marina here has customs and immigration on site for fast and eash clearance - in English.  Alternatively, you can use the town anchorage for clearance.

General clearance

On arrival, all the officials will make their way out to your boat to undertake clearance. When they board, it is polite to offer them a cool drink.  Crew will not be permitted to leave the boat until they have checked in with Immigration.

Any firearms must be handed to the Armada for safe-keeping.  A receipt will be issued.

In the past, the clearance process was reported to be rather inefficient here, however recent reports are that things have improved somewhat (see the comments section).

If you have to dinghy in to undertake clearance onshore (see Dinghy Dock notes below), you must go straight to the Armada, Customs, Port and Agriculture offices.  Do not go into town until cleared to do so.  (If you have already cleared into the country elsewhere, you just need to visit the Port Authority and Armada).

• The Armada office is two blocks west of the main dock.
• Customs are 100 meters south of the main city dock.
• Port Authority is located one block north east of the main city dock.

Fees are payable to each office separately except the Armada whose services are free, unless you require a navigational permit for your boat to remain in DR waters after the initial 90 days.  If so, they will give you a quotation for the permit.

Domestic/International clearance

If going for a short trip to Los Haitsies or Cayo Laventada overnight or to another port, it is advisable to obtain a Port to Port Despacho or if checking out of the DR, a free international Despacho from the Armada.

Local agents

Unfortunately Luis, the english speaking agent who provided boat support to many cruisers and often came out to boats to say hello, died in December 2022.   Domingo is reported to be very nice and helpful and while he doesn't speak a lot of English, he understands quite a bit.  He has a dinghy and motorbike for errands and may come out to arriving boats with the Armada and offer to assist with check in if required (as an agent).

Carlos is another helpful person according to cruiser reports.

WhatsApp Domingo at +1 (829) 363-3843.

Last updated:  February 2023