Thanks to Mike Reed for compiling this information!
Contact & Border Crossing Information
for Boating Issues
Updated February 15, 2024
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, the Corinthian Yacht Club of Bellingham does not guarantee completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information. Any reliance you place on this information is at your own risk.
United States Contacts
US Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound:
For emergencies (24hrs/7days)
VHF Channel 16
(206) 217-6001 or 911
For most marine related business
(206) 217-6200
US Coast Guard Station Bellingham
For local marine related business (24hrs/7days)
(360) 734-1692
US Customs Information
(877) 227-5511
www.cbp.gov/travel/pleasure-boats-private-flyers/pleasure-boat-overview
Port of Bellingham/Squalicum Harbor Office
(360) 676-2542
Vessel Towing: Vessel Assist/BoatUS
(800) 391-4869
Washington State Parks/Boating programs
(360) 902-8555
Red Tide Information - Washington State Department of Health
www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/pb-pp-eng.html
Canadian Contacts
Please check for current requirements before entering Canadian waters.
Current information for entry into Canada by vessel reporting procedures can be found at:
www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/pb-pp-eng.html
The arriveCAN app is not valid for entry by boat anymore.
Canadian Coast Guard Vancouver
VHF Channel 16
Emergency phone (800) 567-5111
Cellular #16 (in Canada only)
TowBoatUS Vancouver
Vancouver, CAN
(778) 227-6101
TowBoatUS South Gulf Island
Eagle Eye Marine Services
Salt Spring Island, CAN
(250) 883-7865
Canadian Marine Weather
https://weather.gc.ca/marine
Continuously broadcast at:
Vancouver Area (604) 666-3655
Victoria Area (250) 363-6880
Crossing the Canadian and US Borders by Boat
- Every person on the boat must have valid proof of citizenship as well as identification.
- A U.S. passport, passport card or NEXUS card all serve as proof of both citizenship and identification.
- You will need your boat’s registration.
- Check with the appropriate websites for what can and cannot be brought into either country.
Methods for Crossing into Canada
1. Report directly to a Customs dock at the nearest Port of Entry (ie: Victoria, Sydney, Bedwell Harbor and there are more than just those).
- The person in charge of the vessel goes to the phone on the dock and calls in. The crew must remain on the boat. Take all documents (passports & vessel registration) along.
- Pick up the phone and follow the directions given you.
- Write down the “Entry Number” given you and post it in a window on the port side of your boat.
2. If you have a NEXUS card for everyone onboard, you may call on your cell phone to obtain clearance.
- (888) 226-7277
- Have ID and vessel documentation at hand.
- Be prepared to declare items such as alcohol, tobacco and fruits or vegetables that you are bringing into Canada.
- Write down the “Entry Number” given you and post it in a window on the port side of your boat.
- You will likely be directed to a “Port of Entry” so be prepared to declare the one that is closest to your destination for the day.
Methods for Crossing into the United States
Small Vessel Reporting System (SVRS) is no longer in service. Boaters looking to report their arrival and/or apply for a registered boater program may use the CBP ROAM app, available for free on the Apple App and Google Play stores. Boaters may also continue to report their arrival via designated telephone reporting numbers, if desired.
1. Use the “CBP ROAM” app on your cell phone to clear in. (You must activate your account prior to using it)
2. Call in at (888) 226-7277
- Have all documents (passports & vessel registration) available.
- Be prepared to declare items such as alcohol and fruits or vegetables you are bringing into the United States.
- You will likely be directed to a “Port of Entry” so be prepared to declare the one that is closest to your destination.
- Once cleared, document the “Entry Number” given you.
3. Report directly to a Customs dock at the nearest Port of Entry
(ie: Friday Harbor, Point Roberts, Port Angeles, etc.).
Note: Roche Harbor is no longer staffed but rather you will use CBP ROAM on a tablet at the kiosk adjacent to the fuel dock.
- The person in charge of the vessel goes to the office or kiosk. The crew must remain on the boat. Take all documents (passports & vessel registration) along.
- Be prepared to declare items such as alcohol and fruits or vegetables you are bringing into the United States.
- Once cleared, document the “Entry Number” given you