For travel updates visit https://www.bahamas.com/travelupdates. The new protocols will require visitors, and returning citizens and residents to obtain a RT-PCR (swab) test no more than five (5) days prior to their travel to The Bahamas. In addition, and to ensure that travelers remain COVID free, a rapid antigen test will be conducted upon arrival, and then again four days (96 hours) after arrival in The Bahamas. Specifics are as follows: Prior to Travel: • COVID-19 RT-PCR Test: All persons traveling to The Bahamas must obtain a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR (swab) test taken no more than five (5) days prior to the date of arrival. The name and address of the lab, where the test was performed, must be clearly displayed on the test result. • Children under the age of ten (10) and pilots and crew of commercial airlines, who remain overnight in The Bahamas, are exempt from obtaining the RT-PCR test.
• Bahamas Health Travel Visa: Once in possession of a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test, all travelers will then be required to apply for a Bahamas Health Travel Visa at https://travel.gov.bs/ (click on the International Tab) where the required test must be uploaded.
The cost of the visa will depend on the length of stay. Upon Arrival Day of Arrival: Rapid Test – All persons entering The Bahamas, at an approved Port of Entry, will receive a Rapid COVID-19 antigen test. If arriving by air, an approved Port of Entry will be: Nassau, Freeport, Marsh Harbour, North Eleuthera, Georgetown (Exuma), Bimini (and Cat Cay) and San Andros (Andros). If arriving by sea, an approved Port of Entry will be: Nassau (Atlantis, Bay Street Marina, Lyford Cay, and Albany); Grand Bahama (West End – Old Bahama Bay and Freeport – Lucaya); Abaco (Marsh Harbour Government Dock); Eleuthera (Spanish Wells Marina); Berry Islands (Chubb Cay Club); Bimini (Big Game Club and Cat Cay Club); Exuma (Georgetown Government Dock). American Airlines has indicated that, beginning in late October, they wish to provide each passenger traveling to The Bahamas from Miami with a Rapid COVID-19 antigen test before boarding the plane. These passengers, along with the passengers of any other airlines wishing to provide a similar service, will not be required to complete the Rapid Test upon arrival in The Bahamas. After Arrival • Day Five (96 hours after arrival): Rapid Test – All persons who entered The Bahamas, and who are staying longer than four nights and five days, will be required to take a second Rapid COVID-19 antigen test. To be clear, all visitors departing on Day Five will not be required to obtain this test. The cost of the rapid tests on and after arrival will be included in the cost of the visa. The rapid tests are easy, quick and will yield results in 20 minutes or less with results being provided electronically. Many hotel properties will provide relevant information on testing arrangements, while others will facilitate the required rapid test for their guests. All persons on yachts and other pleasure craft will be able to make arrangements for their required rapid tests at the port of entry or via the relevant website. All other visitors, returning residents and citizens will be able to make arrangements for their required rapid tests at the port of entry or via the relevant website.
The On Island Experience:
All islands in The Bahamas require the wearing of masks and appropriate social distancing in public places. The Bahamas has remained diligent in its efforts to minimize the spread of COVID-19 throughout the islands, and these measures are imperative to ensure that remains the case. The health and well being of both residents and visitors remain the number one priority of our public health officials. It is important to note, however, that due to fluidity of the COVID-19 situation, both in The Bahamas and worldwide, protocols are subject to change.
SAINT FRANCIS RESORT FOOD AND BEVERAGE OPERATIONS: Closed until further notice
To Our Valued Customers: We have been closely following the developments of the corona virus (COVID-19) and monitoring information and guidance from relevant authorities. We recognize our unique place within the Exuma Cays. Although we love nothing more than bringing people together, especially during times when we need each other the most, we feel we have a responsibility to do everything we can to mitigate the spread of this virus.
Masks, Temperature Checks & Social Distancing To protect yourself and our Bahamas, all guests are kindly asked to wear a face mask and follow social distancing measures when out and about on SCYC property. Masks are required when walking around the property and upon entering and exiting the check-in area, restaurant, and bar. Temperature checks will be performed at check-in, as well as prior to entering the restaurant and bar area.
Snorkeling Gear For everyone’s health and safety, SFR will no longer offer snorkel gear rental. You are more than welcome to bring your own gear.
That said, and in keeping with recent Government directives regarding social gatherings and social distancing, we have made the difficult decision to close our public spaces, including our bar and restaurant effective Saturday, March 21st at 8:00 A.M. Our plan is to reopen on December 15, 2020, subject to further Bahamian Government advisories. This access will be strictly enforced and subject to the Emergency Powers Order issued Thursday by the Prime Minister.
We sincerely apologize to our regular local customers and other island visitors. But we feel confident that taking these necessary steps will give Saint Francis a better chance to avoid the worst of this virus. We look forward to opening our doors again in the near future and serving patrons.
TRAVEL PLAN CHANGES:
To ease any concerns you may have about upcoming travel, Saint Francis Resort will be waiving our normal cancellation fees for guests through November 30, 2020. Should you wish to cancel, please email [email protected]
