Can you take your own boat to another country?

Can I legally just leave the US by taking a boat to international waters? Yes. If you visit a foreign country you have to clear immigrations and customs upon your return to the USA. Just going out to international waters and comong back is perfectly legal and does not require permission or any inspection upon return.



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It is not illegal per se. The consequence is you will not be owed the protections that registered ships flying a national flag will be. As you don't come under any jurisdiction, you can be approached and come under the extraterritorial jurisdiction of any other state.

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Private yachts are required to undergo customs clearance when entering or leaving a country's territorial waters. You must report to the nearest Customs and Border Protection office within 24 hours of your arrival and be ready with the proper documentation for your private yacht.

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International Code Flag Q is flown when entering most foreign ports or when returning to a U. S. port from a foreign cruise. It signals to customs and immigration officials that you request clearance. Take it down and replace it with courtesy flag after formalities are complete.

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How does law work in international waters? Ships are registered with a country (and fly that flag). The Captain is responcible for enforcing the laws of that country. Anyone arrested would eventually be tried in court back in that country.

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