International Sailing: So Many Questions (Part 2)

Question

I'm in the market for a 40-50 foot Cruiser sailboat.

4. What is the extent of the search, as far as the Coast Guard is concerned? What would be a reason they would board a ship, what would they look for, where would they look, etc.?

Secondly, thank you for the overwhelming response to my last post. You guys were so incredibly helpful, I wouldn't even know where to begin for choosing the best answer. Thank you so much!

Answer 1

There is no reason needed to board> There looking for and thing against the law>They can cut holes> Remove panels> Nothing they can't do> or look while holding you on the tramson>As a cruiser for many yrs> Your question are suprising> as most crusier don't worry about where they look and reasons>As were glad there out there if we need help>

Answer 2

The Coast Guard can (and often does) board whatever boat it wants.

They can do whatever the h**l they feel like doing on your boat.

Answer 3

The U. S. Coast Guard can board your boat at any time.  They do NOT have to have a search warrant, nor do they have to give you a reason that you feel is justified.  Incidentally, yes they can cut holes into your boat in a search.

That said, generally, they board to see is you have all required safety gear on board and the required papers.  They can search for contraband of any kind (read here illegal drugs).  There will be some days that they seem to have gotten out of their bunk on the wrong side, but look into yourself, we all have these days.  Do not attempt to hide anything, this could only make matters worse.

Generally, they are courteous, thoughtful, and respectful of you as owner, and the crew aboard.  They have a job to perform and they do it well.  If you are respectful of them, you should have nothing to be concerned of.

And, yes in case you are wondering, they can also board your boat in foreign ports.  You will be much better with them on board than the law enforcement in many other locations of the world.

Answer 4

4. If the USCG is suspicious of any illegal activity, they can search the ENTIRE boat, excluding nothing. Drugs are a no-no for any yachtsman to have on board, as that can call for confiscation of the boat. In other countries this can result in all persons on board be imprisoned, the boat and its entire contents seized. Same with smuggling. Same with aliens without papers.

Regards,

Dan