I would appreciate it if any list members could share any experience or insight into purchasing fuel in ports around the globe. A typical fuel stop would probably require around 500-1000 gals. of fuel and that represents a sizable chunk of cash at todays prices. I would avoid handling and paying that amount of cash, especially in the poorer countries, if that's possible. But are credit cards accepted in Djibouti?  I've read of brokers being utilized. How would you contact them prior to your arrival? What services would they provide? What sort of fee is usual?
I recently traveled to Mexico and my experience there causes me to give this thought. If you are not cautious, you will be taken advantage of.
A situation could arise where you hand over enough cash to cover the cost of the fuel and the seller claims you haven't given him enough, after he has stuffed half of the cash in his pocket. What do you do? Get in an altercation? Call the police and possibly get arrested. Leave and later find your boat is being arrested? Pay again?
Not that far fetched.
Even with a credit card you may find that you have been frauded, when the bill arrives a month later, when you are hundreds of miles away. This is a not so uncommon occurance in todays world. At least with the credit card you have some leverage.
I hope that there is a better way to handle this transaction.
Certainly voyaging at sea has its share of risks, and I suppose this is just another to be prepared for.

Cautiously Yours,

John Crowley

I'm getting ready to depart (in 9 weeks) on a Pacific crossing as the
first leg of a planned circumnavigation.  Rather than having to deal
with all the issues you raised, I've opened an account with a bunkering
agent.  Call or Email them ahead of time with ETA and fuel required,
and their job is to make all the arrangements.  The agent charges your
credit card, not the foreign fuel dock.

Some agents may not be able to deal with small quantities in all ports
so check first.  I think it's because the local services want to deliver
in a mini-tanker truck, and they hold like 3000 or 6000 gallons;
less-than-truckload costs more!

For us, the only two places we have any problem is Hilo (due to minimum
quantity) and Kiritimati/Christmas Island (minimal fuel bunkers on the
island).  But no problems with some of the more remote locations, like
Nuku Hiva (Marquesas) and Raratonga (Cook Islands).

We chose Global Yacht Fuel, Inc. (http://www.globalyachtfueld.com) out
of Ft. Lauderdale on the recommendation of a friend.  No business
relation, not even a satisfied customer yet - but we hope to be!  :)