Explore: USA - Formalities
Clearance
US Customs is now part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and is called Customs & Border Protection (CBP). Security has increased at entry points to the US for both USA and foreign-flagged vessels.
ARRIVAL
All yachts arriving in the USA from a foreign port or place will require a face-to-face inspection. The introduction of the new CBP ROAM App has made this a much simpler and quicker process as it allows boaters to present themselves for face to face inspections with a CBP Officer using Video Chat.
ROAM has now replaced the Small Vessel Reporting System (SVRS), which is no longer in service and float plans are no longer accepted.
For full details of the CBP ROAM App and when it can be used – see this news item.
Skippers may also continue to report their arrival via designated telephone reporting numbers or report to a port of entry if desired.
CBP Ports of Entry & Contact Numbers.
The local CBP field office will give an Arrival Reference Number during the first call to check in, which you must have when you go for your in-person check-in. Cruisers recommend not arriving in the US on Fri/Sat/Sun as the phone line is constantly engaged.
Note: Noonsite has been advised by CBP officials that they are unable to call back to international phone numbers, so take this into account when making contact with a CBP office. The skipper may go ashore to make a phone call from a landline in a marina, but no other member of the boat’s crew is permitted off the dock until clearance procedures are conducted.
If arriving after working hours, contact the CBP immediately, but face-to-face inspection may not be possible until the following morning. During this time, you must remain on board and conduct clearance procedures immediately the next morning. You must report your arrival no matter what time of day, and you must conduct your customs/immigration clearance procedures within 24-hours of arrival no matter what.
The nearest CBP office might be some distance away from your chosen port of entry, requiring a taxi. No taxi in the USA will accept foreign currency. You may not be allowed to rent a car until you have an entry stamp in your passport. It would be worthwhile to select an entry port where a CBP office is within a short distance. Again, here is the current list of Ports of Entry.
If a member of a Frequent Passage Scheme ( LBO), call +1 (800) 432-1216 or +1 (800) 451-0393. Both of these numbers are toll-free automated systems and may not connect properly with foreign SIM cards. Wait times may be lengthy. These schemes are NOT designed for first-time arrivals. For more information on Frequent Passage Schemes, see the bottom of this Clearance section.
Jurisdictions and Enforcement
The US Coast Guard has the authority to board any vessel within US territorial waters and they frequently do this, particularly off the coast of Florida. The US Coast Guard also patrols the Bahamas and parts of the Caribbean as a joint patrol with local officials. The US Navy or Coast Guard can also board any US flag vessel anywhere in the world. All vessels entering the 12-mile territorial waters must fly the Q flag until clearance procedures have been conducted.
FOREIGN YACHTS
CBP-1300 Vessel Entrance or Clearance Statement
Foreign flagged pleasure boats must make a formal vessel entry on CBP form 1300 within 48 hours and pay the applicable fees. There are heavy fines if this is not submitted within 48 hours of arrival.
The captain must report the arrival of the yacht to the CBP immediately and then the skipper, and every other person on board, regardless of nationality, are required to report to the nearest CBP Office. US nationals must take with them a valid US passport. All non-US nationals must take passports with valid visas or a Green Card (long-term resident) if held.
Documents needed include registration papers, a declaration of both ship’s stores and crew’s general possessions, last port clearance, and a crew list. Clearance must be completed with Customs, Immigration, Health and Agriculture. Usually, the Customs officer performs some or all of these other duties.
Cruising License
Since January 2016, ALL foreign-flagged yachts (including any registered under the LBO scheme) MUST obtain a Cruising License.This is obtained at the time of entry from the applicable CBP port director and once issued is valid for up to one year (365 days from issue date). See Documents for more details.
A cruising license may exempt foreign flagged pleasure boats (from certain countries) from having to undergo formal CBP entrance and clearance procedures, except at the first CBP port of entry each and every year.
Foreign-flagged yachts and Canadian yachts, not in possession of a cruising license, are normally required to notify Customs (Homeland Security) when moving from one customs region to another, (i.e., from Ft Lauderdale to Miami). There are fines for vessels who do not comply. Often, vessels who report a few times will be deemed “secure” and will be instructed by the CBP official that further reporting is unnecessary until departure from the USA. See the Noonsite/USA reporting article for more information.
One thing to be aware of is that the various states often interpret these federal regulations differently, or apply local rules to suit a local situation. If possible, contact the officials at your chosen Port of Entry in advance to check requirements. CBP officers are normally very helpful and will notify you of any updated laws or procedures.
