Yacht Visitor Rules & Regulations Guide for the Solomon Islands
Download the PDF Guide: Yacht Visitor Rules & Regulations Guide for the Solomon Islands (GS Agencies PDF14)
Navigation and Yacht Clearance
- Required Documents: All vessels and crews must present normal entry documents for inward clearance. GS Agencies is on hand to assist with the submission of the documents for clearance and will make sure the customs, health, immigration, and biosecurity clearance officers are present when needed for each entry point. Please send all documents to [email protected] before arrival.
- Declaration of Goods: Only cargo on board must be declared. Our team can help you with the appropriate documentation to ensure compliance if needed.
- Designated Ports of Entry: The ports at Honiara, Noro, Gizo, and Lata are open for international yacht entry. We’ll guide you to the most convenient port for your needs.
Visa Information
- Visa Requirements: Crew members and passengers can generally obtain tourist visas that are valid for a maximum of 90 days, commencing from the first point of entry within the initial 12 months. An extended visa may be applied for if the travel exceeds 90 days within this period.
- Visa Application Process: All visa applications require a valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiry. We, at GS Agencies, will manage the application process for you. To facilitate this, we kindly request that you send over a clear image of all passport details for each crew member at least one week prior to your arrival.
- Visa Fees and Processing Time: The standard fee for visas is approximately $800 SBD, with a processing time of about 3 days. By enlisting our assistance at GS Agencies, you can be assured that all necessary preparations will be made before your vessel arrives in the Solomon Islands.
Customs and Immigration
- Duty-Free Regulations: Normal personal use items are allowed on board without duty. We can help identify which of your items qualify.
- Prohibited and Restricted Items: Drugs and firearms are not permitted. Contact GS Agencies at [email protected] for guidance on any other items you may be unsure about.
- Quarantine Procedures: All provisions are to stay on board. GS Agencies can guide you through quarantine protocols to avoid any complications.
Environmental Regulations
- Waste Disposal: Contact GS Agencies to arrange for the proper disposal of waste through biosecurity-approved methods.
- Sewage and Bilge Water Discharge: Such discharges are not allowed in Solomon Islands waters. We’ll inform you of the environmental protocols to follow.
- Protected Marine Areas: The Arnarvon Islands Turtle Sanctuary ( 7.45 S, Lon. 157.98 E) is an anchorage permission only area and this needs to be approved by Park Rangers, GS Agencies can organise this if needed.
Ports of Entry and Facilities
- Airports for Crew Changes: GS Agencies can facilitate transportation to and from airports in Gizo, Munda, Kirakira, Honiara, and Lata for crew changes.
- Marina and Repair Services: For repair water and fuel services these are available in Honiara and Noro. Repair services can also be found in Tulagi if needed. GS Agencies can connect you with these facilities if and when needed.
Safety and Security
- Navigational Hazards: We advise caution as some navigational beacons may be missing.
- Security Advice: The Solomon Islands are generally safe, but we can offer advice and assistance for any security concerns you may have.
- Emergency Contacts: GS Agencies can connect you to these contacts when needed. However, some main emergency contacts include: Maritime Honiara: 977, All Maritime Provinces: 21609, Police: 999, Hospital/Ambulance: 111.
Health and Medical Information
- Vaccination Requirements: Malaria precautions are recommended.
- Medical Facilities: GS Agencies can direct you to hospitals and medical services available in Munda, Gizo, and Honiara.
- Emergency Medical Evacuation: In case of a medical emergency, contact us immediately, and we will coordinate an evacuation if needed.
Communications
- Mobile Networks and Internet: 4G and internet are widely accessible. We can advise on purchasing local SIM cards for the best coverage.
- Radio Communication: The usual VHF radio communication requirements for yachts is used in our waters.
Financial Information
- Banking Services: Banks available include ANZ, BSP and BRED Bank. Currency regulations apply depending on amounts to be remitted outwards.
- Yacht Service Fees: We provide an estimate of all charges related to yacht services and clearances, which must be settled prior to arrival.
- Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is not a common practice in the Solomon Islands and is not encouraged.
Departure Procedures
- Clearing Out: GS Agencies is on hand to assist with the submission of the required documents for outward clearance and will make sure the customs, health, immigration, and biosecurity clearance officers are present when needed for each exit point.
- Export Regulations: Personal souvenirs are allowed. Export of WWII artefacts is prohibited.
Special Equipment and Activities
- Helicopters and Special Equipment: Inform us of any special equipment like helicopters, and GS Agencies will secure the necessary permissions from Civil Aviation and guidelines for your visit. We must obtain approval from department of Civil Aviation prior to your arrival – this will require pilot and machine details. Please allow up to 4 weeks for this process. The helicopter must enter and exit the country onboard the vessel to be considered part of the vessels asset inventory in order to operate. A fee for pilots temporary flying permit may be applicable.
- Submarines: If you’re planning to bring a submarine, GS Agencies will ensure smooth sailing by managing documentation and securing maritime approvals. We’ll streamline the process for leisure use, but additional information will be required for research-related activities. Expect to detail the submarine’s operational specifics to SIMA, such as intended activities, travel distance and duration, operating depth, and exact deployment locations—particularly to safeguard undersea cables and prevent pollution. A thorough understanding of the submarine’s capabilities and intended use, along with passenger details, is essential. To enrich your experience, we recommend having a local guide on board.
- Fireworks: Planning a fireworks display? GS Agencies will liaise with the local police to ensure you have the permissions needed. Fireworks may be hard to obtain the Solomon Islands so should be enquired about before arrival or precured elsewhere. If required, GS Agencies can not only provide a quote from local vendors in Honiara for the procurement of fireworks but also facilitate and manage the running of the fireworks display.
- Local Entertainment & Cultural Activities: GS Agencies works with many local partners around the Solomons that take pride in showcasing the vibrant culture. We can assist in arranging for local dancers and a variety of cultural activities that capture the spirit of our islands. While we can bring a taste of our traditions aboard your yacht, we often organise entertainment at scenic waterside locations, such as the picturesque Breakwater Café in Honiara. These settings offer not just a performance but an immersive cultural experience. To ensure a personalised and memorable event, please provide us with advance notice so we can tailor everything to your preferences and requirements. However, mosquito repellent is highly recommended for any outdoor activity after dark.