Permit· Barbuda· Leeward Islands
Barbuda Marine Zoning (Blue Halo Regulations)
17° 36.0′ N · 61° 48.0′ W · approximate
Since 2014 Barbuda has run one of the Caribbean's most ambitious marine-zoning schemes, created with the Waitt Institute's Blue Halo initiative. Designated anchoring zones, large no-fishing sanctuaries and a parks authority protect the reefs that surround the island.
Practical
Coordinate approx: a nominal point over the island, since the rules apply to all Barbuda waters. Key rules from the Barbuda fisheries regulations (barbudaful) and a 2017 skipper report (Noonsite). Anchor only in the designated anchorage zones, never on reef. Fines reported for anchoring elsewhere were US$100 plus US$5 a day for a first offence and US$250 for a second (2017, verify locally). A permit is needed to fish within 5.55 km (3 nm) of shore, and in practice all fishing must be from a licensed Barbudan boat. Parrotfish and sea urchins may never be taken. Nets are banned within 20 m of reefs. No fishing on spawning aggregations or artificial reefs. No fishing in Codrington Lagoon except line fishing from shore. No spearfishing, jet skis or other destructive equipment. Palaster Reef is a no-fishing park. The legislation also allows mooring and anchoring fees, which were not being charged at the 2017 report. Zone maps were published by the Waitt Institute; ask Barbuda Customs or an agent for the current chart.
Best for
Check before you anchor or fish anywhere off Barbuda