If you are notified of a customs/immigration regulation that we have not updated on Noonsite, please email us and we will update our database.
It is recommended to keep records of your checking-in activities, such as name and badge number of any officials you check in with – especially if receiving instructions contrary to expected procedures – email receipts of notification, as well ensuring that the yacht’s details and movement have in fact been entered onto the automated system. It is okay to ask for verification from the officer you are speaking to.
Cruising to Cuba
Foreign flagged vessels not should have a problem travelling between Cuba and the US, although all yachts returning to the United States from Cuba can expect to be boarded.
Whilst Key West has a history of not particularly welcoming cruisers who arrive directly from Cuba, US flagged or otherwise (one foreign cruiser’s Cruising Licence was cancelled on arrival and they were instructed to leave US territory for example), the situation appears to be improving in 2018 and this should no longer be treated as a port to avoid when clearing into the States after a visit to Cuba.
Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale have always been good choices for clearing into the States after a visit to Cuba, but you must stay offshore and may not use the ICW until clearance has been obtained.
Another option to avoid any problems is to leave Cuba for another country (such as the Bahamas) and make entry into the United States from there.
NOTE: Any US citizens on a foreign flagged boat, still have to fulfil one of the ‘exceptions’ categorizing the reason for their visit to Cuba. (‘support for the Cuban people’ or ‘education’ are the easiest ones to officially comply with).
US REGISTERED YACHTS
On arrival in the USA from a foreign port, all US yachts must report their arrival to the CBP within 24 hours and also report any merchandise acquired abroad that is subject to duty. If an inspection is required, the Customs officer will direct the yacht to an inspection area. New security regulations compel US nationals to now report arrivals in a similar manner to foreign nationals: report arrival immediately and complete immigration/customs clearance within 24 hours of arrival.
NOTE: A US Coast Guard boarding or customs inspection offshore does NOT constitute a customs clearance procedure.
Failure to follow the correct procedures on arrival (particularly in reference to reporting arrival in a timely manner, or disembarking your vessel without permission) can lead to a substantial fine and seizure of the offending vessel.
Cruising Between Canada and USA
For Canadian and US citizens there is a scheme which simplifies border formalities. NEXUS is a joint US/Canadian customs and immigration program for frequent travellers between the two countries. It replaces the I-68. NEXUS is designed to simplify procedures for pre-approved, low-risk boaters who regularly cross the border. It allows such boaters to clear Customs and Immigration of either Canada or the U.S.A. by contacting the Telephone Reporting Centre (TRC) within 30 minutes and up to 4 hours prior to arrival.
US Citizens who frequently travel internationally may also benefit from the Global Entry program.
See the Nexus Program website for details.
Other Frequent Passage Schemes
The Local Boater Option (LBO) is a similar scheme operating in Florida, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, which allows pleasure boat reporting by telephone. See this Noonsite/report.
Cruising to Cuba
Since 05 June, 2019, US-flagged yachts are now forbidden by law from cruising in Cuba.
See news item published 06 June, 2019.
DEPARTURE
Customs do not have to be notified when US boats leave for a foreign port, although most countries require the last port clearance for their own entry procedure. It is necessary to obtain this outbound “zarpe” before leaving the USA.
The US CBP is not generally set up to issue outward clearance to pleasure vessels, but the US Dept of Homeland Security use CBP Form 1300 for a Zarpe for commercial vessels. The form can be obtained here to fill out in advance and expedite the process. You will need to get this stamped by Customs at a port or airport. Take boat documentation and crew passports with you. Remember, this is for the foreign port and not an official procedure for the United States immigration/customs rules.
Some cruisers have encountered confusion from the Customs officers when getting a stamp on this form by pleasure yachts as it is typically for commercial vessels (they do not have a dedicated form for non-commercial vessels). Call up your local CBP office and enquire before traveling to get your form stamped. Some cruisers have reported using a notary to sign the form and say this works very well.
This CBP Form 1300 procedure is common (and important to follow) especially when departing Puerto Rico or the USVI when the next port of call is the Dominican Republic, the BVI, or any of the Windward Islands.
Last updated: June 2019
Immigration
TRAVEL BAN: Nationals of seven countries are currently subject to various travel restrictions into the USA. See further details on the US Department of State website.
Also, nationals of ANY country who have recently travelled to any of these countries will likely be subject to enhanced screening upon arrival.
