I bypassed Sri Lanka in 2003 due to the requirement you use an agent to clear customs and immigration. The charge was around $200 U.S.. To my dismay, once I arrived in Male, I discovered it was impossible to contact anyone but agents via V.H.F.. There was a charge for customs/immigration agents to come to my boat - even when they did not. In the end it cost me $220 U.S. for the privelege of having to use an agent and obtaining a cruising permit - good for only 30 days. My boat is only 27' on deck. Larger boats paid significantly more. Why, when maritime law extends the right for sailors to clear immigration and customs themselves?
Destination Maldives
Posted - 15 Jun 2006 : 12:25:39
