U.S. Boater's Guide: San Juans to Canadian Waters and Back

Published:  09/27/2025

Captain Maria Faires at the helm of her boat Little Bear by Spieden Island

As a U.S. pleasure vessel operator navigating between the San Juan Islands and Canadian waters (like the Gulf Islands or Vancouver Island), you must comply with two separate border agencies: the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) when entering Canada, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) when you return home. 

Part 1: Entering Canadian Waters (CBSA) 

When You MUST Report to Canada 
You are legally required to report to the CBSA immediately if your vessel does any of the following in Canadian waters: 
• Lands on Canadian soil (step ashore on a dock, beach, or shore). 
• Anchors or Moors (drops anchor, ties to a buoy, or ties to a moorage facility). 
• Makes contact with another conveyance (like rafting up with another boat). 
• Embarks or disembarks any people or goods in Canada. 

Cruising Exemption: The legal exception to reporting upon entering Canadian waters is only met if ALL of the following four conditions are true: 
• The vessel does not land on Canadian soil. 
• The vessel does not anchor, moor, or make contact with another conveyance while in Canadian waters. 
• The vessel does not embark or disembark any people in Canada. 
• The vessel does not embark or disembark any goods in Canada. 

If you enter Canadian waters for recreational activity (like sightseeing, pleasure fishing, or a simple loop cruise), you are NOT required to report to the CBSA, but only if you maintain continuous navigation and do not violate any of the four conditions above. 
The previous phrasing, "But if you stop for any reason other than an emergency, you must report," is generally true for the most common reasons a boater would stop (like anchoring or docking), but the official rule is tied to the actions: landing, anchoring, mooring, or making contact. 

Summary of the Actionable Rule for U.S. Boaters: 
If your purpose is simply to enter Canadian waters and immediately leave (a loop movement or transit), you do not have to report to the CBSA, provided you do not stop your vessel and set anchor, tie to a buoy, go ashore, or tie up to another boat. 
If you stop your vessel and perform any of the prohibited actions (even briefly, to fish with the motor off, or to put a person/item on another boat), you have violated the exemption and must report immediately via the Telephone Reporting Centre (TRC). 
  
How to Report to CBSA 
• Proceed to a Designated Reporting Site: You must steer your vessel to a designated Marine Telephone Reporting Site (MTRS) or a staffed port of entry. 
• Call for Clearance: From the reporting site, or a cell phone while anchored if authorized, you must immediately call the Telephone Reporting Centre (TRC) at 1-888-226-7277. 
• NEXUS Holders: If all persons on board have a valid NEXUS card, you can use the dedicated NEXUS line at 1-866-996-3987. 
• Remain Aboard: Until the CBSA Officer grants you clearance (and a report number), only the captain may disembark (if necessary) to place the call. All passengers and goods must remain aboard. 
• Required Documents: Everyone on board must have a valid passport, NEXUS card, or other acceptable WHTI-compliant travel document. 
Penalty Reminder: The minimum fine for failing to report upon entry to Canada is significant (starting at CAN$1,000). 

 
Part 2: Returning to U.S. Waters (CBP) 

When You MUST Report to U.S. CBP 
You are legally required to report your arrival to U.S. Customs and Border Protection immediately upon re-entering U.S. waters from a foreign port or place (including Canada). You must remain aboard until you have received clearance. 

Your Best Reporting Options (Washington State) 
The CBP has made the process much easier for boaters returning to the Puget Sound area. 
• CBP ROAM App (Recommended for All Boaters): 
• Download the official CBP ROAM app (Reporting Offsite Arrival – Mobile) on your smartphone or tablet before your trip. 
• Once you have cell service in U.S. waters, use the app to create and submit a trip profile, including all passengers, vessel information, and declarations. 
• A CBP Officer may initiate a video chat directly through the app to conduct your clearance. 
• Once cleared, you will receive a Clearance Number electronically—this is your proof of reporting. 
• Dedicated Telephone Line (Only if all on board have Trusted Traveler Cards): 
• If every person on board has a current NEXUS, Global Entry, or I-68 card, you may report your arrival by calling the Small Boat Reporting Office at 1-800-562-5943 upon re-entering U.S. waters. 
• If anyone on board does not have one of these cards, you must use the ROAM app or report in person. 
  
Information to Prepare 
Whether using the ROAM app or the phone line, have the following information readily available for all persons and your vessel: 
• Vessel Information: Boat name, registration/documentation number, and your CBP User Fee Decal Number (mandatory for vessels 30 feet or longer). 
• Passenger Information: Full name, date of birth, citizenship, and passport/NEXUS/I-68 card number for every person on board. 
• Trip Details: Last foreign port of call (e.g., Sidney, BC), and your planned arrival location (e.g., Friday Harbor). 
• Declarations: Be ready to declare the value and description of any goods (including alcohol, tobacco, or restricted items like cannabis) acquired in Canada. 
  
Final Rule: No one may board or disembark your vessel until you have received your clearance number from CBP. Always record this number in your boat's log book.   

Sources:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Reporting
Official CBP Pleasure Boat Overview and Reporting Requirements

CBP Reporting Offsite Arrival – Mobile (ROAM) App Official Page (Preferred Reporting Method)

U.S. Federal Law requiring immediate report of arrival (19 U.S.C. § 1433)

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Reporting
CBSA Reporting Requirements for Private Boat Operators (Includes "Cruising Exception" conditions)

CBSA Page Detailing Reporting Exceptions (Cruising and Fishing Exemptions)

More Navigating the Border: US and Canada Customs, Food and Pets

Captain Maria Faires in Prideaux Haven

Navigating customs when boating between the San Juan Islands and Canada's Gulf Islands can be complex. This comprehensive guide simplifies the process for American boaters, detailing instructions for using your NEXUS card and the CBP ROAM app. Learn what to declare, understand food restrictions.

Planning a boat trip to Canada with your dog or cat? Don't leave the dock without this guide! We break down the simple, mandatory requirements for a smooth sailing entry into Canada and back home to the US. 

Join Me on Healthy Boat Living

Follow along with us, Captain Maria, and my husband George aboard our 30' Tollycraft, "Little Bear"! We're exploring the stunning San Juan Islands and bringing you along for the adventure.

As a registered dietitian and master personal trainer, I have a private practice in Sammamish, Washington, where I help people create a healthy lifestyle. Now, I'm bringing that same dedication to the water. I combine my deep knowledge of nutrition and fitness with my skills as a captain, creating a unique approach to help you feel strong, vibrant, and fully alive, whether you're at the helm or relaxing on deck.

Follow us for amazing views, boating tips, and a peek into our life on the water. We'll share our favorite anchorages, cruising tips, and the beautiful sights we discover.

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Follow Healthy Boat Living for:
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