Entering or Leaving the US by Private Yacht
All nationalities, whether entering and/or leaving the US by private yacht MUST obtain a visa in advance. Such visitors CANNOT enter the USA for the first time under the Visa Waiver Programme on board their yacht.
It is essential to plan ahead, as obtaining a visa for the United States is not a quick process. A personal interview at a US embassy (or some consulates) is required, together with the recording (in a US database) of the applicant’s biometric data (i.e., fingerprints, photograph, etc).
There are 185 different types of USA Visas; however, this website contains all the relevant information and procedure: US State Department Directory of Visa Categories.
Note: Private yacht crew qualify for a Type D or Type C1/D visa, but only if remaining in the USA for less than 29 days. Most cruisers opt for the Type B1/B2 visa that allows foreigners access to the USA for 6 months at a time and allows re-entry for up to 10 years. The Type B1/B2 visa has special restrictions for receiving pay as a foreign national. See this Cruiser’s report on their experience in obtaining such a visa.
Flying into the US and departing on a yacht
If flying into the States with a B1/B2 visa on a one-way ticket in order to join a yacht on the passage out of the country, be sure to arrive with a letter in hand from the yacht’s skipper to show to Immigration you are leaving the country. Use yacht stationery with a boat stamp and signature, including all your personal details, a name of a yacht, where it is berthed, approximate date of departure and destination.
If unsure of what visa to get, best advice is to call ahead to the US
port of entry a few months in advance to verify what their policy is
with regards to visas/ESTAs/etc. and get the officers name who you have spoken to.
Visa Exceptions
The only exceptions to visa requirements are Canadian citizens who are permanent residents in Canada, and Bermudan citizens who are permanent residents in Bermuda.
Look at US Website on entry information for yachts for the latest detailed information.
Every person entering the United States must be seen in person by an Immigration officer, except those participating in the Canadian Border Small Boat Program (NEXUS), available for US citizens and permanent residents.
US citizens should carry proof of citizenship such as a passport (or birth certificate) while on board a coastal vessel. All foreign nationals must carry a passport at all times. US citizens entering the United States from countries outside North America are required to possess a valid US passport.
See this Noonsite report for possible complications if entering from Canada.
Foreign yachtsmen entering the USA from the Caribbean
See articles:
Noonsite report on making use of the US Visa Waiver for entry into the USVIs, and
Noonsite/Accurate Information for Yachtsmen Entering the USA., and
European Cruisers applying for US Visa from Nassau, Bahamas.
If you are a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program country and planning to make use of this method of entering the USVIs or Puerto Rico, it is necessary to have completed an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). This can be completed online and costs $14.
An ESTA is valid for 2 years, but it does not guarantee entry to the United States. Entry under the Visa Waiver program is valid for a visit of up to 90 days from the first entry into the USA or its Caribbean territories. Such an entry permit will then allow onward travel to mainland USA by yacht.
Note: Individuals travelling on valid US visas are not required to apply for an ESTA travel authorization.
See US website for more details and an up-to-date list of countries whose citizens are eligible for entry to the US under the Visa Waiver Program. See also this US Department of Homeland Security website. Such citizens must (from April 2016) have a biometric chip in their passport (not just a machine-readable one as previously).
It is worth repeating: a visa waiver does not apply if entering the USA for the first time by yacht.
Last updated: August 2018
Customs
Firearms
From the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms) website:
A foreign citizen admitted to the United States under a non-immigrant visa is prohibited from shipping, transporting, receiving, or possessing a firearm or ammunition unless they fall within one of the exceptions provided in 18 U.S.C. 922(y)(2), such as a valid hunting license or permit, admitted for lawful hunting or sporting purposes, certain official representatives of a foreign government, or a foreign law enforcement officer of a friendly foreign government entering the United States on official law enforcement business.
Non-residents arriving in U.S. waters with a firearm for hunting/ sports purposes must apply for a permit in advance of arrival from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) of the US Treasury Department. It can take up to 2-3 months for ATF to approve the temporary importation, so one is advised to submit the application well in advance. Failure to have an approved ATF Form 6 will result in firearms being detained or seized. The application form can be downloaded from the ATF website.
Returning US citizens do not require an import permit for firearms they have taken out of the country; however, this previous export must be proven by registering the firearms before departure with either customs or the ATF and may be subject to enhanced security checks.
Yacht Importing
A foreign visitor may temporarily import a pleasure boat into the USA free of duty if it is for his or her personal use. Import tariffs must be paid within one year of the date of importation if the boat is sold or offered for sale or charter in the USA. Boats entered for alterations or repairs, as samples for taking orders or as professional equipment and tools of the trade, may be entered without payment of duty as temporary importation under bond. The length of stay is normally one year and cannot be extended beyond three years.
