The66kid

Import duty + fees on cars approaches 80-100% of the value of the vehicle.  Closer to 50% on vehicles with less than 1000 cc.  Can certainly buy a golf cart there but will be expensive.  Everyone uses gas golf carts because duty on batteries is a lot and electricity is expensive.  Plus gas is more durable in that environment.   Leaning towards SXS for a number of reasons.  Top end speed vs 6 seater golf cart is significant. 

Thanks for the response.  Definitely need to test drive before making any decisions 

42 minutes ago, Travis said:

Go with the side by side... I've never seen anyone tow anything with a golf cart. plus parts may be more available in your area for a SxS.

For sure towing would be out with golf cart.  Towing need would be minimal though. If it came down to it, could get someone else to launch/retrieve the boat.  
 

Re the parts, I would think golf cart stuff would be  easier to source locally since there are really no SxS that I’ve seen but an island full of golf carts. Whatever I buy, I would likely bring down some of the routine maintenance items to have on hand.  Shipping  parts isn’t a big deal other than downtime.

Think you’re right though on side-by-side being a better call.  Just wanted to be sure that it fits the most often use of driving a bunch of people around  

thanks for the reply

Good morning everybody.  Had a question hopefully some of y’all may be able to help with. Looking at buying a vehicle for use in the Bahamas. It’s a small island and 80% of the population gets around in a golf cart. Some folks do have cars though. I’ve been going back-and-forth between a golf cart and a side-by-side like a Polaris Ranger or Kawasaki Mule six seater.  

Reason I’m leaning towards a side-by-side is that without a car, I need to be able to haul fishing gear, luggage, and whatever else. Also may use it pull a small boat trailer.  Need to carry 4-6 passengers. 

Driving would be 100% on pavement. I don’t need to be able to go off roading at all.

Durability is paramount as there’s no practical way to bring it into a dealer for service or warranty work. This particular island does have excellent infrastructure and access to good mechanics. 

Higher speeds of a side-by-side versus a golf cart is a big plus as well.

While importing a car is technically an option, the cost  increases substantially on the import duty.

The question is,  side-by-side or golf cart?

thx