Hello
One of my buddies is working on buying a 40 footer for crusing around the united states , alaska . He asked us if we knew if american citizens have to do the same check in as international travels/sailers at the marinas they stop at ?
I was in the coast guard and u did not need anything but military id. Anyone know where to look for this info , got me wondering now.
thanks in advance for any help
For TRUE international travel by small vessel you normally require the following:
1) It pays to carry all original boat documents.
2)
Boat Registration
It is an international requirement that all vessels (including trailed sail boats) outside their home waters are properly registered. Many countries have a simpler (and cheaper) option to register a boat other than the more involved commercial register.
In the United States yachts can either be registered with the state where the owner lives, or if ownership can be traced to the original owner, the vessel can be documented with the Coast Guard. The latter is generally preferable if possible when cruising abroad.
3)
Insurance Certificate
Many countries and some marinas insist on a minimum level of third party insurance (be sure to carry the original document). Also there may be an additional requirement such as a translation or a reciprocal arrangement with a local insurance company.
4)
Radio Licence
A radio operator’s licence, whether for VHF, HF or amateur radio, is required in most countries, although this is rarely checked. Some cruising yachts carry an amateur radio, most of their operators being properly licensed to operate a maritime mobile station. However, in some countries such stations can only be used legally if the operator is in possession of a reciprocal licence issued by the country concerned. In most places this is a simple formality and costs a small fee. In a few countries there are strict restrictions on the use of any radio equipment while in port, while in others, such as Thailand and New Zealand, the use of portable marine VHF radios on land is forbidden.
5)
VAT Paid Certificate
If cruising in Europe with an EU registered boat, then a certificate showing that VAT has been paid will be expected. In the case of an older boat, then endeavor to obtain a Customs declaration that 'VAT is deemed to have been paid', before leaving your home. Without it, a Customs official can insist that VAT is paid on the current value of the boat at the rate applicable in the country being visited.
6)
Clearance or Exit Document
This is the document which is (or should be) issued to show that a boat has left a previously visited country legally. It is often called a 'zarpe'. It will be expected at your next port of call. Note that some countries do not issue exit zarpes as a matter of routine (e.g. USA) so some planning will be required if your destination country will not permit entry without one.
Other Documents
As well as the above, some countries may also want to see the ship's logbook (this can be used as a legal document) and a list of electronic or other valuable items on board.
Boat Stamp
A ship’s stamp is greatly appreciated in many countries where, for some strange reason, a rubber stamp has a certain authority. The stamp should show the name of the boat, registration number and your flag state.
Cheers Steve