All forms can be downloaded from the website, US Customs and Border Protection.
Updated January 2018.
Customs telephone numbers for various states
All contact information can be found on the Customs and Border Protection website where all ports are listed. (Keep in mind the country code in the United States is 001 or +1.)
South Florida (Miami Customs District): All yachts arriving in Southern Florida in ports and marinas from Fort Pierce south and around the coast up to and including Ft Myers may call (800) 432-1216. This includes the Fort Pierce Area, Fort Lauderdale Area, West Palm Beach Area, Miami Area, Marco Island and Key West Area.
Alabama: Mobile (334) 441-5111, (504) 441-5895.
Alaska: Anchorage (907) 271-6309, (907) 271-6313, Juneau (907) 586-7211, Ketchikan (907) 225-2254, Sitka (907) 747-3374, Skagway (907) 983-2325, Valdez (907) 835-2355, Wrangell (907) 874-3415.
California: Los Angeles (310) 514-6013, (310) 514-6083, (310) 980-3300, San Diego (619) 557-5370, (619) 662-7209, San Francisco (415) 782-7423, (415) 782-9424/5, San Luis Obispo (805) 595-2381.
Connecticut: Bridgeport (203) 367-9487 & 9489, (800) 973-2867.
Delaware: (800) 743-7416 both places, also Dover (215) 596-1972, Wilmington (302) 573- 6191.
Florida: Fernandina Beach (904) 261-6154, Ft Myers (941) 225-0041, Jacksonville (St Augustine) (904) 360-5020, Panama City (850) 785-4688, Pensacola (904) 432-6811, Pt Canaveral (407) 783-2066, Pt Manatee (941) 729-9301, St Petersburg (727) 536-7311, Tampa (813) 228-2358.
Georgia: Brunswick (912) 262-6692, Savannah (912) 232-7507, (912) 652-4400, (912) 966- 0557.
Illinois: Chicago (312) 894-2900.
Louisiana: (504) 589-3771 all places, also New Orleans (504) 589-6804, Baton Rouge (504) 0261, Gramercy (504) 869-3765, Lake Charles (318) 439-5512, Morgan City (504) 384-6658.
Maine: Portland (207) 780-3228.
Maryland: Baltimore (410) 962-7986, (800) 973-2867.
Massachusetts: Boston (617) 737-2380, (800) 937-2867.
Michigan: Detroit (313) 226-3140,Grand Rapids (616) 456-2515, Port Huron (810) 985-9512, Sault Ste Marie (906) 632-2631 & 7221.
Minnesota: Baudette (218) 634-2803, Crane Lake (218) 933-2321, Duluth (218) 720-5203, Ely (218) 365-3262, Grand Marais (218) 387-1148 (May-October), Grand Portage (218) 475-2244, International Falls (218) 283-2541, Warroad (218) 386-2796.
Mississippi: (800) 973-2867 both places, also Gulfport (601) 864-6794, Pascagoula (601) 762- 7311.
New Jersey: Newark (201) 645-6561/ 2257/ 3762 & 2552, Perth Amboy (908) 442-0414 & 0416. (If one arrives in New Jersey south of the Manasquan Inlet contact Customs, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania office.)
New York: New York City: (6 World Trade Center) (212) 466-2901 (Pier 92 North River 0800-1600 only) (212) 399-2901, (Rosebank Staten Island) (718) 816-0469, Albany (518) 431-0200, (800) 827-2851, Buffalo (800) 927-5015, (716) 551-4311, Ogdensburg (800) 827-2851.
North Carolina: Morehead City (919) 726-5845/3561/2034, Wilmington (910) 343-4616.
North Dakota: Pembina (701) 825-6551.
Ohio: Cleveland (440) 267-3600, Toledo-Sandusky (888) 523-2628 (419) 259-6424, (419) 625-0022.
Oregon: Astoria (800) 562-5943, (503) 325-5541, Coos Bay (541) 267-6312, Newport (541) 265-6456, Portland no service, call Astoria.
Pennsylvania: Philadelphia (215) 597-4648, (215) 596-1971 (800) 973-2867.
Rhode Island: Newport (401) 847-2744, Providence (401) 941-6326.
South Carolina: Charleston (843) 723-1272.
