Firearms in the Caribbean

[Jeff Betts]

I am just retiring out of the Army after 38 1/2 years.  I have spent more time in the Middle East the last 10 years than I have in the states.  With that said, after dodging bullets, mortars. rockets, and IEDs I have aprehensions about traveling the waters of the Caribbean unarmed.  Better to have them and not need them than to need them and not have them.  I am just interested to find out from people that have sailed the Caribbean waters their feelings on having firearms on board, of if they have had difficulties with the varrious authorities in regards to firearms or any other matters.  I have read up on the restrictions of the islands and don't want to create any problems.  On a side note I was wondering if anyone has been hassled or boarded by authorities.  I plan on hitting a lot of islands on my voyage, and the issue of firearms is one of my planning factors.  I welcome all advice and comments about this matter or anything else in regards to the trip.

[Brian]

Jeff,
I know that Belize is very restricted relative to weapons and ammunition; that does not imply that the bad guys are unarmed. Both the weapon and ammunition is licensed there and there is a mandatory 10 year sentence for possession. A gun owner myself, but be careful, check out the country/local laws.