Only way I can see someone being arrested is if he strayed into off-limit areas like near a Nuclear Power Plant or Military installation.

will dig that info! Thanks!

is this what you may be looking for...
New Requirement Jan 2016: CBP now requires ALL foreign-flagged yachts (including any registered under SVRS and LBO schemes) to obtain a Cruising License. Once issued, it is valid for up to one year (365 days from issue date). See Documents for more details.

Non-US flagged private yachts and non-commercial pleasure vessels under 300 gross tons do not have to report their arrival in advance. Yachts larger than 300 gross tons should contact US CBP prior to departing for the USA.

Foreign-flagged yachts (including Canadian ones, 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.

Note: There appears to be some confusion over whether this rule applies if the vessel has a cruising license. It is advisable to obtain a written copy of the procedure to be followed when initially clearing in or being issued with a cruising license. See Noonsite/USA/Documents for the list of countries whose boats are eligible for a cruising permit.

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.


found here... http://www.noonsite.com/Countries/USA?rc=Formalities

it might be it ! but man it is not so clear...

thanks by the way! I will read the wholle thing later tonight!

According to tis, it looks likeeven US boaters would need a cruising permit! But there is no link to fill in the right form!

Is it this.

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

I only have title and NYS registration sticker . Live in nys. I do like going to the Canadian side though. Last time I went to shirkston a couple years back. We only needed to stop at buffalo canoe club to use the canadian land line. You have me wondering now if we need the same to go into canada.??

Well dam this sticker is for unlimited border crossings. Not expensive either. Great info!!!

no it is not! I already have this decal since... the last 4-5 years at least! And so did my friend who had the big ticket!