Texas: (800) 973-2867 for most Texan ports, also Brownsville (956) 831-4121, (956) 548-2744, Freeport, Galvestan & Houston (713) 671-1100, (407) 975-2062, Port Arthur (409) 727-0285, Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, Port Lavaca, Port O’Connor & Rockport (512) 888-3352.
Virginia: Alexandria (703) 557-1950, Newport News (757) 245-6470, Norfolk (757) 441-6741, Richmond (804) 226-9675.
Washington: (800) 562-5943 for all Washington ports, also Aberdeen (360) 532-2030, Bellingham (360) 734-5463, Blaine (360) 332-6318, Everett (425) 259-0246, Friday/Roche Harbors (360) 378-2080, Longview (360) 425 3710, Neah Bay (206) 645-2311, Olympia (253) 593-6338, Point Roberts (360) 945-2314, Port Angeles (360) 457-4311, Port Townsend (360) 385-3777, Seattle (206) 593-6338, Tacoma (253) 593-6338, Vancouver (Canada) (604) 278-1825 & 7422.
Wisconsin: Green Bay (920) 496-0606, Milwaukee (414) 571-2875, Racine (414) 633-0286.
Health
ZIKA Virus
There have been recent travel alerts regarding travel to parts of South Florida including the Miami area. Elsewhere in the United States, there have been confirmed cases of the ZIKA Virus. Mosquito-borne transmission is the most common source, but sexual contact with an infected person can also spread the disease.
There is growing concern about the rapid spread of the ZIKA Virus and the impact of the virus on pregnant women and babies. ZIKA is transmitted by mosquitos in tropical and sub-tropical climates, and there is currently no cure or vaccine. This situation is evolving rapidly, so please refer to the CDC’s dedicated website if you are intending to cruise in one of the affected areas.
http://www.cdc.gov/zika/intheus/florida-update.html
Cost of healthcare:
Healthcare in the United States can be significantly more expensive than elsewhere in the world. Without adequate health insurance, a simple procedure or emergency room visit can cost many thousands of dollars. For minor injuries or illnesses, seek assistance at local “emergency care clinics”, which operate separate from hospitals and usually cost less money. These clinics have a range of names, but “Rapid Care” or “Urgent Care” or “Critical Care” are typical.
Medicine restrictions: Some medicines are more strictly controlled by the USA Food & Drug Administration (FDA) than elsewhere in the world. This means that some medications that are typical in Europe or Asia will be unavailable over-the-counter or on-the-shelf without a prescription. Alternatively, medicines that are available on-the-shelf will be less effective than those in Europe, South America, or Asia. (An example of this is European cold/cough medicine with codeine: codeine is a controlled substance in the United States.)
Some names of medications are different in the United States. For instance, asking for “Paracetamol” even to a licensed pharmacist will not yield any results. Pre-research the American name of any medication you need from a drug store.
Documents
Cruising Licence:
Certain countries are eligible for a cruising license (see below), which exempts them from having to clear in and out at any subsequent US port once official entry has been made. This exemption, however, may not apply everywhere and it would be wise to obtain additional written proof of the current requirements at the point of entry.
The license is obtained from the US CBP office on arrival (or from Puerto Rico) and is valid for up to one year. After expiry, another license may only be issued after the vessel has left for a foreign port and returned from a foreign port at least 15 days since the previous license expired. If wishing to leave the US and return within less than one year plus 15 days, be sure to request your cruising license be issued for only the period you plan to be in the US. Cruising outside of U.S. waters while your cruising license is still in effect does NOT fulfill the 15-day requirement. See this Noonsite report for possible difficulties.
The countries to which this applies are Argentina, Anguilla, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Cayman Islands, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Honduras, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts and Nevis, Turks and Caicos, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey. This list is subject to change and it includes countries with which the USA has reciprocal arrangements.
It appears that officials interpret the rules differently in different states and it may be possible in some states to renew the cruising license without leaving the country. It is reported that in Florida officials will require a yacht to leave the country for the 15 days minimum period before being able to renew.
According to the official CBP website, sequential cruising licenses can be issued to US residents sailing a foreign-flagged boat if it was made in the U.S. or if duty has been paid on its importation.
Foreign yachts without a cruising license must clear in and out of each subsequent US port visited.
Note that if arriving in the US directly from Cuba, you may well be denied a cruising license. This happened to several foreign cruising boats in 2012 when arriving from Cuba and clearing into Key West.
If denied a cruising permit, it is recommended to try another Immigration office. Worth the effort as it’s likely officials will give you the option of leaving the USA or getting “Permission to move” at each port ($36 per move).
