I was lucky to have arrived the day before but it got me to wonder. If the skipper of a vessel deems that it's too dangerous to come to the dock, can I anchor in the bay and take my dingy to the customs dock?
Not really.
The last time I arrived at Roche Harbour, on a pleasure trip with some friends, I made the mistake of fessing up to what I did for a living. I should have said I am retired, which is true. The customs and immigration official got a little suspicious and asked me how I met my girl friend. I explained that we met on a squash court. When he came on board to check everyone out, he asked Marilyn how we met. She gave the same answer. he also asked my friends how we met - we went back to university days.
At this point I am avoiding the San Juans while teaching cruise and learns. I need to check out how I legitimately can cross while working.
The official also indicated that, as a old hand at Roche, he was pretty relaxed, but that some of the new officials might be a little more officious.
They may want to check the vessel for contraband: booze, apples, potatoes, oranges - the dangerous goods. They do check Canadian boats for the cruising permit decal.
The last time a cleared at Friday a number of years ago, we just showed a passports via a video camera. They did not come down to the boat. I am not sure that is still viable.
Jack
