Boating Across the US and Canada Borders

Boater Preparation is Key to an Uneventful Border Crossing

Jun 2, 2009

Take advantage of the many opportunities that exist in boating the waters of the US and Canada. Preparing for a border crossing will go a long way to ease the process.

The United States and Canada share an extended border that incorporates numerous water bodies. Boaters from both countries enjoy travel on these waters. New regulations in the United States have changed the documentation required in a border crossing for both land and water. Taking a little time to prepare for these requirements will limit hassles at the border and could save a trip. There are identification requirements and actions that need to be taken when pleasure boating between the two countries. Two overarching resources for travelers are the US Customs and Canada Customs websites.

Acceptable Border Crossing Identification

The identification requirements mandated by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) took effect on June 1, 2009. These documents have been identified as being acceptable:

Pleasure Boating Across the United States and Canada Border

Boaters that make frequent border crossings can streamline the process by securing a NEXUS, I-68 or CANPASS to gain trusted traveler status. Card holders are often able to clear customs via telephone. Cardholders are still subject to random customs inspections. Those without one of these documents must report to the nearest port of entry upon arrival. Some locations are served by videophone in both countries.

On a water crossing of the border, the vessel master must be able to report the name, birth date, citizenship and passport number of each person onboard. Customs will need information on the vessel’s name, its registration, current location and contact information of its owner.

Those crossing the border with a boat trailer need to be sure all registration and insurance information is current and available. Be sure the tow vehicle and trailer are in safe, legal working condition. If the boat is borrowed, be sure to carry written permission for its use.

Vessels over 30 feet in length are required to purchase a decal each year from Customs. When operating a US Vessel in Canada, US boaters should take a little time to familiarize themselves with the differences found in recreational boating regulations found in Canada. Most of the rules are similar and boaters operating with caution should find few issues with these regulations.

Don’t let changes in paperwork and identification requirements prevent a boating trip across the US and Canada border. Conduct some research, ask customs officials questions and plan a trip.

The copyright of the article Boating Across the US and Canada Borders in Boating & Sailing is owned by Alan Sorum. Permission to republish Boating Across the US and Canada Borders in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.