CLARIFICATION OF RULES REGARDING CHARTER YACHT OPERATION IN US WATERS

As usual, the new year brought many questions regarding US policies for crewed charter yachts operating in US waters.  Below is a synopsis of our questions to the Department of Homeland Security/Customs and Border Protection with their answers.  

1. If the vessel is US flagged with a US crew they only need US passports or other valid proof of citizenship.  After 12-31-2006 all US travelers must have valid machine readable passports.

2. If the vessel is Foreign flagged with a US crew they only need US passports or other valid proof of citizenship.  After 12-31-2006 all US travelers must have valid machine readable passports.

3. If the vessel is US flagged with a Foreign crew they require green cards and passports or other valid proof of citizenship. After 12-31-2006 all US travelers must have valid machine readable passports; non-US citizens may not operate a US flagged vessel in US waters.
4. If the vessel is Foreign Flagged with a Foreign crew they must have C1/D visas (work
visa) to charter; This visa allows the vessel; unlimited entries into
the US for periods not to exceed 29 days at one time; It is recommended
that crews ALSO have a B visa (tourist visa) in order to allow more time in the
US waters in the event of vacation, vessel maintenance. etc.; For example,
if the foreign flagged vessel enters US waters on the B visa they cannot legally
charter but could put the boat in storage for hurricane season.
Hope this continues to clarify some of the new regs.