It seems that although the rules are there, the application is haphazard.
CBP Decals:
All U.S. boats 30 feet in length or over must have a current decal. Once purchased, they are valid for 12 months.
Decals can now be bought online, follow the links from the Customs website. For more information go to https://dtops.cbp.dhs.gov
NOTE: Foreign-flagged yachts issued with a Cruising License do not require a Decal. This is a requirement for US vessels only.
Fishing Licenses:
Licenses are required for fishing in nearly every state and are subject to local State jurisdiction. See this website for individual licensing requirements in each state. There are daily, seasonal, and annual catch limits described in the regulations for each area. There are also restrictions in some national parks and protected wildlife areas.
Licenses are available through most marine service outlets, fuel docks, sporting goods and hardware stores. A special Alaska Fish and Game License is required for fishing in National Parks such as Misty Fiords and Glacier Bay.
EPIRB Requirement:
The US authorities require that all vessels intending to make offshore passages to have 406 MHz EPIRBs on board, and must have these registered and be able to show proof of such registration. Those who do not comply must register their EPIRB on arrival.
Boat Registration Documents:
All yachts must carry their original registration documents. This is international maritime law.
For US yachts, the USCG offers emailed certified copies of your documentation certificates for a fee, if you cannot get your original forwarded to you before the old one expires.
A useful link is the USCG Vessel Documentation Center
A recent update now extends the USCG registration renewal period to 5 years instead of the annual renewal previously necessary. Also, an electronic form of the registration is acceptable (in US waters).
Another useful link is A Boater’s Guide to Federal Regulations for Recreational Vessels
Enforcement Irregularities:
Enforcement of individual rules, documentation, and registrations may be uneven around the countries. Often (at least in the East Coast), yachts that are laid up or in a boatyard will be ignored. However, the moment they are afloat – whether at a dock, moored, or anchored – they are subject to scrutiny by local and federal patrols.
Last updated: August 2018
Fees
There are no charges for overtime inspections performed by US customs at most ports, but there are occasionally fees for weekend arrivals in the USVI.
Cruising Licenses
Cruising licenses are obtainable from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Port Director at the first port of arrival in the United States.
There is no cost for a cruising license.
When a foreign-flagged vessel first arrives in the U.S. it will have to file a CBP-1300 (Vessel Entrance or Clearance Statement). There will be a $19 filing fee for a CBP-1300 form. At that time, the master of the vessel may apply for a cruising license.
Vessels are not required to obtain a cruising license, but foreign-flagged yachts without cruising licenses must file an additional CBP-1300 for each time the vessel changes ports and must clear in and out of each port. There is an additional $19 filing fee for each CBP-1300. This includes each arrival into the USA, departing from the USA to a foreign port, and ANY movement within the USA.
Cruising licenses may be granted for the following conditions: The yacht must be owned by an individual or a corporation who is a resident outside the United States, USVI, or Puerto Rico, and the yacht must possess a foreign flag, and there must be reciprocal arrangements for U.S. yachts operating in that country’s waters. The current list of qualifying countries is as follows: Argentina, Denmark, Ireland, Norway, Australia, Finland, Italy, St. Kitts & Nevis, Austria, France, Jamaica, St. Vincent & Grenadines, Bahamas, Germany, Liberia, Sweden, Belgium, Great Britain (and most British territories), Marshall Islands, Switzerland, Bermuda, Greece, Netherlands, Turkey, Canada, Honduras, New Zealand.
US pleasure craft and foreign yachts without a cruising license and longer than 30 ft (9 m) LOA must pay an annual fee of US$27.50 for a “CBP DTOPS User Fee Decal.” The decal may be purchased online through the DTOPS website. Foreign-flagged vessels are no longer required to obtain a DTOPS decal if they obtain a cruising license. A DTOPS User Fee Decal expires on December 31st of its issue year, not one year from issuance date
Required Pilot Programs
A law passed by the Washington State Legislature calls for a pilot aboard ALL non-US or Canadian yachts when in their waters. If there is no pilot aboard, then an exemption from the Washington State Pilots Commission has to be purchased. The fee for the exemption is $300 for 90 days or $500 for a year.
For US-owned Yachts
If a boat is purchased in a state which does not charge sales tax, and then moved to another which does, within the first year, then a use fee may be charged if the boat remains in use in that state for more than a certain period. This requirement varies depending on the state. The amount charged is usually the sales tax percentage applicable in the new state.
