What Is the Bahamas Frequent Digital Cruising Card?
Reviewed by Captain Ronald RolleThe Frequent Digital Cruising Card (FDCC) is a two-year Bahamas cruising permit allowing unlimited entries. For vessels under 50 feet, it costs $1,500; for 50-99 feet it is $2,500; and for boats over 100 feet it is $8,000. The FDCC makes financial sense if you visit the Bahamas three or more times within two years.
The Frequent Digital Cruising Card represents the best value for boaters who visit the Bahamas regularly. This two-year permit eliminates per-trip cruising permit fees and allows unlimited entries during its validity period.
FDCC pricing is based on vessel length. Boats under 50 feet pay $1,500 for two years. Vessels from 50 to 99 feet pay $2,500. Large yachts over 100 feet pay $8,000. Compare these to the annual permit costs: $500, $1,000, and $3,000 respectively for the same size categories.
The math works clearly in favor of the FDCC if you make the Bahamas a regular destination. For a vessel under 50 feet, the FDCC costs the same as three annual permits. If you cross to the Bahamas twice a year, the FDCC costs 50 percent more than two annual permits but gives you unlimited flexibility for additional trips.
Beyond cost savings, the FDCC reduces administrative burden. You avoid the process of obtaining new cruising permits for each visit and can enter more spontaneously when weather windows and schedules align. For Florida-based boaters who pop over to Bimini or the Abacos frequently, this convenience is significant.
The FDCC does not replace all entry requirements. You still must clear customs and immigration upon each arrival and will need separate anchoring permits and fishing permits as applicable. The FDCC specifically covers the cruising permit component.
Application for the FDCC is processed through the same Click2Clear system used for regular cruising permits. Current fee schedules and application procedures are available through Bahamas Customs.
Key points
- Valid for 2 years with unlimited Bahamas entries
- Under 50 feet: $1,500 | 50-99 feet: $2,500 | 100+ feet: $8,000
- Breaks even at approximately 3 annual trips for most vessels
- Eliminates per-visit cruising permit paperwork
- Anchoring and fishing permits still required separately
Related questions
- Can I transfer my FDCC to a different boat?
- The FDCC is typically tied to a specific vessel. Contact Bahamas Customs directly if you change boats during the permit period to understand your options for transferring or obtaining a new permit.
- How quickly can I get to the Bahamas from Florida?
- Bimini is just 50 nautical miles from Miami, reachable in a few hours by fast boat. The Abacos are about 180 nautical miles from Palm Beach, typically a full day crossing or overnight passage depending on vessel speed.
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