Bahamas April 2015?

[paulwerbin]

I am planning on doing a few days island hopping before Sun N Fun starts in April. Somewhat Flexible on dates but can make it a simple group trip if we have a few planes and people interested.

 

[vanhook]

What islands?

Last year I got the two FCC licenses and I renewed my passport I think the year before and went to GBI [commercial to Ft. Lauderdale and then cruise ship] last year.

I've been wanting to fly my plane there. It's on the bucket list.

I read you could use a 121.5 ELT until 1 Feb 2015. Just sent a question to AOPA this morning to see if that'a been extended or do I need a 406.

Suggestions on life vests and PLB?

Do you have/rent a life raft when you go?

 

[paulwerbin]

We can decide as a group which island(s) to visit once we know who will go. My preference is to avoid the bigger touristy places (Nassau, Freeport,Marsh Harbor). Places like Andros, Long Island, Staniel Cay, Norman's Cay, Cat Island etc each offer something. Big differences in prices,food quality, fishing, boat availability etc. so best to talk about what we want first.
I do have my own PLB, life vests, raft etc. I can borrow or rent some rafts for people that want a good one. Small minimal rafts are available to rent from many sources. The overwater portions are all very short and mainly within Miami Center airspace for IFR or Flight Following. If we get a group together we can do a live imeet discussion to plan. You will need a customs sticker, $27.00. And must register for eAPIS account at DHS.gov in order to be ready. In the past Bahamas has waived the 406 elt need, but not sure if that will be extended. Also not sure if there is anyway to enforce this down there. Let me know what AOPA says and also if the ADSb is required now.

 

[vanhook]

We can decide as a group which island(s) to visit once we know who will go. My preference is to avoid the bigger touristy places (Nassau, Freeport,Marsh Harbor). Places like Andros, Long Island, Staniel Cay, Norman's Cay, Cat Island etc each offer something. Big differences in prices,food quality, fishing, boat availability etc. so best to talk about what we want first.
I do have my own PLB, life vests, raft etc. I can borrow or rent some rafts for people that want a good one. Small minimal rafts are available to rent from many sources. The overwater portions are all very short and mainly within Miami Center airspace for IFR or Flight Following. If we get a group together we can do a live imeet discussion to plan. You will need a customs sticker, $27.00. And must register for eAPIS account at DHS.gov in order to be ready. In the past Bahamas has waived the 406 elt need, but not sure if that will be extended. Also not sure if there is anyway to enforce this down there. Let me know what AOPA says and also if the ADSb is required now.

I didn't ask about ADS-B. That would be a show stopper. Adds about $8K to the price of the trip for me. Is your plane ADS-B equipped?

I just sent a question to AOPA asking if ADS-B is required.

 

[vanhook]

CL, how do I add the Bahamas to the map with my signature if I manage to pull this off?

 

[Clinderman]

CL, how do I add the Bahamas to the map with my signature if I manage to pull this off?

I'd say just add the island's name to your signature.

 

[paulwerbin]

I have been to far more islands than states! Let us know what your answer is from AOPA?

 

[vanhook]

AOPA says don't need 406 or ADS-B.

 

[paulwerbin]

Anyone else considering this flyin? Last time we had 8 planes and a lot of fun.

 

[trumpet nelson]

50 - 50 chance for my participation at this time. Would be great to go with a group for a little security and knowledge. Pop up the dates when this starts to gel.

Nelson