If a US citizen who resides in the USA purchases a yacht overseas, it will be subject to import tariff upon arrival in the first US port. The yacht may not be permitted to clear customs until the import tax is collected. The import tariff is calculated as a percentage of the original purchase price in US$. This tax is not levied in USVI (duty-free port), but the tax is required to be paid in Puerto Rico.
A fee can also apply if a boat remains for a period of time somewhere other than its home state.
Not all states pursue the collection of this fee. See Noonsite Report for the situation in Maryland.
Last updated January 2018.
Restrictions
Permitted Food Products
It is prohibited to import many food and plant products and yachts are subject to an agricultural inspection on arrival, including those arriving in the US mainland from Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. Meat and meat products, fresh produce and plants are among the items normally confiscated. Bakery products, cured cheeses and canned meat are generally admissible.
Also restricted is the import of any wildlife and fish which are considered an endangered species by the USA, or any of their products. This includes tortoise shell jewellery, leather, whalebone and ivory, coral, skins and furs.
Chartering
Foreign yachts may not charter coastwise in the United States and this includes fishing trips. Foreign vessels may carry charter guests when leaving for a foreign destination or when arriving from a foreign port.
Washington State Pilotage Requirements
The Washington State Pilot Board has a regulation requiring all foreign flagged vessels carry a pilot or get an exemption. The exemption requires a fee of $50 for all foreign cruising yachts of 50 ft or less (except for Canadian yachts that regularly sail West Coast waters) and covers a period up to a year.
Application forms for the exemption can be submitted online and submitted via email. The form is available at http://www.pilotage.wa.gov/
Contact:
Washington State Pilotage Commission
Tel: 206.515.3647
Fax: 206.515.3906
Email: [email protected]
Alaskan Pilotage Requirements
Foreign pleasure vessels under 65 feet in length, US-flagged vessels, and Canadian-flagged vessels that regularly sail Alaskan waters are all exempt.
Non-US pleasure vessels of 65ft to 174ft require an exemption to transit without a pilot. However, they must use a pilot for navigation of Wrangell Narrows and Peril Strait.
Pleasure craft of 175ft and larger, and of foreign registry, must have a pilot at all times. All foreign-flagged vessels for commercial use must employ a pilot, regardless of length and tonnage.
The exemptions are valid for one year from the date on which the exemption is issued. The application for an exemption must be submitted to the board at least 30 days before the vessel enters the state. Exemption fees are $250 plus $50 for every foot over 65 feet (20m). Pilotage fees through Wrangell Narrows and Peril Straights will be several thousand additional dollars.
Failure to meet these requirements can result in a fine of up to $20,000.
Contact:
Renda Heimbigner, Marine Pilot Coordinator
Alaska Board of Marine Pilots
Phone (907)465-2548, Fax (907)465-2974
PO Box 110806, Juneau, AK 99811-0806
Further information on the Statute:
http://touchngo.com/lglcntr/akstats/Statutes/Title08/Chapter62/Section180.htm
Anchoring Restrictions
Florida: The anchoring restrictions, previously enforced in some areas of Florida, have now been rescinded. The concept of liveaboard now excludes any boat which is “navigated”, even if it does so only occasionally. See report Anchoring in Florida for more details.
Also, previous city ordinances prohibited anchoring in many municipalities around Florida. The Florida legislature passed HB 7043, which eliminates those restrictions and prohibits cities from creating any restrictions. The law maintains a few restrictions, but they are in line with previous laws (such as anchoring distances and the removal of derelict vessels).
Georgia: Since May 2019 the state of Georgia has passed a bill that proposes to restrict anchoring and require a permit for anchoring overnight. For more details see the Georgia Departement of Natural Resources website. Here is the link to the actual legislation.
EPA Compliance for Imported Vessels
Due to new electronic filing systems and improved interagency communications, the Environmental Protection Agency has begun enforcing compliance on exhaust emissions on imported vessels. Both diesel and gasoline engines mounted in yachts imported into the United States must prove EPA compliance as a condition of their import. This only applies to vessels fully imported into the United States and does not apply to vessels visiting the USA for a limited stay. See this report for further information.
Restricted Items Typically Confiscated by US Customs
US Citizens and permanent residents of the United States are required to declare any merchandise acquired overseas. Cruisers report having problems with the following items: merchandise from embargoed countries (for example Cuban cigars); cultural artefacts or antiques; foreign fruits and vegetables; live plants or seeds; or large amounts of alcohol (50 gallons might be too much for some inspectors). Many of these restrictions do not apply to short-term visitors, but it may be prudent to check compliance. See this report for more specific information.
