Boats/Sailing to Dominican Republic From Central or South America?
 

Hi Guy,

Im heading to South America to ride around in May next year. I have friends that will be heading to Dominican Republic to work and will be living there by then. I'm wondering if anyone knows if there is any sort of sea ferry transport Available to those islands?
I dont really wont to leave my bike somewhere in South America to fly over to visit. Id rather just take my bike and then continue my traveling through Central America and up to Alaska.

Any info would be much appreciated.

Not clear what you might mean by "those islands." What you're apparently asking is "are there ferries from South America to DR, then from DR to Central America. The answer in both cases: no way. There's not even a ferry between Central and South America.

It might be possible to ship a bike by regular sea freight or by air freight, but unless you're planning to stay a while in DR, it's hard to see how that could possibly be worthwhile. There are lots of smaller bikes for rent in DR, and a few bigger ones--it's a great place to explore on two wheels.

Good luck.

Mark

[QUOTE=markharf;432101]Not clear what you might mean by "those islands." What you're apparently asking is "are there ferries from South America to DR, then from DR to Central America. The answer in both cases: no way. There's not even a ferry between Central and South America.

It might be possible to ship a bike by regular sea freight or by air freight, but unless you're planning to stay a while in DR, it's hard to see how that could possibly be worthwhile. There are lots of smaller bikes for rent in DR, and a few bigger ones--it's a great place to explore on two wheels.

Good luck.

Mark

I am planing on taking the Independence at this stage from South America to Central America. I know I said ferry I should have said "any boats" that sail around the islands, as I know there are no ferries for crossing Panama. Those Islands I referred to were Jamaica, Dominican Republic out in the Caribbean Sea.
I dont really like the idea of leaving my bike somewhere I wont be. But if its not possible so be it. But having said that anything is possible.

"Any boats" is definitely more possible than "ferries." You're looking for private boats which can carry a motorbike and happen to be headed for DR or Jamaica? Or for boats which follow some sort of standardized routes "around the islands?"

The Caribbean is not like the Baltic, Aegean or South China sea, with lots of ferries zipping here and there.The only boat I've heard of which follows any sort of schedule around the Caribbean (rather than between Panama and Colombia) is the Stahlratte. Google it. It offers the possibility of getting from Colombia to Cuba, and has once or twice stopped off in Jamaica. When you look at the schedule you'll see that it won't really work for what you want to do.

If you do find a private boat willing to take your bike on board, think carefully about the effects of blowing salt water on your bike during the time it's exposed on deck. And if you manage sea or air freight, post back here about it so others can benefit.

Mark