Fee-Based Customs & Border Protection Facility Movement

One of the frustrations of boaters returning from the Bahamas to the Stuart /Martin County area forever has been the requirement of having to go to north or south to clear U.S. Customs and Immigration.  Recent statistics acquired from the Bahamas Customs and Immigration authorities has determined that Martin County, Florida is, if not number one, in the top three departure points for vessels headed across the Gulf Stream bound for the Bahamas.  Presently, all vessels returning from the Bahamas MUST check back into the country by clearing U.S. Customs in Ft. Pierce or Palm Beach.  This has historically placed a burden on returning boaters, particularly those from Florida’s west coast, who depart from the St. Lucie Inlet after crossing the state through the Okeechobee Waterway/Cross Florida Canal.

This week’s show, featuring David Smith, general manager of Galaxy Aviation-Stuart, and John Hennessey, board member of the Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast, will shed light on a proposed plan to establish a fee-based customs and border protection facility at Witham Field in Stuart.  We'll discuss the research, Martin County's key role as a departure and return point for boaters returning from "Florida's Out Islands," whether or not boaters would be willing to pay for a fee-based service, and how a fee-based customs and border office might enhance marine-related tourism on the Treasure Coast.

Radio Man just returned from another diplomatic mission to the Bahamas.  He'll let you know what's new on Grand Bahama. And, Robin “History Lady” Hicks-Connors has been busy making things happen in the world of museums. Was fishing involved? 

Looks like another live remote from the Bahamas is in the works. Listeners will learn where the radio duo will soon be headed and more! Don’t miss this week’s show for fun, entertainment and tourism talk!