Holding Tank Requirements
Current USA law varies by state, but as a general rule yacht with toilets must not discharge their waste overboard if operating within “no discharge zone” (NDZ). These areas are almost all inland waterways and small bays. Larger waterways (multiple miles across) are subject to the local jurisdictions. Pursuant to the Clean Water Act and the establishment of NDZ, the general rule on the East Coast is that everywhere inland of three miles is “no discharge zone.” Noonsite is not aware of any state laws that mandate a holding tank – only that waste is not discharged overboard. A complete list – with maps – of the No Discharge Zones by a state can be found on the EPA website.
Greywater tanks are not generally required; however, discharge may be restricted in national parks or other sensitive ecological areas. Sensitive aquatic areas (such as marine sanctuaries), public swimming areas, or areas where there is a public drinking water intake may also have restrictions on bilge water. Enforcement of this is usually done by reports only (i.e., someone notices significant oil on the water coming from a particular boat and is then reported). The US Coast Guard is the primary enforcer of NDZ’s, but local law enforcement agencies (and park rangers) may also have jurisdiction.
Yachts with holding tanks must “lock” their overboard discharge in some way. This means that the overboard discharge thru-hull must be closed and secured in some way that looks as though it is not regularly used.
Though enforcement is infrequent, fines for improper discharging of effluent can be massive.
Deck-access holding tank pump-out facilities are common and most marinas have this ability. Noonsite indicates “pump-out services available” on the individual marina listings. Some states (such as Georgia), require that you keep a record of when you pump out.
Note: There was once a law in some states (Florida, et al) that an indicator dye would be placed in the holding tank at each pump-out and the dye would be spot-checked by enforcement officers. At the time of writing, this law is no longer being enforced. However, most holding tank treatments are still heavily dyed and it is obvious when someone discharges their holding tank overboard.
Kitchen or bathroom sinks may discharge overboard at anytime as long as the substance is not oil, fuel, paint, or other flammable or caustic chemical.
Last updated: June 2019
Local Customs
State Laws
Laws vary from state to state. When you are physically present in a state, even temporarily, you are subject to the laws of both federal AND state laws. You must carry a passport with you at all times showing that you have to leave to enter or remain. If travelling state-to-state, it is not necessary to check in and out of each state as though they are separate countries unless required by CBP instructions.
Keep all documents given to you by a federal agency or official. Often, the federal rules will supersede state laws and, if there is a contradiction, the federal instruction will often override the states.
LGBT Travel
The US is an extremely diverse society and attitudes towards LGBT people differ widely across the country. Transgender travellers may be affected by legislation passed recently in the states of North Carolina and Mississippi, which is also being considered in other states.
The UK Foreign Office has issued a travel alert regarding this controversial law.
Last updated January 2018.
Clearance Agents
It is not necessary for private yachts to use Clearance Agents or Customs Brokers. However, if a broker/agent is needed, they must be registered properly through US Customs & Border Protection (CBP). Unlicensed brokers are illegal in the USA.
A full list of brokers (by state) can be found at the CBP website. Click on the state to which you intend to arrive then select the Port of Entry. On each page, there is a “Broker” link with all contact information.
Pets
The necessary notification and forms required to take pets to the US can be complicated. A very useful report on one cruiser’s experience can be read on the Noonsite report.
Pre-notification of the intention to bring pets into the country is required. Pets originating from non-rabies countries will have a much easier process.
Cats and dogs must be free of diseases communicable to humans. Vaccination against rabies is not required for cats and dogs arriving from rabies-free countries. Otherwise, dogs must have a valid (recent) rabies vaccination certificate.
Most pets will be subject to an additional period of quarantine if all documentation is not in order. The quarantine will have a per day cost.
If crossing the Pacific, Hilo, Hawaii is reported to be the best place to clear in with pets.
The Hawaii Animal Quarantine page is a useful website.
Pet birds may be brought in, but will be subject to at least 30 days quarantine on arrival at the owner’s expense in a Department of Agriculture facility. These facilities are only available in New York, Miami, San Ysidro, Honolulu, Hidalgo and Los Angeles, and bird owners must enter at one of these six ports of entry. The quarantine must be arranged in advance and the quarantine fee should be paid not later than on arrival.
Further details can be obtained from the US Department of Treasury, US Customs Service, Washington DC 20229, who publish special leaflets: Importing a Pet Bird, Pets, Wildlife.
Updated January 2018.
