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| Can we Pass Through U.S. Waters?
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December 19, 2005
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Hi folks,
We love your Guide and are planning to take our first cruise through the Gulf Islands next summer. We plan to fly up from California, bareboat charter in Vancouver and make our first stop Cabbage Island. The chart shows that a direct course from Sand Heads would actually take us through a section of U.S. waters out in the middle of Georgia Strait, then back into Canadian waters. Does this mean that we must detour to Roche Harbor or Friday Harbor and clear customs even though they are not our destination? Where can we find the letter of the law regarding "transiting" U.S. waters (or for that matter, Canadian) but not stopping, touching another vessel or dropping anchor? We've read your book and the Web site carefully, but don't see anything that directly addresses this question. Thanks in advance and keep up the good work!
Judy Kaplan
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Response
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Hi, Judy,
No problem with crossing into and out of the U.S. on your way to another Canadian destination. The only restrictions are that you can’t stop, hover, or have contact with another vessel along the way (Coast Guard or Border Patrol boardings not included). I think the official definition of what you intend is “Right of innocent passage.” Anyhow, it’s legal.
I’m glad you like the Waggoner. I certainly enjoy doing the book each year. Things change constantly, and there’s no end to the learning. If you haven’t already purchased your 2006 edition, I urge you to do so before you take your vacation.
Feel free to e-mail any further questions.
Regards,
Bob Hale
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