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There is no indication that Christopher Columbus ever stopped in Saint Lucia, and the first European known to have done so is François Le Clerc, alias Jamb de Bois (or "Peg-leg"), a pirate who set up his home port in Pigeon Island from where he attacked spanish ships.

In the 15th century the island was known under the name of Saint Alousia. In 1605 the English set foot on the island and it became the stake of fierce fighting, changing hands 14 times until it was finally handed over to the English in 1814. During these 152 years of turmoil, the island was occupied by the French during 137 years and by the English only 15 years.

All persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid passport. No Visas are required.

Clearance and customs are compulsary and charged. If you are staying longer than 72 hours you will have to clear upon entry and also on departure.

Only the skipper is allowed on shore to clear customs and immigration. He should have the ship's papers and passports of all crew members and will make things easier for himself by having prepared multiple crew lists.

Ports of entry:

• Rodney Bay (NNE) : offices in the marina, open every day from 0800 to 1200 and 1300 to 1800 Tel : (758)452-0235 or VHF  16.
• Castries (NW) : Custom's Dock (anchor east of the buoy) : monday to friday 0800 to 1630H
• Marigot (W) : office right of the Moorings fuel dock, open every day from 0800 to 1800H
• Soufrière (W) : offices behind the tender dock. SMMA VHF 16 et Tél : (758)459-7200
• Vieux Fort (S) : office accross from the commercial dock monday to friday from 0800 to 1600H (WE at Hewannora Airport)

Airports: Hewanorra International Airport (Vieux Fort) - Connexions with London, Miami, San Juan, Toronto, ...
Georges Charles Airport (Vigie Castries)

Ferries: Modern high speed Catamaran service between St. Lucia, Martinique, Dominica, Guadeloupe

Taxis: Some guideline fares are from Castries to Hewanorra Airport (EC $175 up to 4 persons), Castries to Rodney Bay (EC $40 up to 4 persons).

Bus services: between major towns.

Car rentals: There are a several reputable rental companies on the island. Driving is on the left and the use of seat belts is compulsory. Visitors to St. Lucia who do not possess an international driving permit must purchase a temporary permit in order to drive in St. Lucia. The permit is good for three months and costs $54 EC or $20 US. Permits can be obtained from the immigration department at either airport or at any police department . You must present your drivers license. Permits are also available at most major car rental compa- nies. International drivers must have their permit stamped at immigration. There is no charge for this.

The two Piton montains are the island's symbol. Saint Lucia is quite developped and you can find everything you might need there. It has great charm with wild and varied landscapes (magnificent bannana and coconut fields). Diving is excellent and there are lots of very good day-anchorages.